Investigation to determine SOE at universities

An investigation will be carried out to determine whether a State of Emergency (SOE) will be declared at Papua New Guinea’s two major universities.

The two universities, PNG University of Technology and the University of PNG, have boycotted classes for almost two months.

Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology, Malakai Tabar is directing a high powered Government team to assess the situation on the ground at Unitech following the burning of buildings (pictured) and death of a student.

Tabar will also be asking the Minister for Police to institute curfews in the troubled universities in order to maintain peace.

“We would like to go before cabinet to try and institute a curfew and SOE.

“There are laws that need to be followed so after the team returns, we will submit the necessary documents to cabinet for their approval for a SOE in both campuses. 

“I reassure parents that we are doing the best we can to complete the academic year,” Tabar said.

He added that all law enforcing apparatuses of the State will be brought to bear on restoring normalcy to our universities.

The Government team will travel to Lae on Monday, June 27. 

Author: 
Quintina Naime