The National Agricultural Research Institute (NARI) joined organisations worldwide on Friday, December 5, to celebrate International Volunteers Day, recognising the invaluable time, commitment, and expertise volunteers contribute to communities and institutions they serve.
This year’s global theme, “Every Contribution Matters,” was reflected in a gathering coordinated through Australian Volunteers Jenny and Steve Clark, together with NARI’s Human Resource Team. The event highlighted the contributions of volunteers working in Papua New Guinea and abroad.
Representatives and volunteers from the Tree Kangaroo Conservation Program, Adventist Development and Relief Agency, Lae City Authority, and the Australian Consulate in Lae, took part in the celebration. Supported by the Australian Government, participants shared their experiences and insights from their work across various sectors.
NARI’s Strategic Planning Advisor, Dr Birte Komolong, expressed appreciation to the Australian Government for supporting the placement of two volunteers at NARI; an important milestone and first of its kind for NARI. She also acknowledged the broader contributions volunteers make in strengthening the work of partner institutions.
Speaking on behalf of the Australian Consulate, Research Officer, Ms Ruby Yamuna, noted that Australian volunteers have, over the years, contributed across diverse fields including health, education, disability services, gender inclusion, disaster resilience, food security, climate change, economic development, and governance.
“Volunteer work fosters positive outcomes for organisations and strengthens cultural understanding. It helps partner institutions grow and achieve their development goals,” Ms Yamuna said.
Other participating organisations echoed similar sentiments, emphasising that volunteerism enhances shared values, strengthens capacity-building initiatives, and supports long-term sustainable change.
The celebration also featured a video presentation on international volunteerism, as well as a quiz and poster-making activities. The event was honoured by the presence of the Australian Consul-General, Mr Brenton Kanowski, who joined organisations in acknowledging the vital role volunteers continue to play in community development.
