“We have to create this type of panel discussion so that we give them (the people) factual and substantial information so that they may be aware and conscious about the things that are going on in the country.”
That’s from the University of Papua New Guinea President of the 2023 Student Representative Council Luther Kising during the opening of the important dialogue and panel discussion between Prime Minister James Marape and Opposition Leader Joseph Lelang, who were in the hot seats to discuss important issues affecting the country.
Presidents from Tertiary institutions in the country joined in on the discussion at the UPNG’s New Lecture Theatre mainly from the University of Divine Word, University of Technology, University of Goroka, Pacific Adventist University, Institute of Business Studies University and of course the host of the dialogue, the University of Papua New Guinea.
PM James Marape and Opposition Leader Joseph Lelang were questioned on pressing issues affecting the country and gave some feedback mainly about the lawlessness in the country, inflation, unemployment issues, IMF Loan, reform policies, revive of the constitution and the economy at hand.
Marape said that he has heard the voice of the people through these young exceptional leaders but all this point questions fired at both leaders will not bring change automatically, it will take time and it will not be a rushed job.
“The best contribution of every citizen can give to this country is respecting the rule of law.” PM Marape added,
“On the unemployment issues in the country; the employment space is very limited and only up to 10-15 thousand people get employed.”
Though Mr Lelang was quiet at his post, he was very open about the issues raised to him and the PM further stated that he would be happy to come back later to present their policies and ways forward.
Meanwhile UOT President Jezi Walipi presented 3 petitions to the government side regarding the issues outlined by himself and the other SRC presidents on the amended Mining Act and other issues.
Marape also appealed to all universities to not only teach the applied courses to students but to also teach business as our country has more opportunities with business.
He left the students a parting remark stating, ” Think about business and not just sitting behind a desk.”