A final-year student from Sonoma Adventist College has commended Minister for Rural and Economic Development, Joseph Lelang, for his long-standing sponsorship scheme, saying it has provided life-changing support for students from remote communities. Bradley Kaumu, originally from Kove District in West New Britain Province, is completing his Diploma in Accounting and Management and currently serves as President of the School of Business at Sonoma. He credited the Minister’s scholarship initiative for easing the financial burdens faced by many rural students and giving them a chance to succeed. “The scholarship helped us a lot,” Kaumu said in a recent interview. “Most of our parents are subsistence farmers, earning very little — sometimes less than K500 a fortnight. Without this scheme, many of us wouldn’t have made it this far.” Kaumu recounted his struggles after failing to progress beyond Grade 10 in his home province, eventually relocating to East New Britain to finish secondary school at Kambubu Adventist Secondary. His breakthrough came when he was accepted into Sonoma Adventist College — and joined the Kandrian District sponsorship scheme in 2023. “The Minister’s support gave me hope,” he said. “We can focus on our studies without the fear of being suspended for not paying fees. That peace of mind makes a huge difference.” Minister Lelang, who recently spoke at a Department of Implementation and Rural Development event, emphasized his commitment to investing in young people. “I believe our children are the future,” he said. “That’s why I introduced this scholarship scheme back in 2013. It supports students from very remote areas by covering 100% of tuition fees, while parents contribute to travel, pocket money, and book allowances.” The scheme has helped more than 5,000 students since its inception, and the Minister reaffirmed that human capital development must go hand in hand with infrastructure investment. Kaumu called on citizens to back leaders who prioritize education. “This is the kind of leader we need,” he said. “Someone who invests in human resources. If we continue to support leaders like him, more young people will be empowered to help build this country.” As he prepares to graduate at the end of 2025, Kaumu says his goal is to return home and contribute meaningfully to the development of West New Britain.