01/05/2026
PUBLIC SPOTLIGHT FEATURE
Building Aviation Pathways from the Highlands
Featuring: Mr. Lasine Ahose | Founder, Goroka Aerotech Academy
In a country where aviation plays a vital role in connecting people and communities, one young entrepreneur from the Highlands is taking bold steps to shape the future of technical aviation training in Papua New Guinea.
At just 34 years old, Mr. Lasine Ahose, originally from Sigerehe in Upper Bena, Eastern Highlands Province, is the founder of Goroka Aerotech Academy (GAA), an emerging institution focused on training the next generation of aircraft maintenance professionals.
A Journey Built on Determination
Mr. Ahose’s journey into aviation was not a straightforward one. Raised in a single parent home and brought up solely by his mother from his early elementary years, his path was shaped by resilience, discipline, and perseverance from a young age.
Initially studying Civil Engineering at Cavite State University in the Philippines, he later made a life changing decision to pursue his passion for aviation. He enrolled at Delta Air International Aviation Academy, where he undertook pilot training and eventually earned his Private Pilot Licence.
After completing his pilot training, he was awarded a scholarship in 2017 to further his studies in Aircraft Maintenance Engineering, graduating in 2019 as a qualified Aircraft Maintenance Engineer; an achievement that would later play a key role in shaping his future in aviation training.
However, the journey came with significant challenges.
“Pilot training was very challenging, especially with the fees. There were times I had to stop and resume training depending on financial availability.”
Despite the setbacks, he persevered; drawing strength from faith and life lessons gained through hardship.
“I learned to trust that everything happens for a reason. There is always something to learn from every situation.”
From Personal Struggles to Purpose
One of the defining turning points in his life came during a difficult personal period.
Following a deeply emotional setback, Mr. AhoseAhose found himself at one of the lowest points in his life. It was during this time that a close friend offered him simple but powerful advice:
“You have to stop trying to please everyone and start focusing on yourself. You can’t be struggling and trying to help everyone else; you have to be better first.”
That moment sparked a shift in mindset.
Through conversations, reflection, and a renewed sense of purpose, the idea of building something meaningful began to take shape: an idea that would later become Goroka Aerotech Academy.
The Birth of Goroka Aerotech Academy
The vision for GAA was not sudden, it was carefully developed over time. While still in aviation school, Mr. Ahose spent four years planning the foundation of what would become a specialized aviation training institution.
Established in 2021, Goroka Aerotech Academy currently offers a Diploma in Aircraft Maintenance Engineering, with plans to expand its programs once full accreditation is secured from the Civil Aviation Safety Authority of Papua New Guinea.
Today, GAA stands as one of only a few institutions in the country dedicated specifically to aviation training.
“We are one of only three schools in Papua New Guinea specializing in aviation training, and we are building partnerships within the industry to create pathways for practical training and employment.”
Creating Opportunities for Papua New Guineans
At its core, GAA was built to address a major gap, opportunity.
With thousands of Grade 12 students missing out on formal education pathways each year, the academy provides an alternative route into a highly technical and in-demand field.
“The people of Papua New Guinea, especially those who miss out on further education, are the main beneficiaries of our programs.”
Despite operating without government funding since its inception, the academy continues to grow through resilience and commitment.
Giving Back to the Community
Beyond training, Mr. Ahose and his institution are actively involved in community initiatives; demonstrating a strong commitment to social impact.
From supporting church programs and sponsoring local sporting events to assisting students with tuition fees, GAA has become more than just a training institution.
One notable initiative includes partnering with Moho'Nilla Music to raise funds for the construction of a Bell Mama Karim Haus in Sigerehe.
The academy also conducts outreach programs in schools; raising awareness about aviation career pathways among young students.
Looking Ahead
Mr. Ahose’s vision is clear and ambitious:
“I want to build Goroka Aerotech Academy into one of the leading regional aviation training organizations, where students from across the Pacific can come and study.”
He believes that the foundation of national development lies in three key pillars:
* Education
* Health
* Prudent financial management
“An educated population is a healthy and wealthy population. We must educate and upskill as many young people as we can.”
A Message to the Youth
For young Papua New Guineans, his message is both honest and empowering:
“You may be poor, but you are rich with time. You may lack experience, but you are still young. Start setting goals and prioritize them.”
Leadership Through Purpose
Mr. Ahose describes his leadership style as inclusive yet decisive: valuing input from others while remaining firm when it matters most.
“I take everyone’s opinions into account, but I am not afraid to make tough decisions. Those decisions either build you or break you.”
Final Word
From personal struggles to building an institution with national relevance, Mr. Lasine Ahose represents a new generation of Papua New Guinean leaders; driven by vision, resilience, and a commitment to creating opportunities for others.
As Goroka Aerotech Academy continues to grow, it stands as a powerful example of what can be achieved when passion meets purpose.
By 2GUMA MEDIA
