Twelve (12) women researchers from Lae are travelling to Melbourne, Australia, to undertake advanced research training and mentorship under a program aimed at strengthening women’s leadership in research across Papua New Guinea.

The initiative is supported by the Australian Government through the PNG–Australia Partnership’s “Strongim Risets Kapasiti Bilong Ol Meri” project and will see the participants attend a four-week placement at the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) University.

The women were selected after completing intensive capacity-building workshops in Lae city, where they received training in research methodology, data analysis, academic and grant writing, leadership and evidence-based policy engagement.

During their placement in Australia, the researchers will work alongside Australian academics and mentors while building professional connections with leading research institutions.

Papua New Guinea University of Technology researcher Dr Wilma Langa said the training would create opportunities for collaboration between female researchers in PNG and Australia while promoting inclusive policies.

Dr Langa said her research focuses on urban design and the informal sector and she hopes the experience will help her contribute towards greater empowerment and inclusion for informal vendors in urban areas.

The Lae participants represent the second regional cohort under the program following earlier workshops conducted for women researchers in Port Moresby.

Australia says the initiative reflects its ongoing commitment to supporting women researchers, strengthening higher education partnerships, and improving research capacity in PNG in areas including agriculture, education, economics and community development.