Students seek out opportunities in Education Roadshow

For many young Papua New Guineans, the dream of studying overseas often begins with a single conversation.

At the Study Australia Education Roadshow in Port Moresby this week, students, scholarship candidates and recent graduates moved from booth to booth seeking information on courses, scholarships and student life in Australia.

For many, it was their first opportunity to speak directly with representatives from Australian universities and explore educational pathways that could shape their future careers. Representatives from 19 Australian universities attended the two-day roadshow on July 16 and 17, connecting aspiring students with Australian education providers and offering information on courses, campuses, student support services and study opportunities.

The event brought together Australia Awards Scholarship candidates for Intake 2027, students preparing to begin their studies in Australia, alumni and education partners. A key feature of the roadshow was the Australia Awards Scholarships program, which provides Australian Government-funded opportunities for Papua New Guineans to undertake higher education studies in Australia. The scholarships are designed to develop skills and leadership capabilities that contribute to Papua New Guinea's development priorities while strengthening educational and people-to-people links between PNG and Australia.

Applicants are assessed on academic competence, professional and personal qualities, leadership potential and their ability to contribute to development outcomes in Papua New Guinea after completing their studies. The program also encourages applications from women, people with disabilities and those from rural and remote communities.

The scholarships support study programs aligned with PNG's development agenda, including priorities outlined in PNG Vision 2050 and the Medium-Term Development Plan IV. Areas such as education, health, agriculture, governance, climate change, gender equality and disability inclusion are among the fields that support national development priorities.

"Education is a key pillar of Australia and Papua New Guinea's deep and enduring bilateral relationship," said Madeleine Moss, Australian High Commission Minister-Counsellor. "Providing opportunities for students to study in Australia helps build the future skilled workforce Papua New Guinea needs, while strengthening institutions, communities and professional networks."

She said educational opportunities also create lifelong personal and professional connections that continue to strengthen ties between the two countries.

While the scholarships provide significant opportunities, prospective applicants often face challenges in meeting competitive academic requirements, gathering supporting documentation and demonstrating how their studies will contribute to Papua New Guinea's development goals. Shortlisted candidates must also progress through a competitive interview and selection process.

Organisers say the annual Study Australia Education Roadshow helps connect future students with the information and opportunities they need to pursue an Australian education and contribute to the country's future workforce.