Students from one of Madang’s most remote districts are receiving a major boost in their education after the Member for Usino-Bundi Gama, Vincent Kumura, announced K1.5 million in scholarship funding to support students in tertiary institutions this year.

Speaking during a scholarship presentation ceremony at Divine Word University in Madang today, Kumura said the funding is aimed at ensuring students from Usino-Bundi have equal access to education despite financial challenges.

“This year we have allocated K1.5 million for tuition assistance, with K1 million directed towards tertiary institutions and K500,000 for short courses.”

He explained that the scholarship rollout has already begun in other provinces, with funding distributed to institutions in Eastern Highlands Province and Morobe Province before arriving in Madang.

Kumura said investing in education remains a top priority for the district, describing it as a pathway to creating opportunities for young people from remote communities.

“People whom I have no connection with invested in my education so that they can give me a fair chance in life.”

“Now I can come to my own community, start a foundation and invest in education.”

Drawing from his own personal journey, Kumura shared how he once struggled financially while studying law at the University of Papua New Guinea before receiving support that enabled him to further his studies in the United States.

He recounted writing directly to Papua New Guinea’s founding Prime Minister, Late Grand Chief, Sir Michael Somare, who provided financial assistance for his travel expenses.

“That support changed my life, and today I want to give other students the same opportunity.”

He urged students to make the most of the financial support and remain focused on their studies.

“The onus is on you students. We trust you, we believe in you, and that is why we are investing in your education.”