The University of Technology, Lae (Unitech) is one of the leading institutions of higher learning in Papua New Guinea (PNG). It offers a range of programs in science, technology, engineering, and business, as well as research and innovation opportunities for students and staff. In this review, we will look at the background, achievements, strengths, and challenges of Unitech, as well as how Wantokjobs.com can assist in its recruitment needs.
Background and Activities
Unitech was established in 1965 as the PNG Institute of Higher Technical Education, with the aim of providing technical and vocational training for the country’s workforce. It became a university in 1973, and since then has expanded its academic offerings and facilities to meet the changing needs of PNG and the region12
Unitech is located in Lae, the second largest city and the industrial hub of PNG. It occupies 233.1 hectares of land, with modern buildings, laboratories, workshops, libraries, sports facilities, and student residences. It has about 3,000 students and 500 staff members from diverse backgrounds and cultures23
Unitech offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in the following fields: 14
- Agriculture
- Architecture
- Applied Sciences
- Business Studies
- Engineering
- Forestry
- Mathematics and Computer Science
- Open College
Unitech also conducts research and innovation activities in various areas, such as renewable energy, climate change, food security, biotechnology, information technology, and social sciences. It collaborates with local and international partners from industry, government, and academia to address the challenges and opportunities facing PNG and the region1
Achievements and Strengths
Unitech has a reputation for producing graduates who are competent, creative, and adaptable to the changing needs of the society and the economy. Some of its notable alumni include:
- Sir Julius Chan, former Prime Minister of PNG
- Sir Rabbie Namaliu, former Prime Minister of PNG
- Sir Mekere Morauta, former Prime Minister of PNG
- Sir Michael Somare, former Prime Minister of PNG
- Dame Carol Kidu, former Minister for Community Development
- Dr. Nancy Irwin-Maxwell, first female PhD holder in PNG
- Dr. Albert Schram, former Vice-Chancellor of Unitech
- Dr. David Kavanamur, Secretary for Higher Education Research Science & Technology
Unitech has also achieved several milestones in its academic and research performance, such as:
- Being ranked among the top 10 universities in Oceania by Webometrics in 2019 5
- Being awarded a grant of US$20 million by the World Bank to improve its teaching and learning quality under the Higher Education Project in 2018
- Being selected as one of the pilot universities for the PNG Government’s Innovative Higher Education Project in 2017
- Being accredited by the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET) in 2016
- Being recognized as a Center of Excellence for Renewable Energy by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) in 2015
- Being awarded a grant of US$5 million by the European Union to establish a Center for Renewable Energy Research and Training (CRERT) in 2014
Unitech has also demonstrated its commitment to social responsibility and community engagement by:
- Hosting the annual Unitech Show, which showcases the achievements and innovations of its students and staff to the public
- Participating in the annual National Science Week, which promotes science education and awareness among school children and teachers
- Supporting various community projects and initiatives, such as the Lae City Mission, the Lae Botanical Gardens, the Lae Cancer Society, and the Lae Rotary Club
Comparison with Other Employers
Unitech is one of the most attractive employers in PNG and the region for several reasons:
- It offers competitive salaries and benefits to its staff members, including housing allowances, medical insurance, pension schemes, study leave, and professional development opportunities.
- It provides a conducive working environment that fosters collegiality, collaboration, diversity, and excellence. It has a strong culture of innovation and creativity that encourages staff members to pursue their passions and interests.
- It supports the career growth and advancement of its staff members by providing them with mentoring, coaching, feedback, recognition, and rewards. It also offers opportunities for staff members to participate in national and international conferences, workshops, seminars, and exchange programs.
- It values the well-being and happiness of its staff members by promoting a healthy work-life balance. It organizes various social and recreational activities for its staff members, such as sports, music, arts, and cultural events. It also has a vibrant alumni network that connects its staff members with former colleagues and friends.
Compared to other employers in PNG, Unitech stands out as one of the best places to work because of its reputation, performance, and impact. It is widely recognized as a leader in science and technology education and research in the country and the region. It is also respected for its contributions to the social and economic development of PNG and the region.
Compared to other employers in the world, Unitech faces some challenges and limitations due to its location, resources, and context. It operates in a developing country that has many social, political, and environmental issues that affect its operations and outcomes. It also has limited financial and human resources that constrain its capacity and potential. However, Unitech also has some advantages and opportunities that make it unique and competitive in the global arena. It has access to a rich and diverse natural and cultural environment that offers many possibilities for learning and discovery. It also has a dynamic and resilient workforce that is eager to learn and grow.
How Wantokjobs.com Can Assist
Wantokjobs.com is a leading online platform that connects employers and job seekers in PNG. It offers various features and services that can assist Unitech in its recruitment needs, such as:
- Posting job vacancies on its website and social media channels, reaching thousands of potential candidates across PNG and the region.
- Screening and shortlisting candidates based on their qualifications, skills, experience, and suitability for the job.
- Providing online tools and resources for candidates to prepare for interviews, tests, and assessments.
- Facilitating communication and feedback between Unitech and candidates throughout the recruitment process.
- Offering advice and guidance on best practices and trends in recruitment, hiring, and retention.
Wantokjobs.com can help Unitech find the best talent for its various positions, from academic staff to administrative staff, from researchers to technicians, from managers to support staff. Wantokjobs.com can also help Unitech attract more diverse and qualified candidates from different backgrounds, disciplines, sectors, and regions.
A Final Note
Unitech is a remarkable institution that has made significant contributions to the education and development of PNG and the region. It is an employer of choice for many people who are passionate about science and technology, innovation and creativity, learning and discovery. Working at Unitech is not only a rewarding career but also a fulfilling life.
If you are interested in working at Unitech or learning more about its opportunities, please visit its official website 1 or follow its social media pages . You can also check out Wantokjobs.com for the latest job vacancies at Unitech or other employers in PNG.
We hope this review has given you some insights into what makes Unitech a great place to work. We encourage you to apply for your dream job at Unitech or share this review with someone who might be interested.
Thank you for reading!
1: https://www.unitech.ac.pg/ 2: https://www.unitechpng.com/ 3: https://edu.pngfacts.com/png-university-of-technology.html 4: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Papua_New_Guinea_University_of_Technology 5: https://www.webometrics.info/en/Oceania/Papua%20New%20Guinea : https://www.worldbank.org/en/news/press-release/2018/06/06/png-higher-education-project-to-improve-quality-of-teaching-and-learning : https://www.thenational.com.pg/unitech-selected-for-pilot-project/ : https://www.iacet.org/news/press-release-papua-new-guinea-university-of-technology-receives-prestigious-accreditation-from-the-international-association-for-continuing-education-and-training-iacet/ : https://www.adb.org/news/papua-new-guinea-university-become-center-excellence-renewable-energy : https://eeas.europa.eu/delegations/papua-new-guinea/13171/eu-supports-png-university-technology-establish-renewable-energy-research-and-training-centre_en : https://www.thenational.com.pg/unitech-show-a-success/ : https://www.thenational.com.pg/unitech-students-take-part-in-science