Aust gives K3.8m to NRI to boost research

By SHARLYNE ERI
THE Australian government has supported the National Research Institute (NRI) with $1.4 million (K3.8 million) for its research programmes and the Asia-Pacific Economic Corporation (Apec) Study Centre.
Australian High Commissioner to PNG Bruce Davis said NRI was PNG’s leading and independent public policy think tank and they were honoured to support its work.
“I understand this year’s project will include analysis of the effectiveness of economic regulations and competition policy, work around evaluation tax policy proposals and study of sub-national delivery of education services,” Davis said at the NRI yesterday.
The National Government recently invited NRI to host the Apec Study Centre, which would conduct research on Apec-related subjects and facilitate cooperation among institutions on the key challenges facing the region.
Davis said the Australian government was delighted to support the Apec Study Centre as an additional contribution to the continued support it gave NRI.
NRI director Dr Charles Yala said the Australian government was one of the institute’s strongest supporters over the years.
He added that NRI was proud to host the Apec Study Centre.
“This opportunity will inevitably see us play an active role.”