Mr Simon Makai (PNGOPRA Senior Entomology Research Assistant) explaining to Dr. Darren Bito how sexavae and stick insect rearing is done.
Dr. Darren Bito, a new Entomologist recruited by New Britain Palm Oil Ltd (NBPOL) to be based at Higaturu, Northern Province visited PNGOPRA Entomology Section from the 12th – 27th June 2018 to gain exposure to the entomology activities within the industry prior to relocation to his site of employment. Dr. Bito, among other entomology activities will be working mainly on the butterfly conservation program of the company.
During the visit, Dr. Bito was exposed to the different activities (both field and laboratory) of the section. The areas covered both the research activities and the pest control programs. He also had the opportunity to visit the PNGOPRA butterfly conservation trial site, where he gained insight into how the program was developed for the province.
Prior to his departure Dr. Bito thanked PNGOPRA for hosting him for the 3 weeks. He is looking forward to the challenges of his new role and undertook to work closely with the Entomology Section of PNGOPRA. Before being recruited by the company, Dr. Bito was the Dean of Science Faculty at the Pacific Adventist University located in Port Moresby.