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DWU Research Leads to Solar Power Initiative for Yawar Community
Posted by: Sarah Sidney

DWU Research Leads to Solar Power Initiative for Yawar Community

A research study titled“Assessing the Outcomes of a Community Health Program in Papua New Guinea: A Cross-Sectional Descriptive Study,” conducted by Dr. Gigil Marme, Head of the Department of Health Management and Systems Development at Divine Word University, in collaboration with Jenjen Daniel Marme of Lutheran Health Services MASE Region, has contributed to a significant community development outcome in Yawar, Rai Coast District, Madang Province.
The researchers evaluated the impact of the Effective Development Empowering the Nation (EDEN) Health Promotion Program in Yawar, examining its contribution to community health, environmental improvement, behavioural change and community participation. Their study involved 116 community members and found positive outcomes in community wellbeing while also identifying continuing challenges facing the rural community.
The research identified limited access to electricity as a critical need within the Yawar community. In response to this finding, a proposal was submitted through the Australia Awards Alumni Grants Scheme and successfully secured K19,000 in funding. The grant supported the purchase and distribution of 98 solar kits to households in Yawar, translating the research findings into a practical initiative that addressed an identified community need.
 
The research was also published in the International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS) under the title“Assessing the Outcomes of a Community Health Program in Papua New Guinea: A Cross-Sectional Descriptive Study.”
The people of Yawar have expressed their gratitude to Divine Word University for helping to identify the need through research and to the Australian Government for funding the solar initiative.
This achievement demonstrates how research can extend beyond academic findings to inspire practical solutions that improve lives. It also highlights the importance of research, partnership and meaningful community engagement in supporting sustainable development in rural Papua New Guinea.
 
 
 

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