By GLADYS KILA
JEREMIAH Babaga’s remarkable education journey from a humble background to earning a degree is an inspiring story that reveals how determination, resilience, and the power of media.
Babaga once thought all doors were closed but he navigated through to realize his dream of walking away with an accounting degree.
In 2020, Babaga graduated from Kwikila Secondary School, in Rigo Central province, embracing a lifelong dream of becoming an accountant. However, his ambitions faced a daunting obstacle – the steep tuition fees of K24 000 per year at the Institute of Business Studies University (IBSU).
With his mother earning an annual income of just K1,000 from selling food at Koki Market, Babaga knew his dream of becoming an accountant would not be possible.
Undeterred, he chose Port Moresby Business College, where he was accepted into the accounting program, demonstrating his commitment to education despite financial hardships.
His life took an unexpected turn when he was approached by Rebecca Kuku of the Post Courier, who was in search of compelling back-to-school stories in 2020 at Koki Market.
In an impromptu interview, Babaga shared his struggles and aspirations, not realizing the impact his words would have. In a twist of fate, founder of IBS University, Sir Mick Nades who learned Babaga’s story through the Post Courier reached out to offer him a remarkable scholarship opportunity.
“I want to personally thank the media,” Babaga said. “They play a powerful role in enhancing and transforming lives. I never anticipated that my story would attract such a significant opportunity.”
The scholarship not only aided Babaga’s education with funding—initially covering K8,000 for his first semester—but also came with strict academic requirements.
Babaga had to maintain his academic performance to continue receiving financial support. He embraced this challenge wholeheartedly, recognizing it as a pivotal moment in his life.
“I realized that this was an opportunity I could not let slip away,” he reflected. “It was not just about me anymore; my family’s sacrifices pushed me to work harder.”
Over the next four years, Babaga excelled academically, earning the respect of his peers and faculty. His graduation marked a significant achievement not just for himself but also for the students from disadvantaged backgrounds who aspire to overcome similar obstacles.
After completing his 4th year, Babaga utilized LinkedIn to share his success story, which caught the attention of BSP Financial Group of companies. This networking led to a job offer.
However, Babaga worked only for 4 months with the BSP when IBS Founder, Sir Mick Nades reached out to him once again offering him a full-time job with the University’s Finance Department, a testament to his dedication and hard work.
Banaga’s story is not just inspiring; it’s a reflection of what can be achieved with perseverance and the right support. His journey serves as a reminder that education is a powerful tool for change.
Babaga’s experiences have also instilled in him a desire to uplift others who find themselves in similar circumstances. In a recent speech addressing current students, he emphasized the importance of embracing opportunities regardless of one’s background.
As Jeremiah Babaga steps into his new role, he carries with him not just a degree, but also a powerful narrative that inspires hope and resilience.
His journey underscores impact that media, community support, and individual perseverance can have on shaping the futures of Papua New Guinea’s youths.
Babaga was one among the 200 who graduated with a Bachelor of Accounting and Finance from IBS University on Wednesday 9th of April, 2025.