The Students’ Representative Council (SRC) of the Papua New Guinea University of Technology (Unitech) has praised outgoing Chancellor Mr. Sam Koim for what it described as strong, honest, and fearless leadership.
Mr. Koim recently resigned as the institution’s Chancellor to contest the 2025 Dei Open Electorate by-election in Western Highlands Province. He also resigned as IRC General-Commissioner.
Speaking on behalf of the student body, SRC President Mr. Newton Yangharry said Mr. Koim’s service to the university was outstanding and based on strong principles.
“Mr. Sam Koim served Unitech without pay, which shows his integrity and true commitment to public service,” Mr. Yangharry said.
“His leadership helped bring discipline, accountability, and clear direction to the university.”
Mr. Koim served as Chancellor and Chair of Council during a time of major reforms at Unitech. Under his leadership, the university strengthened governance systems and improved its national and international reputation.
Mr. Yangharry said important achievements during Mr. Koim’s term included the international accreditation of engineering programs and the introduction of the Unitech Strategic Plan 2025–2029.
“These achievements have strengthened Unitech’s position as Papua New Guinea’s leading university for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics,” he said.
The SRC President said Mr. Koim showed courage by making tough decisions and always putting the interests of students and the country first.
“In a challenging environment, he stood firm and made decisions based on ethics and accountability,” Mr. Yangharry said.
Mr. Yangharry also commended Mr. Koim for resigning as Chancellor before entering politics, describing it as a rare and principled decision.
“His resignation shows respect for democracy and the independence of our institutions,” he said. “This is the kind of leadership our country needs.”
The student body believes Mr. Koim’s leadership qualities—discipline, integrity, and courage—are needed beyond the university.
“Leadership does not stop at the university gate. It continues in national service,” Mr. Yangharry said in a media statement.
On behalf of all students, President Yangharry thanked Mr. Koim for his service and wished him well in his political campaign.
“We thank Mr. Sam Koim for his dedication to Unitech and wish him success in the Dei Open by-election,” Mr. Yangharry said.
“We believe he will serve the people with honors and distinction if given the opportunity.”