The Department of Works and Highways has launched a new five-year training plan and graduate development program designed to train 20 Papua New Guinean graduate engineers annually.
The Five-Year Training Plan (2025–2029) tackles local engineering shortages by training professionals to oversee, manage, and execute critical road projects. To support this, the department launched a Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) Manual, mapping out a direct route for graduates to achieve formal professional registration.
Supported by technical assistance from the Australian Government, the Graduate Development Program will recruit 20 graduate engineers per cohort starting next year. The initiative offers structured training, mentorship, and 24 months of practical workplace experience.
Sophie Ere, a past graduate of the department’s training initiative and the current Principal Engineer for Roads in the Highlands Region, welcomed the return of the program. Ere joined the program in 2020 under the mentorship of Leka Bonoro, Assistant Secretary of the Materials Science and Technology Branch. In August 2023, she was part of the first cohort to graduate from the department’s training registry in over 20 years.
“I didn’t have a Training Plan or a GDP Manual. I had a good mentor who showed me the way. A documented pathway makes all the difference. It tells you exactly what skills and milestones you need, instead of learning by trial and error,” Ere said.
Works and Highways Secretary Gibson Holemba stated that Ere’s career progression confirms that investing in human capital delivers lasting infrastructure outcomes. He stated that her journey demonstrates the direct value the development program brings to the sector.
“Our road network is only as strong as the people responsible for planning, designing, building and maintaining it,” Holemba said.
Australian High Commission Minister Counsellor Dr. Cate Rogers stated that Ere’s achievements highlight the impact of long-term investments in professional development.
“Roads and bridges create opportunities for communities, but they rely on skilled people like Sophie to keep them safe and serviceable for years to come,” Dr. Rogers said.
Dr. Rogers added that Australia remains proud to support the Papua New Guinea Government’s commitment to building local capability through this graduate pathway.
