Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has called on national leaders, senior public servants, and town and city authorities across Papua New Guinea to visit the Summer Institute of Linguistics (SIL) facilities at Ukarumpa in the Aiyura Valley of Eastern Highlands and learn from its outstanding model of administration, cleanliness, and peaceful community living.
Prime Minister Marape made the call following his visit to Ukarumpa on Sunday, March 29, 2026, where he undertook a comprehensive tour of the SIL facilities and interacted with the community.
During the visit, the Prime Minister walked through the township, observing first-hand the high standards of organisation and upkeep that define Ukarumpa. He toured key facilities including the administration office, library, clinic, training centres, and the beef and dairy operations that support the local community.
Prime Minister Marape said Ukarumpa stands as a shining example of what is possible when strong leadership, discipline, and community values come together.
“Ukarumpa is a model township that reflects order, purpose, and respect for community living,” Prime Minister Marape said.
“I want leaders at all levels of government, including senior public servants and those managing our towns and cities, to come here and see for themselves how proper systems, good leadership, and community cooperation can deliver a clean, safe, and well-functioning environment.”
He emphasised that many urban centres across the country could benefit from adopting similar standards of administration and civic responsibility.
“This is not just about infrastructure—it is about mindset, discipline, and leadership. Ukarumpa shows us that when systems are respected and people take pride in their surroundings, the results are visible,” he said.
In addition to governance and community management, Prime Minister Marape also highlighted the importance of strengthening local agricultural production at Ukarumpa.
He directed Minister for Agriculture and Livestock and Obura-Wonenara MP, Hon. John Boito, to work closely with the SIL community to expand its cattle and dairy operations.
“I have asked Minister Boito to support the Ukarumpa cattle project so it can increase production of beef, milk, yoghurt, and cheese,” Prime Minister Marape said.
“This is a practical example of how agriculture can sustain communities, create economic opportunities, and reduce reliance on imports.”
The Prime Minister noted that the integration of agriculture within the Ukarumpa community aligns with the Government’s broader agenda of promoting food security, rural development, and import substitution.
He further commended the SIL community for its longstanding contribution to Papua New Guinea, not only in language development and education, but also in building a well-managed and self-sustaining township.
“Ukarumpa is not just a place of learning and service—it is a demonstration of what Papua New Guinea can achieve when people work together with purpose and discipline,” Prime Minister Marape said.
Prime Minister Marape’s visit to Ukarumpa forms part of his broader engagement in Eastern Highlands Province, including participation in the 70th anniversary celebrations of the Summer Institute of Linguistics.