UPNG SRC CALLS FOR OEN FORUM AMID SPECULATED PROTEST OVER FACEBOOK BAN

Wepio Media Agency

Via Transformation PNG WhatsApp Group Post

Port Moresby

March 25, 2025

The University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) Student Representative Council (SRC) has announced an Open Forum on Thursday, 27 March 2025, at the Forum Square to address student concerns over pressing national issues, including the government’s controversial ban on Facebook.

The SRC’s statement comes amid growing speculation of a student protest, reportedly circulating on WhatsApp and other social media platforms.

“The speculated protest on WhatsApp and other social media platforms are from anonymous sources and are unidentified and unauthorized,” the statement read.

“We urge everyone to take precautions when consuming information and also when moving around the city.”

The ban on Facebook, which has sparked widespread debate, has been viewed by many as a direct threat to democracy and freedom of speech in Papua New Guinea.

The council clarified that no official consultation had been made regarding the protest and assured students that a diplomatic approach would be taken.

“We will take civilized and diplomatic steps after the open forum is held… so we have collective views from every student,” the SRC stated.

With tensions rising, the forum is expected to be a crucial platform for students to express their concerns and determine a collective course of action.