Two emerging Papua New Guinean construction professionals were completing a two-week practical placement in Lae, Morobe Province, thanks to the PNG–Australia Partnership.
Ephraim Ausalak and Charles Steven are recent graduates in Building and Construction Management from the Papua New Guinea University of Technology.
Related news: https://tvwan.com.pg/news/8898
They joined the Economic and Social Infrastructure Program (ESIP) technical specialists to review staff housing at Buimo Correctional Institution.
The two young professionals gained valuable experience by working alongside engineers and subject matter experts to assess houses built over the last fifty years, identify needed repairs, and consider how to make buildings safer and more comfortable.
Their findings will help guide future improvements to the staff housing.
Reflecting on the experience, Mr. Ausalak said the placement strengthened his understanding of the human impact of infrastructure work.
“The residents are people with stories of their own, and the reports we were compiling could contribute to changes in their lives,” he said.
Fellow graduate, Mr. Steven said the exercise reinforced the importance of evidence‑based planning and durable construction.
“I learned how housing conditions affect safety and lifestyle, and why evidence-based planning matters,” he said.
The placement, facilitated by PNG University of Technology supported by the Australian government, provides practical learning opportunities for emerging professionals gain experience while contributing to improved infrastructure outcomes for communities.
Both graduates expressed appreciation for the PNG-Australia Partnership for the opportunity to contribute to meaningful work and build their skills for their future careers.
The PNG-Australia Partnership continues to support initiatives that build technical capability in PNG’s workforce and contribute to sustainable, people‑focused infrastructure.