Tetra Tech implements the Australia Awards Papua New Guinea (AAPNG) program on behalf of the Australian Government.
The AAPNG scholarship program is designed to propel Papua New Guinea’s socioeconomic development by creating a skilled workforce, addressing critical HR gaps and promoting leadership across the public, private and civil sectors.
The initiative is focused on cultivating a network of alumni who leverage their enhanced knowledge and skills for economic and developmental advancements, strengthening Australia-PNG relations and ensuring equitable leadership opportunities.
Highlights
- More than 1,000 applications managed and 90 awardees selected to participate in the program
- More than 800 awardees benefited from education in 23 institutions across 15 provinces in its first year, enhancing PNG’s skilled workforce
- More than 200 participants completing studies in Australia, reflecting the program’s balance in gender and regional representation and its dedication to inclusive development opportunities
Our role and impact
Tetra Tech manages AAPNG, including starting it up, providing support, helping awardees return and fit back into their work environments and staying in touch with alumni. Annually, Tetra Tech processes over 1,010 applications, selecting 90 awardees based on merit, potential for impact and alignment with professional development priorities. The selection process is marked by its inclusive approach, representing PNG’s diverse demographics. Collaboration with tertiary education experts and strategic policy coordination with both the Australian High Commission and the Government of Papua New Guinea underpin the program’s success.
AAPNG has enhanced educational and professional opportunities within Papua New Guinea, showcasing a broad engagement in its first year and facilitating a supportive path for awardees to integrate back into the local workforce. The program’s emphasis on gender equality and extending reach to individuals from underrepresented regions highlights its critical role in promoting a more inclusive and competent workforce in line with PNG’s development goals.
Our expert
Vicki Vaartjes
Vicki Vaartjes is the deputy head of markets, client and strategy.
At a glance
Date
May 2014 – present
Location
Papua New Guinea