The Papua New Guinea Christian Professionals Network (PNGCPN) hosted its sixth Minds Meet event in Mt Hagen, bringing together over 200 participants from across the country.
Themed “The Intergenerational Discussion – Learning from the Past 50 Years to Forge the Next 50 in PNG”, the event marked a significant moment in the lead-up to PNG’s 50th independence anniversary.
PNGCPN CEO Samuel Ray emphasised the organisation’s commitment to grassroots engagement.
“We are bringing these discussions to the provinces, districts, and LLGs so that more Papua New Guineans can participate and contribute to shaping solutions for national issues. Minds Meet is about inclusive dialogue and local ownership of change,” he said.
In her opening remarks, Minister Counsellor at the Australian High Commission, Ms. Penny Morton, underscored the value of community-led initiatives,
“Forums like Minds Meet matter. They allow ideas to be tested, voices to be heard, and solutions to be shaped by those who live the realities they seek to change,” she said.
Participants engaged in discussions on key national issues, including economic empowerment, education, governance, and foreign policy, with calls for:
- A homegrown development model leveraging PNG’s unique land ownership system and agricultural potential.
- Modernising education to prepare youth for a global, tech-driven future.
- Strengthening governance and transparency, while amplifying PNG’s voice in international forums.
AustRalia’s support for PNGCPN and initiatives like Minds Meet reflects a shared commitment to inclusive dialogue, community leadership, and locally driven solutions.
As PNG looks ahead to its next 50 years, Australia remains a steadfast partner in empowering citizens to shape their future and drive positive change from the ground up.
Minds Meet will be broadcast on EMTV on Monday 25 August.
For further information, including access to related materials, please contact the Australian High Commission media team: +675 7090 0100