University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) Chancellor, Sir Robert Igara has hailed the last group of graduating students from the School of Medicine and Health Sciences as both a milestone achievement and a turning point in the nation’s medical education history.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony this morning at the Sir John Guise Indoor Stadium in Port Moresby city, Sir Robert announced that the school has produced a total of 1,507 graduates over the past five years since 2022, including the 318 students graduating in the current cohort.
The group includes international students and award recipients across a range of qualifications, from diplomas to higher postgraduate degrees.
Of the graduates, 238 received bachelor’s degrees and 11 earned diplomas in specialized cross-sector areas, while 69 were awarded postgraduate qualifications, including master’s degrees and higher postgraduate diplomas.
Chancellor Sir Robert commended the school for maintaining strong academic standards and leadership in health education.
He also highlighted gender representation, noting that women made up 52% of the graduating class, a figure he described as a significant achievement for the institution.
“This is not only a moment of completion, but one of tradition, legacy, and continuity,” Sir Robert said.
The ceremony marked the final graduation of the School of Medicine and Health Sciences under UPNG, ahead of its transition into the new Papua New Guinea University of Medicine and Health Sciences, which is expected to admit its first students in January 2027.
Sir Robert reflected on the school’s long-standing contribution since becoming part of UPNG in 1957, describing it as a pillar of excellence that has trained generations of doctors, nurses, and public health professionals serving communities across Papua New Guinea.
Addressing the graduates, he emphasized their unique role as the final cohort to carry the UPNG medical school legacy.
“You stand as the bridge between the past and a promising future,” he said, acknowledging the challenges students faced throughout their studies, including demanding clinical training and long hours of preparation.
The ceremony also included a tribute to a graduate who was awarded their qualification posthumously, recognizing their academic achievement and contribution.
Sir Robert urged graduates to view their qualifications not just as academic credentials but as a call to service, stressing the urgent need to strengthen Papua New Guinea’s healthcare system.
“Whether you serve in urban hospitals or rural health centres, your role extends beyond clinical care. You are leaders, educators, and advocates for the well-being of our people,” he said.
He also thanked families, friends, and academic staff for their support and contributions, acknowledging their role in the success of the graduates and the institution.
Looking ahead, Sir Robert said the foundation built by the school will guide the new university as it continues its mission to train competent and compassionate health professionals.
He added that a formal joint assembly will be held once leadership for the new institution is appointed, marking the next phase of collaboration and nation-building.
He congratulated the graduating students as they prepare to enter the workforce at a critical time for the country’s healthcare sector.
