The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in PNG and Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu have recently launched a joint survey of business’ skill in the country.
The survey aimed to help address skills gaps in Papua New Guinea’s labour market and factors that affect hiring decisions.
The focus of the research is ‘how to grow employment in PNG’.
The survey was launched at a business breakfast hosted by the Port Moresby Chamber of Commerce and Industry on the Sept 29, 2016.
“The issue of skill shortages is well known. But what isn’t as well known is the specific skills that the business community needs in order to grow their business. This survey is about filling that information gap which ultimately will benefit policy makers and the business community alike” said Todd McInnis – Manager, Deloitte
The survey has two main goals:
- To assess the factors which prevent or discourage businesses from expanding their staff numbers; and
- To assess the specific skills and occupations most in need amongst the business community, and the extent to which they are difficult to source locally.
“The research will analyse skills shortages and employment in PNG using data received through a survey focused on the current skills gaps and other key constraints businesses face in the labour market” says Stephen Liston, UNDP project manager.
The survey will shed light on the skills most in need in PNG, which ultimately will help policy makers and businesses alike in planning for the future. It will also encourage skills enhancement, contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG): SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 8 (Decent work and economic growth).