DWU opens new K1.9m Lae dormitory to house medical students

The new dormitory for medical students at Angau Memorial Hospital in Lae, Morobe *(Image: DWU)*

Divine Word University has officially opened a new K1.9 million dormitory in Lae, Morobe, to reduce high rental costs and place its medical students directly next to their practical training ground.

The new building, which took eight months to complete, will house up to 32 male and female medical students at a time while they undergo clinical training at the ANGAU Memorial Hospital.

For years, the university has faced heavy financial overheads by renting out space at the Okari Conference Centre in Eriku to keep up with student housing needs. The new, permanent facility brings an end to those commercial lease fees, allowing DWU to reinvest those funds back into its academic programs.

DWU President Professor Philip Gibbs said the project was the outcome of a long-term plan to bring students closer to their hands-on hospital rotations. He said expanding such facilities is critical for the university, which has already graduated over 100 doctors to help address Papua New Guinea’s severe shortage of medical professionals.

Lae City Authority chief executive officer Robin Calistus, speaking on behalf of Lae MP John Rosso, praised the university’s initiative.

"The provision of safe accommodation for students strengthens the foundation of the country’s healthcare system," Calistus said.

He reminded the students that as future doctors, they have a vital responsibility to study hard and serve a population that heavily relies on their skills.

University Council Chairman Dr. Thomas Webster thanked the traditional landowners, government partners, and the Marape-Rosso administration for supporting higher education infrastructure. He emphasized that direct, hospital-based experience is the most effective way to prepare students for real-world healthcare challenges.

According to Julie Ruene, DWU’s Vice President of Planning and Development, the new facility will ultimately allow the university to increase its student intake and improve overall educational outcomes, marking a lasting investment in the country's medical workforce.