Bird challenges UPNG students: knowledge must shape nation’s future

East Sepik Governor Allan Bird has urged students at the University of Papua New Guinea [UPNG] to generate knowledge that meaningfully influences national development and decision-making.

Speaking yesterday at the School of Humanities and Social Sciences two-day symposium marking the university’s 60th anniversary, Governor Bird said academic work must move beyond theory and contribute to solving real challenges faced by Papua New Guineans.

“Knowledge is only useful if it improves the quality of life of ordinary people beyond this university,” Bird said. “You must find the wisdom to extend your knowledge to those who make life-changing decisions on how our country progresses.”

He said that, in his time in Parliament, he has yet to see research or knowledge generated from any of the country’s universities shape policy or influence debates on the floor of Parliament.

“For decades, decision-making that affects your life has been made independently of verifiable academic knowledge,” Bird said. “The knowledge you generate must impact your country, as envisioned by our founding fathers when they wrote the first National Goal and Directive Principle.”

He challenged students to ensure their work addresses national issues, provides solutions, and supports innovation, particularly for people in rural communities.

“Knowledge should not live only in your thoughts and in the libraries of this campus,” he said. “The positive impact of knowledge must be felt in our remote villages.”

Governor Bird also reminded the students that UPNG’s 60-year journey mirrors the nation’s resilience and called on the School of Humanities to lead with distinction and help empower the next generation of leaders.