Medical institute to mark 40th anniversary

 By DOROTHY MARK
THE Institute of Medical Research in Madang is trying to raise around K200,000 to hold a celebration to mark 40 years of malaria research in the country.
Director professor Peter Siba said the celebration in August would involve international partners.
They are targeting around K200,000 to host the event in Madang.
“The partners in PNG and overseas would be here in August 25 and 26 to commemorate the 40 years of malaria research in PNG,” Siba said.
He said many malaria experts from PNG and abroad had contributed greatly in the fight against malaria. They will use the event to thank those people.
He said the institute was established in most centres in the country with 600 staff altogether, mostly clinical researchers. “The world knows what IMR is and who IMR is. But PNG knows very little and that is sad,” Siba said.
Patron of the upcoming event is the Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology Malakai Tabar.
He told guests last Saturday night at  the Madang resort hotel that he was introduced to the institute set up in Yagaum outside Madang.
“I was given the chance to go to Yagaum and I believe there is a big challenge ahead of us.
“I give my assurance as the minister that I will work with these organisations and whatever is in our dreams and plans we will work together to achieve.”
Tabar committed K20,000 on behalf of his department and another K5000 from the Gazelle district.