High Commissioner of India to Papua New Guinea, His Excellency Shri Rajeev Kumar, has recently pointed out the growing opportunities for Papua New Guinean students to pursue affordable and quality higher education during the Study in India Education Fair held on the 22nd and 23rd of September at the Indian High Commission, Port Moresby.

Speaking to the audience present, H.E said India’s higher education system offers several advantages, including affordability, scholarships, English-medium instruction and strong programs in fields relevant to PNG’s development needs.

“India’s higher education system is one of the largest in the world, enrolling around 45 million students across nearly 70,000 institutions.”

The Ambassador identified engineering, information technology, computer science, business administration, health sciences and agriculture as areas where Indian universities have strong programs that could benefit PNG students.

He also mentioned scholarship and partnership opportunities, including support from the Indian Council for Cultural Relations, as well as programs involving Indian universities and PNG institutions.

“This makes quality tertiary education realistic for many families who would find Western options prohibitively expensive.”

According to the Ambassador, some Indian universities have provided tuition discounts and other support for PNG students, while provincial initiatives have also created opportunities for students, including those from Flexible Open and Distance Education backgrounds.

He said studying in India could also provide young Papua New Guineans with international exposure, practical skills and multicultural networks while allowing them to study at a comparatively lower cost than in countries such as the United States and United Kingdom.

“Unlike more expensive Western destinations, this global exposure occurs within a developing-country context that many find more relatable, while still delivering internationally recognized credentials.”

The Ambassador said returning graduates could contribute to PNG’s development in areas such as infrastructure, technology, healthcare, agriculture and governance.

Koiari Park Secondary School Teacher Mr. Peter Naina, gave positive feedback of the education fair, stating it was a good opportunity for students to explore scholarship options.

“Some of these students are really passionate about studying in India.”

He added that with the advancement of technology, studying in countries like India is advantageous.

“India can offer study options in technology and especially in subjects like AI. Those courses are useful for Papua New Guinea students to gain knowledge in and to also apply it in the country.”

Similarly, Grade 11 student attendee, Ethan Robinson spoke of his experience at the fair stating that the fair was a great way to showcase multiple pathways students can take after secondary school studies.

“Apart from the universities in Papua New Guinea, we also have options outside, don’t take it for granted.”