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DWU Hosts 15th Mathematics and Computing Science Symposium

Divine Word University, Department Mathematics and Computing Science hosted its 15th MCS Symposium at the Madang Campus, today under the theme “Innovation + Technology = A Digitalized PNG,” bringing together students, staff and invited industry and development partners to explore the role of technology, innovation and digital skills in Papua New Guinea’s future.  A major focus of the symposium was the presentation of innovative final-year student projects addressing practical challenges across various sectors. The event also provided students with an opportunity to engage with professionals from organizations including NiuPay, Australian High Commission, National Institute of Standards and Industrial Technology and Independent Consumer and Competition Commission while discussing emerging technologies and expectations of graduates entering the workforce.

Delivering the keynote address, Chief Operating Officer of NiuPay, Mr. Trevor Manokore, spoke about the opportunities presented by PNG’s growing digital landscape and emphasized the importance of developing local capability to build, manage and sustain technological solutions. “As somebody who chose to come to Papua New Guinea, I see the immense opportunity in this country to make a significant change, and also for the people to take advantage of these opportunities as well,” Mr. Manokore said.

Reflecting on the symposium theme, Mr. Manokore highlighted the significant investment expected in PNG’s digital space over the next decade and the opportunities this could create across both the public and private sectors. He also encouraged students to understand that employers look beyond technical knowledge, placing importance on attitude, behavior, initiative, problem-solving ability and the capacity to demonstrate what graduates have built and achieved. “It is important to build capability so that when we are building systems, and when there is a problem, there are people here who can solve these problems and who are capable of doing that here,” he said.

Gold Sponsor, the National Institute of Standards and Industrial Technology (NISIT), was represented by Mr. Sylvester Vovovon, Manager, Legal Metrology Division, who highlighted the importance of trust and standards in digital transformation. “Technology and innovation must ultimately be built on confidence, reliability and standards. A digital system can be innovative, but people must be able to trust it,” Mr. Vovovon said.  Head of the Department of Mathematics and Computing Science, Mr. Lyall Dale, reminded students that PNG’s digital transformation would ultimately depend on the people equipped to understand and address the country’s challenges. “Papua New Guinea’s digital future will not be built by technology alone; it will be built by people. People with ideas, skills and courage, people who understand our communities and their problems and are willing to solve these problems,” Mr. Dale said. He encouraged students to recognise the potential of the work they were presenting, reminding them that the projects they presented at the symposium could be the beginning of something bigger in the future.

In her official welcome remarks, DWU Vice President, Planning and Development, Mrs. Julie Ruene, emphasized the University’s commitment to advancing digital education and contributing to national development. “As a university committed to excellence in education and nation-building, DWU recognizes the vital role that the Department of Mathematics and Computing Science, data analytics, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and digital technologies play in shaping our future,” Mrs. Ruene said. The event also included a panel discussion that brought together industry and professional perspectives, providing students with insights into the transition from university to the workforce. The discussion explored areas including job readiness, emerging technologies, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, digital transformation and professional development.

Adding to its support for student innovation, NiuPay sponsored the Best Final Year Project Award, recognizing the effort, creativity and innovation demonstrated by final-year students through the projects presented during the symposium. The 15th MCS Symposium reinforced the importance of collaboration between universities, industry and development partners in preparing graduates to participate meaningfully in Papua New Guinea’s digital transformation. It also provided a platform for students to demonstrate their capabilities and the potential of locally developed technological solutions to contribute towards addressing challenges within communities and across the country.

DWU Vice President, Planning & Development, Mrs. Julie Ruene delivering her welcoming address at the Divine Word University 15th MCS Symposium, Madang Campus. 

Gladys Kilavo, a final-year Mathematics and Computing Science student, presenting her final-year project during the 15^th Mathematics and Computing Science Symposium 2026 at Divine Word University, Madang Campus.

Mason Jr Kolias, a final-year Mathematics and Computing Science student, presenting his final-year project during the 15^th Mathematics and Computing Science Symposium 2026 at Divine Word University, Madang Campus.

NiuPay Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Trevor Manokore delivering his Keynote Speech at the Divine Word University 15th MCS Symposium, Madang Campus.