Security Restrictions Prevent UPNG Students From Attending SRC Assembly

 Security Restrictions Prevent UPNG Students From Attending SRC Assembly/Photo supplied

A planned student gathering at the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) was disrupted this morning after students were reportedly refused entry through the Waigani campus main gate, despite holding valid university identification cards.

 

The incident comes amid growing unrest within the university following Vice-Chancellor Professor Ian Findlay's resignation, with students seeking clarification from university authorities over the circumstances behind his departure.

The students had arrived at the main entrance between 9am and 10am to participate in a peaceful assembly at Forum Square, organised by the SRC to address concerns about the institution's governance.

However, UPNG Uniforce security personnel allegedly prevented them from entering the campus, triggering a confrontation as students demanded to know why access had been restricted.

One student said the group had no intention of causing disruption and had only come to participate in the meeting announced by the SRC.

"We came peacefully to attend the forum called by the SRC. We are not outsiders. We are genuine UPNG students, but Uniforce has completely blocked the gate," the student said.

The assembly was called by Acting SRC President Kopari Elijah, who had encouraged students to gather peacefully and make their concerns known to university leadership.

The proposed sit-in was expected to focus on three demands, including the return of Professor Findlay to the Vice-Chancellor's position, a formal account from the University Council and Chancellor explaining his resignation, and government intervention through DHERST and the NEC.

The reported denial of access has also raised questions among students about their freedom to assemble and express views on matters concerning university administration.

Students insisted their action was lawful and disciplined, calling on the university authorities to allow them to exercise their right to peaceful protest.