Four Air Niugini staff have received Graduate Certificates in Leadership from the University of South Australia.
Mrs. Molly Polongou Popu, Ms. Stephanie Bawo, Ms. Ritchilyn Barrios and Mr. Alex Kia graduated after successfully completing a short course program offered through an Australian Aid scholarship.
It was a five month long course, which included three intensive studies and projects at work covering the Responsible Leadership, People, Leadership and Performance, Managing Organizational Change with special topics on ‘Thinking and Acting Strategically’.
Recent graduate and General Manager- Procurement & Projects, Mr. Kia said the course was insightful as it raised our level of awareness in the different leadership traits and styles that can impact organizational performance.
“As Air Niugini grows, the concepts and strategies learnt will continue to add value, enabling us all to contribute more meaningfully,” Kia said.
Another graduate, Ms. Bawo added that apart from making informed decisions and solving problems as leaders, the course helps them to see the importance of providing guidance and motivation to work as a team to achieve their intended goals.
“This course has taught us how to effectively apply the tools and concepts in our work environments, to encourage the best versions of each other and to create a conducive environment for individuals to thrive and achieve mutual objectives.” Ms. Bawo said.
Australia Awards is a prestigious international scholarships and short courses that offer the next generation of global leaders an opportunity to undertake study, research, and professional development.
The staff also acknowledge Air Niugini for its commitment to continuous staff development as captured in its Corporate Plan.
Another seven Air Niugini staff, all females graduated recently from Divine Word University in Madang with Bachelor’s Degree in Management.
They included Ms. LeeAnne David Maino, Ms. Hepshebah Maru, Ms. Jollanda Basse Mencindimi, Ms. Sheila Maso, Ms. Roddy Nason and Mrs. Illan Kaprangi, while Ms. Judith Wyborn successfully completed a Diploma in Business studies.
Their program took two years to be completed. Air Niugini’s Acting Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Gary Seddon, when congratulating all the graduates, said continuous learning and personal development remains a vital part of our employees’ careers.
“At Air Niugini, we are proud to support members of our team who continue to wisely invest their time in self-development.
This learning takes tremendous dedication and discipline.
Air Niugini is investing over K40million in training and skills development for its employees.”