DWU hailed for academic excellence

Divine Word University has been hailed for its contributions to education in Papua New Guinea, starting from its humble beginning as a Catholic high school in 1968.

The university graduated close to 800 students during its 44th graduation last Friday

Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology, Kinoka Hotune Feo, said the university is one of the country's most respected institutions of higher learning whilst addressing the graduands.

"DWU does not only impart academic knowledge to the students but also instils life values in them." Feo said.

He said the university's growth and transformation have been guided by many educated leaders, academic staff, missionaries, and supporters who believed deeply in the power of education to change lives and build a nation.

"We recognise the remarkable contributions of Fr Jan, whose leadership for two decades helped shape the modern identity of DWU. Through vision, determination, and unwavering commitment to academic excellence, he played a significant role in building the strong institution we now see." He said.

He also extended gratitude to the SVD missionaries and SSpS sisters, the founding congregations of the then Divine Word High School in 1968, which later became the Divine Word Institute in 1979, before finally becoming a university in 1996.

"The story of Divine Word University is not just about buildings, programs, and degrees. It is fundamentally about values," he said.

"Today as we look around this campus and see students from every province of Papua New Guinea studying together, learning together, and preparing to serve the nation together, we see that vision becoming a reality," Feo said.

He also described DWU as "a shining oasis in PNG's educational landscape."

To the almost 800 graduating students, the Minister told them, "This is your day. You have overcome challenges, made sacrifices, and pursued knowledge with determination.

"The education you have received here carries with it an expectation; that you will use not only to build your careers but to build Papua New Guinea." He said.

He further emphasised that Papua New Guinea needs ethical leaders, innovative thinkers, dedicated professionals, and compassionate citizens.

He urged them to use their education as guides to become people of integrity, people who will not serve themselves but their communities and the nation.