ALOTAU, MILNE BAY — The Cross Country School of Excellence has taken a major step in decentralizing science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) learning in Papua New Guinea with the official opening of its new Alotau campus in January 2025.
The expansion marks the school’s first entry into Milne Bay Province and is part of a nationwide rollout aimed at improving access to quality STEM and Artificial Intelligence & Engineering (AIE) education. The initiative will see similar campuses established in Lae, Port Moresby, Goroka, Kokopo and Wewak over the coming years.
Speaking during the opening, school representatives highlighted the importance of equipping young Papua New Guineans with skills relevant to the digital age, while promoting innovation and problem-solving capacity.
“Our mission is to ensure that no matter where they are from, students have access to the same high-quality STEM resources and teaching found in major cities,” a spokesperson said.
The Alotau campus welcomed its first intake of students this month, offering fully equipped science laboratories, digital learning facilities, and hands-on engineering workshops. Partnerships with key stakeholders, including BSP for digital library access and the Australian Government through Australia Awards, are supporting the delivery of advanced learning resources and teacher upskilling programs.
Prime Minister James Marape has previously endorsed the STEM National Rollout Program, stating it is critical to building a skilled workforce capable of driving Papua New Guinea’s economic growth.
The Cross Country School of Excellence was established in Kiunga in 2015 and has since educated over 500 students in STEM-focused programs. With the new Alotau campus, it continues its mission of breaking geographical barriers to world-class education.
