Linta Aquila a science student of PAU and the only Solomon Islander taking part, was the mastermind and focal point behind her teams victorious run in the inaugural challenge of Universities which also included participants from the various other six National Universities in P.NG
Being the leader of the 3-men team, Ms Aquila and her team mates earned praises for their confidence, high quality English speaking skills, and very good arguments.
The competition saw some of PNG’s top dignitaries attending including; PNG Governor General Sir Paulias Matane, Madang Governor Sir Arnold Ament and prominent businessman and former Parliamentarian Sir Peter Barter.
The Universities participating included; Pacific Adventist University (PAU), University of Technology (Unitech), University of Goroka (UOG), Univeristy of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) , Vudal University and Divine Word Univeristy.
The National debate focused on HIV and its spread in PNG and also means of helping control the disease, provided the opportunity for University students to talk openly and give their views as to what should be done in controlling this HIV and Aids epidemic.
Speaking after the final, Ms Aquila said she was ecstatic and proud to have won not only for her University but also being an ambassador of the Solomon Islands in the debate.
“I am proud to have represented PAU and also the Solomon Islands.
“Aids is something not only affecting PNG but the Solomon Islands as well.
“In the Solomon Islands we might think that HIV and Aids is still at its young state but the reality of the matter is that it won’t be for long.
“We must accept that fact that more and more cases are coming out each day and before we know or even realize it, it is an epidemic just like here in PNG,” Ms Aquila said.
Ms Aquila said that more awareness on the disease should be done in schools and to youths by responsible authorities.
“Young people should be given the opportunity to talk openly and freely about sex despite what cultural, traditional barriers or Church beliefs we have.
“By doing so we help educate our youths on sex and its consequences and results such as HIV and other sexual transmittable diseases.
“Responsible authorities should help organize activities and programs that involve students. “Organize inter-high school debates and open forums focusing on HIV and STI’s.
“This way we are not only helping educate the young but also address the issue of HIV in the Solomon Islands,” Ms Aquila said.
PAU saw off a very strong challenge by Divine Word University in the final to claim the top prize whilst UPNG settled for third.
By JEREMY INIFIRI
In Madang, PNG
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