You Are Beacons of Hope: Sansan

WHEN speaking to graduands of the School of Medicine and Science at the 70th Graduation Ceremony where she was the guest speaker, DPM Secretary Taise Sansan told graduates that they were not just joining a profession but they were joining a movement – a call to serve, to heal, and to uplift.

“You are the heartbeat of a healthier Papua New Guinea. Let this moment remind you that while your sector may be smaller in numbers, your impact has the power to be greater than ever before.”

“I stand here, not only to applaud you, but to charge you with a responsibility.

“You are beacons of hope, armed with knowledge, compassion, and the unwavering commitment to make a difference in our country Papua New Guinea,” said Sansan.

“You are stepping into a profession that touches every home, every village, every heartbeat. You are now the healers of our nation. Not just in hospitals – but in communities. Not just with stethoscopes – but with empathy, courage, and wisdom. There will be days that test your limits. Days where the resources are not enough. Days where you feel alone. But always remember this:
“The canoe does not move forward if each paddles their own way.”
Work with your communities. Work with your peers. Collaborate. Listen. Learn. And never stop growing. You carry the flame lit by those who came before you.

Keep it burning brightly.

The path you have chosen is not one of ease or comfort. It is a path of service and sacrifice. You will witness the fragility of life, the depths of human suffering, and the resilience of the human spirit.

Every life you touch, every patient you heal is a story in itself. Treat them with the same dignity and respect you would want for yourselves and your loved ones. Let kindness be the foundation of your practice.

You will miss holidays, special occasions, and time with loved ones. You will face ethical dilemmas and make decisions that weigh heavily on your hearts.

But in those moments, remember why you chose this path. Remember the faces of those you have helped, the lives you have saved, and the hope you have inspired.

“Let your service be a testament to the power of human compassion. Your sacrifice a beacon of hope for a healthier future and as you embark on this noble profession, let your passion be your guide, your empathy be your strength, and your dedication be your legacy. Go forth and make a difference. Go forth and inspire hope,” she said.

Equity in access, equity in location, and equity in delivery of healthcare services.