The Sumkar Tertiary Students Union (STSU) has commenced an educational awareness drive across schools in Sumkar District, bringing together university students to inspire, guide and equip younger learners with vital information about tertiary education pathways.

STSU representative and DWU Madang student team leader, Nicholas Gamuna said the program involves tertiary students from four major institution, the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG), the University of Goroka (UOG), Divine Word University (DWU) and the University of Technology (UOT)working collectively to motivate students to take education seriously and understand opportunities available after completing high school.

Gamuna said the main focus of the awareness is to encourage students to value education, learn about courses offered in different universities, and appreciate the growing need for qualified human resources within Sumkar.

“Our younger generations must understand the importance of education,” he said. “We want them to know what courses are available, what career paths they can follow, and why Sumkar needs more trained professionals. Our district lacks human resource, so we must empower our students now.”

He acknowledged strong support from the district’s leadership, adding that the local MP has prioritized education and sponsored many students to pursue studies in tertiary institutions across the country.

“We see our MP doing great work and putting education first. Many of us are in tertiary institutions because of his sponsorship. This awareness drive is the least we can do to give back and create a positive impact in our district,” Gamuna said.

The union also expressed gratitude to Hon. Alexander Suguman, who assisted the team with K5,000, supporting logistics and enabling the awareness program to proceed as planned.

So far, the awareness team has visited Talidik and Mirap Primary School, reaching students with motivational messages and career guidance. However, the group was unable to visit Megiar Primary School after the school administration did not respond to their request for approval.

Gamuna said the union remains hopeful that Megiar will consider such opportunities in the future, as exposure to tertiary students helps young learners broaden their understanding of life “outside the box.”

He added that the Sumkar Tertiary Students Union is the first of its kind in the district, and its leaders are committed to strengthening the initiative in the years ahead.

Meanwhile, the union has released updated dates for its awareness program, now scheduled to begin on 17 November 2025.

According to the revised schedule, the program will open at Talidik High School on 17 November, followed by Mirap Primary School on 18 November. The team is expected at Divine Mercy Secondary on 19 November, though this session is yet to be confirmed. On 20 November, the awareness drive will continue at Karkar Secondary School in the morning before moving to Ilu Bangme Primary School in the afternoon. The team will proceed to Anul Lutheran High School on 21 November, and conclude the program at Dangsai High School on 22 November.

The union is calling on school administrations, students and community members to take note of the revised program and support the visiting tertiary students as they deliver the education awareness.