More than 500 students from Paradise College in Port Moresby are participating in a week-long, hands-on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) program, aimed at tackling energy poverty, with support from Airbus and Air Niugini. The initiative, led by global impact organization, SolarBuddy, will see students learn about renewable energy and solar technology before assembling their own solar-powered study lights. These lights will be given to school children in Western Province communities without access to electricity, enabling them to study safely at night. Airbus and Air Niugini are also delivering aviation workshops, encouraging students to consider careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Airbus Chief Representative for Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific, Stephen Forshaw, said the program combines education with practical impact. “Energy in all its forms powers progress and doing it sustainably helps our planet.” “Giving students the chance to study with these lights will help them achieve more for their communities.” Chief Executive Officer of Air Niugini, Gary Seddon, said the program is about inspiring the next generation. “Education is the runway to opportunity, and STEM is at the heart of building a brighter, more connected future for Papua New Guinea.” Former student of Paradise College and guest speaker, Christopher Odorry, will return to his former school to share his journey and speak on the importance of STEM education. The distribution of assembled solar lights after the STEM workshop will be carried out by Christopher to students in the Western Province. The initiative forms part of SolarBuddy’s wider mission to combat global energy poverty, with a focus on the 660 million people worldwide who still live without access to light.