Eastern Highlands Provincial Member Sia has acknowledged the concerns raised by Eastern Highlands students attending the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) regarding delays in the provincial government’s education subsidy program.

Governor Sia said the students’ concerns were genuine, noting that they are legally entitled to receive the funds allocated under the subsidy initiative.

Since taking office, Governor Sia said the Eastern Highlands Provincial Government (EHPG) has invested more than K30 million into education programs across the province — including tuition fee subsidies for tertiary students and infrastructure improvements in schools to enhance the quality of education.

“No Governor in Eastern Highlands Province has started a subsidy program. I began this initiative in 2023 after seeing how rural farmers struggle to support their children’s education.

“Many dig deep into their pockets to pay school fees, and I felt it was important to help.”

He refuted claims that Eastern Highlands students at UPNG were sidelined for two consecutive years, clarifying that the delay in 2024 was due to UPNG’s new policy prohibiting bulk payments. According to Governor Sia a cheque of K339,900.00 was raised to deposit.

“They missed out because of their policy. Our officers contacted the university’s bursar’s office to find alternative options, but we received no response. So, who is at fault?”

Governor Sia also rejected proposals from student leaders to transfer the subsidy funds into their association account or distribute them individually, calling such suggestions “daylight corruption.”

“Those suggestions don’t follow my way of doing things. We don’t have any issues with other universities and colleges, so why is UPNG the only one with this policy?”

The Governor explained that delays in 2025 payments were caused by a Department of Finance directive to transition to a new cloud-based financial management system, which required additional time for officers to learn and adapt to.

Despite the challenges, Governor Sia confirmed that payments have now been processed online, and student leaders are asked to check with their Finance Team. A total of K343,500.00 was paid for 173 students who applied and met all the requirements.

“Student leaders should check with the UPNG Finance Team and confirm with the school bursar that the remittance advice shows the funds deposited into the university’s account.”

Governor Sia concluded by apologizing to students and their families for the delays and reaffirmed his government’s ongoing commitment to supporting education in the province.

“We must continue to support you with your school fees.”