The Provincial Member for Western Highlands, Wai Rapa has mobilized an emergency convoy to evacuate 700 students studying at the University of Goroka in Eastern Highlands Province.
The students are from his province.
A reliable source in Mt Hagen told us that the convoy is in motion for the rescue mission.
In a statement released today, it read the convoy includes 22 coaster buses and about 15 fully armed police vehicles. They travelled from Mt. Hagen to Goroka this morning to bring home about 700 Western Highlands students studying at the university.
Mr Rapa took this action after violent clashes broke out on the campus and nearby areas over the weekend.
The cause of the fight is still unclear, but several students were injured and the situation remains tense.
Provincial Member Rapa said the Police 07 Mobile Squad from Hagen was already in Goroka to assess the situation and provide security.
But after continued reports of violence and growing fear from parents, he decided to launch a full rescue operation today. Related news: https://www.nbc.com.pg/post/29228/uog-clash-with-locals-leaves-51-injured-including-47-students
He said parents are worried, and as the provincial leader, he must protect the students.
“Our students are the future leaders of this province,” he said.
He said he was sending the buses with police escort to bring all Western Highlands students home, including the injured, so they can receive medical care, counselling, and other support.
He shared his sympathy for parents who have been anxious since the unrest started.
He assured them that the provincial government is doing everything possible to keep their children safe and return them home quickly.
“Your children will be brought back safely under the protection of our police and provincial education division,” he said in a statement.
Mr Rapa also noted ongoing security problems along the Lower Highlands Highway, especially in parts of the Eastern Highlands Province. Related news: https://www.thepngsun.com/ngcb-backs-2025-goroka-show-as-naming-rights-sponsor-with-k400000/
These areas continue to pose risks to travellers and students.
He called for better police presence and stronger cooperation between provinces to stop similar incidents in the future.
He is calling for calm among the students while encouraging all Western Highlands students to work with the evacuation teams and focus on their safety above everything else.