PNG Academic and Research Network (PNGARNet)

 

Chandana Silva and Gordon Howell - Divine Word University

 

Abstract

A national PNG academic and research network (PNGARNet) based on satellite links is currently being established.  The initial stage of the project will link 6 universities and 2 research institutes on 21 sites.  The leed institution for this project is Divine Word University, which has been utilising satellite links for internet data for the past 2 years.  The establishment of a national network will provide cost-effective electronic digital communications and high speed internet access, between the member institutions.

In a nation with in excess of 800 language groups, the social networking and research possibilities are enormous.

Within PNG this project has generated considerable excitement within the media, and the possibilities of utilising the PNGARNet model to address the communication issues faced by PNG health sector is already being discussed.

Bio

Chandana Silver has been the IT manager at DWU since 2003. During this time DWU has deployed a campus network based on fibre backbone, structured cabling, with both satellite and terrestrial internet links.  During this time DWU has become the led institution on initiatives such as PNGARNet and the national student administrative system.

Dr Gordon Howell is a technology consultant to Divine Word University (DWU), and has designed and overseen the network and technology infrastructure since 1999.

He has had in excess of 20 years experience within education and technology management; include roles at the University of Queensland and Australian Catholic University.

Dr Howell has provided consulting services both within Australia and PNG for high quality, sustainable IT solutions. His particular area of interest is appropriate technology deployment supporting the learning paradigm of social constructivism.