The Papua New Guinea University of Technology (PNGUoT) is making strides towards fostering inclusivity in its academic community by accommodating persons living with disabilities (PLWD).
On Friday, February 9th, Registrar Mrs. Veronica Thomas signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with Mr. Gemmy Pyaki, a prospective student facing challenges as a PWD, who has been accepted to study in the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science.
Mr. Pyaki, a 30-year-old survivor of a 2016 car accident that left him with a fractured spinal cord and unable to walk, shared his aspiration of attending PNGUoT despite his setback.
Having passed the University’s entry test last year in Mount Hagen, he was admitted pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science.
Given Mr. Pyaki’s circumstances, the University presented three enrolment options:
1. Register as a non-residential student.
2. Delay registration until 2025 to allow for facility upgrades.
3. Undertake courses offered online.
Opting for the second choice, Mr. Pyaki signed the MOA to secure his admission space for 2025.
This decision grants the University sufficient time to improve its facilities to better accommodate individuals with disabilities like Mr. Pyaki.
Mr. Pyaki expressed his gratitude towards being given the opportunity to study.
“I’ve always dreamed of coming to Unitech, but it was shattered after the accident.”
“I heard about the University and hoped I’d make it here someday, and I did and couldn’t be happier to be part of a well-known institution.”
He eagerly anticipates returning in 2025 and thanked PNGUoT for their consideration and the opportunity to register as a student.
The MOA signing ceremony, attended by Mrs. Veronica Thomas, Mr. Gemmy Pyaki, and Mrs. Naomi Wilkins as a witness, underscored the significance of Mr. Pyaki’s decision to defer his admission, providing the University with time to address challenges and create a more inclusive environment for his studies.
Mrs. Thomas highlighted that PNGUoT will soon convene to discuss and plan measures to ensure inclusivity for students with disabilities.
The University aims to establish facilities not only for Mr. Pyaki but also for future students facing similar challenges, thereby fostering a more accessible educational experience for all.