Twelve women researchers from Lae have returned to Papua New Guinea after completing advanced research training and mentorship with RMIT University, supported by the Australian Government.
Among them was researcher Miss Chie Soli, who said the program opened new pathways for collaboration with women researchers across PNG and Australia.
Delivered through the Australian Government-supported Strongim Risets Kapasiti Bilong Ol Meri project, the program is helping Papua New Guinean women researchers strengthen their skills, connections and leadership.
Selected after intensive capacity-building workshops in Lae, the participants undertook a four-week placement featuring skills-building workshops, peer mentoring, collaboration with Australian academics and networking with international partners.
Miss Soli, from the Centre for FutureNau, said the experience strengthened her confidence and broadened her perspective.
“One of the most valuable parts of this experience has been exchanging ideas with researchers from different backgrounds,” Miss Soli said.
“It has broadened my thinking and strengthened my confidence in the work I want to pursue back home in Papua New Guinea.”
The Lae participants represent the program’s second cohort, following an earlier intake of women researchers from Port Moresby.
Together, the cohorts plan to establish a Women’s Research Network in PNG to support collaboration, knowledge sharing, inclusive policy development and leadership pathways for women researchers.
High-quality, current and locally driven research is essential for informed policymaking and sustainable national development.
In PNG, strengthening local research capability will help ensure more evidence is generated by Papua New Guineans, for Papua New Guinea.
Supporting women researchers to contribute and lead will add valuable expertise to PNG’s research community and help inform inclusive, evidence-based policy and development.
By investing in women researchers, Australia is supporting PNG-led evidence, strengthening local research capability and reinforcing the PNG-Australia partnership’s commitment to inclusive economic and social development.
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Miss Chie Soli receives her RMIT Advanced Research Training certificate of participation from Australian High Commission Minister-Counsellor Dr Cate Rogers.
For further information, including access to related materials, please contact the Australian High Commission media team: +675 7090 0100