Let students be heard

IN Papua New Guinea, the voices of students are a crucial but often overlooked component of the education system.
As the country strives to improve educational outcomes and foster a culture of accountability and inclusivity, there is a growing recognition of the importance of empowering student voice, promoting student leadership, and encouraging student advocacy in schools.
By giving students a seat at the table and amplifying their voices, PNG is not only creating opportunities for meaningful participation but also nurturing future leaders who are equipped to drive positive change in their communities and beyond.
Student voice refers to the active participation of students in decision-making processes that affect their education and well-being.
By empowering students to express their opinions, share their experiences, and contribute to the development of school policies and programs, schools can create a more inclusive and student-centered learning environment.
When students feel that their voices are heard and valued, they are more likely to be engaged, motivated, and invested in their education.
Promoting student leadership goes hand in hand with empowering student voice.
By providing students with opportunities to take on leadership roles, develop their skills, and lead initiatives that benefit their peers and school community, schools can foster a culture of responsibility, collaboration, and innovation.
Student leaders serve as role models, advocates, and change agents, inspiring their peers to take ownership of their education and make a positive impact on the world around them.
In PNG, efforts to promote student leadership and advocacy are gaining momentum as schools recognize the potential of students to drive positive change.
From student councils and peer mentoring programs to community service projects and youth empowerment initiatives, schools across the country are creating spaces for students to lead, innovate, and advocate for issues that matter to them.
One shining example of student empowerment in PNG is the Student Representative Council (SRC) programme, which gives students a platform to voice their opinions, address concerns, and propose solutions to improve their schools.
Through the SRC program, students are trained in leadership skills, conflict resolution, and communication, empowering them to take on leadership roles and advocate for issues such as student welfare, academic support, and school infrastructure.
In addition to formal leadership programs, schools in PNG are also embracing informal approaches to empowering student voice and promoting student leadership.
Student-led clubs, extracurricular activities, and peer mentoring programmes provide students with opportunities to develop their leadership skills, collaborate with their peers, and contribute to the school community in meaningful ways.
The benefits of empowering student voice, promoting student leadership, and fostering student advocacy in PNG schools are far-reaching.
By giving students a platform to voice their opinions, share their ideas, and advocate for change, schools are creating a more inclusive and student-centered learning environment.
Additionally, by nurturing student leaders who are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to lead effectively, PNG is building a pipeline of future leaders who are committed to making a positive impact on their communities and the world at large.
As PNG continues on its path towards education reform and social development, the promotion of student voice, student leadership, and student advocacy in schools will remain a critical priority.
By investing in student empowerment initiatives, creating spaces for student participation, and amplifying student voices, the country is paving the way for a more inclusive, equitable, and vibrant education system that empowers students to become agents of change in their own lives and communities.

Romel Kuman