The Government of Japan, through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), has joined the Government of Papua New Guinea and the National Fisheries Authority to officially launch a major new development project at the National Fisheries College (NFC) in Kavieng.
The groundbreaking ceremony, held on 20 May in New Ireland Province, marked the beginning of “The Project for the Improvement of Facilities and Training Equipment of National Fisheries College,” a grant aid initiative valued at more than PGK93 million.
The event was attended by PNG government leaders including Sir Ano Para and Jelta Wong. Representing Japan were Yoneda Gen and Takahashi Yoichiro.
The project signals a new phase in the long-standing partnership between PNG and Japan, which spans more than 50 years. The National Fisheries College itself was established as Japan’s first Official Development Assistance (ODA) project in PNG and has since trained generations of fisheries professionals serving across government agencies, private industry, and the wider Pacific region.
Fisheries continue to play a critical role in PNG’s economy by supporting livelihoods, food security, and sustainable economic growth. Over the decades, JICA has strengthened the sector through fisheries training programs in Japan for more than 600 Papua New Guineans, support for fish market development, deployment of technical experts and volunteers, and assistance in aquaculture development.
Under the new project, the National Fisheries College will receive upgraded training facilities, modern equipment, vessels, and a new jetty to improve practical learning opportunities for students. The initiative also aims to expand opportunities for women and persons with disabilities in the fisheries sector.
Built on decades of friendship and cooperation under the spirit of “Tomodachi” — meaning friendship and trust — PNG and Japan say the partnership will continue to support the development of skilled fisheries professionals while promoting sustainable management of marine resources for future generations.