Papua New Guinea Education Minister Dekena returns to work after health battle

Papua New Guinea's Education Minister, Lucas Dekena, has officially resumed his duties after receiving medical clearance from specialist doctors. His return marks the end of what he described as a challenging and prolonged health battle that required treatment in both Papua New Guinea and Australia.

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I am feeling energized and rejuvenated with a lot of vitality and vigor.

Dekena stated he feels "energized and rejuvenated with a lot of vitality and vigor." He confirmed that specialist physicians Dr. Sam Yockopua and Dr. Samuel Maima declared him mentally and physically fit. This follows an extended period of medical care at facilities including Sir Joseph Nombri Memorial Kundiawa General Hospital, Pacific International Hospital in Port Moresby, and Brisbane's Princess Alexandra Hospital. He also underwent therapeutic treatment at the Medline Pacific Centre of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine.

During his recovery over the past month, Dekena reported stable vital signs and full restoration of cognitive, memory, motor, and physical functions. He expressed gratitude to Prime Minister James Marape for his continued confidence and support during his illness. Dekena also thanked Cabinet Ministers, Members of Parliament, the Ministry and Department of Education, and his family, highlighting their encouragement and prayers as crucial to his recovery.

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I can not thank enough our astute Prime Minister for entrusting me with the Education portfolio despite going through this challenging time.

"I cannot thank enough our astute Prime Minister for entrusting me with the Education portfolio despite going through this challenging time," Dekena said. He acknowledged "unfinished work" within the Ministry of Education and pledged to immediately refocus on key sector priorities, including ongoing education reforms and program delivery. He concluded by thanking the people of Papua New Guinea for their support and his faith for guidance, expressing readiness to fully resume his public service responsibilities.

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There are more unfinished work in my Ministry of Education and I am very eager to apply myself meaningfully to deliver many of these programs.