Australia's support for education, skills development and future leaders was showcased at the National Capital District's (NCD) Youth Expo 2026, where Pacific Australia Skills and Australia Awards Papua New Guinea were delighted to participate.
The Expo showcased education, skills training, scholarship and professional development opportunities that support young Papua New Guineans to achieve their career aspirations and contribute to the country's future development.
The Expo's theme, "Youth Empowerment for a Sustainable Future" closely aligns with Australia's ongoing investment in youth, education and skills development in Papua New Guinea. Through Pacific Australia Skills and Australia Awards PNG, Australia is helping to build a skilled, capable and inclusive workforce equipped to meet Papua New Guinea’s evolving development needs.
Henry Mekere, a participant of NCD Commission’s youth development program, Mindset Transformers Bootcamp, said he was interested to learn about the different opportunities that Australia is supporting through training, education, scholarship and professional development pathways.
“As a young person, I know I have a long way to go, but having this information is very important. It will help me to plan what I want to do for my growth and success, what pathways I can go to, where and when. I am grateful that through this expo, I learned all that.”
Through Australian Government support, Pacific Australia Skills shared information on pathways to gaining industry-relevant skills through technical and vocational education and training (TVET), while Australia Awards PNG showcased its internationally recognised scholarship opportunities and Australia's support for professional development through Australia Awards Short Courses.
Australia is proud to invest in Papua New Guinea's future by supporting education, skills development and creating inclusive opportunities for the next generation of leaders.
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Participants from NCDC's youth programs visit the Australia Awards PNG booth to learn about Australia Awards scholarships, and professional development opportunities available to young Papua New Guineans.
For further information, including access to related materials, please contact the Australian High Commission media team: +675 7090 0100