Papua New Guinea had sent FORTY-three science, technology, engineering and mathematics (Stem) students from the country’s six National Schools of Excellence for studies in the United States last weekend.
Education secretary Dr Uke Kombra said the students were awarded the Stem scholarship by the Education Department to study in two universities for four years.
Kombra said 13 of the students would study at Nicholls State University and 30 in South Dakota State University.
He said the programme was part of the Government’s aim to send students overseas for specific courses not available in the country.
“They will study various courses at the two universities,” he said.
“The courses are mechanical engineering, bio-chemistry and chemistry, computer and software engineering, petrol energy engineering, molecular and cellular biology, electrical and electronic engineering, civil engineering, agriculture bio-systems engineering and construction engineering in data science.”
Kombra said six of the students were from Passam National High School, seven from Wawin, five from Kerewat, nine from Port Moresby National High, three from Aiyura and 13 from Sogeri National High.
Fifteen were female students, he said.
“We believe and pray that the students will succeed in their respective field of studies,” Kombra said.
Education Minister Jimmy Uguro said he believed the country would benefit from the specialised skills of young, intelligent pioneers in science and technology in manufacturing.
“The Government, Education Department as well as your parents have confidence in you,” he said.
“Let your success inspire fellow young Papua New Guineans, your future is not on streets but in education.”
While addressing the students, Uguro also asked them: “When is Papua New Guinea going to manufacture the first plane and car since we are going to develop engineers out there.”
Prime Minister James Marape said he looked forward to strengthen the programme so that it continued in the future.
“I encourage all of you students to make the best of the opportunities and do well in your studies,” he said.
Statement
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