Governor urges church factions to unite to build university

 By PISAI GUMAR

THE Lutheran University of PNG in Lae has been given a lot of funding but it has not been shown on  infrastructure development on the ground, Morobe Governor Kelly Naru says.

Naru said K7.5 million was spent on new infrastructure, equipment and renovations.

Naru urged the committees responsible to explain how public funds were used.

“It is appropriate for the two rival groups to resolve their differences, come together and build the education institution for the benefit of our children,” Naru said.

Naru was responding to a decision by the recent ELC-PNG synod at Heldsbach, Finschhafen to set up a Lutheran institute of higher learning to work towards achieving the LUPNG. 

“That is the approach required by the office of higher education, research, science and technology currently working with ELC-PNG sanctioned committee,” he said.

“Establishing LIHL is the decision of ELC-PNG synod, although the decision shall be made known to the other party (Pato committee) to ensure understanding and cooperation prevail and to work collectively in the best interest of education and the church,” Naru said. 

During the synod, Gutnius Lutheran Church head Bishop Rev. David Piso said there was no need for two Lutheran churches in PNG.

“Instead, we (ELC-PNG and GLC) must unite as only one Lutheran church to serve God and mankind,” Piso said.