[IBSUniversity, Mt. Eriama Campus, Port Moresby, November 1, 2024] – In a heartwarming ceremony, IBSUniversity Founder Sir Mick Nades took center stage to present the newly introduced Founder’s Award for Outstanding Performance to eleven passionate staff members. Their tireless efforts and persistent support for IBS’s mission in building a world-class institution were recognized with heartfelt applause. Held at the lively Genius Bar at Mt. Eriama Campus. Department heads, academic leaders, and dedicated colleagues came together to celebrate the inspiring achievements of their peers and the bright future ahead.

This year’s Founder’s Award recipients brought expertise from every corner of IBS—from Quality Assurance to Library & Information Services. Honorees included

• QA Manager Athithan Arunthavarajah; along with,
• QA Analysts Ms. Tanya Tore and Ms. Emerald G. Ninihili-Vui;
• IT Manager Asela Shyaman;
• Professor Ramachandran Arunachalam, Vice Chancellor, and,
• Mr. Jobin M. Scaria, Pro Vice-Chancellor.

Also recognized were Mr. Kanchana Senanayaka from Projects & Logistics, Gordon Sailas and Ms. Scholla Mauro from People & Culture, Mr. Akilino Powesiu from Library & Information Services, and Ms. Winnie Michaelyn, Acting Registrar, from Student Services. Each played a unique role in moving IBS toward a brighte future.

A Message of Dedication and Vision

Sir Mick’s address brought out the values of diligence, artistry, individual discipline, and enthusiasm to go beyond personal goals. “IBS is where you knock, and the door will be opened. Show your dedication and your efforts will be recognized,” he stated, encouraging all IBS staff to follow the example of this year’s recipients. Sir Mick shared his belief in the 80-20 Rule, further elaborating that while 11 individuals were recognized this year, their outstanding efforts should inspire others toward achieving the 80-20 benchmark in excellence.

Encouragement to Emulate Excellence

Sir Mick recognized each recipient’s role in moving IBS closer to its vision, urging them to continue their exceptional work. He encouraged them to continue doing what they do best, as their collective efforts are clearing the path for IBS to become a world-class institution. He said their contributions will leave a lasting impression far beyond Papua New Guinea,

Recognizing Excellence Across Departments

Each of the awardees has shown outstanding dedication within their roles:

• QA Team—Athithan Arunthavarajah and his QA Analysts, Ms. Tanya Tore and Ms. Emerald Ninihili-Vui, have carefully upheld high-quality standards across IBS operations, including compliance, risk management, and data-driven decisions.

• IT – Asela Shyaman played a decisive role in securing the ERP System Deal and in supporting the technological needs of IBS students and staff.

• Academia – Professor Ramachandran Arunachalam and Mr. Jobin M. Scaria have made invaluable strides in advancing academic standards and building an energetic learning environment.

• Projects & Logistics – Mr. Kanchana Senanayaka has led major projects with precision and dedication.

• People & Culture – Gordon Sailas and Ms. Scholla Mauro have worked to build a workplace culture that values growth and association and also conducted the first-of-its-kind training series themed Creating Exceptional Employee Experience, and accurate payroll data compilation for the new payroll system.

• Library & Information Services – Mr. Akilino Powesiu has stepped into the role of Library Manager with proficiency, contributed as a specialist in website content writing, and effectively promoted IBS’s offerings through targeted online marketing campaigns.

• SSD Team – Ms. Winnie Michaelyn has effectively managed student services in providing excellence in access and inclusion and student support experiences, and more.

The ceremony ended with an inspiring call for unity in IBS’s journey forward. Sir Mick reminded the IBS community that their combined efforts would lay the foundation for a legacy that reaches far beyond Papua New Guinea.

About IBSUniversity

Founded in 1989, IBSUniversity (IBSU) has grown from a business studies institute into a fully-fledged university, offering a variety of undergraduate and diploma programs in business, information technology, accounting, and more. Dedicated to educational excellence, IBSU prepares students with the expertise needed to succeed in global industries while contributing to progress in Papua New Guinea and beyond. Located at Mt. Eriama, Port Moresby, IBSUniversity continues to shape future leaders with a focus on practical skills, innovation, and meaningful community impact.

For more information, please contact:

IBSU Media Team

IBSUniversity

PO Box 5181, Boroko, National Capital District, Papua New Guinea

M: +675 7028 8030 / 74114100

E: ask@ibs.ac.pg | media@ibsu.ac.pg

PC: IBSU Media

Editing & Narrative Direction: IBSU Library & Information