Stokes: PNG will succeed through human resource

 Papua New Guinea will succeed through the development of its human resource in education, Australian High Commissioner to PNG Deborah Stokes says.

“For Papua New Guinea to make the most of its enormous potential, PNG needs educated men and women. 

“No nation can truly succeed without embracing the development of all its citizens and unlocking the talents of its people,” she said.

Stokes was at the tertiary education roadshow at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Port Moresby last Friday where she addressed Australia awards scholarships candidates and intending applicants including representatives from 19 Australian institutions.  

“Australia has a strong commitment to supporting education in Papua New Guinea through nearly A$100 million this year,” she said.

“Our funds are helping more boys and girls get into elementary schools and keeping them there for their entire primary and secondary schooling and then providing options for further education.”

She said under the new initiative, this year 450 Papua New Guinean students started studies in nursing, midwifery, community health work and education in national institutions.

Through the Australia awards programme, 304 Papua New Gui­neans were already studying in Australia and another 50 would begin studies in the next semester.

Under the Australia awards PNG facility, 160 people would be selected to study in Australia next year. 

This year’s shortlist includes 198 people selected from a field of more than 700 applicants. 

“It’s a tough process but necessary to ensure that we select candidates who are capable of succeeding in their chosen field of study and who will return to PNG bringing improved skills, knowledge and innovation to help advance national development,” Stokes said.