Govt entitled to intervene on UPNG decision

THE media reported last week that “Opposition Leader Don Polye has expressed concerns over the manner in which the Government is pushing for the resumption of classes in the three universities country”.
I wish to remind Polye that the universities, training institutions, secondary schools and primary schools are state properties and the Government has every right to intervene and assess the situation.
Why will the Government turn blind eye on the suspension of the University of PNG academic year?
Although the university councils can make their own decisions, the Government has every right to assess their decision whether it is in the best interest of all stakeholders.
For Polye to say and I quote, “Prime Minister Peter O’Neil and his Government to leave the matter with the university councils to decide” is cheap politics and unbecoming of a national leader.
The UPNG council had made the decision to terminate the academic year and all students were sent home.
I guess Polye must have been a happy person when the UPNG academic year was terminated.
For the rest of the students and parents, I do not think they were happy with the decisions until Peter O’Neill intervened and announced plans for the resumption of classes.
The Government has made the right decision and the Opposition Leader should appreciate that instead of condemning it.
Think of the poor parents who have sacrificed for their children and only to find out that the academic year was terminated.
I can tell you how happy and excited they are after learning of plans to resume classes.
To the students, enough of playing politics and get your priorities right this time.
Opportunities come once in a while and you have now learn a lesson so be careful with your students leaders
As for Polye, enough of playing petty politics and be a true national leader.

Nick Tyson
Port Moresby