Balimo College, funded by the Sustainable Development Program (SDP), celebrated a landmark recently with the graduation of its first 26 students earning Bachelor of Education (Primary) degrees.

The Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (DHERST)-accredited graduates completed their Diploma of Primary Teaching in March, fulfilling requirements to advance and tackle teacher shortages in their home communities.

Now with 105 students enrolled across Years 1-3, the K72 million SDP-backed college- open since 2022, also launched a Bachelor of General Nursing program this year.

SDP Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Lesieli Taviri, called the milestone vital for provincial capacity-building.

“This underscores our commitment to quality education by addressing teacher and health worker shortages.”

“Our priority is strengthening school systems through training and professional development, so these graduates return home to shape the next generation.”

The program partners with the Kokoda Track Foundation for management and Western Sydney University for curriculum support, ensuring a steady pipeline of local educators.