In an inspiring speech on October 4, 2024, Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) John Rosso reaffirmed the Marape-Rosso Government’s commitment to the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Programme. Addressing a farewell luncheon for 54 students from Papua New Guinea’s six national schools of excellence, DPM Rosso praised the transformative power of STEM, stating that "it is key to unbundling knowledge for our nation." These students, 26 women and 28 men, are embarking on a life-changing journey to prestigious universities in China, funded by PNG Government STEM scholarships. The event was attended by high-ranking officials, including Chinese Ambassador to PNG, H.E. Yang Xiaoguang, Education Minister Lucas Dekena, and Education Secretary Dr. Uke Kombra. The STEM initiative, led by Prime Minister James Marape, has already paved the way for numerous PNG students to access world-class education in various countries. Earlier this year, 30 students were sent to India, 76 to the USA, five for pilot training in Fiji, and now 54 more are heading to China. DPM Rosso described the STEM Programme as more than just education; it represents a bold vision for PNG’s future, equipping the next generation with the knowledge and skills needed to become leaders, innovators, and thinkers. DPM Rosso emphasized that education is vital to PNG’s development and urged students to take this opportunity seriously. "Education is a key factor for all nations. Without education, nothing can prosper," Rosso said. He also reminded the students, and their parents, guardians and sponsors who attended the luncheon that learning does not start in the classroom but at home, highlighting the importance of personal responsibility in shaping one’s future. In his speech, DPM Rosso spoke passionately about the opportunities and challenges awaiting the students in China. He encouraged them to persevere and maintain a positive mindset. “You sit here mostly because of yourselves, believing in yourselves and aspiring to become someone better. Sheer hard work, perseverance, and making the right choices in life will put you in front of everyone,” he said. He advised them to reflect on China’s history, noting how the nation progressed through dedication and hard work. "China came from a space just like ours, but it advanced in leaps and bounds to become what it is today." Rosso also emphasized the importance of learning from the culture and values of their host country, particularly China’s work ethics and respect for discipline. He urged students to absorb these values, as they would not only shape their future but also help improve PNG when they return. He illustrated this point by sharing a personal anecdote about how visiting Australia for the first time as a young man of 24 or 25, changed his attitude toward littering. He recounted how he was used to throwing rubbish out of the car window in PNG, but when he did the same thing in Sydney, the person driving him, stopped the car, slapped him, and made him get out and pick up the rubbish. "From that day, I never threw rubbish out the window again," he said, underscoring how exposure to different environments can positively influence behaviour. As part of the government’s broader efforts, the STEM Programme is sending PNG’s best and brightest to various countries to learn, grow, and bring back valuable knowledge. Besides China, students have already been sent to universities in the USA, India, and Fiji, with future plans to expand the program to include Indonesia. Each destination offers unique learning experiences, which DPM Rosso believes will help enhance PNG’s development. "The lessons we learn from each of those countries will enhance our own development as a nation," he stated. The Deputy Prime Minister ended his speech by calling on the students to be ambassadors of PNG, both academically and in their conduct abroad. He urged them to make the most of this opportunity, learn from their experiences, and bring back the knowledge and skills that will help PNG progress. "The onus is on you to change the country," Rosso said, emphasizing that the future of PNG lies in the hands of its youth, especially those fortunate enough to receive such education. Rosso when encouraging these STEM students to aim high, emphasised that their education abroad opens opportunities beyond the country's borders, noting that many skilled Papua New Guineans now work globally, with engineers, doctors, and pilots employed in countries like Australia, the USA, and the Middle East. He emphasized that while the students’ knowledge will be valuable at home, they also have the potential to secure jobs internationally. “It’s not just about jobs in PNG. Once you have that knowledge, the world is your limit,” he said. In closing, Rosso reaffirmed the government’s unwavering support for the STEM Programme, stating that sending students abroad is a long-term investment in the nation’s future. "The government is focused on supporting this sector, and we will continue to improve and expand the program," he said.