Pacific Adventist University (PAU) in Papua New Guinea started the new academic year with enhanced staff induction programs by integrating new staff into the institution’s unique culture, mission and operational systems.
More than 200 university staff attended the five-day induction from January 28 to February 1 and about 30 new staff were successfully inducted on Adventist identity and ethos, policy and compliance, and integration of faith and learning as a positive Christian role model.
Strengthening the Adventist identity by equipping staff to live and share the unique Adventist message at schools and institutions across the Division is one of the key objectives of the South Pacific Division Education Strategy for 2025-2030.
SPD education director Dr Elisapesi Manson conducted training on Adventist ethos and mission alignment and integrated faith-based service in higher education contexts.
“One of the staff who joined PAU from state universities found these trainings an ‘eye opener’ and now understands the core values of Adventist education and his role in realising the mission of Seventh-day Adventist Church as a staff member of PAU,” Dr Manson said.
“One of the new faculty staff inducted appreciated how the induction program sets her up in ‘one direction’ with the university and SPD strategic plans.”
Vice chancellor Professor Lohi Matainaho said he found the sessions on Adventist identity and ethos timely in uniting his team at PAU in one mission for God’s service.
“The new staff induction program fosters a sense of belonging and commitment from the beginning of employment at the university,” Dr Manson added. “Also, the role of total membership involvement in realising educational strategic targets in the SPD was emphasised. According to one of the associate pastors, the induction program was valuable in her transition to her new role at PAU, enabling her to refocus and ‘work with purpose, confidence and a shared sense of direction, while understanding our individual roles within the broader mission’.”
