Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has commended the University of Goroka for its strong and practical approach to agricultural education, describing it as a model for preparing Papua New Guinea’s young people with life-sustaining skills.

During a visit to the university’s agriculture faculty over the Easter weekend, Prime Minister Marape said he was encouraged by the institution’s hands-on training methods, which integrate theory with practical application.

“I was impressed to see a holistic faculty that is not only teaching theory but equipping our agricultural teachers with real, practical skills they can pass on to students across the country,” Prime Minister Marape said.

The Prime Minister observed a range of agricultural activities within the faculty, including piggery, poultry (including ducks), rabbit farming, guinea pig rearing, as well as food and test crop cultivation — all conducted within a compact teaching environment.

“This is exactly the type of education we must promote — one that prepares our students not just academically, but for life,” he said.

Education Reform Focused on Life Skills

Prime Minister Marape linked the university’s approach to the Government’s ongoing education reforms under the “1-6-6” structure, which emphasises 13 years of continuous learning from early childhood through to Grade 12.

“Our education system must be holistic. Not every child is destined to become a lawyer, doctor, or scientist — and that is perfectly fine,” he said.

“What matters is that every child is equipped with practical, life-sustaining skills by the time they complete Grade 12.”

He stressed that education must empower students to become self-reliant and productive members of society, regardless of whether they proceed to university.

Drawing from his own experience, Prime Minister Marape said his secondary education had equipped him with practical skills such as agriculture, livestock management, carpentry, bookkeeping, and retail operations.

“If university was not an option, I was already prepared to survive and contribute meaningfully to society,” he said.

Call For Integration of Business Skills

The Prime Minister further called for the integration of basic business and entrepreneurial training into agricultural education.

“We must not only teach production — we must teach business. Our teachers must be equipped to guide students into agribusiness and other rural industries,” he said.

He emphasised that Papua New Guinea’s greatest resource remains its land, and that education must empower citizens to unlock its economic potential.

“Our people own land. What we need is educated minds living on that land, turning opportunity into productivity,” Prime Minister Marape said.

Government Support Assured

Prime Minister Marape reaffirmed Government support for the University of Goroka, particularly in strengthening its role in training agricultural educators.

“We will support institutions like the University of Goroka because they are central to building a skilled, self- reliant population,” he said.

“This is how we produce Grade 12 graduates who are ready not just for further education, but for life.”