The School of Medicine and Health Sciences is proud to count among its graduates some of Papua New Guinea's most distinguished leaders, scholars, and professionals. Their achievements inspire current students and reflect the enduring impact of a UPNG education.
PNG's first MBBS graduate and first cardiologist
The first Papua New Guinean to graduate MBBS from UPNG, in 1973, and the country's first cardiologist. Director of the Sir Buri Kidu Heart Institute and long-serving chairman of the council of the PNG Institute of Medical Research.
Deputy Prime Minister (2007–2010); Minister for Health
Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery, 1976, followed by a Master of Medicine in Melbourne and Sydney. A surgeon and health administrator who became Member for Abau, Deputy Prime Minister and, twice, Minister for Health.
PNG's first woman Professor of Medicine (Pathology)
Graduated in medicine from UPNG in 1986 and trained in haematology at Royal Prince Alfred in Sydney. Papua New Guinea's most senior pathologist, she directed the Central Public Health Laboratory and led the national response to HIV, malaria and drug-resistant TB. (d. 2021)
Executive Dean, UPNG School of Medicine and Health Sciences
MBBS, Diploma of Child Health and Master of Medicine in child health at UPNG, then a PhD in paediatric cardiology at the University of Queensland. Executive Dean of this School, chairman of the PNG Medical Board, and coordinator of Operation Open Heart in Port Moresby.
Director, PNG Institute of Medical Research
Bachelor of Science at UPNG, then an MSc at the University of New South Wales and a PhD at the University of Western Australia. An immunologist who now directs Papua New Guinea's national medical research institute.