News Blog

Final Year Physiotherapy Students Showcase Research to Advance Rehabilitation Services in PNG

Final year Physiotherapy students at Divine Word University, Madang Campus proudly presented the findings of their research projects today, marking the culmination of months of investigation, analysis, and field-based learning undertaken throughout the academic year.

The research presentations highlighted the students' commitment to addressing key health and rehabilitation challenges in Papua New Guinea while contributing valuable insights to the development of physiotherapy services across the country.

A total of 21 research projects were completed and presented, covering a wide range of topics that were grouped into three major categories.

The first category focused on musculoskeletal health, workplace ergonomics, and physical activity. These studies explored issues such as musculoskeletal and back pain associated with poor ergonomic practices, as well as working professionals' perceptions, barriers, and enabling factors related to participation in physical activity.

The second category examined perceptions of physiotherapy services among various student groups at Divine Word University. These projects investigated how increasing awareness and knowledge of physiotherapy can contribute to strengthening and empowering physiotherapy practice in Papua New Guinea.

The third category evaluated specialized physiotherapy services within Papua New Guinea's Provincial Health Authorities (PHAs). Research under this theme explored specialized interventions including the Ponseti Method for children with clubfoot, stroke rehabilitation services, and community-based rehabilitation programs.

Acting Head of Department and Research Lecturer, Ms. Samantha Barnabas, emphasized the significance of the research projects in preparing future physiotherapists and improving rehabilitation services nationwide.

"The Research Project unit offered in final year of the Physiotherapy program provides an avenue for the students to evaluate Physiotherapy services in various settings in PNG including clinical settings, sporting facilities, industrial, university and communities. This year's research project looked at various topics."

Ms. Barnabas noted that the research unit equips students with critical research skills while encouraging them to assess real-world physiotherapy services and identify opportunities for improvement in healthcare delivery.

Unit Lecturer and Research Immediate Supervisor, Mrs. Gail Sarei Saun, commended the students for their dedication, perseverance, and hard work in successfully completing their research projects and presenting their findings.

During her closing remarks, she acknowledged the growing demand for rehabilitation services throughout the country and the important role DWU graduates continue to play in meeting this need.

"The need for Rehabilitation in PNG continues to increase. DWU Rehabilitation Science is the only training institution that graduates Physiotherapists who are contributing to the health workforce currently offering the Rehabilitation services in various settings," said Mrs Saun.

She encouraged the students to continue contributing to evidence-based practice and to use their knowledge and skills to strengthen rehabilitation services for communities across Papua New Guinea.

The annual research presentations for the physiotheraphy final year students not only showcase their academic achievements but also demonstrate Divine Word University's commitment to producing competent and research-driven physiotherapy professionals. Through their work, students are helping to generate knowledge that can inform service delivery, improve patient outcomes, and support the continued growth of rehabilitation services throughout Papua New Guinea.