In a significant event held on Thursday, the launching of the name changing of what was known as the Pacific Institute of Leadership and Governance (PILAG) is now known as the Somare Institute of Leadership and Governance (SILAG). This renaming marks a pivotal moment in the institution's history, as it pays tribute to the late Grand Chief, Sir Michael Somare, a visionary statesman who played a crucial role in shaping the nation's development. Honouring a visionary leader, Sir Michael, fondly known as the "Father of the Nation," was a towering figure in Papua New Guinea's political landscape and as the country's first Prime Minister following independence in 1975, he led the nation with unwavering dedication, promoting unity and fostering economic growth. His commitment to good governance, ethical leadership, and nation-building serves as an inspiration to countless individuals across PNG. This change not only honors his legacy but also underscores the institute's renewed focus on fostering leadership excellence and promoting good governance in Papua New Guinea. In terms of leadership development under the new name, this will continue to offer a wide range of programs and courses designed to develop leadership skills, promote ethical decision-making and foster good governance practices. The institute which was initially based at the Public Service Institute premises at Konedobu in Port Moresby was then later moved to the six mile Annex and former Dental College and now at the present site located at Waigani. It was then abolished and absorbed by the Administrative College before changing its name to the Papua New Guinea Institute of Public Administration then to the Pacific Institute of Leadership and Governance and finally changed to Somare Institute of Leadership and Governance. Among the students at the 6 mile Annex was the late former Prime Minister himself; the Grand Chief and many others who have distinguished themselves in the Public Service. In addition, the institution also has a significance to it as it was also the birth place of Pangu Party which started as the Bully Beef Club. Therefore, is fitting that the name be changed to SILAG. Speaking during this important occasion was Prime Minister, James Marape who thanked the people of East Sepik and the Somare family for allowing this name to be part of the institution and also more importantly, be part of the national character and story going foward. “The Somare name signifies the change in mindset, value and national perception change and what we must be as Papua New Guineans and so it is fitting that we witness the transition of a name where the history tells us all knowing that these are the moments that shaped our country.” Furthermore, Prime Minister Marape has urged all public servants to rise up to the name when they come to pursue their studies at SILAG so that they can be able to inspire to do better. “As we give this name, I want to ask that we ensure that every public servant is reconfigured to put on the ethics of working hard and to carry our country just like the great man himself did.” Meanwhile, Prime Minister Marape also stated that the institution has put forward a proposal to be a University for the public sector. This he said will embrace the pacific and the country as a whole in which he is now looking forward in preparing the institution as a university. “I am more than happy to support an institution that produces efficient, effective and delivery of public service and with that I show my full support at the thought of elevating it to a university.”