38-year-old mum tops ITI accounting program

Among the 323 students who graduated from the International Training Institute in Lae last Friday was 38-year-old Mary Posa Wenge, who topped the Advanced Diploma in Accounting program.

Mary, who already holds a bachelor’s degree in social science, said she decided to study accounting in 2024 after developing an interest in the subject. She first completed a Certificate in Accounting and also received the Dux Award last year.

Speaking after graduation, Mary explained why she chose to study accounting despite already having a degree in Political Science.

“I basically took up the course to manage my own business, and today we live in a tough world where we need to be upskilled in looking after our money and even making more money,” she said.

Mary also shared the challenges of balancing family life and studies.

“Being a mother and doing my studies wasn’t easy, but I thank firstly the good Lord for my wonderful husband, who is a geologist by profession, that’s been very supportive. I encourage any mother out there who wants to study not to be discouraged, but to take on the challenge, because education doesn’t end there,” she said.

ITI Chairman and Co-founder Senthil Kumaran Sentheyvel said the institution is now going through major changes to improve learning for students.

“As part of our commitment to modernising the student experience, we have installed digital boards in every classroom, enhancing the quality of teaching and creating a more dynamic and engaging learning environment,” he said.

Mr Sentheyvel also announced that ITI has officially launched its first undergraduate degree program in Accounting and Finance this year.