The Goraka District Member along with clan leaders from communities surrounding University of Goroka have given their assurance for the safety of students this academic year.
This follows the abrupt closure last year due to a violent unrest between the locals and students UoG students on campus.
Goroka MP Aiye Tambua said the people of Goroka stand united to inform the country that they do not have any issue with the students. While the police investigation is still ongoing, he said they are standing together with the local community leaders and UoG administration to allow the normal university operation. He expressed this in an awareness program hosted recently at the North Goroka Primary School in Goroka.
“Issue had happened and we are here to find a way forward,” Tambua said.
“As a leader representing the people of Goroka, I apologies to everyone for what had happen. We stand to say that we the people of Goroka do not have any issue with our students come from all over PNG.”
He also added that there are currently two independent investigations being carried out at the University into the incident one by the Department of education (DHERST) and the other by police.
For safety measures they will establish a direct police toll free line backed with a new police vehicle, ensuring immediate police presence on campus and surrounding communities.
“That will assure and give confidence to parents to send their students back to the campus,” Tambua said.
Asaroiufa clan leader Jeffrey Sasuwo, Stanley Gotaha and Okiufa leader Lesley Hoffman also gave their assurance.
Okiufa Landowners Association chairman Lesley Hoffman assures parents to send their students to complete their studies.
“We must send the message throughout the country and the parents must know that their children will come and be at ease, do their studies and return. Many students are sacred to return to Goroka, but we welcome you all to return for your studies,” Hoffman said.
Eastern Highlands Provincial Police Commander Chief Superintendent John Kale also pledge their support for the student to return for their studies.
“I stand here as the PPC Goroka to inform you all that our primary duty is to protect lives and properties, to ensure peace,” Kale said.
“The issue affected us all and I thank you all for the support to ensure peace and allow investigation to continue while allowing the student to return to classes.” PPC Kale said.
Moreover, Dr. Waninga said the UoG management will also be assisting in the investigations to see that students also implicated during last year’s incident are being handed to police to ensure that justice process is upheld and both sides.
