Madang FODE students to pursue studies in India

19 Flexible Open and Distance Education [FODE] students from Madang are set to travel to India this week to pursue tertiary studies, which is the first for such initiative in Papua New Guinea.

The Madang Provincial Government has invested K600,000 to support the students, who will undertake various bachelor’s degree programs at two universities in southern India.

Governor Ramsey Pariwa said this is a critical investment in education and an important step in ensuring equal opportunities for FODE graduates.

“Apart from the formal education system, FODE students must also receive equal attention to succeed in life.

“If education creates failure, then we must change the system to give everyone an equal opportunity to pursue their interests.”

The students, selected from all six districts of Madang, will study disciplines ranging from Information Technology, Engineering, Computer Science and Business Administration among others. Under a formal agreement, they will return to work in the province upon graduation.

IT student Jack Anan said the program offered a second chance for young people.

“Those Grade 10 and 12 students roaming around must see this as a stepping stone. This is the way forward for FODE students,” he said.

Business Administration student Glorish Gangam from Middle Ramu said she hopes to use her skills to strengthen governance in the province.

“When I return, I want to help our communities, district, province, and country,” she said.

The pioneer batch is scheduled to depart this week once visa approvals are finalized.