Former students form network

By MATTHEW VARI

Sunday, November 17, 2013 (Sunday Chronicle, PNG)

FORMER Papua New Guinean students from the Southern Cross University (SCU) in Australia have formed an Alumni Network to deepen ties with former graduates for networking, professional development and, social interaction and create awareness to nationals on the opportunities to go beyond a first degree at the institution.

The group is the first for the country from 50,000 SCU members around the world, and it consists of a host of high profile Papua New Guineans like, Treasury Minister Don Polye, Commerce and Industry Secretary John Andreas, and Transport Secretary Roy Mumu to name a few.

"We launched the network, so we can use the experience we have gained to share with interested first degree holders wishing to undergo post graduate studies," interim-President Roy Mumu said.

"We need to provide awareness to young Papua New Guineans who aspire to further their careers in their fields of studies."

Mr Mumu described SCU as being very flexible institution, giving students the opportunity to study on campus or distance studies, even giving students the opportunity to do one to two study units per trimester (one third of an academic year).

He deemed it as a win-win situation for employers and employees especially in the public sector.

"Vision 2050 emphasizes that it is a requirement of Departmental heads and CEOs, and Heads of government institutions must attain Masters degrees."

"Some of us didn't have the opportunities that are now being presented to students today, so we want the same opportunities for our fellow citizens in terms of the development of professionals," Mumu said.