Mr. Bill Opasa is the Construction Manager for the Bougainville Innovation Hubs. He is part of the Sustaining Peace Through Economic Empowerment project team.

His main duties involve providing support to the project architect to get design documentation ready for ‘invitation to bids’, support the UNDP Procurement team in evaluating bid proposals, and ensuring that the construction project is delivered to quality, within cost and in time for its anticipated use.

‘’Currently, I am overseeing architectural design documentation and development approvals as part of pre-construction work for three innovation hubs to be built in Arawa, Buin and Buka in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville. We plan to commence construction in the final quarter of 2022,‘’ said Mr Opasa.

Bill says that he is greatly motivated by being involved in development work for the betterment of Papua New Guinea.

“This construction project provides an opportunity to align what I love to do with the program’s goal to deliver innovation hubs for the youths, women and vulnerable population in ARoB. A place where they are provided a safe and reliable space to pursue advancement of their businesses and skills development.’’

In his time at the country office, Bill has witnessed and assisted in UNDP’s ongoing efforts in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG).

‘’As a developing country, PNG has its share of challenges but with the support of UNDP and development partners working closely with the PNG government, there is progress toward achieving the SDGs, especially addressing poverty through sustainability.’’

Bill says that he is proud to work for UNDP, specifically through his work, on delivering a legacy project such as the Innovation Hubs for the people of Bougainville.

‘’I am also proud of representing my family by being part of an organisation working towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and especially UNDP's efforts toward alleviating poverty and peacebuilding, amongst others.’’

Various people have had an impact on Bill’s life, ranging from teachers to sporting icons, politicians and even celebrities, however, he says that his main role model is his father.

“My parents were involved in humanitarian work in their profession as missionary teachers and continue to do so after retirement. I am proud of the fact that in the space I’m working in creates a better future for our people. Growing up, I used to look up to my dad for how I would conduct myself when I become a man, an industrious and loving human being. Simon Opasa was and still is my role model.’’

Bill is the first of five siblings and is from a mixed parentage of West New Britain and Eastern Highlands provinces respectively. He is married with three sons. In his spare time, Bill enjoys fishing, gardening, reading and singing.