Papua New Guinea is preparing for a grand celebration to mark its fiftieth anniversary of independence in September 2025. This momentous occasion is not just about festivities but also serves as a time for reflection on the country’s rich history, particularly the key figures who have shaped its journey as a sovereign nation.
Central to this commemoration is the Revitalizing the PNG Dictionary of Biography (PNGDB) Project, initiated in 2023. This significant project is focused on documenting and honoring Papua New Guineans from various sectors who have played crucial roles in national development. Led by Nicholas Hoare, a Pacific historian from the Australian National University (ANU), alongside Keimelo Gima from the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG), the initiative seeks to build upon the earlier PNG Dictionary of Contemporary Biography (PNGDCB), which faced setbacks since its launch in the 1980s.
The original project was backed by influential figures, including UPNG’s Vice Chancellor Elton Brash and Deputy Prime Minister Paias Wintgi, with the intention of creating a scholarly reference that records the contributions of significant national figures. However, challenges such as funding shortages and the departure of key personnel hindered its progress over the years. In recent times, there has been a resurgence of interest, with nearly 100 writers stepping forward to contribute to new biographical entries that will honor the lasting legacy of contributors as the nation nears its fiftieth anniversary.
Applications for the project commenced in April 2024, with 25 writers ultimately selected due to budget constraints. The first workshop was conducted in June, focusing on ethical research practices, while a second workshop in August provided a platform for participants to narrate compelling stories about individuals who have influenced Papua New Guinea. Among those highlighted were the late Jacob Luke, a philanthropist renowned for his notable contributions to education and community development, and Beverly Kaleva, who dedicated her efforts to ensuring students had access to essential resources for their academic pursuits.
This revitalization of the project not only aims to celebrate the achievements of past pioneers but also encourages emerging voices from young Papua New Guineans to craft their own histories. The final objective is to publish an edited volume containing fifty biographical accounts reflecting both historical figures and contemporary contributors.
Additionally, discussions among writers have brought attention to the challenges faced while conducting historical research in Papua New Guinea, exacerbated by the temporary closure of the National Archives, which requires reliance on alternative resources for historical data. Nevertheless, the project has commenced its editorial processes, with an official launch anticipated by the end of this year.
As Papua New Guinea approaches this significant milestone, the project highlights the importance of fostering a national identity grounded in collective memory. It underscores the urgent need for investment in cultural heritage institutions—such as archives, museums, and libraries—that preserve the nation’s collective narratives. By celebrating and documenting the contributions of diverse individuals, Papua New Guinea can aim for unity and progress within its culturally rich context.
This ongoing effort embodies a hopeful outlook for the future, bridging past achievements with new ambitions. By chronicling the lives of both celebrated and unsung heroes, the nation can honor its rich heritage while motivating future generations to pursue continued growth and social cohesion.
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