UOG APPOINTS NEW 13- MEMBER GOVERNING COUNCIL REPLACING 7 BOARD MEMBERS

BY VICKY BAUNKE, in EHP

The University of Goroka has ushered in a new governing body, replacing the previous seven-member council led by Chancellor Joe Wemlin with a 13-member interim council under the leadership of Chancellor Stan Joyce.

The new council was officially sworn in on Wednesday this week in Port Moresby, following the revocation of the appointments of the former Chancellor and six council members by Higher Education Minister Kinoka Feo.

This marks a new chapter in the University’s governance and leadership.

The outgoing Council comprised Chancellor Joe Wemlin and members Rose Koyama, Robin Guebiang Bazzynu, John Umba Sari, Stephen Nukutu, Johnson Kent Wan and Takala Tuna. Their appointments were revoked with effect from March 11, 2026, under Section 152(3)(b) of the Higher Education (General Provisions) Act 2014, as amended in 2020.

The newly appointed Interim University Council is chaired by Chancellor Stan Joyce and includes Pro Chancellor John Lewis, Vice Chancellor Dr Teng Wanininga as an ex-officio member, Professor Cecilia Nembou, Aho Baliki, Kevin Wak, Karo Matainaho, Professor Pal Ahluwalia, Michael Gotaha, Roger Kara, Eric Vegoa, Steven Tevo and Dr Tracey Mafileo.

The new Interim University Council is expected to work closely with the University’s management, staff, students, alumni and development partners to promote institutional excellence, accountability and sustainable growth.