Tourism Authority Honours DWU Tourism Studies student

The Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) awarded Marissa Siwa with its Award for Academic Excellence at the Divine Word University’s graduation ceremony on Friday 8 March in Madang.  

Tourism & Hospitality Management (THM) graduate, Marissa Siwa, achieved the highest cumulative GPA among her cohorts, earning her this distinguished accolade from TPA. 

TPA’s award is an esteemed recognition presented to graduating students in the Tourism & Hospitality Department who exhibit exceptional academic performance. Marissa’s outstanding performance earned her a commemorative plaque, a mobile phone, and a cash prize of K2,000.

Dr. Fiona N’Drower, Head of the THM department at DWU, thanked TPA for its ongoing support towards the department’s educational initiatives, highlighting its unwavering support spanning over two decades. 

“PNGTPA’s contributions extend beyond financial sponsorship, including the establishment of special awards during graduation ceremonies and serving as the primary sponsor for the Liklik Diwai Tourism Expo (LDTE), an annual event hosted by final year Tourism & Hospitality students,” said N’Drower. 

Dr. N’Drower also reflected on PNGTPA’s significant impact on shaping tourism education in Papua New Guinea, dating back to the introduction of the PNGTPA award in 1999/2000. 

“DWU emerged as a trailblazer in recognizing the need for promoting tourism and hospitality education, leading to the inception of the Diploma in Tourism & Hospitality program in 1998, followed by the Bachelor program in 2006. 

PNGTPA’s active involvement in academic events not only showcases the potential of tourism in PNG but also underscores the employment and entrepreneurial opportunities within the Tourism & Hospitality industry, thus promoting the Bachelor of Tourism & Hospitality program at DWU,” said N’Drower.

Ingrid Kuman, Acting Chief Executive Officer at TPA, presented the award to Marissa Siwa during the graduation ceremony and commended Marissa’s dedication and hard work, which were evident in her remarkable academic achievements.

“The prize provided to the student is in recognition of their hard work and academic commitment to the THM program and is a testament to their perseverance to achieve their goal,” said Kuman.

Marissa Siwa’s exemplary performance serves as an inspiration to aspiring students in the field of tourism and hospitality, reaffirming the importance of academic excellence and dedication in shaping future leaders in Papua New Guinea’s tourism sector.