Office of the Presidents

The Office of the Vice President Academic Affairs provides strategic leadership, coordination, and oversight of the University’s academic portfolio across all campuses and modes of study. The Office supports the planning, delivery, quality, and continuous development of teaching, learning, research, and academic services at Divine Word University.

The Academic Affairs portfolio encompasses the University’s four academic faculties: the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, Faculty of Business and Informatics, Faculty of Education, and Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. The Office works closely with Faculty leadership to support academic planning, program development and review, curriculum implementation, academic standards, and the effective delivery of programs. The portfolio also includes the Office of Research and Higher Degrees, Quality Assurance Division, Centre for Learning and Teaching, Library, and Office of the Registrar, which provide essential institutional services supporting research and postgraduate education, academic quality, staff development and teaching innovation, learning resources, student records, and academic administration. In addition, the Office provides strategic oversight of Matriculation Studies and DWU Flexible Learning Studies, supporting alternative pathways to higher education and the expansion of flexible and accessible learning opportunities. Through coordination of these areas, the Office of the Vice President Academic Affairs supports academic governance, policy implementation, institutional planning, and collaboration across the University to ensure coherent and effective academic services for students and staff.

Commitment

The Office of the Vice President Academic Affairs is committed to promoting and safeguarding academic quality, integrity, and innovation across all areas of teaching, learning, research, and student academic support at Divine Word University. Guided by the University’s mission and values, the Office works collaboratively with faculties, academic support divisions, staff, and students to strengthen a learning environment that supports excellence, inclusiveness, and integral human development.

The Office is dedicated to supporting continuous improvement in academic programs, curriculum development, quality assurance processes, and the professional growth of staff. Particular emphasis is placed on ensuring that academic programs remain relevant, student-centred, and responsive to the evolving needs of Papua New Guinea and the wider global higher education environment. The Office also supports responsible innovation in higher education, including the development of online and flexible learning opportunities, effective use of technology, and emerging areas such as artificial intelligence in education. Through collegial leadership, collaboration, and strategic planning, the Office of the Vice President Academic Affairs seeks to contribute to the University’s vision of providing quality education that prepares graduates for professional service and leadership in society.