In a powerful address during the 4th graduation ceremony of the Somare Institute of Governance and Leadership (SILAG), Ms. Taies Sansan, Chairlady of the SILAG Governing Board and Secretary of the Department of Personnel Management, highlighted the crucial role of leadership and service in shaping Papua New Guinea’s future.

Ms. Sansan congratulated the 137 graduates and emphasized that the certificates they received marked only the beginning of their journey in public service.

“The training you’ve received equips you to serve with competence, integrity, and dedication,” she stated, urging them to focus on delivering reliable services and positive change in their communities.

Reflecting on the past 50 years, she stressed the importance of preparing for the next 50 years.

“We must take ownership of the future of this country,” she said, calling for a balance between respecting tradition and embracing modern governance practices.

Ms. Sansan also addressed the importance of ICT in improving government operations, urging the graduates to help build local capacity in technology.

She revealed plans for SILAG’s training programs to become mandatory for public servants, ensuring consistency in skills across the sector.

In closing, Ms. Sansan urged the graduates to view public service as a lifelong commitment, reminding them that true leaders are driven by a passion for serving the state, not personal gain.

Furthermore, she encouraged them to use their new skills to make a lasting impact on the nation.