Shaping the Future: Masidah Tonaim’s Journey in Economic Development,
By: Vinlin
Yanda
29th,
September, 2024
In
the evolving landscape of economic development, one emerging voice stands out, Masidah Tonaim, a
dedicated tutor at the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG). With her recent
scholarship to pursue a Master of International and Development Economics at
the prestigious Australian National University (ANU), Masidah is poised to make
a significant impact on the next generation of professionals and leaders.
Masidah’s
journey began in familiar academic territory at UPNG, where she honed her
skills and nurtured her passion for economics. This year, she stepped into the
world of ANU, a move she describes as both “scary yet exciting.” The transition
has not been without its challenges; the difference in learning styles between
UPNG and ANU has required her to adapt quickly. “As a very reserved person, it
was difficult coming out of my shell to engage with other students and interact
with colleagues,” she admits. Yet, her experience has been transformative. “It
was comforting to find that a lot of the students and staff are very welcoming
and always happy to assist,” she reflects.
The
scholarship program through the ANU-UPNG partnership has opened doors for ten
UPNG Master of Economics and Public Policy graduates, allowing them to immerse
themselves in a rich academic environment that promises to enhance their
expertise and perspectives on global economic issues. Masidah’s commitment to
her field is underscored by her ambition to return to UPNG in 2025 as a
lecturer in the economics department. There, she aims to inspire and equip
future students with a robust understanding of economic development, preparing
them to navigate the complexities of today’s global economy.
Masidah’s
journey is not just about personal growth; it embodies a broader mission to
bridge the gap between local and international economic discourse. By bringing
back her experiences and insights from ANU, she hopes to cultivate a new
generation of thinkers who are well-versed in both local and global economic
challenges.
As
she continues her studies, Masidah Tonaim stands as a beacon of aspiration and
resilience, proving that with determination and support, the future of economic
development in Papua New Guinea is bright. Her story is a reminder that
education transcends borders, fostering connections that can lead to meaningful
change in communities around the world.
Masidah Tonaim, a dedicated tutor at
the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG). With her recent scholarship to
pursue a Master of International and Development Economics at the prestigious
Australian National University (ANU. Picture credits to, PNG Aussie Partnership Webpage.

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