The University of North Dakota (UND) has taken a significant step in global education by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Papua New Guinea STEM Program. This landmark partnership, formalized on August 25, 2025, aims to enhance STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education and provide Papua New Guinea students with unparalleled opportunities to study at UND, a leading institution for STEM education in the United States.
This collaboration not only strengthens international ties but also supports Papua New Guinea’s vision for economic diversification and workforce development. For students and educators searching for global STEM education opportunities, this partnership highlights UND’s role as a hub for innovation and academic excellence.
A Historic Signing Ceremony
The MOU signing ceremony at UND was attended by prominent Papua New Guinea education officials, including the Hon. Lucas Dawa Dekena, Member of Parliament and Minister for Education, and Uke Kombra, Permanent Secretary for Education. Their visit underscored the importance of this partnership in fostering educational collaboration between UND and Papua New Guinea, an island nation in the southwestern Pacific Ocean.
Eric Link, UND’s Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, emphasized the significance of the event: “This partnership serves as a bridge between our communities and cultures and reflects our shared commitment to advancing STEM education.” The collaboration aligns with UND’s mission to prepare the next generation of innovators, scientists, and leaders while offering Papua New Guinea students access to world-class STEM programs.
Learn more about the signing ceremony and the partnership in the original UND Today article.
Opportunities for Papua New Guinea Students
Through the Papua New Guinea STEM Program, funded by the country’s Department of Education, top students receive scholarships to study abroad in fields critical to national development. UND welcomed its first cohort of 16 Papua New Guinea students in Fall 2024, with an additional seven joining in Fall 2025. These students are immersed in UND’s cutting-edge facilities, world-class faculty, and hands-on research opportunities, preparing them to drive innovation in their home country.
Manuela Gabriel, Director of the UND International Center, highlighted the partnership’s impact: “We are excited to provide Papua New Guinea students with comprehensive resources and opportunities to excel in STEM fields, ensuring they return home equipped to become the next leaders in their communities.” This initiative not only empowers students but also strengthens UND’s diverse, globally connected learning environment.
Why UND for STEM Education?
As North Dakota’s flagship university, UND is a recognized leader in STEM education and research. The university offers:
- World-Class Faculty: Learn from experts who are shaping the future of engineering, science, and technology.
- Cutting-Edge Facilities: Access state-of-the-art labs and research centers, including those in the College of Engineering & Mines.
- Hands-On Learning: Engage in real-world research and projects that prepare students for global challenges.
With students from 98 countries, including Papua New Guinea, UND’s inclusive campus fosters cross-cultural collaboration and innovation. This partnership enhances UND’s reputation as a destination for global STEM education, offering students the tools to succeed in a competitive world.
A Partnership for Global Impact
The collaboration between UND and Papua New Guinea supports the island nation’s long-term goals of economic diversification and workforce development. By equipping students with expertise in STEM fields, the partnership ensures they can contribute to innovation and leadership in their communities. Simultaneously, it enriches UND’s campus with diverse perspectives, creating a dynamic learning environment for all students.
Ryan Adams, Dean of the College of Engineering & Mines, showcased UND’s facilities to the Papua New Guinea delegation, highlighting the resources available to students. This partnership underscores UND’s commitment to fostering international collaboration and preparing students from North Dakota and beyond to shape the future of STEM.
Join the Global STEM Community at UND
The UND-Papua New Guinea STEM partnership is a testament to the power of global collaboration in education. Whether you’re a prospective student, educator, or researcher, UND offers a world-class platform to pursue STEM excellence. Explore how UND is shaping the future of innovation and fostering international connections.
For more details on this exciting partnership, visit the original UND Today article.