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 decisions and approaches adopted by successive governments, analyzing their impacts on national interests and international standing.

Delivered entirely online, PG428 utilizes platforms like Moodle, Zoom, and the Facebook group PNG Foreign Policy Community to engage students in dynamic discussions and activities. Mr. Ako’s weekly webinars, streamed live on Facebook, have become a highlight of the unit, drawing participation not just from students but also from members of the wider public policy community. These sessions cover topics such as the influence of Sir Michael Somare, the 1979 and 2017 foreign policy reviews, Wingti’s ‘Look North’ policy, and the challenges of navigating globalization.

The unit also emphasizes practical learning through group case studies, where Mr. Ako plays a pivotal mentoring role. Students tackle real-world issues like PNG’s cultural diplomacy strategies or the integration of Confucius Institutes in PNG universities. These projects challenge them to synthesize theoretical knowledge with actionable policy recommendations, preparing them for the complexities of policymaking.

Assessments in PG428 are carefully structured to ensure a holistic learning experience. Moodle-based lessons and quizzes test students’ grasp of theoretical concepts, while case studies, involving a 2000-word report and a 20-minute online presentation, provide them with hands-on experience in collaborative research and policymaking.

Mr. Ako’s influence extends beyond the virtual classroom. His ability to connect students with PNG’s historical and contemporary foreign policy landscape inspires them to think critically about their country’s role in the global system. Through his mentorship, students develop essential skills such as critical research, effective communication, and digital literacy, all of which are critical for navigating the challenges of 21st-century diplomacy.

The inclusion of a seasoned diplomat like Mr. Ako exemplifies DWU’s commitment to bridging academia and practice. PG428 Foreign Policy in PNG not only educates students about the past and present of PNG’s foreign relations but also equips them with the tools and confidence to contribute to shaping the future of the nation’s foreign policy.

DWU, through the leadership of Mr. Lahui Ako, ensures that PG428 remains a beacon of academic excellence and practical relevance. By learning from one of PNG’s most experienced diplomats, students are not only informed but also inspired to take their place as the next generation of foreign policy leaders.

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