The Divine Word University (DWU) Port Moresby Campus recently celebrated its 44th Graduation Ceremony, marking a significant milestone for 274 graduates from the Faculty of Business and Informatics.
The event served as a vibrant gathering for graduates, families, academic staff, and dignitaries to honour academic success and reflect on DWU’s role in Papua New Guinea’s national development.
Dr. Thomas Webster, Chairman of the Divine Word University Council, opened the proceedings by congratulating the cohort and acknowledging the vital support systems- families, sponsors, and partners- that made their success possible.
He noted that these graduates are part of a larger group of nearly 1,569 students graduating across all DWU campuses during the 2025 academic year.
Dr. Webster highlighted the historical significance of the event, noting that this year marks 30 years since DWU attained university status in 1996, though its educational roots in Madang date back to the 1960s.
He reaffirmed the university's commitment to meeting workforce demands through flexible and full-time study options, grounded in Christian values as the nation celebrates 50 years of independence.
The keynote address was delivered by the Chief Secretary to the Government, Mr. Ivan Pomaleu, who challenged the new alumni to lead with purpose.
He urged the graduates to apply their skills to public service and private enterprise, stating that education is a critical foundation for national development.
Mr. Pomaleu commended the university for developing ethical leaders and encouraged the class to uphold a strong sense of responsibility in their future roles.
Meanwhile, DWU President Professor Fr. Philip Gibbs also addressed the assembly, reflecting on the harmony of faith and reason inherent in the Catholic intellectual tradition.
He congratulated the class on overcoming various challenges and noted the university's expanding impact, mentioning that 793 students had graduated in Madang just the previous week.
Fr. Gibbs emphasized the university's goal to form graduates in mind, heart, and spirit, prepared to serve others with competence and compassion.
Representing the student body, Valedictorian Ms. Judith Wyborn shared a moving reflection on the shared journey and sacrifices of her peers.
She spoke of the unique challenges faced by those in the Flexible Learning Centre (FLC), where students spent only two weeks together in class before returning to independent study in their home communities.
Ms. Wyborn noted that their achievement was a true reflection of the discipline and perseverance required to balance family life and academic rigor.
The ceremony also recognized six outstanding students who received awards for academic excellence across Master’s, Bachelor’s, and Diploma programs.
The entire event was held under the theme “Serving the Nation with Quality Education Over Thirty Years,” a powerful reminder of DWU’s mission to provide ethical formation and academic excellence for the benefit of all communities throughout Papua New Guinea.
