Education is not an expense — it is a long-term investment that shapes character, unlocks potential, and secures the future of Huon Gulf District.
Huon Gulf MP and Chairman of the Huon Gulf District Development Authority (HGDDA), Hon. Jason Peter, made these remarks while presenting K1.05 million to tertiary institutions nationwide as part of the district’s ongoing scholarship programme. This presentation is the first tranche of the district’s K1.9 million education allocation for the current fiscal year.
“Today we are not talking about physical wealth, cargo, or social status; we are talking about education,” Mr Peter said. “Too often people think education is simply sitting in a classroom, reading books, and passing exams. It goes far deeper than that. It is about shaping character and discovering the true potential of every child in our district.”
Invoking Nelson Mandela’s belief that education is the most powerful weapon to change the world, Mr Peter reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to human resource development. Under his leadership, Huon Gulf has prioritised education funding, committing nearly K3 million annually to the scholarship scheme. That financial backing is complemented by ongoing infrastructure projects.
“We are ensuring that every school receives a double classroom and a teacher’s house, and we are opening two new secondary schools specifically for the students of Huon Gulf,” he said.
Reflecting on the nation’s upcoming milestones, Mr Peter said Huon Gulf is undergoing an institutional “reset” after 50 years. He expressed confidence that the benefits of these investments will become evident over the next 10 to 15 years as local students progress into advanced academic and professional roles.
The MP said his determination to invest in education was strengthened by international travel on state business, where he observed a lack of Morobean representation in top global positions. “When I travel around the world on government duty, it challenges me that I do not see Morobeans occupying those high-level roles,” he said. “That realization drives me to push this programme forward and invest heavily in our children.”
Mr Peter commended the district administration for its diligence, noting he personally follows up on funding releases to ensure students face no financial disruptions and can focus entirely on their studies. Of the K1.9 million allocated for education, the current tranche of K1.05 million has been fully processed and is ready for distribution to institutions across the country.
He emphasised that beneficiary selection is strictly merit-based and governed by transparent criteria to eliminate bias. “As long as I serve as Member of Parliament, the HGDDA and the administration will continue to support the children of Huon Gulf District,” Mr Peter said. “Our children today are our future tomorrow.”
Huon Gulf student representative Charlie Wesley, who received the dummy cheques on behalf of beneficiaries, thanked MP Peter, the HGDDA and the district administration for their continued support of human resource development in the district.