Minister for Agriculture and Obura-Wonenara MP Mr. John Boito, has paid a heartfelt tribute to the Summer Institute of Linguistics (SIL) for its 70 years of service in Papua New Guinea describing its presence in Ukarumpa, Eastern Highlands Province as a “covenant between the people of the world and the people of this land.”
Speaking during the organisation’s platinum jubilee celebrations in the Aiyura Valley today, on behalf of Prime Minister Marape, Minister Boito said “SIL is an integral part of my district. This is not just an anniversary — it is a moment of national pride.”
Mr. Boito paid special tribute to the original landowners and chiefs of the 1950s who made Ukarumpa possible.
“At a time when strangers came with a request for land, our chiefs did something remarkable. They did not see outsiders as threats — they saw partners for progress.” He said their decision to give up land for the mission laid the foundation for education, health services and spiritual growth that continues today.
“We stand on your soil and we thank you for your sacrifice. Your ancestors were visionary.”
Whilst acknowledging the pioneers such as Dr Richard Pittman and early linguists who ventured into remote and rugged terrain without modern infrastructure Mr. Boito said “Founded in 1956, SIL’s work in Papua New Guinea has expanded far beyond Bible translation”
“There were no roads, no phones, no internet, only rugged trails and determination. They lived in our villages, ate our food, and became part of our lives.”
From those beginnings, Ukarumpa developed into a unique centre supporting, aviation services, education, including Ukarumpa International School, medical outreach, language research and documentation.
As Agriculture Minister, Boito highlighted the role of SIL in supporting rural livelihoods in the Aiyura Valley.
“SIL did not just bring the Bible — they brought literacy, skills, and support for farmers.”
He pointed to the Ukarumpa market as an example of grassroots economic development where it created a platform for local farmers to sell fresh produce, a training ground for small-scale entrepreneurs, a link between rural producers and wider markets.
Minister Boito said this aligns with the Government’s National Agriculture Sector Plan 2024–2033, aimed at building a self-reliant economy.
My goal is to see backyard gardeners become formal entrepreneur. He also noted opportunities for collaboration between SIL’s language network and agricultural research institutions such as Aiyura Research Station.
Minister Boito emphasised that language is central to Papua New Guinea’s identity. “When a language dies, a piece of our history dies with it.”
He praised SIL’s achievement in translating the New Testament into over 200 PNG languages and working across more than 400 language communities. “You have told our people that God speaks their language.”
In a deeply personal segment, Boito recognised “Ukarumpa kids” — children of missionaries who grew up in the valley and now live around the world.
“They are doctors, teachers, engineers and pilots — but wherever they go, they carry Ukarumpa in their hearts.”
He described them as global ambassadors for Papua New Guinea. “You grew up here, eating kaukau and pitpit, playing in our hills. You carry the spirit of PNG into the world.”
Looking ahead, Minister Boito challenged both SIL and local partners to continue the legacy of the pioneers.
“Do not let the fire of 1956 fade. Continue to innovate, honour the landowners, and ensure every Papua New Guinean can hear and read in their own language.”
Church leaders at the event also highlighted the role of Bible translation in nation-building, peace, and community development, noting that language-based translation has strengthened faith, it has contributed to peace in a highly diverse society, the work remains ongoing due to evolving cultures and languages.
A representative from the National Agriculture Research Institute also called for stronger partnerships between science, government, and organisations like SIL.
As Papua New Guinea celebrates 50 years of independence, the 70-year journey of SIL stands as a reminder of long-term commitment to language preservation, education and literacy, rural development, faith and community transformation.
“Seventy years is not just history it is a foundation for the future,” Minister Boito said.