The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) has honoured two exceptional graduates from the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) with the TPA Academic Excellence Award at a ceremony held on Tuesday 2 July, Port Moresby Mr. Harmson Waliya and Mr. Rendy Ono, both recipients of the prestigious award, expressed their heartfelt gratitude for TPA's unwavering support in their careers in tourism. The event saw attendance from UPNG's Head of Division Tourism and Hospitality Management, Dr. Joyce Jazmin-Rayel, along with her lecturers from the School of Business & Public Policy, including TPA staff. Harmson, who graduated in Business Management majoring in Tourism Hospitality Management, highlighted the positive impact of such initiatives on aspiring tourism professionals. "Such initiatives motivate us, the students, and I also see that the future of this industry is secure when partnerships and collaborations between the industry and institutions occur.” Mr Waliya stated that as a student, he noticed that there has been a missing link that needs to be connected and that the industry has been functioning on its own, and students have been studying independently. He also added that some things taught in class are different from what is happening in the industry, thus the initiative of coming together for a shared goal suggests that the industry is sustainable and growing, but it needs more effort. Waliya excelled during his studies, achieving top grades in the Tourism and Hospitality Management curriculum. He served as Events Manager for the 16th UPNG Tourism Convention, was a student leader in his church and is known for his strong moral character, and exhibited exemplary behaviour, setting high standards for classmates. He also completed an industry immersion at TPA, demonstrating his dedication and commitment to his field. Mr Rendy Ono, on the other hand is a Professional Studies & Business Management Tourism & Hospitality (PSTHM) graduate, who described the program as a blessing. "I come from a teaching background and studied science, but entering tourism was a new experience for me.” Mr Ono highlighted that during his first step into the tourism space, he struggled but as he progressed in this area, he began to learn more and became fascinated about the industry. “If I had taken tourism in my youth, it would have been much better for me, but it's not too late, and I'm very happy for my second chance,” said Ono. He consistently topped the PSTHM cohorts and with him transitioning from a teaching background, he demonstrated strong tourism research skills, organized the 2nd UPNG Tourism Industry Seminar, and volunteered during the PNG Update 2022-2023. During the recognition and awards presentation, the Head of Division Tourism and Hospitality Management at UPNG, Dr. Joyce Jazmin-Rayel, was all praise for the two recipients. "I'm so glad and proud of both men, because the TPA Academic Excellence Award honours outstanding graduates in tourism and hospitality management from the university, both men have demonstrated exceptional academic achievements, strong leadership qualities, and exemplary behaviour throughout their studies," said Dr. Jazmin-Rayel. Speaking also at the awards presentation was TPA’s Executive Manager for Corporate Affairs, Clair Kupo, who highlighted the importance of the program and acknowledged the graduates. "As part of the economic sector, we strive to do our best despite cash flow limitations.” “We are grateful for the program and our partnership with UPNG, which builds the capacity of tourism operators and those interested in tourism and hospitality management, including our own staff.”