Why import skilled labour? asks Pagelio

WITH the introduction of the liquefied natural gas (LNG) Project, PNG needs to build up a technically skilled workforce to meet the demands of the multi-billion kina project.
Education is a vital component of nation building, therefore, the government has made education a priority through its commitment of another K1.07 billion in the 2011 budget.
Acting education secretary Dr Joseph Pagelio revealed this on behalf of the Education Minister James Marape during the opening of the PNG LNG Construction Training Facility in Port Moresby on Tuesday.
He said educating young people would enable them to improve their own lives and contribute to the development of the nation.
“Why should we import labour from other countries when we can produce our very own engineers, machine fitters, welders, electricians, fabricators and carpenters?” Pagelio asked.
He added that the aim of the education ministry was to offer many opportunities to students both academically and technically.
He stressed the need for technical education by saying: “Technical education is not only the subjects of schools, colleges or industry but also a lifetime learning journey.”