The PNG Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) recently initiated an internship programme to give students an opportunity to explore their career interests and learn new skills, that are related to their field of study.
A pioneer intern who recently completed his five-week internship with DICT was 23 year old Siria Bihoro from Salamaua, Morobe Province, and a student at the Pacific Adventist University. Siria is pursing a double degree in Physics and Environmental Science.
Mr Bihoro however feels his area of studies has not stopped him from learning computers and systems
“Computers have always fascinated me. My father had a desktop that I spent hours playing on to discover its capabilities. I love how the human brain has designed technology and driven it forward.”
He said it has been a blessing and a privilege to have the Secretary of the Department of ICT Mr Steven Matainaho to approve his internship program.
“The Department has given me an opportunity to connect my knowledge and skill set with goals and vision of the nation, and especially in ICT.”
Mr Bihoro highlighted some of the key areas both soft and hard skills he has developed during his internship with the Department and they are:
Professional ethics and government protocols; ethics in large government events (I was part of the PNG Dubai Expo Logo and Website Launching); clear understanding of the PNG Government system; understand how policies and strategies impact the nation; Digital Governance, and the future of the country in regards to ICT; functions of the National Cyber Security Center ; IT fundamental certificate, among others.
“Evolution is inevitable- we cannot stop this or hate this fact, but we can leverage from it. Technology is the future of the world whether one accepts this or not.
“Computers are fun. ICT is fascinating and it is an entire universe of its own, and the world is just stepping into it so get onboard,” said Bihoro.
Mr Bihoro has also completed his first certificate of the four components of the tier one cybersecurity course, and is looking forward to completing the rest of the course in due course.
“I have always loved ICT, and this internship has not only increased my skills and knowledge base rather it has also helped me find my passion about computers.
“They say computers are smart, but humans build and use computers and that is impressive and I want that career.”
Mr Bihoro expressed his gratitude to the department staff for their support during his internship.
He also paid tribute to the Executive Manager Cybersecurity and Digital Government Standards, Ms Georgina Kiele and the National Cyber Security Center for her guidance and supervision during his training.
Ms Kiele said she was happy to mentor a freshman straight from school and appreciated his good feedback.
Deputy Secretary Policy and Emerging Technologies Flierl Shongol congratulated Siria and expressed his satisfaction with his positive approach to learning.
He said that Public Service is always challenging but Siria has proved that he is ready to join the Public Service especially with the Department of ICT.
Corporate Service, Director, Maisen Windu while congratulating Siria, said, “It is important to pass on the knowledge and skills to the younger ones to carry on what we have started or are starting so it doesn’t die out.”
He said there is lack of mentoring in the Public Service, and encourage the public service to revise the internship programs.
Pic Caption. Mr Siria Bihoro at the launch of the PNG World Expo 2020 Logo and Website at APEC Haus in Port Moresby (Pic: DICT Information).
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