Dr Hualupmomi is now acting Secretary for PNG Higher Education

Dr Francis Hualupmomi has been appointed as new acting Secretary for the Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (DHERST).

Dr. Hualupmomi's appointment follows the suspension of DHERST Secretary Fr Jan Czuba by the National Executive Council (NEC) in its Decision No. 80/2021.

Higher Education Minister Wesley Raminai formally announced this acting appointment in a media conference today.

Dr Hualupmomi is a political scientist and carrier officer within the DHERST with 14 years of experience.

"As a Minister responsible, I announced the appointment of Dr. Francis Hualupmomi as Acting Secretary for the DHERST for interim 3 months," Minister Raminai said.

At the time of Dr. Hualupmomi's appointment, the Minister said he was the Deputy Secretary for Policy and Quality Assurance Wing with the DHERST. 

Minister Raminai stressed that he had followed due process as stipulated under the Public Services (Management) Act 1995 (as amended); Regulations No 5/2003, to ensure the acting appointment. 

"Minister for Public Service Hon. Joe Sungi wrote to me on the letter dated 16th April 2021, directing me what to do. The clause 19 of the Contract of Employment was effected."

Minister Raminai said Minister Sungi requested Public Service Commission (PSC) to investigate any activities, conduct or performance of Fr Jan Czuba.

He said PSC found that there was enough grounds for suspension of Fr Jan Czuba as DHERST Secretary. 

Minister Raminai also added that Fr Jan is under criminal investigations by the courts and he should be able to clear himself within this suspension period if there needs to be.

The Minister further explained that Fr Jan Czuba was suspended with pay and he may be reinstated to his position until he is cleared from the allegations against him.

Sunday Bulletin / Statement / PNG Today

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