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 and border security needs.

Graduates have also made their mark in the security sector, with notable placements in organizations such as:

  • Royal PNG Constabulary: One graduate.
  • Correctional Institute Services: One graduate.
  • PNG Defence Force: Three graduates.
  • National Intelligence Organization: One graduate.
  • National Maritime Safety Authority: One graduate.

These placements illustrate the program’s capacity to address critical workforce needs in national governance and security.

Private Sector: Expanding Horizons

The private sector has become an increasingly popular destination for graduates, particularly through Graduate Development Programs (GDPs) offered by leading corporations. Recent placements include:

  • Steamships: A few graduates recruited via its GDP.
  • ExxonMobil: A few graduates recruited via its GDP.
  • Brian Bell Group: One graduate recruited via its GDP.
  • Bank South Pacific: Four graduates—two recruited through its GDP and two through direct recruitment.
  • People’s Micro Bank: One graduate currently serving as a manager.

Additionally, two graduates have ventured into entrepreneurship, successfully launching and managing their own businesses.

Higher Education and Teaching: Growing Pathways

The higher education sector has also attracted a steady stream of graduates, with many contributing to academia and research. Current placements include:

  • Eleven graduates employed at Divine Word University.
  • Two graduates working at Western Pacific University.
  • Two graduates employed by the Department of Higher Education, Research, Science, and Technology.
  • One graduate previously employed in the Political Science Strand at the University of Papua New Guinea has transitioned to the National Research Institute, reflecting the program’s alignment with PNG’s growing focus on research and policy development.

Moreover, a significant number of graduates have pursued further education at the University of Goroka, obtaining a Postgraduate Diploma in Secondary Teaching. This has opened new career opportunities in PNG’s education sector, enabling graduates to contribute as secondary school teachers across the country.

Broadening Opportunities for Graduates

The program’s graduates are making meaningful contributions across sectors, reflecting its multidisciplinary approach and relevance to PNG’s development needs. The steady growth in employment across public, private, and academic fields demonstrates the program’s ability to adapt to changing workforce demands.

As the program evolves, strengthening partnerships with employers and refining its curriculum to address emerging challenges will be critical. By continuing to align with national and international priorities, the Bachelor of Arts (Papua New Guinea and International Studies) program will ensure its graduates remain at the forefront of PNG’s progress.

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