Intrigued Internet Learners in Papua New Guinea

Due to the government of Papua New Guinea's lack or inability to provide effective and efficient communication and research methods to it's citizens, communication is very difficult in most parts of Papua New Guinea. Thanks to Digicel phone company and the government's very own B-Mobile for providing effective communication through their brands of cellphones to very remote parts of Papua New Guinea. Friends and loved ones in PNG's remotest parts can now be reached from anywhere around the world.

Glen Laro Bunah (right) and Solomon Ulg Ketepa enjoying the weekend in a restaurant in Mount Hagen, WHP, PNG

However, Internet excess is minimal or at it's infant stage in Papua New Guinea. Students and even those who are working either in the private or public sectors do not have Internet excess. Providing Internet excess to as many Papua New Guineans as possible either at school or work is important if PNG wants to move forward. In the twenty-first century where the world is fast becoming a global marketplace as well as one nation through the click of a mouse, PNG should formulate and provide avenues for intrigued Internet learners.

Glen Laro Bunah (left) and Johna Ulg Ketepa enjoying each other's company

The government should provide or introduce computer classes as well as providing computers for all schools in the country so that students can learn when they are young. Unfortunately, I didn't have the chance to lay my hands on the computer after I came to the US. There are some people who are so enthusiastic about learning more about this magnificent way of sending emails and receiving emails as well as the many qualities that the Internet brings with it.

It's encouraging to see members of parliament like Mr. Sam Basil who wants students of his electorate to have Internet excess in most of the schools in Bulolo and Wau. There are Internet cafes in most of the towns for people to have excess to the Internet but the fees per minute or hour is so excessive.

Mr. Glen Laro Bunah - a recently graduated primary school teacher is an intrigued Internet learner who is having a lot of fun during the weekends trying his new hobby by having his hands on the computer at a local Internet cafe to send me pictures and email. I was surprised when I receive emails and pictures attached with each email. He tells me that he is having fun surfing the Internet as well as learning more while using the Internet.

From (L-R) Solomon Ulg Ketepa, Glen Laro Bunah, and Johna Ulg Ketepa having time off out of their busy study schedules

My friendly advice to those who are wondering around the corners of Papua New Guinea, perhaps, it's a good idea to visit a Internet cafe to browse through the Internet and apply for a job, send an email, find something to read, do some research, etc... it's indeed a good tool to keep you acquainted and abreast of the latest developments in PNG and worldwide.

Distance can be a barrier but with the click of a mouse, I can talk to Glen Laro Bunah and all my folks in the village, near the foot of Mount Hagen, Western Highlands Province. Technology can work wonders for many who come to know how to use it. Papua New Guinea has a long way to go but if we can set our priorities right, we may slowly change things one at a time in the areas of communication and research.

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