The National Parliament has unanimously passed the Pacific Adventist University Bill 2026, strengthening the legal framework for one of Papua New Guinea’s major higher education institutions and reinforcing the Government’s push to invest in the country’s future workforce.
The Bill was passed today with 62 votes in favour and none against, with Prime Minister James Marape describing the bipartisan support as a significant milestone for higher education and national development.
PM Marape congratulated Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology Minister Kinoka Feo for steering the legislation through Parliament and acknowledged the Pacific Adventist University Council, the Seventh-day Adventist Church and other stakeholders involved in the reform process.
“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,” PM Marape said in a statement yesterday.
“Education remains one of the most powerful investments any nation can make.”
“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.”
PM Marape said the new legislation modernizes the governance framework of Pacific Adventist University by replacing the outdated 1997 Act with legislation reflecting contemporary higher education standards, stronger governance, greater accountability and institutional autonomy.
He said the reforms were consistent with the Government’s broader agenda to strengthen tertiary institutions and better 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.”
PM 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.
He said Pacific Adventist University had become one of PNG’s respected institutions of higher learning, producing graduates serving across government, business, healthcare, education, ministry and other sectors.
PM Marape said the passage of the legislation 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. Investing in our universities means investing in our young people, our future leaders and the long-term prosperity of our nation,” he said.
“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.”