Improved TVET for Employment Project

MAJOR MILESTONE FOR PNG’S TVET SECTOR

The Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (DHERST) has today marked a significant achievement under the Improved TVET for Employment (iTVET4E) Project with the formal signing of the Technical Support Team (TST) Consulting Services Contract with TAFE Queensland, valued at AUD 9.86 million .

This milestone follows one of the most rigorous and transparent procurement processes undertaken by DHERST to date, fully compliant with Asian Development Bank procurement regulations and national contracting requirements, and cleared by the Office of the State Solicitor .

The signing ceremony was attended by representatives from TAFE Queensland, DHERST, the Asian Development Bank (ADB), and the Australian Government (DFAT)—demonstrating strong development partner confidence in PNG’s TVET reform agenda .

The TST consultancy will play a critical role in strengthening national TVET systems, supporting institutional capacity building, teacher development, curriculum strengthening, and broader TVET reforms across Papua New Guinea.

This achievement reinforces DHERST’s growing capability to manage complex, high-value procurements and deliver value for money outcomes that directly support employment-focused skills development for Papua New Guineans 🇵🇬.

iTVET4E Principals Conference 2025

Distinguished Voices | Day 1 – National Transforming TVET Forum 2025

Day 1 of the National Transforming TVET Forum 2025 featured powerful opening remarks from key leaders and partners shaping the future of TVET in Papua New Guinea.

The Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology, Hon. Feo Kinoka, MP, reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to strengthening technical and vocational pathways for employment and national productivity.

Representatives from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Australian Government (DFAT) also shared their perspectives on the importance of sustainable partnerships and investment in skills development.

Together, these voices set an inspiring tone for the forum — uniting government, development partners, and institutions in transforming TVET for a skilled and productive PNG. 🇵🇬

Day 1 Highlights | National Transforming TVET Forum 2025 – Lae

Day 1 of the National Transforming TVET Forum 2025 brought together government leaders, development partners, industry representatives, and TVET institutions from across Papua New Guinea under the theme “Transforming TVET for a Skilled and Productive PNG.”

Hosted at the National Polytechnic Institute of PNG, the Forum opened with inspiring remarks from national and provincial leaders, setting the tone for two days of dialogue, collaboration, and shared commitment toward a stronger, inclusive, and employment-focused TVET sector.

The sessions featured engaging discussions on policy priorities, institutional reforms, industry partnerships, and pathways to enhance youth employability through technical and vocational education.

Stay tuned for Day 2 highlights tomorrow as we continue to reimagine the future of TVET in PNG! 🇵🇬

📣 Countdown to the National TVET Forum 2025!
All roads lead to Lae, where the National Polytechnic Institute of Papua New Guinea will host the much-anticipated National TVET Forum on 22–23 October 2025.

This year’s Forum will bring together key government agencies, TVET institutions, industry partners, and development organisations to shape the future of skills and employment in PNG.

Stay tuned for more updates as we count down to this exciting national event!

✨ ADB President Visits Port Moresby Technical College ✨

This morning, Port Moresby Technical College (Pom Tech) had the honour of hosting the President of the Asian Development Bank, Masato Kanda, during his official mission to Papua New Guinea.

Welcomed with a vibrant cultural performance by students, the ADB President toured Pom Tech’s welding and electro-technology workshops, as well as the on-the-job training site at the new Business Studies Building. Students proudly showcased their hands-on skills in welding, construction, and ICT-based training.

The visit highlighted the direct benefits of the Improved TVET for Employment Project (iTVET4E); a partnership between GoPNG through DHERST, ADB, and the PNG-Australia Partnership; which is upgrading facilities and strengthening training across 10 TVET colleges nationwide.

📸 Here are some moments from today’s visit ⬇️

ADB President’s visit Pom Tech this morning

🌾🔧 Skills That Build Futures: Trades & Agriculture in Focus! 🔧🌾

The Improved TVET for Employment Project is working to strengthen Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in Trades and Agriculture, two vital sectors that power our economy and sustain our communities.

From welding workshops to sustainable farming practices, we’re making sure trainees gain hands-on, industry-relevant skills that lead to real jobs and better livelihoods.

✅ Upgraded training facilities
✅ Modern equipment and tools
✅ Stronger links with industry and employers
✅ Support for inclusive access to skills training

Whether you’re fixing engines or cultivating crops, your skills matter. And we’re here to support your journey.

👩‍🌾👨‍🔧 TVET is the way forward!!!

👉 Stay tuned for updates on the National TVET Forum and on the delivery of ICT Equipment to the colleges.