Port Moresby, 3 December 2025 — Philippine Christian University (PCU) Waigani Campus Vice-President Dr Jowell Bitas has announced an ambitious five-year roadmap to transform the newly-launched tertiary education partnership into a full university in Papua New Guinea.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony at Waigani Christian College (WCC) on Wednesday, 3 December 2025, after being granted university status by Minister for Higher Education Hon. Kinoka Feo, Dr Bitas said the institution is moving “step by step in the right direction” to ensure quality and strong foundations as PCU builds its presence in the country.
He said the partnership is the beginning of a long-term vision that has been ten years in planning, guided by faith and a commitment to deliver world-class education opportunities for Papua New Guineans.
Five bachelor’s degrees to commence in 2026
Dr Bitas confirmed that PCU will initially offer five bachelor programmes from 2026 — Accountancy, Business Administration, Information Technology, Computer Engineering, and Hospitality Management.
The campus has also submitted 28 additional programmes, ranging from bachelor’s to doctorate degrees, for approval with the Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (DHERST).
A Bachelor of Nursing programme is targeted for launch by 2027 once final regulatory clearances are granted.
Entry to higher degrees also available
Parents and current graduates were encouraged to consider further studies as PCU plans to offer a “one-stop-shop” pathway from early childhood education right through to master’s and doctoral qualifications.
A diploma in Early Childhood Education is scheduled to start in 2026, led by educator Margaret Fina.
Technology-driven learning model
Dr Bitas said digital learning will be a major feature of PCU’s expansion plan, allowing students across PNG and abroad to complete studies online — supported by in-person sessions with lecturers to maintain academic quality.
“You can study anywhere in the world… but you will still come here to meet your professors,” he said.
He encouraged students to invest in laptops and reliable internet access as preparation for the university’s technology-enabled future.
Emphasis on faith and strong foundations
Dr Bitas told students and families that PCU’s guiding principle is to “put God first” — a foundation he said keeps students focused on purpose and success throughout their education journey.
“It’s not a shortcut to become a bachelor’s degree graduate — you have to earn it,” he said, adding that all growth must be based on the “right foundation” that future employers will trust.
Next steps
Applications are now open at the information booth on campus, with programme brochures and enrolment guidance available.
Dr Bitas closed by congratulating graduating students and inviting them back in 2026 to pursue higher studies under PCU’s expanding academic offerings.
“This is just the start — the start of a new beginning,” he said.
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