Prime Minister Hon. James Marape last night met with missionary families, members of the local community, and students of Ukarumpa International School in the Aiyura Valley, Eastern Highlands Province, in a warm and engaging gathering that celebrated unity, service, and education.
The Prime Minister acknowledged the long-standing contribution of the Summer Institute of Linguistics (SIL) community at Ukarumpa, paying tribute to generations of missionaries and their families who have dedicated their lives to language development, education, and Bible translation across Papua New Guinea.
Addressing missionary families, Prime Minister Marape expressed deep appreciation for their sacrifices and commitment.
“Many of you have left the comfort of your home countries to serve here in Papua New Guinea. Your work has gone beyond language and literacy — it has touched lives, strengthened communities, and helped preserve the identity of our people through language,” he said.
He noted that Ukarumpa has become a unique community where cultures meet, knowledge is shared, and lifelong bonds are formed between Papua New Guineans and international partners.
In his interaction with students of Ukarumpa International School, Prime Minister Marape encouraged them to value education and remain grounded in purpose and service.
Students of the school, affectionately known as “Ukarumpa Kids,” were recognised for their unique upbringing in a multicultural environment, with many former students going on to become global ambassadors for Papua New Guinea, carrying with them a lifelong attachment to Ukarumpa.
“You are privileged to be part of a community that values learning, discipline, and service. Use your education not just for personal success, but to make a difference in the world around you,” he said.
He further urged students—both Papua New Guinean and international—to embrace cultural understanding and mutual respect, noting that Ukarumpa represents a model of global cooperation at the community level.
The Prime Minister also took time to engage informally with members of the local community, listening to their experiences and acknowledging their partnership with missionary families over the past 70 years.
“This is not just a place of work; this is a family. The relationship between the local people and the missionary community is a powerful example of what can be achieved when we walk together in unity and respect,” Prime Minister Marape said.
The visit forms part of the Prime Minister’s engagements marking the 70th anniversary of SIL’s presence in Papua New Guinea, a milestone that highlights decades of collaboration in education, linguistics, and community development.
Prime Minister Marape reaffirmed the Government’s support for initiatives that promote education, cultural preservation, and inclusive development, noting that partnerships like those at Ukarumpa remain vital to nation-building.