The National Symposium

Western Pacific University hosted the National Symposium on Innovation & Sustainability on 4–5 September 2025 at its Digital Knowledge Hub (Library Auditorium) in Ialibu, Southern Highlands Province, Papua New Guinea. Organized through the University’s Research & Innovation Division, the event featured keynote addresses, panel discussions, open forums, and parallel workshops on key themes such as sustainable resource management, climate resilience, social innovation, inclusive growth, technological advancement, and economic diversification.

The symposium brought together stakeholders from academia, government, industry, and civil society to explore interdisciplinary solutions to sustainability challenges in Papua New Guinea. Participants included experts in climate-smart agriculture, social equity, digital innovation, and environmental management. The discussions not only addressed pressing issues such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and ecosystem resilience but also highlighted the role of innovative policies, technologies, and community engagement in driving sustainable development.

The Innovative University of Enga (IUE) was represented by three staff members who presented research papers at the symposium:

1. Mr. Stanley Rungwa
   • Title: “Phytoremediation as a Viable Remediation Strategy for Mine Closure and Rehabilitation in Papua New Guinea: A Review of Its Potential for Detoxifying Mine Wastes and Restoring Vegetation.”
2. Ms. Priscilla Kimini
   • Title: “Diversity and Abundance of Invasive Plant Species at Mt. Yappya Proposed Conservation Site, Pabrukpuk, Western Highlands Province.”
3. Mr. John Maliye
   • Title: “Challenging Misconceptions in Inclusive Education: Aligning Pedagogy with Practice at the Innovative University of Enga.”