A Visionary Discussion on “The Way Forward” for Papua New Guinea

Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea – July 17th, 2024 – IBSUniversity recently held an engaging Open Forum featuring Former Major General Jerry Singirok as the keynote speaker. The event, titled “The Way Forward,” drew a diverse crowd of students, faculty, and community members eager to hear insights on the future of Papua New Guinea.

The forum commenced with a welcome speech by Ms. Joyce Jerry, Students Services Officer, who highlighted the gist of the discussion and the value of having Major General Singirok share his perspective.

In his speech, Major General Singirok tackled critical issues facing Papua New Guinea today. He compared the nation’s political and economic climate to that of Rwanda, the USA, Mexico, Singapore, and Fiji, highlighting essential points:

• Rwanda: Advocated for zero tolerance for corruption while building a strong economy.
• USA: Emphasized the need for developing citizens.
• Mexico: Warned against paths leading to crime and corruption.
• Singapore: Presented as a model for strategic development in Southeast Asia.
• Fiji: Recognized as the safest country in the South Pacific with a firm stance against corruption.

Singirok described Papua New Guinea as ‘sitting on a time bomb,’ grappling with corruption, crime, and rising poverty, emphasizing the urgent need for reform.

The forum featured a lively Q&A session where participants posed thought-provoking questions that summed up discussions about national progress and the role of youth. Key exchanges included:

Q: What do you think about the current state of our constitution?

A: “There is nothing wrong with our constitution. It’s just those very few who are in power that are mismanaging it.”

Q: How would you assess the effectiveness of our current governance system?

A: “We are confronted with a system that’s failing. Fifty years later, we’re still suffering from the lack of necessities like adequate water and power supplies.”

Q: What role do you believe students play in shaping the future of our nation?

A: “The onus is on each student now to realize these wrongs and become the change this nation so greatly needs.”

Q: Are there adequate protections for the rights of ordinary citizens?

A: “There’s no law that protects the rights of the ordinary people, which is a critical issue we must address.”

Following the interactive session, the former Major General generously donated four copies of his book, A Matter of Conscience: Operation Rausim Kwik, a timely boost to the university’s library collection.

The event concluded with closing remarks from Ms. Jerry, who thanked Major General Singirok for his invaluable insights, as well as acknowledged the organizing committee, volunteers, and participants for their efforts in making the event a success.

“The future of Papua New Guinea lies in the hands of its youth, and it is through forums like these that we can inspire and guide them towards a brighter tomorrow.” – Former Major General Jerry Singirok.

Images by: IBSU Media

Edited by: IBSU Library & Information