Women Entrepreneurs: Are Women Successful in Business in PNG?

Women entrepreneurs in Papua New Guinea (PNG) are achieving remarkable success despite facing challenges. Despite facing many challenges, these women are proving that they can succeed in business. This article is a summary of a detailed look at Women in Business in PNG. (Follow the links to read more about this topic in detail). The articles explore the questions ''Are Women Successful in Business in PNG?'' and ''What are the support systems available for them?''

The Journey of Women Entrepreneurs

In PNG, women entrepreneurs often face hurdles due to gender inequalities - constraints. These hurdles can make it difficult for them to grow their businesses. But, these women are not letting these challenges stop them. They are finding ways to overcome these barriers and are making significant contributions to the economy.

There are many success stories of women-owned businesses in PNG. Women are making their mark in various sectors like agriculture, arts and crafts, services, and tourism. These stories show the determination and entrepreneurial spirit of women in PNG. They serve as an inspiration for future generations of women entrepreneurs in the country.

Support from the Government.

The PNG government recognizes the important role of women in driving economic development. They have taken significant steps to support and empower women in business. The National Development Bank’s Women in Business Desk, the Women’s Micro Bank, and the Rural Economic Empowerment Program are some of the initiatives that provide targeted support to women entrepreneurs.

In addition, the Small and Medium Enterprises Corporation and the Women’s Business Resource Centre offer resources to women entrepreneurs. These include training, mentoring, and access to finance. International organizations like the United States Agency for International Development and the United Nations Capital Development Fund also provide support to women entrepreneurs and small business owners throughout PNG.

RECOMMENDED: Read about the worsening UNEMPLOYMENT SITUATION ON PNG

Recent Data and Studies

Several recent studies and reports provide data on women in business in PNG for the years 2023 and 2024:

Papua New Guinea: Women in Business Consultations (Primary Research) Report: This report presents findings from focus groups conducted in 2022 with 127 women operating formal and informal businesses across PNG and in 2023 with 76 women operating formal and informal businesses in AROB, PNG.

World Bank’s Women, Business, and the Law 2024 (WBL2024), PDF: This report presents an index covering 190 economies and structured around the life cycle of a working woman. It includes data on PNG and scores the country across eight indicators.

These sources provide a comprehensive view of the challenges and successes of women in business in PNG. They highlight the importance of government support, societal change, and individual determination in overcoming barriers and achieving success.

Conclusion

While cultural barriers and limited access to resources exist, women in PNG are making strides in various sectors. Recognizing the vital role of women entrepreneurs, the PNG government offers targeted programs like micro-loans and training. International organizations also lend a hand, providing resources and fostering a supportive environment. With continued government support and societal change, they are poised to play an even greater role in shaping the nation's economic future.

Non-School Leaver Applications for 2025 at PNG University of Natural Resources and Environment (PNG UNRE)

This official announcement from the Papua New Guinea University of Natural Resources and Environment (PNG UNRE) informs all interested non-school leavers that applications for enrolment in degree programs for the 2025 academic year are now being accepted.

Important Dates and Deadlines: Application Deadline: Monday, September 30, 2024

How to Apply to UNRE - Download 2025 Application Form PDF

This application process is specifically for non-school leavers. School leavers and applicants for higher degree studies should follow a separate application procedure.

1. Download the Application Form: Click here to download the "Non-School Leaver Application Form for Enrolment into Degree Courses for the 2025 Academic Year." ([This form is NOT to be used by school leavers or applicants for higher degree studies])

TO DOWNLOAD THE 2025 UNRE APPLICATION FOR PDF, CLICK ON THE IMAGE ABOVE.

2. Complete the Application Form: Ensure all details are printed clearly in block letters. Provide complete and accurate addresses.

3. Gather Required Documentation: Your application must be accompanied by certified copies of the following documents:

•     Transcript of academic record
•     Certificates
•     Official examination results slips
•     References from employers (if applicable)
•     Confirmation of sponsorship (if applicable)

4. Ensure Document Authenticity: Forged certificates or fake academic results will not be tolerated. Photocopies of documents are only accepted if certified as true copies by a Minister of a Church, your former Secondary School Principal, or a person commissioned to conduct oaths. Outdated certified copies may be rejected.

5. Submit Application and Fee: Completed application forms with certified documents and a K50.00 non-refundable application processing fee paid into Account Number: 1000 688625, BSP Kokopo Branch, must be sent to:

Senior Assistant Registrar (Academic & Student Administration)

PNG University of Natural Resources & Environment

Private Mail Bag Service

KOKOPO, 611

East New Britain Province

Papua New Guinea

Incomplete applications or applications received without the processing fee will not be considered.

YOU CAN ALSO DOWNLOAD THE APPLICATION FORM HERE, PDF

Additional Information

• Applicants seeking exemptions or advanced standing based on previously completed courses must provide certified academic records and course details from the relevant institutions. The selection committee will evaluate such applications, and their decision is final.
• A recent passport-sized photo must be attached to the application form.
• Faxed application forms will not be accepted.
• Applications received after the closing date will be forfeited, and the processing fee will not be refunded.

For any inquiries, please contact the Senior Assistant Registrar (Academic & Student Administration) by phone at (675) 9871285 / 9871200 or by email at studentadmin@unre.ac.pg.

How to Apply Online to UPNG as a non-school leaver in 2025 for 2026 Study

Are you ready to take the next step in your academic journey? The University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) usually welcomes applications from qualified non-school leavers for the 2026 academic year late in August or early September every year. This guide will walk you through the online application process, ensuring a smooth and successful experience.

Eligibility and Program Selection

Before proceeding with the application steps, it's essential to verify that you meet the program's specific requirements. UPNG offers a diverse range of programs, but not all are open to non-school leavers. 

Head to the UPNG website and access the Applicant Portal User Manual. Within the manual, you'll find Table 1 (in this article - complete guide to apply to UPNG), which details the programs accepting non-school leaver applications. 

Registration, Application Fees & Submission

The application process is designed to be user-friendly. Begin by visiting the UPNG website and locating the "Sign Up" page. Create a login account to access the Applicant Portal, where you'll complete the online application form.

There's a non-refundable application fee associated with your program choice.  For undergraduate programs, a K20 fee is payable online through BSP Pay within the UPNG Applicant Portal. 

For postgraduate diplomas, honours programs (excluding School of Business & Public Policy), and Master's programs, a K50 fee is payable into UPNG General Account No: 1000583572 (BSP Waigani).  Be sure to include your name and the deposit date clearly on the deposit slip.

For additional program-specific application details, it's recommended to contact the respective school directly.  The Applicant Portal provides email addresses for each school:

• School of Business & Public Policy: mn_sbpp@upng.ac.pg
• School of Humanities & Social Sciences: mb_shss@upng.ac.pg
• School of Natural & Physical Sciences: gv_snps@upng.ac.pg
• School of Medicine & Health Sciences: rk_smhs@upng.ac.pg

Once you've reviewed all the notices, proceed to the Applicant Portal to sign up and initiate your application.

2025 Non-School Leaver Applications: How to Apply for Unitech

The Papua New Guinea University of Technology (Unitech) is pleased to announce the commencement of its application process for the 2025 Academic Year. Unitech, renowned for its excellence in technological education, invites NON-SCHOOL LEAVERS (fresh Grade 12 graduates and working class) to pursue their academic aspirations.

Application Details

Eligibility: 

• Non-School Leavers: Applicants must have successfully completed their Grade 12 studies.
• Re-admit Students: This category encompasses students who discontinued, withdrew, or were suspended during their first semester of the preceding academic year.

Application Deadline:

All applications must be submitted electronically by Sunday, August 18th, 2024, at 12:00 Midnight (PST). Unitech will not accept manual or emailed applications.

Application Fees:

A non-refundable application processing fee of K50.00 must be deposited into the designated PNG University of Technology account (Account Number: 1000 386580) at the Bank of South Pacific, Lae Branch.

Required Documentation

Re-admit Students:

• Two duly completed Unitech Character Reference Forms (available for download on the Unitech website).
• A certified copy of your most recent Academic Transcript (semester result slips will not be accepted). 
• A formal Readmission Letter outlining the rationale for your readmission application.
• Additional documentation may be required depending on the reason for your previous exit (Clearance Letter, Medical Clearance Form, Withdrawal Form).

Non-School Leavers:

• A recent, clear passport-sized photograph scanned in .pdf format.
• A clear scanned photocopy of a valid Student ID, National ID (NID), or Passport (copies of Driver's Licenses will not be accepted).
• Scanned copy (.pdf) of your application fee payment receipt.
• Officially certified academic transcripts or certificates (issued within the current academic year, 2024-2025) by a registered government Commissioner of Oaths (Statutory Declaration Forms will not be considered).
• Two completed Unitech Character Reference Forms (downloadable from the Unitech website). These forms must be completed by non-relatives within the last two years and include official witness signatures and stamps.

Online application STEP 6: UPLOAD *REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Important Considerations

• Applications containing incomplete or uncertified documents will be rejected.
• No additional documents can be submitted after the application deadline. The application process is final.
• Applicants are strongly advised to meticulously review the application instructions. Appeals for rejected applications due to non-compliance with these instructions will not be entertained.

Additional Eligibility Criteria

• Applicants who have previously failed twice in their first year or a total of three times throughout their program are ineligible for readmission to the same program.
• The maximum timeframe for program completion is seven years for Degrees (four years standard program duration plus three additional years) and four years for Diplomas (two years standard program duration plus two additional years). Incomplete programs exceeding these time limits will disqualify you for readmission. 
• Submission of forged or altered documents will result in blacklisting and permanent disqualification from studies at Unitech.
• Unitech will not accept duplicate applications from the same individual.

For Inquiries: The Admissions Office at Unitech can be reached via telephone at (675) 473 4272 / 473 7289 or by email at admissions@pnguot.ac.pg. Unitech eagerly awaits your application and extends a warm welcome to all prospective students seeking a transformative educational experience.

Apply to Unitech As A Non-School Leaver for 2025 

Seize this prime opportunity to embark on a rewarding academic journey at Papua New Guinea's leading technological institution.

We encourage you to submit your application well before the deadline to ensure timely processing.