Hela UOG students safely return home after campus unrest
Relief and gratitude filled Tari on Thursday morning as Hela students from the University of Goroka [UOG] returned safely to their home province following recent unrest on campus.
Hela Education Services Director, Ronny Angu, confirmed that the students reached Tari around 9:00 a.m. and were immediately welcomed into a debrief session.
The meeting brought together student leaders, PMV bus drivers, two Mobile Squad units from Mt. Hagen in Western Highlands Province, parents, and public servants.
The session provided space for reflection, reassurance, and acknowledgment of the collective effort that ensured the students’ safe return.
President of Hela Students Association, Muna, said he was grateful for the assistance that was provided by the Hela Provincial Government, District Development Authorities, Hela Education Services, and other stakeholders.
President Muna issued a formal apology on behalf of the students to Hela leaders, acknowledging the frustration expressed during the tense period.
“Our appeals for immediate evacuation may have sounded harsh, but they came from a place of fear and urgency,” Muna explained.
He noted that tensions between Eastern Highlands locals and UOG students had escalated beyond control, leaving safety of the students’ only priority.
“Now that we are back home, we are deeply grateful for the support and understanding shown to us.” He said.
Director Angu reassured the students that their concerns were valid and understood, emphasizing that the delay in evacuation was due to the need to carefully organize logistics and security.
“What matters most is that you are back in our province safely, and for that we are truly thankful,” he said.
He encouraged the students to view the ordeal as a lesson in resilience, shaping them into future leaders in the education sector.
Angu further reminded the students that their safe return was not by chance but by divine purpose.
“The Good Lord has a calling for each of you to rise as leaders and help shape this country,” he stated.
Board Member of Education Services, John Tipa, extended his appreciation to the people of Western Highlands for their vital role in the repatriation exercise.
He highlighted the contribution of the two Mobile Squads who provided security during the rescue operations, as well as PMV owners and drivers who released their vehicles despite the tense circumstances.
“Your cooperation and understanding made this possible, and we are grateful,” Tipa said.