Trio set for programme

 THREE Papua New Guinean young leaders have been selected by the Trade Mission of the Republic of China (on Taiwan) to participate in the Pacific Islands Leadership Program (PILP). 

The Taiwan Mission announced the three locals with outstanding intellectual promise Jane Awi, Bill Minjikul and Clement Dusava in a press conference yesterday.

Taiwan Trade Mission representative Daniel Hu told reporters that PILP with Taiwan was a new initiative designed to provide opportunities to enhance the leadership capacities of individuals in the Pacific region. 

“The three-month programme is scheduled to start on Aug 26 and end on Nov 20 beginning with the first two months in Honolulu, Hawaii, and the third in Taipei, Taiwan,” Hu said. 

“Eligibility of PILP is merit-based and seeks outstanding individuals from all walks of life (government, business, media and health) to apply.  

“Awi is a former lecturer at the University of Goroka who has just completed doctor of philosophy (PhD) in creative industry from the Queensland University of Technology, Minjikul is a senior research officer with the Office of the Prime Minister and Dusava is a policy officer with the Health Department.”  

Awi said she was looking forward to the programme as they would be developing a project that addressed issues in communication, health, education and other sectors that influence development. 

“I appreciate the award because when I return I want to support other youngsters who are interested to learn about HIV and other issues.”

Dusava encouraged young aspiring leaders to uphold their origin and custom despite the fact that their lives today  were influenced by western culture.