DWU OPENS MEDICAL PROGRAM STUDENT DORMITORY TO STRENGTHEN HEALTHCARE TRAINING IN PNG
Divine Word University (DWU) officially marked the opening and blessing of its Medical Program Student Dormitory at ANGAU MEMORIAL HOSPITAL in Lae recently, a significant milestone aimed at strengthening medical training and healthcare delivery in Papua New Guinea.
The event brought together government representatives, church leaders, health professionals, development partners, DWU Executives and staff to celebrate what was widely described as a critical investment in the country’s future health workforce.
The Keynote speech was presented by Mr. Robin Calistus, Chief Executive Officer for Lae City Authority, on behalf of the Deputy Prime Minister & Member for Lae Open Electorate John Rosso who highlighted that this development marks a vital step forward for Divine Word University, Lae City, Morobe Province, and Papua New Guinea as a whole. The provision of safe accommodation for students strengthens the foundation of the country’s healthcare system and supports effective learning and training.
“Students are our future leaders and medical doctors, and the support we give today will shape the care our people receive in the future.” Said Robin Calistus.
It was further stressed that students must develop a strong work ethic and a positive attitude, he stated that, “As future medical practitioners, you are privileged, hence you study and serve well, because our country needs you.”
He also commended Divine Word University for its ongoing commitment to improving education in Papua New Guinea, reaffirming the importance of investing in human capacity and strengthening higher learning institutions across the country.
Delivering the official address, Dr. Thomas Webster, Chair of the DWU Council, acknowledged the contributions of traditional landowners, government stakeholders, and development partners. He emphasized the importance of collaboration in sustaining such facilities and strengthening medical education in Papua New Guinea, stating that practical, hospital-based training is essential in preparing students to meet real healthcare challenges. He further underscored the importance of instilling strong values, encouraging students to serve with integrity, professionalism, and a commitment to community service. Dr Webster also acknowledged the Marape-Rosso Government for its continuous support to education and higher institutions, which plays a key role in strengthening and developing the University, and in making this initiative possible.
In his remarks, DWU President Professor Fr. Philip Gibbs described the project as the fulfilment of a long-held vision to bring medical students closer to practical training at Angau Memorial Hospital. He highlighted the University’s growth in medical education, stating that more than 100 doctors have already graduated from DWU. Emphasizing the importance of the initiative, he stated that such developments contribute to addressing the country’s current doctor-to-patient ratio which is 1 doctor is to 20 to 25 thousand patients while advancing DWU’s mission of integral human development. He expressed gratitude to all partners, especially DHERST and those behind the project’s successful completion.
Providing a project overview, Mrs. Julie Ruene, DWU Vice President for Planning and Development, highlighted that the dormitory project was completed over an eight-month period at a cost of K1.9 million, describing it as a result of strong partnerships and a shared vision. She acknowledged the vital funding support from the Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (DHERST), Morobe Provincial Health Authority alongside contributions from the Lae City Authority, Catholic Diocese, contractors, and other partners. She emphasized that the facility will increase student intake, improve educational outcomes, and serve as an investment in strengthening Papua New Guinea’s healthcare system.
Representing DHERST, Ms. Lisa Larry, Executive Manager, Project Implementation Division, DHERST highlighted the Government’s continued investment in higher education infrastructure, stating that such developments are part of a broader capital investment program aimed at improving human capital across the country. She described the dormitory not simply as a building, but as a “sanctuary for learning and human development,” emphasizing its role in addressing national workforce needs, particularly in the health sector. She commended DWU’s leadership and reaffirmed the importance of good governance and partnerships in delivering impactful outcomes.
Adding to this perspective, Morobe Provincial Health Authority, Director for Curative Services, Dr. Steven James highlighted the growing patient demand faced by ANGAU MEMORIAL HOSPITAL and the ongoing challenges in delivering quality healthcare services. He stressed that strengthening medical education through practical training and improved facilities is essential in building a resilient and capable health workforce in Papua New Guinea.
The ceremony concluded with an official blessing by the Bishop of the Lae Catholic Diocese, Rozario Menezes, S.M.M., who also officiated the ribbon-cutting ceremony alongside Mr. Robin Calistus, Chief Executive Officer of the Lae City Authority, on behalf of the Deputy Prime Minister and Member for Lae Open Electorate, Hon. John Rosso, marking the dormitory as fully operational and ready to support medical students.
This development forms part of Divine Word University’s continued commitment to “Serving the Nation with Quality Education,” as it works collaboratively with partners to improve access to education, strengthen healthcare services, and contribute meaningfully to national development.
