8TH PNG RESEARCH, SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY CONFERENCE CONCLUDED
By VICKY BAUNKE, in Goroka
THE 8th PNG Research, Science and Technology Conference at the University of Goroka comes to an end today after four days of research presentations, scientific discussions and innovation showcases.
The conference, which opened on Tuesday, has brought together researchers, academics, students, government representatives and development partners under the theme “Refocusing Science, Technology and Innovation for Inclusive Growth, Resilience, and Prosperity for the Future.”
Day One focused on the official opening and keynote discussions, with attention on STEM education, sustainable agriculture, biodiversity, climate change, food security and research in the extractive industries.
Day Two placed greater emphasis on biodiversity and conservation, climate change, food security and One Health, while researchers continued presenting their work through parallel sessions.
Day Three focused on climate change, food security and health, as well as sustainable agriculture and building a resilient future.
Speaking on behalf of the PNG Science, Research and Technology Secretariat, Acting Director of Grants Management Jordan Dean challenged scientists and researchers to take their work beyond research papers and develop innovations that can address real challenges facing Papua New Guinea.
Mr Dean said previous conferences had largely focused on research papers, while the new Science Expo provided an opportunity to showcase practical innovations in areas such as poverty reduction, renewable energy, health, sustainable agriculture, climate resilience, alternative medicine and digital ICT.
He described the Expo as a celebration of curiosity and innovation, and encouraged visitors to ask questions and engage with the researchers and emerging scientists.
A major highlight was the inaugural Science Expo, a side event of the conference held at the Humilaveka Student Forum, where researchers and students showcased scientific ideas, products and innovations.
Students from North Goroka Day High School and other schools also took part, giving young people an opportunity to engage directly with science and research.
The final day of the conference featured a keynote on research and development in extractive industries, followed by breakout sessions covering biodiversity, climate change, sustainable agriculture, STEM education, extractive industries and ethics in artificial intelligence.
The conference will conclude with a panel discussion, bringing together key issues raised throughout the four-day programme.
For the PNG Research Science and Technology Council Secretariat as the organisers of the event throughthe Department of National Planning, the message from the conference and the Science Expo is clear, research must not remain on paper, but should be transformed into practical innovations that can improve lives and contribute to Papua New Guinea’s development.
