PNGUoT OBSERVES UNITY

By Phyllia Pisep

The Papua New Guinea University of Technology is known to host colorful displays of culture during the Independence celebrations, and this year was no different.

**PNGUoT Vice Chancellor, Professor Ora Renagi taking part during the University’s 49th Independence celebration.**

Despite being faced with numerous challenges this year, staff and students set it all aside to witness the country’s 49th independence in unity.

Vice Chancellor Professor Ora Renagi expressed that the foundations of this country were built on the unification of a thousand tribes, and is an important aspect to celebrate when observing independence.

“Despite, seeing this country facing numerous setbacks, this University came together to celebrate the Independence with so much pride and hope for a better future…”

PNGUoT’s celebrations began with the Annual Pukman Katu Lecture Series which is a platform that provides an avenue for invited speakers to share their experiences and insights regarding the country’s progress and development.

Prof Renagi said during the welcome that the forefathers selflessly led the country to independence, and were true patriots who wanted the best for a young nation.

The Guest Speaker Mr Paul Nerau, elaborated on this reflecting on PNG’s journey so far and the challenges we’ve been faced with over the years.

He encouraged students to do what is right, to correct past mistakes to improve for the future, and to move in unity.

“Everyone talks about unity, but what are we as individuals doing to contribute to this unity? ”

The 16th of September was welcomed by the Chuaka Call by Manus students around campus, leading to the marching of students, staff, and residents from the security base to the Monument.

There, a short flag-raising ceremony was held where again speakers echoed the importance of celebrating political freedom and aspiring to be better individuals.

Prof. Renagi said, “I, thank the Staff, Students, and residents of Lae that came together to celebrate the independence on a high note with safety being the paramount priority despite being crowded.”

“We hope to see more celebrations in the coming years that signifies unity”.