News Blog

DWU host 21st Information Systems Symposium

Madang, Papua New Guinea – The Divine Word University (DWU) Information Systems Department today hosted its 21st Information Systems Symposium at the DWU Madang Campus, bringing together students, academics, and industry leaders to celebrate innovation and technology-driven solutions to real-world challenges.

The symposium featured presentations by fourth-year Information Systems students, who showcased their final-year projects developed to address practical challenges through innovative and technology-based solutions. The presentations reflected the students' technical expertise, creativity, and commitment to solving problems that impact communities and organisations.

Delivering the keynote address, Mr. Polume Lume, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the National Information and Communications Technology Authority (NICTA), highlighted the importance of innovation, digital transformation, and preparing graduates to contribute meaningfully to Papua New Guinea's growing ICT sector.

Head of the Information Systems Department, Ms. Marryanne Bagore, said the symposium represents more than an academic milestone for graduating students.

"These projects are more than just academic requirements. They prepare our students to become critical thinkers and problem-solvers in a world full of challenges," Ms. Bagore said.

DWU President Professor Fr. Philip Gibbs, SVD, reinforced the University's vision of ensuring that technological advancement remains centered on people and inclusive development.

"It is important to note that Papua New Guinea's digital transformation must not create a new division between those who are digitally connected and those who are left behind. If digital transformation benefits only those who are already well connected, well educated and prosperous, then we will have introduced new technology without achieving genuine human development," Professor Gibbs said.

He emphasized that DWU's approach to technology is grounded in its commitment to integral human development.

"Technology must serve people. This becomes particularly important as artificial intelligence develops. The most valuable ICT graduate of the future may not simply be the person who knows the most about technology. It may be the person who knows when to use technology, how to use it responsibly, and when human judgement must remain central," he said.

The annual symposium provides a platform for students to present their research and solutions to peers, lecturers, and industry representatives, strengthening the connection between academic learning and real-world application while fostering collaboration between the University and the ICT industry.

The 21st Information Systems Symposium continues DWU's commitment to producing skilled graduates who are equipped not only with technical expertise but also with the ethical leadership needed to contribute to Papua New Guinea's digital future.