Higher Education

Polye is looking towards leading the country’s Education in Artificial Intelligence (AI).

Minister Polye was the guest of honour speaking on behalf of all developing countries at the two-day World Digital Education Conference in Shanghai, China.

He recapped various points he discussed with world leaders, including Artificial Intelligence for schools and Digital Ethics.

Part of the plan will see the department facilitate the creation of additional space in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), to accommodate the increasing number of Grade 12 school leavers.

This involves establishing elevated standards of education and welcoming private HEIs to complement government schools.

Prime Minister James Marape has welcomed the 2024 MAP, following a comprehensive session on Thursday, January 4, 2023, with Higher Education Research Science and Technology Minister, Don Polye and Acting Secretary Professor Fr Jan Czuba.

Minister responsible, Don Polye said he had implemented the National Court decision to reinstate Fr Czuba as the secretary until his contract has expired and his acting appointment is confirmed.
The National Executive Council through its decision number 116/2023 has appointed Fr Czuba and was gazette as Gazette No.G365.

Polye said he has met with management of DHERST and have formally announced the appointment of Fr Jan; and have been urged to abide by the Court orders and NEC decisions at all times.

These institutions are instructed to step up or face the risk of losing government support.

The department has 12 international standards for universities and 10 for colleges to meet to be accredited and recognised locally and internationally.

“Once the institution meets the minimal standards, we accredit the institution and the programs and then TESAS (Tertiary Education Student Assistance Scheme) will be allocated,” says Fr Jan Czuba, the DHERST secretary.

Secretary for the Department, Professor Fr. Jan Czuba, said one of the focal points for some time has been the National Selection process that is facilitated by the department.

Fr. Jan explains that in the current process, every Higher Education Institution (HEI) is allowed to structure their admission requirements.

The information is then passed to schools where school leavers are selecting institutions and programs which they would like to apply to.

The discussions between Lihir Gold Mine operator, Newcrest-Lihir, and the Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and technology (DHERST) will pave the way for diploma courses to be provided through the Lihir Resource Centre.

It is intended that the centre, which currently caters for Lihir locals wishing to upgrade their academic grades, be affiliated to the major universities in PNG. The idea is seen as a pathway for locals to pursue further studies.