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The Ako School of Thought: A Project Management Approach to Foreign Policy

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Foreign policy in today’s dynamic international system demands not just strategic vision but also a structured approach—a roadmap that is actionable, measurable, and adaptable. Much like a rugby league team needing a game plan before stepping onto the field, Papua New Guinea (PNG) requires a well-thought-out strategy to navigate the complexities of international relations. At Divine Word University (DWU), students of international relations are introduced to the transformative framework of the Ako School of Thought, pioneered by Mr. Lahui Ako, a seasoned diplomat, retired foreign service officer, and former rugby league player. This framework reimagines foreign policy as a carefully managed project, offering students a practical approach to analyzing and contributing to PNG’s international engagements. Cover image credit: Mr. Lahui Ako’s LinkedIn timeline. The Ako School of Thought is built on a foundation of systematic planning, execution, and evaluation. It emphasizes the need for cl...
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Mr. Lahui Ako: Shaping Future Diplomats through PG428 Foreign Policy in PNG

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Since 2021, Mr. Lahui Ako, a seasoned diplomat and retired foreign service officer, has been an integral part of Divine Word University’s (DWU) Bachelor of Arts (PNG and International Studies) program. His leadership and expertise as a sessional lecturer for the fully online unit PG428 Foreign Policy in PNG have enriched the academic experience for students, offering them unparalleled insights into the complexities of PNG’s foreign policy. A Communion of Great Thinkers: A generation of visionaries quietly shaping Papua New Guinea’s future through tireless work behind the scenes. Photo credit: Mr. Lahui Ako. Mr. Ako’s extensive experience in international diplomacy provides students with a rare opportunity to learn from someone who has navigated PNG’s foreign relations firsthand. His involvement goes beyond theory, bringing real-world perspectives to a unit designed to explore the evolution of PNG’s foreign policy since independence. Under his guidance, students examine the key decisio...
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From 1981 to Today: Lessons from PNG's Foreign Policy Reviews and the Role of Inclusivity

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In 1981, Papua New Guinea (PNG) released its first White Paper on Foreign Policy, marking a pivotal moment in the country's post-independence diplomacy. The process of developing this document contrasts sharply with the current approach to foreign policy reviews, particularly the recent use of an Eminent Persons Group (EPG). By analyzing these differences, we can assess the evolution of PNG's foreign policy-making processes and their implications for transparency, inclusivity, and policy outcomes. The 1981 White Paper: A Bureaucratic-Led Approach The 1981 White Paper was the product of a meticulous, bureaucratic-driven process. Senior public servants formed the core of the drafting committee, tasked with conducting comprehensive analyses and synthesizing input from a wide array of sources. This included insights from a consultant employed by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and a review of relevant domestic and international issues. Key features of this approach included...
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Employment Outcomes: A Snapshot of Success for Graduates of the PNG Area Studies Program

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The Bachelor of Arts (Papua New Guinea and International Studies) program has been a springboard for diverse career pathways, equipping graduates with the skills to thrive in public, private, and academic sectors. Data from the Tracer Study Report 2021, authored by Leonie Baptiste, offers valuable insights into the program’s impact on employment outcomes. Out of 84 graduates surveyed between 2018 and 2019, 58 provided detailed information about their careers, showcasing the program’s wide-reaching influence. Public Sector: A Leading Employer The public sector remains a significant employer for graduates, with a strong emphasis on governance and national development. Key placements include: Department of Foreign Affairs: Thirteen or more graduates have secured positions, demonstrating the program’s relevance to PNG’s foreign policy and international engagement. PNG Customs Services: An increasing number of graduates have joined, highlighting the program’s alignment with national trade a...
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Integrating Practical Experience in the Bachelor of Arts Program

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In today’s competitive job market, practical experience is just as important as academic knowledge. Recognizing this need, the Bachelor of Arts (PNG and International Studies) program integrates a robust work placement component, ensuring students graduate with the skills and experience to excel in their chosen careers. The 2021 Tracer Study Report underscored the importance of practical experience for students. Alumni and stakeholders alike voiced their recommendations for integrating hands-on learning opportunities into the curriculum, highlighting its role in fostering partnerships and building professional networks. In response, the program has revitalized its placement component, a critical step in aligning academic learning with the demands of the workforce. Starting in their second year, students are required to complete a 20-day work placement during the six-week holiday period. This component is more than just a graduation requirement—it is a stepping stone to professional rea...
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Why Papua New Guinea Needs a Comprehensive Area Studies Program

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In an ever-changing world, understanding the intricate interplay of culture, politics, development, and international relations has never been more critical—especially for a country as diverse as PNG. This is where our multidisciplinary Area Studies Program steps in, offering a specialized focus on PNG's unique challenges and opportunities. With its roots in the nation's Vision 2050 Strategic Plan and the university's Third Decade Strategic Master Plan, this program equips graduates to address the pressing needs of today while preparing for the uncertainties of tomorrow. Program Overview and Aims At its core, the program delves into four key disciplines—culture studies, political studies, community development, and international relations. These disciplines are interwoven to provide students with a holistic understanding of PNG’s societal fabric and its interactions on both domestic and international fronts. PNG is home to an incredible mosaic of indigenous peoples, each wi...
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Shaping Tomorrow: Revolutionizing Our International Studies Program

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In the ever-evolving field of international studies, staying ahead of global trends and ensuring academic excellence requires adaptability, critical reflection, and the willingness to embrace change. Our program at Divine Word University has undergone a transformative redesign, incorporating valuable feedback from external experts in 2022 and benchmarking against leading international universities. The result is a more robust, contextual, and forward-looking program, aligned with global standards and tailored to the unique needs of PNG and the Pacific region. Listening to Expert Voices: External Review and Feedback Two external overseas experts conducted an in-depth review of our program in 2022, offering insights that have profoundly shaped its evolution. Their critiques centered on three key areas: decolonization, staff development, and program structure. The first reviewer highlighted the importance of decolonizing the program—moving away from a Western-centric academic framework to...
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