Marape urges public servants to lift standards citing low doctor numbers

Prime Minister James Marape says Papua New Guinea must urgently improve its doctor-to-patient ratio, warning that the country remains among the lowest not only in the Pacific but globally.

Mr Marape said strengthening the health workforce must be part of PNG’s reform agenda as the country moves into its next 50 years.

Speaking at the opening of a new multi-purpose hall at the University of Papua New Guinea’s School of Medicine and Health Sciences, the Prime Minister said hardworking doctors, nurses and lecturers continue to carry the health system despite ongoing challenges.

He commended medical educators, including senior lecturer Sir Professor Isi Kevau, for their dedication to training new doctors even though they “were not on top-range salaries”.

Mr Marape said improving the health sector requires stronger effort across all levels of government and the public service.

“If you are a public servant, put PNG first, and work hard for your country,” he said.

He urged public servants to give “100 percent effort” in their jobs, regardless of position or pay grade.

“It is not about where you are placed; it is about a 100 per cent effort. We do not have to wait for multimillions to do a job but work for an outcome that is beneficial for our people,” he said.

“As we have gone through 50 years of independence, this is a call to every Papua New Guinean to rise up and work hard and to do this to the best of your ability," he said.

Mr Marape also commended Well Builders Ltd, the Philippine contractor that delivered the new hall on time and within its K3.8 million budget.

The facility is part of Phase 1 of the medical school’s transition into becoming a standalone institution the PNG University of Medicine and Health Sciences within the next three to four years, following legislation passed by Parliament in October.