Chief Secretary Lupari meets UPNG Management to save 2016 Academic year

The Chief Secretary Ambassador Isaac Lupari CBE said he has met with the University of Papua New Guinea Chancellor Dr Mann and Vice Chancellor Professor Mellamwith their senior academic staff this morning following the University’s decision to cancel 2016 teaching and learning activities.

The meeting was basically to discuss two things:

(a) the rationale of their decision,

(b) How the 2016 academic can be salvaged.

Mr Isaac Lupari said from the outset I made it absolutely very clear that the Government’s position has not changed. “The Government wants to see the continuation of the 2016 Academic years and it is prepared to supply the necessary financial resources that are required for this”.

“What has been happened in the last 9 weeks is regrettable. We can’t change that. What is important now is the education of our students. This must be central to any decision we make now and tomorrow”, said Mr Isaac Lupari

If we do not work together and still dwell on our differences, we will be depriving our children from receiving their education and hence country will suffer greatly in the long run.

For this, we must work together. Everybody, the Government, the Opposition, the University Council and every members of our civil society must work together to find a peaceful and workable solution.

I was informed that the Decision to cancel 2016 academic and learning activities was not made lightly. All aspects including academic standards and integrity were considered thoroughly by Senate, an independent body in charge of academic programme before making this decision.

And to salvage the 2016 Academic year with the remaining months would not practically possible. They said the environment and mind setting at the University is not conducive for the continuation of the academic year. If they do, it will undermine the standard and credibility of the academic teaching and learning.

The University Council will work closely with the Senate in the coming weeks to develop 2017 Academic year to cater for 2016 academic:

(a) First year students for 2016 are not affected. They will continue their studies in 2017 together with the 2017 Intakes.

(b) Lahara courses will be organized during holiday period, which will allow for final year students to complete their studies.

(c) Master’s programme will continue at the campuses for non-resident students.

Mr Isaac Lupari said whilst we appreciate and understands the basis of their decision, I have asked them to see if they can review their decision. We still have 6 months left in the year. These months can be utilized to salvage some part of the 2016 Academic year.

I know it will be extremely difficult but we have to try for the sake of our children. The Government stands ready to assist in whatever it can to salvage 2016 Academic year.