In 1975, when Papua New Guinea gained independence, our founding leaders envisioned a nation built on unity, self-reliance, and sustainability. This vision was enshrined in our 5 National Goals and Directive Principles, forming the foundation of our National Constitution. As we celebrate 50 years of independence, it is a moment to reflect on these guiding principles and how they continue to shape our country today.

A Land of a Thousand Tribes – Strength in Diversity

Papua New Guinea is home to over 800 languages and a thousand tribes—one of the most culturally diverse nations on Earth. Our National Goals recognize this richness and call on us to embrace our many ways of doing and being, not just for our own development, but as PNG’s contribution to the world.

At Piku Biodiversity Network, we have been actively informing and engaging young people about these goals, ensuring that the next generation understands the responsibilities that come with independence. By reconnecting with our foundational principles, we strengthen our collective ability to create a sustainable future for all Papua New Guineans.

Our Responsibilities as Citizens of PNG

The 5 National Goals highlight our responsibilities at different levels of society:

1️⃣ To Self, in Relation to Others – Recognizing that our individual actions impact those around us and fostering integral human development.

2️⃣ To Community – Ensuring equality, participation, and the well-being of the people within our villages, towns, and provinces.

3️⃣ To Country – Upholding national sovereignty and self-reliance, working towards a strong and independent PNG.

4️⃣ To Nature and Future Generations – Protecting our environment, our resources, and the cultural heritage that connects us to our land.

5️⃣ To the World – Sharing our unique identity and ways of life, ensuring that PNG’s traditional knowledge, values, and resilience contribute to global progress.

Looking Ahead – The Future is in Our Hands

As we stand at this 50-year milestone, we must ask ourselves: How do we continue to uphold the vision of our forefathers? Our National Goals provide a clear pathway forward, but it is up to each of us to carry them out. Whether through education, conservation, cultural preservation, or governance, we all have a role to play in shaping the next 50 years.

At Piku Biodiversity Network, we remain committed to fostering a future where our people, environment, and traditions thrive. As we celebrate PNG’s Golden Jubilee, let us honor our responsibilities—to ourselves, to our communities, to our country, to nature and future generations, and to the world.Together, we can build a stronger, more resilient, and more united Papua New Guinea.

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