The U.S. Embassy in Port Moresby organized a series of programs at the American Space located in the Matheson Library at UNITECH, Lae, during the week of July 29, 2025. The events included sessions for alumni of U.S. exchange programs and information briefings on study abroad opportunities aimed at students, faculty, and members of the public.
Sarah Sanderson, Public Affairs Officer at the U.S. Embassy, met with Professor Ora Renagi, Vice Chancellor of UNITECH. Their discussion focused on strengthening partnership between the United States and UNITECH and highlighted the recent accreditation of five engineering programs by Engineers Australia under the Washington Accord. This recognition places UNITECH graduates among those who meet international standards in engineering education.
“This accreditation reflects years of dedicated work by UNITECH’s faculty, the government, and its partners. It is a testament to the university’s commitment to excellence in engineering education and its role in advancing Papua New Guinea’s development,” said Ms. Sanderson. “The United States Embassy applauds UNITECH for this remarkable accomplishment and looks forward to supporting its continued success.”
The American Space serves as an informational hub about the United States and offers cultural programming along with professional workshops. In Lae, it provides computer access, internet connectivity, and study areas within Matheson Library for students seeking resources or a place to study.
The Washington Accord is an agreement among global engineering organizations that recognizes accredited programs across member countries as equivalent. With this new accreditation status under the accord, UNITECH can now offer its graduates enhanced international recognition and improved employment prospects within the global engineering sector.
The U.S. Embassy has stated it will continue working with educational institutions like UNITECH to support academic collaboration.
US Embassy PAO, Sarah Sanderson meets Matheson Library staff at the American Space.