Prime Minister James Marape has issued a powerful call to Papua New Guinean students studying in China, urging them to remain steadfast in their education and prepare to lead the nation into its next half-century of independence.

Addressing the student body in Guangzhou on April 29, 2026, the Prime Minister emphasized that the government’s investment in international education is a strategic pillar for the country's future.

He framed the presence of students abroad as a deliberate national investment, asserting that the true wealth of Papua New Guinea lies not beneath the soil, but within its people.

“For me, you are the most important asset. It is not the oil, gas, gold, or everything else we have. Our human resource is the most important asset,” he stated.

He further told the assembly, “You are the reason why we are at work. You represent a cluster of Papua New Guinea’s future that we are trying our best to shape.”

The Prime Minister maintained that the country's trajectory toward prosperity is inextricably linked to the development of a disciplined and globally competitive generation.

He noted that the decision to prioritize Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) subjects for overseas study is part of a long-term strategy to equip young leaders for roles across government, business, and the global economy.

“Our country will not be prosperous if our human resource is not secured for the better,” he added.

Reflecting on the social fabric of the nation, Prime Minister Marape described Papua New Guinea’s vast cultural differences as a unique advantage rather than a liability.

“We come from over 800 different tribal settings and language groups, yet in the unity of that diversity, we have found a symphony of unity.”

He encouraged the students to take pride in their heritage as they represent the nation on the world stage, remarking, “Hold your heads high. You come from the most diverse nation on earth.”

“The fact that we stand as one people, one nation, one country 50 years on is a major achievement.”

Sharing a personal anecdote about his own upbringing, the Prime Minister recounted how his father prioritized faith and schooling over material wealth.

“My father told me: ‘I have no money to pass on to you. I have given you Jesus, and I now put you on the road of education,’” he shared, adding, “Walk the path of education, and education will bring you to places you have never imagined in your life.”

Acknowledging the difficulties of living abroad, including homesickness and financial strain, the Prime Minister offered words of encouragement.

“Hang on and keep going. Do not be discouraged. Tears are part of life, but get up and keep going,” he urged.

“You are not an accident, God created you for a purpose. Find that purpose and pursue it.”

In addition, he committed to reviewing and improving the support systems for students through Papua New Guinea’s overseas missions and the Embassy in Beijing.

However, he stressed that this support comes with the expectation of academic excellence and personal integrity.

“We will look at the policy that supports your studies and see where we can step up support. But my only ask is this: do not take your focus away from your certificates.”

“Focus on your studies. Finish your certificate, and if you can, go for the next one.”

Beyond academic achievement, he reminded the students to act as ambassadors of their home country by respecting local laws and building international networks.

“Do not break the law of the land you are in. Live within the law and you will always be safe,” he advised.

He also noted that the friendships formed in China would be vital for the future and stated that the networks that the students build today will grow with them into the future.

“We sent you for a purpose- not just to be PNG resources back home, but PNG resources in the world.”

Pointing to the rapid modernization of Chinese cities like Shenzhen, he suggested that the students are in an ideal environment to witness the fruits of discipline and innovation.

He concluded by urging the students to bring those lessons home.

“Study hard, find your place, and prepare yourselves to help build a prosperous country.”