LEADERS DEMAND ACTION REGARDING UNITECH INCIDENT

East Sepik Governor Allan Bird and University of Technology Chancellor Mr. Sam Koim, have condemned the harassment of a female student by a group of male students at the university campus, after a viral video of the incident sparked public outrage.

The incident occurred in the lead-up to Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence anniversary and has reignited calls for stronger protections for women in higher education.

According to the footage, the unidentified female student was walking on campus when she was followed and surrounded by a mob of male students.

The group engaged in inappropriate verbal remarks and physical contact, with bystanders attempting to intervene.

Security personnel were later alerted, and the student was escorted to safety.

The disturbing scene, filmed by another student, quickly spread on social media, prompting swift condemnation from leaders.

Governor Bird, who also serves as Deputy Chair of the Parliamentary Committee on Gender Equity and Women’s Empowerment, described the incident as ‘deeply disturbing’ and evidence of declining moral standards in PNG.

He said men have a duty to protect women and girls, not harm or humiliate them, and called on the University Council to urgently identify and discipline those involved.

“What we saw is unacceptable. If this is the attitude of our young men, then PNG has indeed gone backwards.”

“If our universities cannot instill respect for women, then we are failing as a society.”

Meanwhile, Chancellor Koim also condemned the behavior, stating that such actions have no place at Unitech.

He described the conduct as ‘animalistic’ and stressed that the university stands for excellence and aims to produce civilized, respectful graduates.

Koim confirmed that a full investigation has been launched and warned that those found guilty of misconduct will face consequences ‘without exception.’

He reaffirmed the university’s commitment to maintaining a safe and dignified learning environment for all students.

The incident has sparked renewed debate on the enforcement of student conduct policies and the promotion of gender respect in PNG’s universities.

Both Bird and Koim stressed that addressing such behavior is critical to upholding the nation’s values and protecting its young women.