About Us

Appropriate Technology and Community Development Institute (ATCDI)

Since its establishment in 1978, ATCDI has served as the vital bridge between the PNG University of Technology and the wider Papua New Guinea community. Our central mission is to transform the academic knowledge of the university into tangible technological solutions that create a positive impact on community life. In this pursuit, the institute wholeheartedly embraces sustainable rural development, striving to usher in progress while safeguarding the rich cultural values and traditions of our people.

Throughout our enduring journey, our commitment to catalyze positive change has remained steadfast, undeterred by the numerous socio-economic and political challenges encountered over the past three decades. Collaborating closely with government agencies, NGOs, community groups, and generous donor bodies, we lead rigorous research endeavors and craft innovative tools and methodologies that address the distinctive challenges faced by both rural and urban communities.

Our proficient team comprises dedicated Engineers, Scientists, Technical experts, and Community Development Officers, all united in their mission to disseminate knowledge about these pioneering technologies, not only within Papua New Guinea but also on a global scale.

As we seek to establish partnerships, recognizing the constraints of budgetary limitations, ATCDI envisions harnessing its technical expertise and managerial acumen through collaboration with organizations that share a community-centric ethos. Such alliances will strategically position ATCDI to fulfill the aspirations outlined in the University's Strategic Domain 7, which directly align with ATCDI's designated roles and responsibilities.

Our collaborative efforts with government institutions, non-government organizations, community groups, and valued donor agencies empower us to conduct comprehensive research and tailor tools and methodologies to address the ever-evolving needs of rural development. Furthermore, our scope has expanded to encompass urban peripheries, acknowledging their urgent requirement for fundamental services.

Together, we envision a future that harmoniously aligns with PNG's visionary blueprint, Vision 2050, where every community is equipped with the appropriate technology, ensuring an elevated standard of living.

Our mission

Research,Development, Application and Dissemination of Appropriate Technologies.

Our vision

Improve living standard in PNG.

core values
  1. Community, particularly those in rural remote areas less service by Government.
  2. Application and sharing of suitable skills and knowledge with communities.

Our Mission

Our mission is to conduct research and develop appropriate technologies that address rural development needs in Papua New Guinea and disseminate this knowledge to communities in a culturally sensitive and sustainable manner.

Our Vision

Our vision is to build a sustainable and culturally sensitive Papua New Guinea where rural communities have access to appropriate technologies and tools that enhance their quality of life.

Our Goals

  1. Develop appropriate technologies that address the needs of rural communities in Papua New Guinea and other developing countries.
  2. Disseminate knowledge and information on appropriate technologies to local communities, organizations, and governments to enhance their capacity to adopt and use these technologies.
  3. Build partnerships with government agencies, NGOs, and other stakeholders to improve the effectiveness and sustainability of appropriate technology interventions.
  4. Conduct research to better understand the needs of rural communities and to develop new and improved appropriate technology solutions.

What we do

  1. Conduct needs assessments in rural communities to identify specific areas where appropriate technology can improve quality of life, such as water and sanitation, agriculture, and energy access.
  2. Develop and refine appropriate technologies that are suitable for local conditions and can be easily maintained and repaired by community members.
  3. Facilitate the adoption of appropriate technologies in rural communities by providing training and technical assistance to local leaders, technicians, and users.
  4. Establish partnerships with government agencies, NGOs, and private sector actors to expand the reach and impact of appropriate technology interventions.
  5. Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of appropriate technology interventions to ensure they are meeting the needs of communities and achieving their intended outcomes.
  6. Disseminate information and best practices related to appropriate technology through workshops, seminars, publications, and digital media.
  7. Promote policy and regulatory frameworks that support the adoption and scaling of appropriate technologies in Papua New Guinea and other developing countries.
  8. Foster a culture of innovation and collaboration among researchers, practitioners, and community members in the field of appropriate technology and rural development.

Our Future

To be competitive with in our core functions – providing the basic necessities to the unprivileged rural communities in Papua New Guinea. 

We would like to explore selling our resource book "the Liklik Buk" online, as well as other products. Installing a friendly – people oriented website for ATCDI and networking with our international development organisation.

We will explore ways to increase the capacity of ATCDI to be the South Pacific Technology Transfer Center in partnership with will international governments.

ATCDI had been around for 38 years (1978–2016). It has survived like a boat sailing through the PESTEL storm (Effects of politics, economic, social and technological, ecological and legal requirements). It exists to make a difference in the lives of people in rural communities. A paradigm shift now is that ATCDI's vision is drawing towards urban peripheries (Settlements) where basic needs are just as great as those in the rural areas.