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 clear, measurable goals that align with PNG’s national interests, ensuring every foreign policy initiative has a defined purpose and outcome. Central to this approach is the understanding that foreign policy must be proactive, rather than reactive, driven by a well-thought-out plan that anticipates challenges and opportunities. This structured methodology provides students with a framework to explore how PNG can maximize its diplomatic engagements in areas such as trade, security, and cultural diplomacy.

Stakeholder collaboration is another cornerstone of the Ako School of Thought. Students learn to identify and engage key actors, including government agencies, the private sector, and civil society, recognizing that effective foreign policy requires collective effort and consensus-building. By understanding the roles of these stakeholders, students are equipped to design initiatives that are not only strategic but also inclusive and sustainable.

Through the lens of project management, students are guided to develop detailed plans for foreign policy initiatives. This involves resource allocation, risk management, and adherence to timelines, mirroring the disciplined execution required in project-based work. Monitoring and evaluation are also integral to this framework, as students are taught to assess the impact of foreign policy actions and make data-informed adjustments to improve outcomes. This process ensures accountability and reinforces the importance of continuous improvement in PNG’s foreign engagements.

Adaptability is another critical element of the Ako School of Thought. In the ever-changing landscape of international relations, the ability to respond effectively to emerging challenges and opportunities is essential. Students are encouraged to remain flexible and innovative, thinking beyond traditional approaches to find creative solutions that advance PNG’s interests.

The 'PG428 Foreign Policy in PNG' unit integrates the Ako School of Thought seamlessly into its curriculum, enabling students to connect theory with practice. Online learning platforms such as Moodle, Zoom, and Facebook facilitate dynamic discussions and webinars, allowing students to engage deeply with PNG’s foreign policy from independence to the present. Real-world case studies form a core component of the unit, providing students with opportunities to address pressing issues like visa negotiations, the integration of Confucius Institutes in PNG universities, and regional security partnerships. These projects challenge students to apply project management principles to complex scenarios, helping them develop actionable recommendations that align with PNG’s broader development goals.

Under the mentorship of Mr. Ako, students are not just passive learners; they are active participants in shaping the future of PNG’s foreign policy. The Ako School of Thought equips them with critical thinking, effective communication, and practical skills that prepare them to become leaders in government, diplomacy, and international organizations. It empowers them to design and implement policies that are not only visionary but also grounded in a realistic, results-driven approach.

At DWU, the Ako School of Thought is more than a theoretical framework—it is a transformative tool for educating the next generation of foreign policy leaders. By framing foreign policy as a project management discipline, this approach ensures that PNG’s future diplomats are equipped to navigate the complexities of international relations with confidence and competence. As PNG continues to engage with an increasingly interconnected world, the principles of the Ako School of Thought will undoubtedly serve as a guiding light for the nation’s diplomatic efforts.

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