The Sumkar Tertiary Students Union (STSU) has successfully concluded a six-day education awareness program across schools in Sumkar District, reaching more than hundreds of students and inspiring them to pursue higher education.

The program, which began on 17 November 2025, brought together tertiary students from the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG), University of Goroka (UOG), Divine Word University (DWU), and the Papua New Guinea University of Technology (Unitech), who worked together as one team to mentor and motivate students.

STSU Representative and DWU Madang student team leader, Nicholas Gamuna, described the program as a major success and praised the high level of student engagement.

 “We are happy to say that this six-day awareness has been very successful. Students asked questions, participated actively, and showed strong interest in their future. This gives us hope for the next generation of Sumkar,” Gamuna said.

During the week, the team visited Talidig High School, Mirap Primary School, Karkar Secondary School, Ilu Bangme Primary School, Anul Lutheran High School, and Dangsai High School. They delivered sessions on study discipline, career guidance, university life, scholarship opportunities, and course selection.

Gamuna said the main aim of the initiative was to encourage students to take responsibility for their education and begin planning their careers early.

 “We wanted students to understand that education is not just about passing exams but about preparing themselves to serve their district and country as future leaders and professionals,” he added.

The union expressed its appreciation to Hon. Alexander Suguman for providing K5,000 in financial support, which helped cover transportation, materials, and logistical costs for the program.

The team also thanked school administrations, teachers, and local communities for warmly welcoming and supporting the initiative.

Allan Mulido, a third-year student from the University of Goroka, shared his hopes for the program’s impact.

 “I hope this awareness will bring positive outcomes, and in the future, I hope to see more teachers, doctors, and engineers from Sumkar,” he said.

Darius Wasida, a representative from the University of Papua New Guinea, also reflected on the experience.

 “The six days were challenging because it was the first time Sumkar tertiary students came together to carry out an awareness like this, but we managed to complete it successfully,” he said.

STSU described the initiative as an important step towards strengthening human resource development in the district and building a brighter future for the next generation. The union also announced plans to make the program an annual activity, with intentions to expand to more schools and include donation drives in the future.