Aligning Academia with Policy: PG420 and PNG’s Revised National Security Policy 2024–2029

The evolving landscape of national security in Papua New Guinea (PNG) has gained renewed significance with the release of the Revised National Security Policy (NSP) 2024–2029. This policy, which replaces the NSP 2013, demonstrates PNG's commitment to addressing an array of interconnected threats, including cybercrime, transnational crimes, climate change, and increasing geopolitical competition in the Pacific. A key feature of the policy is the establishment of a National Security Agency (NSA), currently operating through a secretariat, to oversee its implementation. The NSA will coordinate the efforts of six specialized security communities: the Strategic Intelligence Community, the Strategic Law Enforcement Community, the National Emergency Community, the Cyber Community, the Scientific Community, and the Strategic Community. Together, these groups will work to ensure a comprehensive, state-centric, and human-centered approach to safeguarding PNG’s national interests.

The Revised National Security Policy 2024–2029, officially released to all security and associated agencies in the national security sector in December 2024, provided courtesy of Dr. Francis Hualupmomi.

As PNG adapts to this revised policy, the PG420 International and Regional Security unit at Divine Word University has been integral in preparing students to engage with these challenges. Offered fully online as part of the Bachelor of Arts (PNG and International Studies) program, PG420 reflects the need to equip students with a robust understanding of contemporary security issues while aligning its curriculum with national priorities. By incorporating knowledge of the NSP’s objectives, the role of the NSA, and the functions of the six security communities, PG420 ensures that students are prepared to contribute meaningfully to the evolving security landscape.

The unit employs innovative teaching methods, including Moodle forums, Zoom sessions, and social media platforms, fostering critical engagement and dynamic learning. Students participate in policy reviews, online seminars, and awareness campaigns that develop both analytical and practical skills. These activities not only encourage an understanding of theoretical frameworks but also provide opportunities to apply knowledge to real-world security challenges, addressing PNG’s pressing needs in an interconnected global environment.

Screenshot of the unit from Moodle's list of courses

In 2024, PG420 enhanced its relevance and impact by hosting distinguished guest lecturers via Zoom. Students from the PNG and International Studies program, as well as those from the Communication Arts (Journalism) program, where PG420 serves as an elective, benefitted from these sessions. Among the highlights was a lecture by Mr. Richard McGregor, a Research Fellow from the Lowy Institute in Sydney, who shared his experiences as a journalist in China. His lecture, “China as a Security Threat in the Pacific Region,” provided a nuanced understanding of China’s strategic influence and the critical role of journalism in interpreting security dynamics.

Similarly, Associate Professor Denghua Zhang from the Australian National University delivered a lecture on China’s growing presence in the Pacific, analyzing its implications for regional security. His insights complemented the theoretical foundations of PG420, offering students a comprehensive view of how China’s soft power and geopolitical strategies are reshaping the Pacific’s security landscape. Dr. Francis Hualupmomi, Team Leader of the National Security Agency Secretariat, further enriched the curriculum by providing an overview of PNG’s national security framework.

The humanitarian aspect of security was addressed by Mr. Samuel Bariasi of the PNG Red Cross, who discussed the organization’s critical work in disaster preparedness, emergency response, and community resilience. His presentation underscored the indispensable role of non-state actors in promoting human security, aligning with the NSP’s broader vision of comprehensive security.

While the contributions of guest lecturers significantly enriched the unit, unforeseen circumstances prevented two key speakers from attending. Associate Professor José Sousa-Santos, Convenor of the Pacific Regional Security Hub, and Mr. Steven Matainaho, Secretary of the Department of Information and Communication Technology, were scheduled to address transnational crime and cybersecurity, respectively. Their absence highlighted the challenges of organizing such events in a fully online format, but there remains hope that they will contribute to the program in 2025.

The Revised NSP emphasizes inter-agency collaboration and stakeholder engagement, principles reflected in PG420’s curriculum. Group projects, such as online awareness campaigns on platforms like the PNG Foreign Policy Community Facebook group, demonstrate how academic initiatives can engage the public and inform policy discussions. These efforts bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical applications, empowering students to contribute to PNG’s security discourse.

As PNG navigates complex security challenges, the alignment of academic units like PG420 with national policy initiatives is essential. By incorporating the objectives of the Revised NSP 2024–2029 and the operational role of the NSA into its curriculum, PG420 equips students to become active participants in shaping PNG’s security framework. Through its innovative approach and engagement with experts, the unit continues to foster the development of future leaders capable of addressing the nation’s evolving security needs.