More than 1, 000 graduates were conferred with certificates, diplomas, and degrees at the recent 57th graduation ceremony of the Papua New Guinea University of Technology (PNG UoT) that was held at Sir Ignatius Kilage Stadium in Lae city. The event was a proud moment for many families, but it also stood out for another reason, the significant rise in female graduates. From a lone female student in 1980, Ms. Finkewe Zurenuoc and now Unitech’s Pro Chancellor, stated that the female representation has surged. This year, women made up 39% of the graduating class. “Women are not just joining traditionally male-dominated fields; they are excelling in them.” Courses such as Applied Physics, Applied Sciences, and Computer Science, all recorded female majorities whilst Business, Agriculture, and Communication & Development Studies also saw near equal or higher female participation. Moreover, the numbers reflect more than enrolment; they represent determination, equality, and progress. Ms. Zurenuoc also shared that the day was deeply symbolic compared to the past where the ceremony was of male dominance in her days when she had graduated. Meanwhile, University Chancellor Sam Koim whilst addressing the crowd, reminded graduates that their learning journey is only just beginning. “Your education is not only for your personal advancement. It’s for the transformation of your communities and for nation-building.”