Strife Ambitious

The education system in Papua New Guinea (PNG) is at a crossroads. For decades, it has been criticized for prioritizing rote memorization over practical skills, churning out graduates who are ill-equipped to navigate the complexities of life, entrepreneurship, and innovation. The current system, which revolves around a 12-year journey culminating in a "Higher School Certificate," often leaves students with little more than a piece of paper and a head full of theoretical knowledge that rarely translates into real-world competence. The harsh reality is that many students emerge from this system without essential life skills. They lack knowledge about financial literacy, entrepreneurship, coding, farming, or even the basics of app development. Instead, they are burdened with memorizing facts like the number of legs on a grasshopper or the longest river in PNG—information that holds little relevance to their daily lives or future careers. The system seems designed to produce empl...

In a world where words travel faster than light, where a single tweet can ignite a global firestorm, and where misunderstandings can unravel the fabric of trust in an instant, we must pause and reflect on the weight of our speech. As a Christian rational being, I am deeply aware of the power of words—both to heal and to harm. In a democratic society that values human dignity, we have a sacred responsibility to guard our tongues and to seek truth before spreading judgment. For a single moment of misunderstanding, when spoken without care, can be as poisonous as a serpent’s bite, spreading like wildfire and destroying reputations, relationships, and public trust. The Bible, in James 3:5-6, warns us of the destructive power of the tongue: “So also the tongue is a small member, yet it boasts of great things. How great a forest is set ablaze by such a small fire! And the tongue is a fire, a world of unrighteousness. The tongue is set among our members, staining the whole body, setting on fi...

In a world dominated by screens, notifications, and instant gratification, the simple act of reading a book might seem like a relic of the past. But the truth is, books hold timeless value. Whether it’s a gripping novel, an insightful self-help guide, or a thought-provoking non-fiction work, reading books can transform your life in ways you might not expect. Here are 12 compelling reasons why reading books should become a regular part of your routine: --- 1. Expands Your Knowledge Books are a treasure trove of information. Whether you’re diving into history, science, philosophy, or fiction, every book offers new insights and perspectives. The more you read, the more you learn, and the better equipped you become to navigate the world. --- 2. Boosts Mental Stimulation Reading is like a workout for your brain. It keeps your mind active, improves concentration, and enhances cognitive function. Studies have shown that reading regularly can even reduce the risk of cognitive decline as you ag...

Sir Julius Chan GCL GCMG KBE PC (29 August 1939 – 30 January 2025) was a towering figure in Papua New Guinea’s political landscape, serving as the nation’s Prime Minister on two occasions and leaving an indelible mark on its history. A statesman, reformer, and visionary, Sir Julius dedicated his life to public service, shaping the trajectory of his country during its formative years and beyond.   Early Life and Education   Born on the Tanga Islands in what is now New Ireland Province, Sir Julius Chan was the fifth of seven children. His father, Chan Pak, was a Chinese trader from Taishan, while his mother, Miriam Tinkoris, was a native New Irelander. Fluent in Cantonese, Tok Pisin, Sursurunga, and English, Chan’s multicultural upbringing laid the foundation for his inclusive leadership style. He received his education at Marist College Ashgrove in Brisbane, Australia, where he honed the skills that would later define his political career.   Political Career...

In recent years, the Papua New Guinea (PNG) National Department of Education has been actively promoting its "100% Free Education" policy across various platforms, including social media forums like Facebook. The policy aims to eliminate school fees, ensuring that every child in PNG has access to education without financial barriers. However, despite the government's bold claims, schools across the country continue to charge fees, leaving parents and students frustrated and questioning the effectiveness of the policy. This blog delves into the growing disconnect between the government's promises and the reality on the ground, using concrete examples from PNG newspaper articles to highlight the issue. The Promise of Free Education The PNG government introduced the Tuition Fee-Free (TFF) policy in 2012, with the goal of providing free education from elementary to secondary levels. The policy was hailed as a transformative initiative that would increase enrollment rates,...

In the world of entrepreneurship, every great idea begins with a spark—a moment of clarity that emerges from the simple yet profound act of observation. Whether it’s noticing a gap in the market, identifying a problem that needs solving, or recognizing an opportunity to improve the status quo, observation is the catalyst that ignites the fire of inspiration. But while inspiration is the starting point, it is the entrepreneurial drive, effective management, and a dedicated team that transform a dream into reality. The Power of Observation: Where It All Begins Observation is the foundation of innovation. Entrepreneurs are, at their core, keen observers of the world around them. They see what others overlook, question what others accept, and imagine what others dismiss as impossible. Consider the story of Airbnb. Its founders observed that people were struggling to find affordable accommodations during crowded events, and they realized that unused spaces in homes could be the solution. Th...

Education is the cornerstone of any nation’s development, and Papua New Guinea (PNG) is no exception. In recent years, the PNG government has made efforts to modernize and advance the education system, particularly for primary and high schools. However, a recent policy shift—eliminating examinations for grades 8 and 10—has sparked widespread concern among educators, parents, and provincial authorities. While the intent behind the change may be noble, questions remain: Are the provinces ready for this shift? And are teachers being given the support they need to implement these changes effectively? The Policy Shift: A Bold Move with Unclear Foundations The decision to remove examinations for grades 8 and 10 is part of a broader effort to reduce student stress, promote continuous assessment, and align PNG’s education system with global trends. On paper, this sounds like a progressive step. After all, many countries are moving away from high-stakes testing in favor of more holistic approac...