By GEORGINA MICHAEL
PARLIAMENT yesterday passed the Pacific Adventist University Bill 2026 unanimously, with a vote of 60-0.
The legislation seeks to repeal and replace the Pacific Adventist University Act 1997, providing a modern legal and governance framework for Pacific Adventist University (PAU).
Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (DHERST), Hon. Kinoka Feo, who tabled the Bill in Parliament, said higher education institutions were the “engine rooms” that produce the thinkers, innovators, professionals and leaders needed to drive Papua New Guinea’s national development agenda in the decades ahead.
“This Bill represents a significant step forward in modernising the legal framework for one of Papua New Guinea’s leading private universities, Pacific Adventist University (PAU),” Minister Feo said.
He said the Bill would:
- Repeal and replace the outdated Pacific Adventist University Act 1997 with a modern legislative framework;
- Confirm PAU’s legal personality;
- Strengthen institutional governance;
- Enhance the university’s financial and commercial powers;
- Empower the university council;
- Align institutional governance arrangements; and
- Provide transitional provisions.
Minister Feo said the legislation was not merely an administrative reform but a strategic measure to support PAU’s growth and contribution to national education and economic development.
“It is strategic. It aligns PAU’s growth trajectory with national education and economic development goals,” he said.
He said the Bill was also aligned with the Government’s national development priorities and the Medium Term Development Plan IV (MTDP IV), particularly in improving education outcomes, promoting knowledge industries and building a productive and inclusive economy.
Minister Feo said the Bill was developed through broad consultation and had undergone legal clearances involving DHERST, the Church, the State Solicitor’s Office and the First Legislative Counsel.
“There are no direct costs to the National Government arising from the enactment of the Bill. PAU will continue to fund its operations through tuition fees, church support, commercial initiatives and development partnerships,” he said.
In closing, Minister Feo described the legislation as a forward-looking reform that would support the Government’s vision of a knowledge-based economy and a globally competitive Papua New Guinea.
“The Pacific Adventist University Bill 2026 is a forward-looking reform. It supports the Government’s vision of a knowledge-based economy and a globally competitive PNG,” he said.