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A NEW network for Papua New Guineans who
have studied in New Zealand has just been launched by the New Zealand
High Commission in Port Moresby.
The PNG-New Zealand alumni network is intended as a social and
professional group to help maintain links and cooperation between New
Zealand and those who have studied there, according to New Zealand High
Commissioner Niels Holm.
“Our alumni in PNG and around the world know New Zealand better than
just about anyone else,” Mr Holm said.
“Kiwi alumni can be found right across this country enjoying success in
all sectors of the economy and government.”
He said the aim of the network was simply to provide a way to keep in
touch and with a view to looking for ways in which the New Zealand
connection could continue to add value to the alumni’s lives and
careers, in additional ways beyond a top quality academic
qualifications.
The network will be used to help alumni meet socially with others who
recognised the value of a New Zealand degree, including New Zealand
employers and businesses in PNG, meet visiting New Zealand leaders,
trade missions and other visitors, and keep in touch with news and
developments from ‘back home’.
NZAID programme manager in PNG Tessa Te Mata endorsed the alumni network
as a continuation of the scholarship assistance offered annually by the
New Zealand government to a large number of PNG students.
“We provide scholarships to over 20 high performers each year to enable
them to experience New Zealand and receive a tertiary qualification or
upgraded workplace skills,” she said.
“We would like to keep in touch with our scholars once they return home
to make a contribution to PNG’s social and economic development.”
New Zealand alumni interested in joining the network or receive more
information should contact the high commission by phone on 325 9444 or
by email to nzhcpom@dg.com.pg.
 
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