The Australian Institute of Physics (AIP) has conducted an external accreditation review of the Applied Physics degree programme at the Papua New Guinea University of Technology 

Prof. Martin Sevior, Prof. John Holdsworth and Dr. Peter Jarvis recently visited the university to evaluate the programme's curriculum, laboratory infrastructure, teaching methods, and overall student learning outcomes against internationally recognised standards. The review included in-depth discussions with academic staff and students, inspections of experimental facilities, and an evaluation of how students apply theoretical concepts to practical, real-world problems.

Professor Martin Sevior, Chair of the AIP Assessment Panel, highlighted the indispensable role of direct, on-campus assessment in rigorous quality assurance:

"What we want to do in this visit is to validate that what’s written on paper is actually what’s happening on the ground."

The review marks a major milestone for the AIP's regional education partnerships. Prof. Tim McIntyre, the AIP’s Accreditation Manager, noted the significance of extending accreditation activities beyond Australia:

"This is the AIP’s first accreditation in PNG, and we are pleased to be able to support our near neighbours in holding up high standards of physics education across the region."

Following the site visit, the panel will submit its formal findings to the AIP Accreditation Committee for evaluation. This milestone underscores the AIP’s expanding role as a regional benchmark for academic quality, helping partner institutions build robust physics programs that align with global standards. Members of the physics community interested in contributing to quality assurance and educational standards are encouraged to reach out to aip@aip.org.au.

Photo credits: 
Top right: Members of the Accreditation Panel interact with PNG UoT students during laboratory classes, image courtesy PNG UoT
Bottom right: Dr David Kolkoma (Head of School) and Prof Felix Pereira (Post-Graduate Coordinator) welcome the panel, image courtesy Peter Jarvis