By PHIHILIPPAJOY PAARENU, UPNG Journalism Student
THE University of Papua New Guinea Milne Bay Students Union (UPNGMBSU) has sponsored the Social Science Dux Award at Kiriwina Secondary School in Milne Bay Province, presenting a laptop to the top-performing student.
The initiative follows a public appeal by the school on Facebook for support towards its graduation awards, with the Union responding to encourage academic excellence and inspire students to pursue higher education.
The Union also acknowledged the contribution of Foundation Engineering Technics (FET) and its CEO, Mr. Mark Ernest, who provided logistics support to ensure the prize was delivered on time before graduation.
During the handover, FET Logistics Assistant Officer, Omarr, received the laptop bag from the Union’s Chairman and Public Relations Officer.
While some community members have questioned the fairness of awarding a laptop to a single student, the Union emphasized that the sponsorship is meant to encourage excellence and highlight the importance of equipping top-performing students with tools that support their academic journey.
The sponsorship underscores UPNG MBSU’s commitment to empowering Milne Bay youth and strengthening pathways to tertiary education, while also fostering partnerships with stakeholders who share the vision of educational advancement in Papua New Guinea.