Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has welcomed the unanimous passage of the Pacific Adventist University Bill 2026 by the National Parliament, describing it as a significant milestone in strengthening higher education and investing in Papua New Guinea’s future.
The bill was passed by Parliament today with overwhelming bipartisan support, receiving 62 votes in favour and none against.
Prime Minister Marape congratulated Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology Minister Hon. Kinoka Feo for successfully steering the legislation through Parliament and acknowledged the Pacific Adventist University Council, the Seventh-day Adventist Church and all stakeholders who contributed to the reform process.
“This unanimous vote demonstrates Parliament’s shared commitment to education and to building the human capital that Papua New Guinea needs to achieve its Vision 2050 aspirations,” Prime Minister Marape said.
“Education remains one of the most powerful investments any nation can make. Today’s decision ensures that Pacific Adventist University is equipped with a modern legal framework that will allow it to continue producing graduates who will serve our nation with distinction.”
Prime Minister Marape said the new legislation modernises the governance framework of Pacific Adventist University, replacing the outdated 1997 Act with legislation that reflects contemporary higher education standards, stronger governance, greater accountability and institutional autonomy.
He said the reforms were consistent with the Government’s broader agenda to strengthen tertiary education institutions so they could better prepare Papua New Guinea’s workforce for the challenges and opportunities of the future.
“Universities are not simply places of learning; they are centres of innovation, research, leadership and nation-building,” he said.
“Our Government is committed to ensuring that both public and private higher education institutions operate under legislative frameworks that promote excellence, transparency and international competitiveness.”
Prime Minister Marape also commended the Seventh-day Adventist Church for its longstanding contribution to education, healthcare and community development in Papua New Guinea over many decades.
“The Seventh-day Adventist Church has made an enormous contribution to our country through its schools, university, hospitals and health services. Pacific Adventist University has become one of Papua New Guinea’s most respected institutions of higher learning, producing graduates who have gone on to serve in government, business, healthcare, education, ministry and many other sectors.”
The Prime Minister said the passage of the legislation reinforced the Government’s commitment to developing a highly skilled, productive and globally competitive workforce capable of driving economic growth and national development.
“As we celebrate Papua New Guinea’s 50th anniversary, we are also laying the foundations for the next 50 years. Investing in our universities means investing in our young people, our future leaders and the long- term prosperity of our nation.
“I thank all Members of Parliament for their unanimous support of this important legislation. This is a victory for education, for our young people and for Papua New Guinea.”