232 Voices, One Message: PNG Needs a Foreign Policy Analysis Program

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When designing a postgraduate program in Foreign Policy Analysis, one cannot rely on assumptions alone. Programs must be built on evidence, not guesswork. At Divine Word University, we conducted an online survey to test the demand for such a program. The results, with 232 respondents, confirmed that there is both strong interest and urgent need for postgraduate training in this field.

The survey reached a wide cross-section of Papua New Guineans: 101 students, 57 public servants, 43 academics, and 31 private sector professionals. This mix reflects the reality that foreign policy is not the exclusive preserve of diplomats. It cuts across sectors—from government and education to business and civil society. The fact that interest came from every corner demonstrates that a postgraduate program in foreign policy would serve a genuinely national constituency.

One of the strongest findings was the age profile of respondents. The 25–34 age group made up 111 participants, nearly half of the total, followed by 62 participants aged 18–24. This shows that demand is concentrated among young professionals and students transitioning into the workforce. In other words, there is a pipeline of future leaders who want structured training in foreign policy but cannot currently find it in PNG.

Motivation was another key theme. An overwhelming 168 respondents said they are driven by genuine interest in foreign policy and international affairs, while 80 identified career advancement as their primary reason. This proves that the program should not only emphasize theoretical knowledge but also deliver applied skills that help professionals climb career ladders in government, NGOs, and the private sector.

On the question of curriculum priorities, the message was clear. Regional diplomacy attracted 115 responses, trade and economic diplomacy 66, and security and defence 60. These areas far outweighed interest in cultural diplomacy (15), environmental issues (16), or political/government diplomacy (4). These results, illustrated in the chart below, confirm that any new program must be grounded in the pressing realities of PNG’s foreign policy environment.

Survey responses on areas of greatest interest in foreign policy training (n=232).

Respondents also made their voices heard on program delivery. Many indicated that flexible formats would be necessary, as work and family obligations make full-time study difficult. This aligns with our plan to offer a hybrid model: online coursework supported by intensive block teaching in Port Moresby or Madang. Without such flexibility, participation from mid-career professionals would be limited, and the program would fail to capture its most important audience.

The survey’s significance extends beyond curriculum design. It will feed directly into the Quality Assurance Committee (QAC), which evaluates academic rigour; the University Council, which decides on institutional viability; and DHERST, which ensures alignment with PNG’s higher education policy and Vision 2050. Being able to present hard evidence—such as 226 out of 232 respondents agreeing that PNG lacks structured foreign policy training—will strengthen our case at every level of approval.

In the end, the survey has done more than confirm interest. It has provided the blueprint for program structure, delivery, and content. It has shown that demand is real, that expectations are clear, and that the need is urgent. For PNG to sharpen its foreign policy capacity, this program is not optional—it is necessary. And with the backing of the QAC, University Council, and DHERST, we can ensure that Divine Word University plays a central role in building the nation’s foreign policy expertise.

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