Incorporate job training into curriculum, says academic

THE Papua New Guinea education curriculum should introduce on-the-job training for graduates undertaking diploma courses at recognised institutions in the country, an official says.
Former Port Moresby Business College deputy principal (academic) Rommel Valleja said a proposal was presented for the department to include an on-the-job programme for students to complement what they were taught in colleges and tertiary institutions.
He said as academics, they did not only serve to provide knowledge for students but to assist them find a job after school.
Valleja said the curriculum could accommodate an on-the-job component and this would allow students practise what they were taught and experience current practices.
He said this at a farewell ceremony of non-citizen academics on Wednesday at the Education Department to recognise their service and dedication to education in PNG.
Education acting deputy secretary (education policy and corporate services directorate) Wesley Lakain said PNG had benefited from bringing in expatriate teachers and lecturers to contribute to the country’s tertiary and secondary institutions.
He said they had played a significant role in the education of many young Papua New Guineans.
The farewell ceremony was organised by Education secretary Dr Uke Kombra to thank academics for their service.