The Dame Jean Kekedo Residential Hall, a new 100-bed female student residence, was officially opened at the Papua New Guinea University of Technology (PNGUoT) in Lae on Monday, supporting more women to pursue studies in engineering and technical fields.
Australian High Commissioner Ewen McDonald joined Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso, Governor Rainbo Paita, Dame Jean Kekedo, and PNGUoT Vice Chancellor Ora Renagi to officially open the residence.
Funded by the Australian Government through the Incentive Fund, the residence responds to strong demand for student housing at PNGUoT, where limited accommodation has been a barrier to enrolment, particularly for female students from outside Lae. The new facility offers 100 beds, modern amenities, and on-campus living that will enable students to focus on their studies. PNGUoT graduates, including female engineers and technicians, played a direct role in building the facility.
Dame Jean Kekedo 100-bed female dormitory at Papua New Guinea University of Technology.
The residence honours former PNGUoT Chancellor Dame Jean Kekedo, who has dedicated more than five decades of service to Papua New Guinea through leadership roles in public administration, governance, diplomacy and higher education.
In addition to funding construction of the new residence, Australia’s Incentive Fund supported PNGUoT to develop and launch its Gender Equality, Disability and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) Policy in 2025. Together, these initiatives strengthen the university’s commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students.
Australian High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea, His Excellency Ewen McDonald, said “this is a practical investment that supports women to
pursue careers in engineering and science, equipping them with the skills to contribute to PNG’s infrastructure, industry and economic growth.”
“Australia is proud to partner with PNG University of Technology to invest in practical initiatives that expand opportunities for women and deliver lasting benefits for communities and the economy,” McDonald said.
Australian High Commissioner Ewen McDonald giving his speech at the opening of the Dame Jean Kekedo Residential Hall, PNGUoT
At the official opening, Dame Jean Kekedo reflected on the importance of education in shaping futures. “Education has the power to transform lives and create opportunities. I am deeply honoured that this residence will support young women pursuing higher education and building their futures.”
PNGUoT Vice Chancellor, Professor Ora Renagi, said the residence would have a lasting impact on students and the university community.
“Dame Jean Kekedo Residential Hall will provide a safe and supportive environment for female students while recognising a woman whose leadership and service have inspired generations of Papua New Guineans.”
“This investment strengthens our ability to support students and ensure more women can live and study on campus,” Vice Chancellor Renagi said.
Construction of the Dame Jean Kekedo Residential Hall reflects Australia and PNG’s shared commitment to investing in quality infrastructure, and building skills, capability and opportunities for Papua New Guinea’s future workforce. With safe on-campus accommodation, more women can access and complete higher education in a secure and supportive environment.
