AUSTRALIA has supported the Papua New Guinean government with the setting up of a new Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) suite in Port Moresby.
Once completed, the new PCR suite will strengthen the National Biosecurity Authority’s ability to identify and respond to pests and diseases that can affect crops, livestock, the environment, and trade.
Under the joint partnership program between the Papua New Guinea and Australian governments, unique opportunities are created for civilian engineers like Elijah Ambelye.
As a Graduate Trainee under Australian government’s Economic and Social Infrastructure Program (ESIP), Ambelye is helping to support the delivery of the Papua New Guinea Biosecurity Authority’s new PCR suite.
“My Bachelor of Civil Engineering from the University of Technology gave me a strong technical foundation and the confidence to take on projects like the PCR suite. This project has helped me better understand the planning, communication and coordination needed to deliver infrastructure,” said Ambelye.
In his role as Project Coordinator, Ambelye is gaining practical experience in construction monitoring and stakeholder engagement while gaining insight into what it takes to deliver specialized infrastructure.
“One of the most interesting parts of the role has been learning about the specialized requirements needed for a PCR testing facility and seeing how those requirements influence the design and construction process,” he added.
The facility reflects PNG and Australia’s shared commitment to strengthen biosecurity systems and gives Ambelye valuable hands-on experience through the delivery of Papua New Guinea’s first specialized biosecurity testing facility.
“What I’ve enjoyed most is seeing that infrastructure projects involve much more than engineering and construction. I’ve learned how inclusion, climate resilience and local participation are considered throughout the project delivery,’’ said Ambelye.
Beyond the technical aspects of construction, Elijah has gained valuable insights into the wider considerations that shape infrastructure projects.
“What I’ve enjoyed most is seeing that infrastructure projects involve much more than engineering and construction. I’ve learned how inclusion, climate resilience and local participation are considered throughout the project delivery,’’ Elijah said.
