Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science, Technology, Sports Kinoka Feo, delivered his address yesterday (27/04/26) at the University of Papua New Guinea’s School of Natural and Physical Sciences (SNPS) graduation ceremony at the Sir John Guise Indoor Stadium, emphasizing the critical role of education and mindset in Papua New Guinea’s future development.
Opening with gratitude, Minister Feo first acknowledged God, crediting Him for the success of the graduates. He also paid tribute to key figures including the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor, all university deans, staff, parents, sponsors, and supporters who contributed to the students’ achievements.
“Congratulations to the graduating class of 2026.”
“It is no small feat to complete your program. Your commitment, patience, and dedication have placed you among the top 2% of students who make it through.”
Stressing the broader challenges of the national education system, Minister Feo revealed alarming attrition rates, with only around 1,000 students completing Grade 12 out of 437,000 who enroll in Grade 1 annually.
“We lose 92 to 93% of our students before they finish school.”
He outlined the government’s strategy to address these issues, including a K17 billion investment to expand access to primary, secondary, and tertiary education, and an overall K29 billion commitment to improve infrastructure, increase teacher employment, and enhance the Higher Education Loan Program to cover full tuition fees through undergraduate, master’s, and PhD programs.
Minister Feo emphasized the importance of research in universities, announcing that the cabinet had approved K35 million to support research initiatives nationwide.
Turning to graduates, he stressed the importance of mindset in achieving national prosperity.
“Our country is rich in resources, but our biggest challenge is not lack of wealth—it is a mindset problem.”
“Too many people lack vision, purpose, and resilience. Papua New Guinea’s future depends on cultivating determination, focus, and hard work.”
He concluded with a message of perseverance.
“History teaches us that greatness is not built on success alone. It is built on failure, persistence, and resilience. No matter how small you start, commit yourself to making a difference.”
