IT is sad to read about the problems affecting PNG University of Technology. I believe some of the problems are common in our other universities.
The trend of qualified and well trained national lecturers leaving for greener pastures within the country and abroad must be a major concern for the Government.
It must seriously and critically address this issue before it is too late.
The world has now realised how good Papua New Guineans are in the job market and is offering huge packages to lure our brains away.
For instance, a profitable mining company has lost about 60 professional Papua New Guineans over the last two years to overseas companies.
Add this number to the many national lecturers UPNG, Unitech, UOG and other universities have lost over the same period.
PNG’s economy is far more reliant in the mining industry than other government revenue earners.
However, if we are losing many of our professional engineers, geologists and other professionals, including those who train these people, I am afraid worse things will happen.
The Government is boasting about surplus. So why isn’t the Government prioritising the budget?
The Government must fund our national universities with more money through the Ministry of Higher Education Research, Technology and Science, and provide good packages for the teaching staff.
It must audit the university accounts and deal with concerns raised by students and staff regarding maladministration.
It should investigate these issues independently to satisfy all stakeholders’ interests.
The backbone of our country lies with our young, vigilant and energetic professionals in this changing world and the Government of the day must do all it can to maintain the good role and integrity of our national universities.
The Government must always create opportunities for national prosperity and growth rather than the opposite.

UPNG Sumatin
Ok Tedi Mining Ltd