PAPUA New Guinea’s National Parliament has passed legislation modernising the legal framework of Pacific Adventist University, with 62 lawmakers voting in favour and none against.
The Pacific Adventist University Bill 2026 replaces the university’s outdated 1997 Act with provisions to strengthen governance, accountability and institutional autonomy, while reflecting contemporary higher education standards.
The unanimous vote was welcomed as a significant milestone in strengthening higher education and investing in Papua New Guinea’s future.
“This unanimous vote demonstrates Parliament’s shared commitment to education and to building the human capital that Papua New Guinea needs to achieve its Vision 2050 aspirations,” Prime Minister James Marape said.
The prime minister congratulated Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology Minister Kinoka Feo for steering the legislation through Parliament.
He also acknowledged the Pacific Adventist University Council, the Seventh-day Adventist Church and other stakeholders who contributed to the reform process.
“Education remains one of the most powerful investments any nation can make,” Marape said.
“Today’s decision ensures that Pacific Adventist University is equipped with a modern legal framework that will allow it to continue producing graduates who will serve our nation with distinction.”
The legislation forms part of the government’s broader agenda to strengthen tertiary education institutions and improve their ability to prepare Papua New Guinea’s workforce for future challenges and opportunities.
“Universities are not simply places of learning; they are centres of innovation, research, leadership and nation-building,” he said.
“Our Government is committed to ensuring that both public and private higher education institutions operate under legislative frameworks that promote excellence, transparency and international competitiveness.”
Marape also commended the Seventh-day Adventist Church for its longstanding contribution to education, healthcare and community development in Papua New Guinea.
“The Seventh-day Adventist Church has made an enormous contribution to our country through its schools, university, hospitals and health services,” he said.
“Pacific Adventist University has become one of Papua New Guinea’s most respected institutions of higher learning, producing graduates who have gone on to serve in government, business, healthcare, education, ministry and many other sectors.”
The prime minister said the passage of the bill reinforced the government’s commitment to developing a highly skilled, productive and globally competitive workforce capable of driving economic growth and national development.
“As we celebrate Papua New Guinea’s 50th anniversary, we are also laying the foundations for the next 50 years,” Marape said.
“Investing in our universities means investing in our young people, our future leaders and the long-term prosperity of our nation.
“I thank all Members of Parliament for their unanimous support of this important legislation. This is a victory for education, for our young people and for Papua New Guinea.”
