The 'Golden Years' of University Education in PNG: Approaching the Fiftieth Anniversary of the University of Papua New Guinea

The University of Papua New Guinea is approaching its fiftieth anniversary, in 2015, 2016, or 2017 depending on what is being measured. At a time when the spotlight is on higher education in PNG, following the Garnaut/Namaliu Review, it is worth going back in time to the origins and early years of the premier university in PNG to see something of what made it a place of stimulation, excitement, and learning. This article begins the exercise of developing a history of UPNG and argues that a comprehensive history of higher education in Papua New Guinea will be revealing and informative, helping PNG as it makes its way to a prosperous future.