NRI farewells researcher, gender-based violence advocate

The National National
Dr Fiona Hukula (middle) with directors and staff of the PNG National Research Institute after her farewell gathering. – Pictured supplied

THE Papua New Guinea National Research Institute (PNG NRI) recently farewelled a long-serving researcher and an advocate against gender-based violence (GBV).
Joining the institute in 1998 as a project officer and later working her way up to become a senior research fellow and programme leader, Dr Fiona Hukula left after 23 years of dedicated service to the national think tank.
During her time with the institute, Hukula was employed as: project officer; research officer; senior research officer; research fellow; senior research fellow; and, programme leader for the building safer communities research programme and co-programme leader for gender in PNG research programme.
She had also been involved with other government organisations in the area of law and justice, a notable one is her role as a member and deputy chairperson of the Constitutional and Law Reform Commission.
PNG NRI acting director Dr Osborne Sanida thanked Hukula for valuable contributions and service to the government agency.
Described as a role model and ambassador, Hukula was praised for her leadership and mentoring roles as well as her contributions to women’s rights, GBV, sorcery-related violence and not the least, domestic violence policies and laws.
Deputy director for corporate services Dr Esther Lavu hailed Hukula’s contribution to PNG in the fight against GBV and protection of vulnerable people in communities.
“She has done a lot for our women and in taking the lead in the fight against abuse at all levels,” Lavu said.
“Especially, working with partner agencies in pushing the agenda to become policies.
“Now these policies are in use in many organisations.
“A very rare achievement.”
Lavu encouraged Hukula to continue to drive the agenda across the Pacific as she moves on to her new job.
Hukula said her fellow researchers and senior management at NRI, especially Dr Thomas Webster, Dr Joe Ketan and Richard Sikani: “I am so lucky I have been mentored by men all the way.
“It was a real pleasure working with you all.”
Other senior researchers she had worked under or with were: Late Dr Ray Anere, Dr Alphonse Gelu, Late Dr Henry Okole and Col James Laki.