Fourth-year Information Systems students at Divine Word University are turning their final-year projects into practical solutions to real-world problems in Papua New Guinea.

The students showcased their innovative projects at DWU’s 21st Information Systems Symposium in Madang, putting their technical skills, creativity and problem-solving abilities on display.

The symposium brought together students, academics and ICT industry leaders, giving the young developers an opportunity to present their ideas and connect classroom learning with the real world.

NICTA CEO Polume Lume highlighted the importance of innovation and digital transformation as PNG’s technology sector continues to grow.

Meanwhile DWU President Professor Fr. Philip Gibbs says the future of technology must remain focused on people.

He warned that PNG’s digital transformation should not leave behind communities that are less connected or have limited access to technology.

“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."

For these young graduates, the symposium is a step beyond the classroom and into a future where their ideas could help communities, organizations and PNG as a whole.