Decisions reflect how people prioritise their lives, even if it’s one made at the last minute.
And decisions that need careful consideration are “job” and “where to live”.
Many factors come into play during this time, including family, finance, security and services.
Loop PNG carried out a brief survey on where youths of this era prefer to live and work, given the option between the capital city Port Moresby and another province.
Here are a few:
Elly Launa Poga (currently lives and works in Port Moresby)
I prefer another province. Why? Because housing rentals are cheaper as well as garden food at the market. Living in the city is becoming an expensive exercise. And also to be close to my family, especially working somewhere where the National Okuk Highway links. Port Moresby seems to be a central hub but no, not to live in.
Nadia Marai (UPNG journalism student)
I'd say Port Moresby, but it would entirely depend on the type of job I'm doing. If it's journalism then definitely Port Moresby as I would have a lot of contacts here and easier getting in touch with them. Working outside would be a hassle like when I was in Kavieng (New Ireland Province), there was really nothing good to help with my job.
Joe Iamo (lives in Port Moresby, parent)
I'd choose to work in Port Moresby. Why? I'm from here. The schools are better for my son. Hospitals are better. It'll be easier and cheaper for my family to travel to the village during the holidays. Port Moresby basically is more urbanised compared to the other centres. That's why!
Mirriam Wrakonei (living in Port Moresby, law student)
Because everything is here in Port Moresby. Say in terms of heads of departments. Like, to apply for a visa to go to Australia, it would take ages. If one would have to apply from an outer station, extra expenses would be involved, in terms of airfares to come here and get things done then flying back and etc. That's why I would rather live in Port Moresby than in any other province.
Abraham Avediba (works and lives in Port Moresby)
I would definitely stay in Port Moresby. Truth hurts but Port Moresby has major advantage over other provinces.
Maureen Bun (lives and works in Port Moresby)
That depends on what the company/department offers. I have my immediate family to support so a better offer from a company/department would be an advantage. You could say that I am after greener pastures.
Joannne Patakai (lives in West New Britain)
If I were to choose a province to work in, I will always prefer West New Britain Province. I feel that I need to give back to my home province. Also, the life here is simple and you will have more to save unlike other major towns where people spend on food, rent, bills, etc.