Today, I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the support provided through the Higher Education Loan Program (HELP), as this initiative has played a critical role in enabling me to complete my tertiary education.
I am Gedion Sakao from Tsak Valley in Enga Province, and I graduated with a Bachelor of Communication Arts (Journalism) during Divine Word University’s 44th Graduation Ceremony, held on Friday, March 6, 2026.
Related news: https://www.pmnec.gov.pg/more-than-35000-students-benefit-from-marape-governments-higher-education-loan-programme-help/
Access to the HELP Loan Program significantly reduced the financial burden associated with my university studies.
Over the years, I have seen many students from disadvantaged backgrounds struggle to meet the rising costs of tuition and boarding fees at tertiary institutions, often forcing them to withdraw before completing their studies.
If the HELP Loan Program had not been available, many students—especially those from poor families—would not have been able to complete their university studies.
During my four years at Divine Word University, the program helped cover a substantial portion of my expenses.
Each year, my sponsors (parents) paid 60 percent of my tuition fees, while the remaining 40 percent, including boarding and lodging costs, was covered under the HELP Loan. This support greatly eased my financial burden.
I consider the HELP Loan a life-saving initiative by the current government, as it has helped address the financial challenges faced by students and parents in meeting the high cost of tertiary education.
I am also confident about the loan repayment process, as completing my university studies was my primary concern.
The most important thing for me is that I have successfully completed my studies. Once I am employed, I will be more than willing to repay the loan in accordance with the repayment arrangements.
Reflecting on my academic journey, I completed Grade 12 at Sir Tei Abal Secondary School in Wabag in 2019 and was initially accepted to study at the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG).
However, I was unable to attend due to financial constraints.
I stayed at home for two years before applying to Divine Word University, where I was accepted into the Communication Arts (Journalism) program in 2022.
I would like to highlight that many students across the country continue to face challenges with school fees, as most parents do not have a regular income to meet the high cost of tertiary education.
I hope that continued support mechanisms for higher education will help more young Papua New Guineans access and complete their university studies.