Insights, Ideas, and Innovations in Digital Learning

Dr. J. Shaik Dawood Ansari is a seasoned academic and IT professional with over 17 years of experience in higher education, specializing in computer science, cybersecurity, and technology-enabled learning. He currently serves as Senior Lecturer and Head of the Department of IT at Western Pacific University (WPU), Papua New Guinea.

Shamone Iggie Kalakulu is a qualified educator with a Bachelor of Education from the University of Goroka and a Master’s in Educational Leadership from Divine Word University. A registered teacher and lecturer by profession, he brings extensive experience in pedagogy, lesson planning, instructional delivery, feedback, and evaluation.

Shamone has led multidisciplinary teams in driving academic excellence and developing innovative curricula. He has a proven ability to foster collaborative learning environments, implement strategic initiatives, and manage educational resources to support institutional growth.

At Western Pacific University, he has delivered lectures and developed English curriculum for the Department of Foundation Studies. He is actively involved in community service and capacity-building initiatives, including training sessions on quality teaching, lesson planning, and assessment. Shamone also contributes to institutional governance through his role on the University’s Student Appeal Board, reflecting his commitment to enhancing educational quality and student support.

Dency Philip serves as a dedicated tutor for FYS205: Introduction to Business and FYS206: Fundamentals of Accounting in the CHEFS Department. Her role focuses on delivering engaging and supportive academic experiences to enhance student learning and performance.

Dency has effectively designed and conducted tutorials that deepen students' understanding of key course concepts. She is also responsible for administering quizzes and examinations while ensuring academic integrity through proper invigilation. In addition, she tracks student attendance for both in-person and virtual sessions and facilitates virtual lectures delivered by external lecturers to ensure seamless learning experiences.

Her commitment to student success is evident through regular consultation hours, where she provides personalized academic support. Dency also reviews tutorial submissions and offers timely, constructive feedback to foster continuous student improvement.

Francis Mission, M.A., B.A, is a dedicated lecturer in the IT and CHEFS Departments. With a strong academic background, he is actively involved in coordinating academic units, preparing course materials, and delivering engaging and effective lectures. His focus is on ensuring students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical understanding of the subject matter. Francis is committed to academic excellence and student development, creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment. Although he does not currently have additional relevant industry experience to highlight, his passion for teaching and curriculum development continues to positively impact the educational journey of his students.

Calista Hamadi is an educator, facilitator, mentor, and passionate advocate for digital learning, gender equality, and inclusive education. As a lecturer at Western Pacific University in Papua New Guinea, she teaches under the Certificate in Higher Education Foundation Studies (CHEFS) program—a national initiative that equips first-year university students, especially from underserved regions, with essential skills in STEM, academic writing, and critical thinking.

Calista blends education, technology, and community empowerment to create transformative learning experiences that inspire growth and confidence. Beyond the classroom, she is a proud working mother and social entrepreneur, running an online business that supports her family and empowers women to pursue financial independence and leadership. Her advocacy centers on digital equity, the inclusion of girls and rural youth in STEM, and cultivating growth mindsets through faith-driven leadership.

Calista’s mission is clear: to uplift individuals and communities to rise, lead, and thrive in a changing world.