Oro Provincial Government

Oro Provincial Government News updates, announcements and progressive reports from the Oro Provincial Government.

ORO PROVINCE MARKS MAJOR MILESTONE TOWARDS SEALING OF KOKODA ROADKokoda, Oro Province | 5 August 2026The Oro Provincial ...
05/08/2026

ORO PROVINCE MARKS MAJOR MILESTONE TOWARDS SEALING OF KOKODA ROAD

Kokoda, Oro Province | 5 August 2026

The Oro Provincial Government has announced a significant milestone in the long-awaited Kokoda Road Sealing Project, with the signing of the contract for the scoping studies covering the 42-kilometre section from Embara Bridge to Kokoda Station (Fala Bridge).

Governor Hon. Gary Juffa said the contract was formally signed on 29 July 2026 at the Department of Works and Highways National Headquarters, with representatives from the Oro Provincial Government in attendance to witness the occasion.

Governor Juffa described the signing as the first and most important step towards delivering a sealed road that will provide lasting economic and social benefits for the people of Oro Province.

"The scoping studies are essentially the foundation of the project. Engineers will now undertake the Scoping Studies (detailed design) work required to determine the full cost of sealing the entire 42-kilometre section of road," Governor Juffa said.

Following completion of the studies, the Papua New Guinea Government and the Australian Government have committed to sharing the construction costs on a 50-50 basis once the project's total cost is confirmed.

The Governor explained that after funding arrangements are finalised, a new public tender will be advertised for the construction phase. The procurement process will be conducted in accordance with the National Procurement Act 2018 and overseen by the National Procurement Commission to ensure transparency, accountability and value for money.

Once the procurement process is completed, the successful contractor will be awarded the project before construction of the road sealing begins.

Governor Juffa acknowledged that while the process requires patience, every stage is necessary to ensure the road is properly designed, funded and constructed to a high standard.

"Good infrastructure takes careful planning. We are not just building a road for today—we are building a road that will serve future generations. Every step brings us closer to making this vision a reality," he said.

Governor Juffa also expressed his appreciation to the Australian High Commission through the Transport Sector Support Program Phase 3 (TSSP3) for its timely funding support, and thanked the Department of Works and Highways for its continued leadership and commitment to advancing the project.

The Oro Provincial Government reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with national and development partners to deliver quality infrastructure that improves connectivity, supports economic growth and enhances the lives of the people of Oro Province.

"We are getting there, step by step. Thank you to everyone for your continued patience and support. God bless Oro," Governor Juffa said.

07/07/2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

GOVERNMENTS OF PAPUA NEW GUINEA AND AUSTRALIA AGREE TO COMMENCE KOKODA HIGHWAY SEALING PROJECT

Popondetta, Oro Province

The Governor of Oro Province, Hon. Gary Juffa, has welcomed the agreement reached between the Governments of Papua New Guinea and Australia to commence the long-awaited sealing of the Kokoda Highway, describing the decision as an important milestone for the people of Oro Province and for Papua New Guinea’s transport infrastructure.

The project will be implemented under the Connect PNG Programme, with support from the Transport Sector Support Program (TSSP), and will focus on the rehabilitation, maintenance and progressive sealing of approximately 179 kilometres of critical road infrastructure within Oro Province.

Governor Juffa said the announcement reflects the positive outcomes that can be achieved through strong cooperation between the National Government, the Australian Government, the Department of Works and Highways, TSSP and the Oro Provincial Government.

“This is very welcome news for our province. The Kokoda Highway is far more than a road—it is a vital economic lifeline for our communities, an important national transport corridor and a route of immense historical significance. Its progressive sealing will improve access to essential services, reduce transport costs, strengthen economic opportunities and enhance the quality of life for our people.”

To strengthen planning and oversight of road infrastructure across the province, the Oro Roads Coordination Committee (ORCC) has been established. The Committee will be chaired by the Secretary for Works and Highways, with the Provincial Administrator serving as Co-Chair, and will coordinate road development activities while ensuring projects are delivered in accordance with sound engineering standards, financial accountability and long-term sustainability.

As part of the revised implementation arrangements, EJ Sister Contractors (EJS) will continue maintaining the sealed sections of the Kokoda and Northern Highways between Oro Bay and Hembara Bridge following a refinement of its contractual responsibilities.

Project Delivery


The sealing programme will be undertaken in two phases:


Phase One


* Sealing approximately 42 kilometres of the Kokoda Highway from Embara Bridge to Fala Bridge.


Phase Two


* Progressive sealing of the remaining unsealed sections of the Northern Highway, particularly between Oro Bay and Afore Station.


Pending commencement of the major civil works, TSSP will undertake interim maintenance of the unsealed sections through pro forma contracts to ensure continued road accessibility. Funding of K8 million has be allocated and procurement processes currently underway.


Significant progress has also been made regarding the scoping studies for Kokoda high way with contracts expected to be awarded soon.


Governor Juffa acknowledged the commitment shown by all parties in advancing the project.


“I sincerely acknowledge the Government of Papua New Guinea, the Australian Government, the Department of Works and Highways, TSSP and everyone who has contributed to bringing this important project to its current stage. Delivering major infrastructure requires genuine partnership, patience and a shared commitment to serving our people.”


He reaffirmed the Oro Provincial Government’s commitment to working collaboratively with all stakeholders to support the successful delivery of the project.


“Our responsibility now is to work together to ensure the project is delivered efficiently, transparently and to the highest possible standard. The people of Oro have waited many years for this important development, and we remain committed to supporting its successful implementation for the benefit of current and future generations.”


Governor Juffa concluded by thanking the people of Oro Province for their continued patience, confidence and support, and said the Provincial Government would continue to provide regular public updates as the project progresses.


For further information:


Office of the Governor

Oro Provincial Government

Popondetta, Northern (Oro) Province

Papua New Guinea

ORO PROVINCE LEADS DIGITAL TRANSITION FOR SOUTHERN REGION WITH PRESENTAION OF 2025 PSIP ACQUITTALSOn Friday, June 28, 20...
06/07/2026

ORO PROVINCE LEADS DIGITAL TRANSITION FOR SOUTHERN REGION WITH PRESENTAION OF 2025 PSIP ACQUITTALS

On Friday, June 28, 2026, the Oro Provincial Administration formally presented acquittals for its Provincial Service Improvement Program (PSIP) and Provincial Support Grant (PSG) 2025 to the Department of Implementation and Rural Development (DIRD). The presentation was led by Provincial Finance Manager Terence Mairi and supported by Acting Provincial Administrator Mr. Roger Irurapa, in the presence of Northern Province Governor Gary Juffa and other administration members.

Embracing Digital Transformation The presentation centered on the 2025 Oro Provincial Government PSIP Acquittal Report, which marks a significant shift from fragmented, paper-based reporting to a modernized digital system. The Oro Provincial Government has officially adopted the Bilum Digital Platform, a centralized cloud-based database designed to strengthen the tracking, monitoring, and reporting of SIP funding at the subnational level. This transition strictly aligns with the PNG Digital Transformation Policy and the Digital Government Act 2022, following a 2026 Circular Instruction that informed all provinces of the platform's formal endorsement by the National Executive Council.

In the coming weeks, the team from DIRD will conduct training for public officers in Oro Province in preparation for them to use the new system.

Financial Performance and Sector Allocations The 2025 PSIP Budget was composed of a K10 million budget ceiling alongside an estimated rollover of K12.2 million from the 2024 fiscal year. The total budgeted funds across various sectors amounted to K22,443,820, with the administration successfully executing actual expenditures of K21,013,514, leaving a rollover of K1,430,306.

The acquittal report detailed major investments across key service sectors, including:

Infrastructure: K7,646,481 (fully expended).
Health: K5,500,122 budgeted, with K5,399,816 in actual expenditure.
Education: K3,982,389 budgeted, with K3,971,745 in actual expenditure.
Economic Sector: K2,000,000 (fully expended).
Law & Order: K1,031,355 budgeted, with K1,000,000 in actual expenditure.
Push for System Integration and Transparency A major highlight of the presentation was the administration's proactive stance on financial accountability. The Oro Provincial Administration issued a strong recommendation for DIRD and the Department of Finance to formally integrate the national Integrated Financial Management System (IFMS) with the newly endorsed Bilum Digital Platform.

While the current 2025 acquittal was compiled using manual data verification between the two systems, the administration argued that a permanent digital integration would eliminate cross-platform data mismatches and streamline the reconciliation of Warrant Authorities. Governor Juffa’s administration advocates that creating an active interface between the two systems will bridge the gap between disbursed funds and on-the-ground project implementation. Ultimately, real-time tracking of sector expenditures will significantly reduce administrative delays, safeguard public funds against procurement variances, and ensure full compliance with the Public Finances (Management) Act 1995.

The successful compilation of the report was achieved through a consultative approach involving the DIRD Team, the Provincial Electoral Team, and the Provincial Finance Team. The final document, which stands as a commitment to the strategic priority areas of the Medium-Term Development Plan IV (MTDP IV), was officially signed by Acting Provincial Administrator Roger Irurapa and Provincial Finance Manager Terence Mairi.

GOVERNOR GARY JUFFA CALLS FOR MARITIME SOVEREIGNTY AND AN END TO DEEP-SEA MINING ON WORLD OCEANS DAY 2026Commemorating W...
09/06/2026

GOVERNOR GARY JUFFA CALLS FOR MARITIME SOVEREIGNTY AND AN END TO DEEP-SEA MINING ON WORLD OCEANS DAY 2026

Commemorating World Oceans Day on June 8, 2026, Oro Province Governor Gary Juffa has issued a passionate call for the protection of Papua New Guinea's vast maritime territory. Recognizing that the ocean is woven into the very fabric of PNG’s identity, culture, economy, and way of life, Governor Juffa emphasized that the health of the ocean is directly tied to the prosperity of the nation.

"For countless coastal and island communities, the sea is their garden, highway, marketplace, and source of sustenance," Juffa stated, noting that marine resources provide food security and cultural continuity for hundreds of thousands of Papua New Guineans. However, he warned that these ecosystems are under severe threat from climate change, pollution, illegal fishing, and the dangerous emerging pressures of resource extraction.

The Threat of Deep-Sea Mining Governor Juffa strongly cautioned against the growing international push for deep-sea mining, driven by foreign entities he described as "profit and greed merchants". He reminded the nation of the costly failure of the Solwara One project, which was promised as a revolutionary development but ultimately cost PNG taxpayers over K300 million in losses.

"Humanity's knowledge of deep ocean ecosystems remains extremely limited," Juffa warned, stressing that the consequences of deep-sea mining could be profound, resulting in the irreversible destruction of unique habitats and the extinction of species that have not yet been identified. He urged the government and international bodies to strictly apply the precautionary principle, arguing that a lack of complete scientific certainty must never be used as an excuse to proceed with potentially devastating environmental extraction. The burden of proof, he insisted, must rest on those pushing to exploit the ocean, not those trying to protect it.

A Call for Sovereignty and Strict Enforcement Highlighting a severe lack of sovereign control, Governor Juffa exposed the vulnerabilities in PNG's current maritime security. He noted that the Pacific has become a haven for transnational criminal organizations operating at will, engaging in drug and human trafficking, as well as illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing. He further expressed concern that currently, not a single fishing vessel operating in the country is owned by a Papua New Guinean, while foreign investors—whom he likened to "modern-day pirates"—plunder hundreds of millions of dollars' worth of marine resources.

"Conservation without enforcement, is merely an aspiration," Juffa declared. He criticized the nation's outdated surveillance technology, which fails to track "dark ships" that turn off their transponders to illegally extract tuna from PNG's world-renowned breeding grounds. To make conservation meaningful, the Governor called for urgent investments in modern satellite and aerial monitoring, new patrol vessels, stronger legislation, and tougher penalties for maritime offenses.

Protecting the Future Governor Juffa concluded his World Oceans Day address by championing the traditional knowledge systems, customary marine tenure, and community-based stewardship that have protected PNG's waters for generations. He called upon all elected leaders to fulfill their responsibility to protect coastal communities across Milne Bay, Manus, New Ireland, East Sepik, Bougainville, West New Britain, and beyond.

"Future generations will not judge us by how many tons of minerals we extracted from the seabed," Juffa stated. "They will judge us by whether we protected the oceans that sustain life itself."

He firmly requested that any future marine conservation commitments be matched by strict national sovereignty, robust scientific integrity, and the practical enforcement capabilities necessary to secure a lasting legacy for the people of Papua New Guinea.

CYCLONE MAILA RELIEF SUPPLIES FOR TUFI LLG AFFECTED WARDS.Saturday, 9th May 2026The Honorable Gary Juffa, Governor of th...
10/05/2026

CYCLONE MAILA RELIEF SUPPLIES FOR TUFI LLG AFFECTED WARDS.

Saturday, 9th May 2026

The Honorable Gary Juffa, Governor of the Northern Province, addressed the recent impact of Cyclone Malia. He assured constituents that immediate relief efforts are underway to support affected communities around Tufi LLG.

Governor Juffa acknowledged the widespread devastation caused by Cyclone Maila, which has impacted regions including Milne Bay, the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, East New Britain, and the Solomon Islands. He noted that while the damage has been significant, it remains localized, primarilyiialong the coast of Tufi LLG and the border areas of Milne Bay and Oro.

Governor Juffa has overseen the procurement and deployment of essential relief supplies, ensuring aid reaches the most affected communities mainly Ward 1 Kewansasap, Ward 2 Marua and Ward 8 Itoto (Uwe Village). He confirmed that his Deputy Governor Hon. Robin Safitoa, Acting Provincial Administrator Mr. Roger Irurapa and the Oro Provincial Disaster Team is actively distributing relief materials to those in need with the support of Sector Chairman Sheldon Deilala.

Reaffirming his commitment, Governor Juffa emphasized his dedication to supporting all affected families in the coming days. He also highlighted ongoing collaboration with relevant authorities and stakeholders to strengthen disaster resilience and rebuild a better Oro.

The Oro Province Government remains committed to providing assistance and rebuilding efforts to restore safety and stability to the affected places.

Safe Communities, Strong Futures: Oro's New Initiative with HALO Trust==================================================...
06/05/2026

Safe Communities, Strong Futures: Oro's New Initiative with HALO Trust

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The Oro Provincial Government signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on 18th August, 2025 with the HALO Trust, acting on U.S. Government grant for an unexploded ordinance project in the province.

The MOA addresses three key areas:

• To locate and remove unexploded ordnance, The HALO Trust will survey and map UXO-contaminated areas in the Oro Province, and excavate hazardous areas identified during the survey to remove the buried UXO. The survey and disposal of UXO will protect the lives and livelihoods of people in Oro and will prevent UXO from being misused.

• To ensure the safety of the community, The HALO Trust will teach risk education in schools and community facilities to increase understanding of the UXO threat and to reduce risk taking behavior.

• To invest in the future of the community, The HALO Trust will employ and train people from Oro, including delivering explosive ordnance disposal (bomb disposal) training to the PNG Defence Force EOD and the Royal PNG Constabulary. Additionally, The Halo Trust will contribute to the review and improvement of national tracking for UXO

“This partnership is a commitment to the people of Oro. It is about safeguarding lives, fostering well-being, and paving the way for a brighter future.” Said Oro Governor Juffa. “Clearing the remnants of past conflicts liberates our communities, allowing them to rebuild, grow, and live free from fear.”

The team from HALO Trust has already begun this vital task in the province and are elated to have them here!

GOVERNOR JUFFA REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO STRENGTHEN VILLAGE COURT SYSTEMS IN ORO==========================================...
22/04/2026

GOVERNOR JUFFA REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO STRENGTHEN VILLAGE COURT SYSTEMS IN ORO

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Northern Governor Hon. Gary Juffa met with the Village Court Coordinator Mr David Iagoro on day Thursday April 16, 2026 to address pressing challenge facing the provinces village court system.

During the meeting, Governor Juffa recommitted the Oro Provincial Government to supporting village courts with a sharp focus on infrastructure development and capacity building.

Present at the meeting were Acting Provincial Administrator Roger Irurapa, Jnr, Provincial Police Commander Chief Inspector Charles Winuan, and Deputy Governor Robin Safitoa.

Of grave concern to Governor Juffa was the revelation that out of the 49 village courts across the province, only seven of the 11 court officials per zone are directly funded through the National Government’s Alesco Payroll system.

The remaining four officials from each of the 49 zones continue to deliver vital village court services diligently but have gone without remuneration for an extended period.

“It is unacceptable that those working at the frontline of justice in our communities are left unpaid for long period, Governor Juffa said.

“My government will not stand by while our village courts official serve without basic dignity of a salary.”

Mr Iagoro informed the Governor that a submission addressing this issue was originally made by his office in 2020 through former provincial administrator Trevor Mage, but little to no attention was given to the matter.

He expressed extreme delight that despite the long delay since the 2020 submission, village court services were finally receiving the recognition they deserved from the political hierarchy.

Acting provincial administrator Mr Roger Irurapa Jnr assured officials that he would intervene and determine why attention was not given to the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and submission for the activation of the provincial village courts committee.

According to recent findings, Oro province is among the lowest ranking in the establishment of the provincial village court committee’s activation.

However, Mr Irurapa assured both Governor Juffa and the people of Oro that this matter is now being given the utmost priority.

Mr Irurapa further stated that village court services have for over six decades, served a key law and order function, and will continue to do so now that there is new political intervention from the head of the province.

In response, Governor Juffa assured the Department of Justice and Attorney General (DJAG) and all Oro village court officials that he would immediately direct a fact-finding mission to rectify the remuneration administrative oversight.

He pledged to the people of Oro that his government remains fully committee to revitalizing village court services across all 49 court zones.

Despite very limited provincial funding, Governor Juffa reiterated that his administration would remain dedicated to resolving not only the remuneration issue but also other longstanding challenges, particularly in infrastructure and capacity building.

Governor Juffa also commended Mr Iagoro for his tireless leadership in managing Oro’s village court services, often without proper office space or essential work tools needed to empower frontline justice officials.

“Mr Iagoro and his team are doing remarkable work under extreme difficult circumstances. They deserve our full support,” Governor Juffa said.
Further announcements on the fact-finding mission and subsequence remedial actions are expected in the coming weeks.

THE ORO PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT DELIEVERS 98% COMPLETION ON KUMUSI-ASSISI HIGHWAY UPGRADE, SECURES K2.5 MILLION FOR BAILEY...
20/04/2026

THE ORO PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT DELIEVERS 98% COMPLETION ON KUMUSI-ASSISI HIGHWAY UPGRADE, SECURES K2.5 MILLION FOR BAILEY BRIDGE

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A major infrastructure milestone is nearing completion in Northern Province, with the Kumusi–Assisi feeder road upgrade now 98 percent complete, delivering improved access and services to more than 10,000 people.

The Provincial Executive Council (PEC), led by Northern Governor Hon. Gary Juffa, has confirmed significant progress on the critical road project, which serves as a vital link for communities relying on it for agriculture, education, and essential services.

Under Phase 1, Governor Juffa secured K9.6 million to fund the maintenance and upgrading of approximately 10.3 kilometres of road from the junction to the Somberu River in the Assisi area

Despite delays caused by funding constraints, adverse weather, community-related issues, and contractual claims, the project has reached near completion. The provincial government, through its newly established Project Management Unit (PMU), ensured continuity and oversight throughout implementation.

Joint inspections are currently being carried out by the Oro Department of Works and the Provincial Technical Division.

Governor Juffa highlighted the unique geographical challenges facing Oro Province, noting that the region is dominated by rugged terrain, large river systems, and high tropical rainfall.

He said nearly 90 percent of the province’s landmass presents difficult conditions for infrastructure development, requiring careful planning and adequate funding to address high mobility and logistics costs for contractors.

The Governor stressed that improving road access to markets, particularly for agriculture and small-scale commerce, has remained a key priority since he first took office in 2012.

He acknowledged that inconsistent national government support during his earlier term had slowed progress, but said the situation has improved under the Marape–Rosso Government.

Governor Juffa also thanked Prime Minister James Marape for recognising Northern Province in national development priorities, enabling the delivery of key impact projects.

Looking ahead, the provincial government is planning to extend the road to Tetebedi, with discussions underway with the Department of Works on the missing link and with the Prime Minister’s Department on the potential sealing of Phase 1.

In addition, the PEC has allocated K2.5 million for the construction of a Bailey bridge over the Kansol River, a critical component to ensure year-round access and strengthen the durability of the road network.

Governor Juffa expressed gratitude to the people of Oro for their patience and resilience, acknowledging their continued support for development efforts across the province.

He said the road serves nearly 10,000 people who depend on it to transport cash crops and agricultural produce, as well as to access schools and health services.

“Despite the challenges, we remain committed to delivering quality infrastructure,” Governor Juffa said.

“The establishment of our PMU ensures transparency and rigorous supervision. We will not stop until the people of Assisi, Kumusi and Tetebedi have the reliable road they deserve.”

With Phase 1 nearing completion, the Provincial Government will continue supervision through the PMU while advancing funding and technical approvals for the Tetebedi extension and the Kansol River Bailey Bridge.

Friday April 10, 2025MEDIA RELEASEGovernor Juffa calls for equitable resources of Oro Campus and a renewed national comm...
10/04/2026

Friday April 10, 2025

MEDIA RELEASE

Governor Juffa calls for equitable resources of Oro Campus and a renewed national commitment to agricultural transformation

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Northern Governor Hon. Gary Juffa has called on the University of Natural Resources and Environment (UNRE) administration to address the long-standing resource imbalance affecting the Oro Campus.

Speaking at the 29th Graduation of UNRE in Kokopo, Governor Juffa pointed out that Oro Campus, as an integral and established component of UNRE structure, continues to receive disproportionately less funding and intuitional support compared to other campus.

He described this situation as untenable and called for its immediate rectification.

“It’s a matter of genuine concern that the Oro Campus remains neglected despite being foundational part of this university.”

“I respectfully submit that this institution cannot claim unity of purpose while one of its campuses is systematically underserved,” Governor Juffa said.

While acknowledging the efforts of the UNRE leadership, the Governor made it clear that the Northern Provincial Government though fully committed to supporting institutional strengthening through infrastructure development and operational assistance, cannot reasonably be expected to function as the lead agency for the Oro campus.

“The primary responsibility for resourcing and developing the Oro Campus must rest with the university administration and the national government. The role of the provincial government is to complement, not to supplant.

We will continue to support, but we will not accept being cast as the principal financier for what remains a national obligation,” he said.

Governor Juffa urged the vice-chancellor and the university council to undertake an immediate and transparent review of resource distribution across all campuses with particular attention to the needs of Oro.

He expressed confidently that such a review would lead to a more equitable allocation of funds, staffing, and facilities

Friday April 10, 2025MEDIA RELEASEOro, PNG’s premier production house for agriculture specialists=======================...
10/04/2026

Friday April 10, 2025

MEDIA RELEASE

Oro, PNG’s premier production house for agriculture specialists

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Northern Governor Hon. Gary Juffa says Oro province is a primary engine in Papua New Guinea’s agricultural future.

Speaking at the 29th Graduation of the University of Natural Resources and Environment (UNRE) in Kokopo, Governor Juffa called the National Department of Higher Education, UNRE leadership and development partners to recognize Oro as the designated hub for agricultural specializations.

“Oro has since the early 1970s been the hub or training Papua New Guineans to be skilled captains of the industry.

“For more than five decades, this province has formed the backbone of our nation’s agricultural leadership, producing graduates who not simply follow instructions but command operations, manage estates, and drive agribusiness forward.”

“Let Vudal continue its vital administrative and research functions, but let Oro be resourced and elevated to formally endorsed as the premiere production house for the next generation of Papua New Guinea’s agricultural specialists.”

“The future of our food security and export economy will be grown inn Oro, not just on our farms, but in our classrooms.”

Govenor Juffa said while UNRE maintains its headquarters in East New Britain’s Vudal Campus the Oro provincial campus plays an integral non-negotiable role in ensuring that our nation produces job-ready resilient and innovative agricultural specialists.

“From cocoa and copra to vanilla, food crops and emerging export commodities, Oro’s land and coastal ecosystems offer a living classroom unmatched anywhere in the country.”

“Our campus is not a satellite; it is a production house. We do not simply teach agriculture, we cultivate specialists who understand the realities or smallholder farming, post- harvest management and climate-responsive agronomy.”

“The practical, hands on training delivered in Oro produces graduates who can
walk into any rural community and immediately add value. “The future of sustainable economic growth relies heavily on agricultural downstream processing and export.”

“Without specialists trained to and value at source, to process package and position our products for global markets, we will forever remain suppliers of raw material rather than architects of our own prosperity. Oro graduates are being forged to close that gap.”

Governor Juffa said the 29th graduation in commemoration of 60 years of agricultural service to PNG is by far a regional achievement.

“It is a milestone endeavor of the Pacific people’s way of existence. “Oro is proud to stand at the heart of that Pacific story.”

“From the highlands to the atolls, agriculture is not merely an economic activity, it is identity survival and sovereignty.”

He added that the UNRE graduation signified the Marape-Rosso government’s continued confidence in resourcing the agriculture sector as a core pillar of national purse.

“We acknowledge the government for recognizing the investment of human capital in specialist training that delivers greatest return to our economy.”

Governor Juffa challenged the government to walk the talk and recognize the importance of agriculture ensuring that funding is also allocated especially into rural areas where extension services are much needed.

He aded that there is also a need to train our people how to farm commercially not just subsistence farming, maximum utilization of the land ensuring that it is sustainable and environmentally friendly.

“PNG can reap so much from farming. We are a fortunate country in that greater of majority of our people are able to take care of themselves, in the event of food shortage around the world, we would be best placed to protect and look after ourselves.”

“We can also do more for others if we learn how to engage in commercial farming practices. The government needs to fund these activities, especially in rural parts of PNG, gravely affected by the 1995 reforms which saw the shutting down of these programs as funds were withdrawn back to Waigani.”

Address

Popondetta

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