In a historic achievement for the University of Goroka (UOG), Malon Tol has been selected as the sole representative from Papua New Guinea to attend an elite 2-week Public Management summer course at the prestigious School of Government, Beijing Normal University (BNU) in China. Mr. Tol is majoring in the Bachelor in Tourism and Hospitality Management at ITVET and is also a standout student in the Chinese Mandarin Course under the Language and Literature Department and the Confucius Education, Culture and Research Centre.
The highly competitive program features an exclusive cohort of just 30 participants globally, with only one exceptional student selected to represent each country. Mr. Tol’s preparation has been heavily guided by his Chinese Mandarin Lecturer, Ms. Emmy Keko, alongside Dr. Jane Awi, the Director of the Centre for Confucius Education Culture & Research and Executive Director of the Somare Research Institute.
Endorsing the achievement, Dr. Jane Awi stated: “This is an excellent opportunity for our young ambassador, Malon Tol, to represent the Confucius Centre and our Mandarin language program on the world stage. His selection reflects the growing global competence of UOG students and the strength of our international cultural partnerships.”
Speaking on his upcoming journey, Mr. Tol noted: “Representing my university and country on a global stage with 29 other nations is a profound honor. I am incredibly grateful to Ms. Keko, Dr. Awi, and the UOG Top Management Team for their mentorship and financial sponsorship. I intend to use this intensive two weeks to master public management frameworks that can directly revitalize Papua New Guinea's tourism industry.”
A brief courtesy visit was made to the Chinese Embassy in Port Moresby to introduce young Malon to Embassy Consul. He had an opportunity to introduce himself in Mandarin language.
Mr. Tol ideparted for Beijing on Friday, 3rd July, carrying the pride and future leadership potential of UOG and the Independent State of Papua New Guinea.