Madang students arrive home safely after UOG unrest

More than 200 Madang students studying at the University of Goroka [UOG] have arrived home safely following recent unrest at the campus.

Their safe return was made possible through the swift intervention of Governor Ramsey Pariwa, the Madang Provincial Government, Madang Police, and the Raikos and Middle Ramu District Development Authorities [DDAs].

Aniko Muzal, a postgraduate diploma student, told NBC News upon arrival that all students were accounted for and in good condition.

“All of us have arrived safely. For those who live in town, police will drop them off at their homes tonight, while students from other districts will stay in accommodation arranged by Governor Pariwa and the MPs for Raikos and Middle Ramu,” Muzal said.

She said students with outstanding exams would return to Goroka in two weeks to complete their assessments.

“The situation on campus has been contained, with police now stationed there. However, for some students who live off-campus, their safety remains uncertain as they stay among locals who were involved in the fight,” she said.

On behalf of the group, Miss Muzal expressed gratitude to Pariwa, Middle Ramu MP Kansol Kamdaru, and Raikos MP Kessy Sawang for responding promptly to their appeal for help.

Meanwhile, 29 Manus students also arrived in Madang tonight and will overnight before boarding the MV Laban Oule for Lorengau tomorrow. Their travel was arranged with the assistance of Speaker of Parliament and Manus Open MP, Job Pomat.