PNG University of Goroka Unrest Prompts Provinces to Evacuate Students
PNG authorities have stepped up security in Goroka after violent clashes between University of Goroka students and surrounding communities left many injured and triggered immediate evacuation plans by several provinces starting today.
Goroka MP Aiye Tambua confirmed that police reinforcements from Chimbu and Western Highlands were brought in as tensions escalated. Attempts to contact Eastern Highlands police commander Chief Superintendent John Kale were unsuccessful. University Vice-Chancellor Dr Teng Waninga said an official statement from the institution would be released today.
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| PNG University of Goroka Unrest Prompts Provinces to Evacuate Students |
Sources said the trouble began on Saturday when a student was targeted in an attempted robbery at Apo Market, prompting retaliation by students. Yesterday morning, groups from nearby communities reportedly entered the university, damaging property and advancing toward staff homes before students halted them.
Students heading to examinations were caught in the violence. A second-year student said police from Mt Hagen and Kerowagi restored order around 2pm and estimated that at least 30 students were injured. Off-campus student houses were also destroyed.
Tambua said Goroka Hospital was treating casualties from both sides and confirmed that no deaths had been reported. The Highlands Highway remains open, with additional security to prevent the unrest from spreading. Several provinces began evacuating their students today due to ongoing tension.
The clash comes during the university’s second week of exams and marks the fourth confrontation between students and surrounding communities within a year. “People just want safety and stability, but it keeps slipping away.”
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