SILAG moves closer to university status

SILAG Chief Executive Officer Michael Barobe (seated centre) says the institute is one step closer to becoming Papua New Guinea's first public service university. (NBC News)

The Somare Institute of Leadership and Governance [SILAG] has completed its final stakeholder consultation on the proposed Somare Public Service University Bill 2027.

The consultation was held at the Stanley Hotel in Port Moresby and brought together government department heads, legal experts and other key stakeholders to review the draft bill.

SILAG Chief Executive Officer Michael Barobe said the consultation is the final step before the bill is sent for legal clearance and government approval.

He said comments from stakeholders will be included before the bill is submitted to the Solicitor General, State Solicitor and the First Legislative Counsel. It will then go to the National Executive Council and Parliament.

SILAG will begin its 4-year degree programs in 2027. (NBC News)

Mr Barobe said SILAG has already met the requirements set by the Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology to become a university.

He said if Parliament approves the bill, SILAG will begin offering four-year degree programs in 2027.

Mr Barobe said the bill is expected to be presented to Parliament during its final sitting this year.

If passed, the Somare Public Service University will become Papua New Guinea's first university dedicated to training the country's public service workforce.