By Benorah Carrie Hesehing
The University of Goroka’s Sepik Campus is facing challenges in securing industrial practice placements for its students.
The concern was raised by the Head of Division for Agriculture and Rural Development at the University of Goroka, Api Gibson.
Gibson made the comments while addressing the campus’ second Bachelor of Agriculture and third Diploma in Agriculture graduation ceremony last Friday.
“Despite the importance of fieldwork, several challenges are experienced in placing UOG Sepik Campus students for industrial practice,” Gibson said.
He explained that many agricultural enterprises, particularly small and medium-scale farms, lack structured internship programs or the capacity to engage students due to resource constraints or limited awareness of the benefits of such placements.
Mr Gibson said there is a disconnect between the campus and industry, resulting in limited coordination to facilitate student placements. He noted that the campus has been privileged to collaborate with Kokonas Indastri Koporesen (KIK), DAL Maprik and several cooperatives in Maprik District, which have been supportive of the program. However, he said there is still a need to engage other agribusinesses and commodity-based agro-industries across the province.
He further explained that logistical and financial constraints are among the key challenges, with transportation, accommodation and stipends posing barriers, particularly in rural or underserved areas. He added that industrial placements are supported and recognised by the Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (DHERST).
“Students receive a decent stipend to cover accommodation and sustenance for the six-week training period,” Gibson said.
He said the issue is concerning, as fieldwork experience is an integral part of agricultural education, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.
University of Goroka Vice-Chancellor Dr Mathew Landu expressed similar sentiments, saying stronger collaboration was needed among all stakeholders in the agriculture industry operating in Wewak and Maprik.
“The University is on the ground and ready to contribute to advancing this program. We look forward to strengthening partnerships with stakeholders in the agriculture sector within the province and signing agreements to encourage greater participation,” Dr Landu said.
