Our journey
December 3, 2024 2024-12-06 15:13Our journey
The Institute of Business Studies (IBS) was established with a definitive mission to increase the number of professional accountants in Papua New Guinea. At the outset, in 1987, the country had only nine certified national accountants. Acknowledging this deficiency, we at IBS sought to bridge the gap, ultimately making headway into a premier private university, devoted to promoting educational growth and professional development.
From Humble Beginnings to a National Vision
Initially founded as Nades & Associates by Sir Mick Nades, our institution provided revision classes for the PNG Institute of Accountants (PNGIA) examinations. Recognizing the need for a dedicated entity to pursue business leadership in Papua New Guinea, IBS was formally established on 16 February 1989. This began an educational journey that has greatly improved countless students and professionals across the nation for the better.
Key Moments in the Development of Accounting Education
During our early days, we concentrated exclusively on accounting education and made sure our practices were on par with global standards. In 1993, Mabel Gavera and Janet Sios became the first certified female accountants, bringing greater recognition to women in the field. IBS was able to help increase the number of professionally qualified accountants from a mere 9 to 150 in 1996. In the same year, we introduced the Diploma in Commerce from the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG).
The Path to Recognition: Proposals and Persistence
Since 1999, we’ve been offering Australian bachelor’s degrees in partnership with Southern Cross University. In 2003, we also started offering a face-to-face Australian MBA programme, the first of its kind in PNG.
The journey to become a university showed how determined IBS was. In 2005, IBS began planning for university status, but there were many challenges along the way. Despite these setbacks, IBS didn’t give up. In 2014, a proposal was made under the Higher Education Act, which led to a thorough review. Finally, in December 2016, IBS was granted university status, and on January 25, 2017, it was officially named IBSUniversity in the National Gazette by the Honourable Minister Francis Maru. IBSUniversity is forever grateful to him. This was a major moment for the institution, marking the start of a new chapter in its history.
It is very important to note that IBS, being a private educational institution, was the only educational institution have had the pre-qualification experience by having conducted Australian bachelor’s degree programmes for 18 years and five years of teaching first ever MBA of Deakin University of Australia before seeking University status.
On July 22, 2021, following an external review led by an Australian academic appointed by DHERST, IBSUniversity successfully met most of the required standards and was awarded its Certificate of Registration, accompanied by 23 recommendations for further enhancement.
IBSUniversity Bill
In accordance with Section 119 of the Higher Education (General Provisions) (Amendment) Act 2020, IBSUniversity submitted its draft Bill to DHERST on 1st September 2021. The NEC, after noting the Certificate of Necessity issued by the State Solicitor on 16th March 2022, approved the drafting instructions to establish IBSUniversity as a Private University under the Higher Education (General Provisions) Act 2014 (as amended). The NEC further directed the First Legislative Counsel to draft the proposed Bill in line with these instructions for tabling in Parliament.
The Office of Legislative Counsel finalized the drafting of the IBSUniversity Bill 2023 and, on 30th May 2023, notified the then Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science, and Technology that the Bill was ready for tabling in Parliament. A copy of this communication was also shared with the Acting Secretary for DHERST. The Bill, however, remains pending presentation in Parliament by the Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science, and Technology.
Key Achievements and Impact
IBSUniversity has been always challenging itself to enrich our students with work ready experience and leading the digital transformation. Some of its notable achievements in this direction are:
Innovation
IBSUniversity is bringing in new technology to make learning and administration easier. In November 2024, it launched an integrated ERP software called Academia (by Serosoft).
Collaboration
- IBSU has worked with Southern Cross University since 1999 and celebrated 25 years of partnership on 24 April 2024.
- It set up a CISCO Academy in 2014 to provide tech-focused training.
- In October 2024, IBSUniversity became the first in PNG to partner with Oracle Academy.
- IBSU also signed an agreement with the All India Management Association (AIMA) to strengthen academic ties.
Responsive
- In 2010, IBSU became a Pearson VUE Test Centre, offering international exams.
- It also functions as an examination centre for seven Australian universities, two New Zealand universities, and professional bodies from the UK and Australia.
Excellence
- IBSU earned the ISO 9001:2015 certification in both 2020 and 2023, proving it meets global quality standards.
- On 23 September 2021, CPA PNG accredited its Diploma and Bachelor of Accounting and Finance programmes, giving them official recognition.
These achievements show how IBSUniversity maintains high standards in education and professional training while working to grow, improve quality, and create valuable student opportunities.
Moving Forward: Today’s IBSUniversity
Today, IBSUniversity continues to grow, offering degree programmes in Accounting and Finance, Business and Management, Economics and Development Studies, and Information Technology. With over 1,100 students enrolled in 2024, we aim to help our graduates become skilled leaders who can succeed in many industries and contribute to the development of our young nation.
Our journey from a small training institution to a well-recognised private university shows our goal of improving lives through top-quality education, training, and research.
Vision, Mission and Values
As IBSUniversity keeps growing, we focus on improving education in new and responsive ways. By expanding our academic programmes, developing the potential of our students, and meeting international standards, we are preparing to lead the future of business education in the Pacific.
VISION
To enrich lives through World Class Education, Training and Research.
MISSION
We are passionately committed to Educating and Training people by providing responsive and value-driven programmes that stimulate personal development, organisational growth and building our young nation.
VALUES
- INTEGRITY: Our promise to deliver
- RESPECT: We treat others with the same respect we expect in return.
- INNOVATIVE: We always look for new ways to improve our lives and the community we live in.
- SERVICE: We are dedicated to going beyond what our students and customers expect from us.
- COLLABORATION: We believe in working together within the team and with others outside to grow and succeed.
- ACCOUNTABILITY: We take responsibility for our actions and decisions.
- RESPONSIVE: We aim to meet the needs of the industry in a thoughtful and timely way.
- EXCELLENCE: We are determined to meet the highest standards.
Our Story
Our narrative is one characterized by growth and vision. For 35 years, we have evolved from a modest institute into a prestigious private university with international partnerships and recognition in PNG. This journey represents our persistent efforts to bring our vision into perspective.
Timeline of Events
IBSUniversity has been always challenging itself to enrich our students with work ready experience and leading the digital transformation. Some of its notable achievements in this direction are:
YEAR
NOTABLE EVENTS
1987
Nades Associates, a practicing accounting firm, took the first challenge of making accounting graduates to become professionally qualified accountants in partnership with CPA PNG (formerly PNG Institute of Accountants – PNGIA).
1989
The Institute of Business Studies (IBS) Limited was established to continue this challenging but rewarding endeavor.
1990
IBS introduced the Certificate in Accounting of the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT), UK.
1992
IBS celebrated a landmark achievement by producing the first two female professionally qualified accountants in PNG.
1993
IBS began offering its Certificate in Accounting course, based on AAT standards.
1995
- IBS launched the Associate Diploma of the Open Learning Institute, TAFE Queensland.
- IBS became a study center for IDCE of the University of Papua New Guinea, offering their Diploma in Commerce programme beginning in 1996.
1996
- The IBS Certificate in Computing course was introduced.
- Commenced the IBS Diploma in Commerce
1998
The first request letter to the Deputy Secretary of Office of Higher Education (OHE) requesting inclusion of IBS as a private course provider in Higher Education – with UPNG partnership for nearly three years and proposed partnership with Southern Cross University of Australia to offer their degree programmes in February 1999.
1999
- The second request for inclusion as a private course provider in Higher Education, after commencement of Southern Cross University (SCU) programmes in February 1999.
- Philip Kereme, Director General of the Office of Higher Education (OHE), advised that the request should be forwarded to the Commission for Higher Education (CHE).
- A notable achievement was reached as IBS formed an educational collaboration partnership with Southern Cross University (SCU) of Australia, offering Australian degree programmes face-to-face in Accounting and Information Systems in PNG.
2000
In a letter, Fr. Jan Czuba, Chairman of the National Higher Education Quality Assurance and Accreditation Committee (NHEQAAC), suggested that UPNG, as our affiliated university, forward the proposal for approval. The response was not very encouraging.
2001
IBS achieved ICDL-accredited Test Centre status from the Australian Computer Society.
2002
- IBS was recognized as an approved education institution by the PNG Institute of Accountants.
- A third request letter to Dr. Philip Kereme for inclusion of IBS as a permitted Institution in Higher Education.
2003
- IBS brought the first-ever MBA programme to PNG, in partnership with Deakin University of Australia.
- IBS obtained UPNG study centre
- IBS introduced the Diploma in Information Technology.
- IBS started outbound Team Building Programmes
2004
- The fourth request letter to the Chairman of NHEQAAC for accreditation as an institution of higher education was made.
- Dr. Philip Kereme referred the request to Fr. Jan Czuba, the Chairman of NHEQACC
2005
- IBS became the study center for the Chartered Institute of Marketing UK, offering PCIM, PDIM, and PPGDM qualifications.
- The first proposal to become a university was submitted to the Higher Education Minister on the 5th of September 2005, even before receiving accreditation as a higher education institution.
2006
- Dr. William Tagis, Acting Director General, advised an initial audit visit would be conducted to assess IBS’s eligibility as an accredited tertiary institution in PNG.
- The audit team from NHEQAAC conducted the initial audit of IBS operations.
- IBS requested Honourable Minister Mark Maipakai to expedite the final audit by NHEQAAC for accreditation as an Institution of Higher Education.
- IBS submitted ten copies of the self-study report/application for accreditation as an institution of higher education.
- Dr. William Tagis confirmed IBS’s candidacy granted by NHEQAAC. The audit took place from 17 to 19 January 2007.
- The Certificate in Business Practice and Sales Management were commenced.
2007
Dr. William Tagis advised that the Commission for Higher Education granted IBS recognition as an Institution of Higher Education (Decision No 3 / 2007).
2008
- An invitation was received for the official certificate presentation ceremony as an Institution of Higher Education at the Office of Higher Education.
- The IBS Career Development Centre began job training.
- IBS launched the IBS Centre of Excellence in Leadership and Management.
- The second proposal to become a university was submitted to the Prime Minister on 25th November 2013. However, no action was taken by the OHE or the CHE.
2009
- Dr. William Tagis, Director General of OHE advised the review of Academic Audit recommendations 2007.
- A second audit was conducted at IBS between 15th and 17th July 2009.
- A round table discussion on the second audit was held at the OHE conference room.
- IBS introduced the SCU Bachelor of Information Technology.
- IBS celebrating 20 years of quality education and training.
- IBS formed a partnership with Kopkop College.
- IBS Corporate Library was launched.
- IBS celebrated 10 years of partnership with Southern Cross University.
2010
- The Commission for Higher Education (OHE) Decision No: 05/01/2010 gave IBS a two-year accreditation with six-monthly reviews.
- IBS got the test centre status for Pearson’s Vue.
2011
- The first follow-up visits by the OHE Monitoring and Evaluation Committee took place.
- IBS submitted the proposed Institute of Business Studies (IBS) Act to Mr. Simon Kenehe, Chairman of the Commission for Higher Education.
2012
- A letter from the Director General sanctioned Audit III of IBS.
- The OHE presented the Audit III report to the NHEQAAC for approval.
- NHEQAAC endorsed Audit III report and approved IBS as an institution of higher learning in PNG.
- IBS sent a reminder letter to Prof. Kavanamur, Director General, about the proposed IBS Act.
- IBS’s Mt. Eriama campus was officially opened by Hon. Peter O’Neil (November 16th, 2012).
2013
- OHE informed IBS of the failure to implement the CHE Decision No: 11/01/2013, leading to the withdrawal of scholarships.
- IBS responded to Audit III recommendations, which was forwarded to Mr. Simon Kenehe, Chairman of CHE.
- A letter from Prof. Kavanamur addressed the NHEQAAC decision on programmes submitted for accreditation.
- The Commission noted the submission but highlighted recommendations yet to be implemented by IBS.
- The second proposal to become a university was submitted to the then Prime Minister Hon. Peter O’Neil on 25th November 2013. However, no action was taken by the OHE or CHE.
2014
- A letter from Mr. Ivan Pomaleu, Chairman Elect IBS Board of Management regarding Decision No.11/01/2013, addressed conflicts of interest and property transfer (Portion 1553) issues.
- David Arobe, Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology, responded regarding IBS’s application for university status.
- A reply from Founder Mick Nades confirmed the resolution of outstanding issues.
- CHE/OHE informed IBS of the decision from the CHE meeting 01/2014 on the way forward.
- Minister Hon. Delilah Gore advised accreditation status for three years with four conditions.
- IBS replied to Hon. Minister Malakai Tabar regarding the conditions imposed by Hon. Delilah Gore.
- Chief Secretary Ambassador Isaac Lupari urged Prof. Kavanamur to facilitate IBS’s university status.
- Director General Prof. Kavanamur wrote to Minister Malakai Tabar to consider IBS’s university proposal.
- The third and final proposal to become a university was submitted to Hon. Peter O’Neil, the then Prime Minister, leading to the Chief Secretary’s instructions to initiate the university process based on this proposal.
2016
- The Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (DHERST) issued a certificate of programme accreditation and recognising 11 programmes for a period of five years beginning 16th June 2016 to 16th June 2021.
- IBS was elevated to IBSUniversity, becoming the first private university in PNG following NEC approval under Decision No. 314/2016, Special Meeting No. 17/2016.
- Formed a partnership with PNG Educational Robotics Lab (PERL) to offer practical training on Robotics by Mr. Shahram Honarzad (Shaz).
2017
Hon. Francis Marus, Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology declare the approval of the Institute of Business Studies University through National Gazette No. G39, dated 25 January 2017.
2020
- IBSUniversity achieved ISO 9001:2015 Certification for Quality Standards.
- Opening Ceremony of Centre of Excellence building at IBSUniversity Campus by Hon. James Marape, Prime Minister, dated 13th March 2020.
- Submission of Self-Assessment Report (SAR) and the Programme Accreditation documents to DHERST for an external audit review on 3rd September 2020.
- Inauguration of Japanese Learning Corner at IBSUniversity, dated 28th September 2020
2021
- Submission of the draft by IBSUniversity Bill to the Acting Secretary, Dr. Francis Hualupmomi of the Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology, dated 1st September 2021.
- The CPA PNG accredited and recognised the Diploma in Accounting and Finance and Bachelor of Accounting and Finance programmes of IBSUniversity on the 23rd September 2021.
- The DHERST external audit review took place from 15th to 18th March 2021. Of the 12 standards assessed, IBSU substantially met 2 standards, partially met 9 standards, and mostly not met one standard, which was related to research.
- The Department of Higher Education, Research, Science, and Technology (DHERST) officially registered IBSUniversity as a private university in Papua New Guinea. The certificate was presented to the Founder, Sir Mick Nades, by the Minister for DHERST, Hon. Wesley Raminai, and Acting Secretary for DHERST, Dr. Francis Hualupmomi, on 22nd July 2021.
- IBSU formed a mutual partnership with the Centre for FutureNau (previously called PNG Flying Lab) to offer Drone Training to the students and for their internships.
2022
- Joint Statement by DHERST and IBSUniversity as a notice to the General Public stating that IBSUniversity is now recognized and registered as a Private University on 29th March 2022.
- NEC approved the Drafting Instructions to establish the IBSUniversity as a Private University under the Higher Education (General Provisions) Act 2014 (as amended) and directed the First Legislative Counsel to draft the proposed Bill following the Drafting of Instructions for tabling in Parliament (Decision No. 160/2022; Special Meeting No. 11/2022), dated 18th April 2022.
2023
- On 30th May 2023, the First Legislative Counsel advised Hon. Don Pomb Polye, Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology, to resubmit the proposed IBSUniversity Bill 2023 to the NEC for approval as a convention that the new Cabinet is not bound by the decision of the former Cabinet and for tabling in Parliament.
- DHERST external review was conducted on the 23 recommendations during 23rd to 27th October 2023.
2024
- IBSUniversity and SCU celebrated their partnership’s Silver Jubilee on 23rd April 2024.
- IBSUniversity released an online journal titled “IBSU Journal of Business and Research (ISSN 3007-3936).
- Renewal of ISO 9001:2015 Certification for Quality Standards
- IBSU formed a Memorandum of Understanding with All India Management Association (AIMA).
- IBSUniversity in PNG signs partnership with Oracle Academy.
- IBSU subscribed to an integrated software for academic and administrative operations named Academia (Serosoft)
International Examination Centre for
- Seven Australian universities,
- Two New Zealand universities,
- Two professional bodies in the United Kingdom, and
- Two professional bodies in Australia.
Looking Ahead
IBSUniversity is determined to expand its courses and help students become strong leaders. The university is ready to lead the future of business education in PNG and the Pacific. IBSUniversity plans to keep growing and improving by following global standards and making smart choices for its future.
Our Story: Vision, Perseverance, and Impact
From humble beginnings to its status as a recognised private university, IBSUniversity shows what’s possible when education is designed with service impact in mind—opening doors, sparking potential, and making a difference where it matters most.
Conclusion
IBSUniversity’s journey so far tells the story of its endeavors to enrich lives through world class education, training and research in Papua New Guinea. Through the encouragement of fresh ideas and creative thinking, IBSUniversity has shown how valuable and important its programmes are, getting students ready to become leaders and make a difference. As IBSUniversity moves forward, it holds firm on its mission to build a brighter future for PNG and beyond. The journey has only just begun.
