The Vice Minister for Public Service, Francis Siune, addressed graduands at the Somare Institute of Leadership and Governance (SILAG) graduation ceremony, emphasizing the importance of ethical governance, accountability, and service delivery in Papua New Guinea’s public sector.

Speaking at the event, Siune highlighted that public servants are now witnessing the positive impact of their investments in career advancement, describing it as a value-added achievement for the nation. He stated that PNG stands at a critical turning point in its governance history, where the strength of public institutions, leadership integrity, and policy adaptability will determine the country’s future success.

“Public servants and graduands, your leadership journey begins today,” Siune declared. “This marks a new era in your public service life—one where you must rise above past limitations, embrace moral governance, and deliver tangible results for our people.”

Reflecting on the legacies of PNG’s founding leaders, the late Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare and Sir Julius Chan, Siune urged the graduands to draw inspiration from their principled leadership. “We honor these leaders not just for their achievements, but for the enduring governance principles they upheld—principles that must guide us into the future,” he said.

He reminded the graduating public servants that leadership is not about power but responsibility. “It is about collaboration, ensuring that service delivery reaches our people. As public servants, our duty to serve begins at home. If you cannot serve your own family, how can you serve the nation?”

Siune stressed that the public service must evolve beyond tradition, transforming systems to meet national demands. “Transformation remains critical. Public service must be defined by action—officers must focus on results, policies must improve livelihoods, not just remain as written reports,” he asserted.

Calling for ethical governance at all levels, Siune emphasized transparency, accountability, and institutional excellence. “Reform agencies must drive progress, leaders must challenge inefficiency, and governance must modernize to meet contemporary needs,” he said.

In his closing remarks, the Vice Minister urged the new graduates to begin their careers with a mindset of service to PNG and its people, reinforcing that the future of the nation depends on their commitment to principled and effective leadership.

The ceremony marked a significant milestone for the graduands, who now step into their roles as the next generation of PNG’s public service leaders.