More than half of the graduating class from the University of Papua New Guinea’s School of Humanities and Social Sciences (SHSS) this year are women, marking a significant step forward in gender representation in higher education. Out of the 261 graduates, 53% were female, a milestone that was celebrated during the graduation ceremony at the Sir John Guise Indoor Complex in Port Moresby city. In her keynote message, Acting Vice-Chancellor Professor Cecelia Nembou encouraged the new graduates to carry their values into their professional lives. “Today signifies more than academic success as it’s your entry into a world where you must uphold integrity and ethical behavior,” she said. Guest speaker Susil Nelson-Kongoi, CEO of the PNG Institute of Banking and Business Management, highlighted the essential role SHSS graduates play in shaping society. “You are the storytellers, the thinkers, the advocates of this country and this country needs you more than ever,” she told the crowd. She also advised graduates to be adaptable and courageous. “Be bold. Be genuine. Stay grounded and act when it’s needed.”