The National Government has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding access to quality higher and technical education across Papua New Guinea following the ground-breaking ceremony for the proposed Sandaun Technical College and Teachers College at Poro, Aitape, in West Sepik (Sandaun) Province recently.

Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science, Technology and Sports, and Acting Minister for Education, Kinoka Feo, stated that the proposed institution would play an important role in empowering young people through education, skills training and human capital development.

“The establishment of this institution will create opportunities for our young people to access higher education locally, reduce barriers caused by geography and infrastructure, and contribute meaningfully to the socio-economic growth of Sandaun Province and Papua New Guinea.”

Also, in attendance, were Sandaun Governor Tony Wouwou, Minister for Tourism, Arts and Culture and Member for Vanimo-Green, Belden Namah, Member for Aitape-Lumi, Anderson Mise, Sandaun Provincial Administrator Jacob Areman, and Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology Secretary, Lonnie Baki, along with other distinguished guests.

Minister Feo acknowledged the partnership between the Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (DHERST) and the Sandaun Provincial Government through the signing of a Memorandum of Partnership to support the delivery of higher education services in the province.

He said the project aligns with a 2019 National Executive Council decision directing the establishment of Technical Colleges in Sandaun and 11 other provinces nationwide.

The proposed institution is expected to deliver training in key priority areas including Construction, Agriculture, Tourism and Hospitality, and Teacher Training, using national training packages to ensure standardised and quality skills development.

To support the initial implementation phase, Minister Feo announced a K1 million funding commitment from his Ministry.

“The Marape-Rosso Government remains committed to ensuring that no province is left behind in accessing quality higher education and technical training opportunities.”

He also thanked the people of Sandaun Province, provincial leaders and stakeholders for their cooperation and continued support toward establishing the institution.