This is a true story. When it was time for George to start primary school in Enga Province, in the highlands of Papua New Guinea, his village was engulfed in a tribal war. Many homes had burned and bridges were destroyed, isolating the community. Most families kept their children safely home.
But George's father was determined to give his children an education, which he had never received. Despite the danger, he courageously carried George through sometimes raging rivers and embarked on the long two-hour walk to school each day. This showed George the power of perseverance in overcoming obstacles.
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Years later, though George aspired to university, he was initially rejected. Through distance learning, however, he gained admission and diligently pursued his studies. However, he found lecturers did not always teach or properly assess assignments. He understood that just a degree not backed up by a real education would not be of much use in today’s world.
George who had been elected as the President of all the students, met me, a European academic from far away, on my first day as Vice-Chancellor (Rector). We shared a vision to improve and reform the university. Inspired by my message that it was important to set high academic standards, he asked the students for support saying "Let's make the university fly together".
During the 6 years that I was Vice-Chancellor, George continued to support me in setting high standards and helping improve education for all students. He often advised the me on challenges faced by the student community.
George later studied abroad in Europe through the European “Erasmus” program. Back home, he continued serving students despite facing barriers to his employment resulting from his support for my reform agenda. Sadly, George passed away too young after contracting COVID-19, but not before sharing his drive for learning with his own children.
George's story proves that with an open mind, determination, and help from allies, one can achieve progress through education despite significant hardships along the journey. He remains an inspiration for those pursuing knowledge against all odds.
(This story was inspired by real events, but names have been changed to protect privacy.)
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