UOG opens learning centre in Chimbu

By ZACHERY PER
THE University of Goroka opened  an Institute of Distant and Flexible Learning (IDFL) Centre in Kundiawa last Friday.
Vice-Chancellor of the University of Goroka Prof Musawe Sinebare, Chancellor Joseph Sukwianomb, Chimbu administrator Joe Kunda, education adviser Essy Walkaima and deputy governor James Kendeyagl signed a memorandum of understanding to effect the distance learning programme, witnessed by crowds in front of the Kondom Agaundo government building.
Sukwianomb praised Chimbu for investing in human resource development.
“The establishment of IDFL is now taking the province to new heights,” Sukwianomb said.
He said the centre would give second chances to Grade 12 school leavers and others with tertiary qualifications to further advance their skills and knowledge.
Sukwianomb assured the people of UOG’s continued support for the centre and called on the people and institutions to utilise it to their advantage.
Prof Sinebare also said the university’s continued support to the centre through technical assistance for its growth and advancement remains.
He said deployment of staff from the university to the centre would continue.
Administrator Joe Kunda welcomed UOG to Chimbu and also commended Essy Walkaima for negotiating with UOG to establish the centre in Kundiawa.
He promised that the administration would continue to provide support for the centre.
IDFL executive director Kensol Rui said two programmes   offered were – Certificate in Tertiary Admission Studies for Grade 12 students and the Bachelor of School Management for diploma holders.
“Our expansion to Chimbu is based on the increase in demand for our courses. It all began after a discussion with Essy Walkaima when the UOG team was heading for Mt Hagen,” Rui said.
“We pursued dialogue through to the initial establishments and its eventual launch and MOA”
Kendeyal, who stood in for Governor Noah Kool, presented K40,000 to the centre.