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Dear my brother you are my motivation through your stories. You are one of those people that keeps PNG hoping for a better tomorrow. Keep up and get going angam.

This is an interesting and timely read, as well as the Bedford's earlier post on the RSE numbers. (Pacific seasonal workers’ participation in the RSE scheme: the numbers and their implications). A stand out, covered by the article is the longevity of a seasonal worker. Every few years there are calls to put a time limit on RSE workers from various interest groups and countries. This data shows that such limits are unnecessary, with the average falling below the usually recommended length of 3 years. One factor that may skew the data down a bit is when NZ increases the quota. This causes a significant bump in the "1 year" data with a net reduction in average years. It would be interesting to see what happens in future years as those first years roll through, but I would expect the average to increase. When considering a Ni-Vanuatu worker's socio-economic perspective, (likely similar to other Pacific Islands) their three basic needs are school fees, pay land and build a house. These are mostly achieved by Year 3 or 4 if they are in the right employment. Usually longer for those on the SWP/PALM program which surprises many. (NZ employment law being more economically favourable for seasonal workers than the Australian Fair Work regulations – that is another story!) Another factor not considered is the effect of the SWP/PALM program (Australian schemes) and how many RSE workers crossed the ditch to those programs. So again, the average time a seasonal worker spends across both schemes should be considered especially from an sending country's policy decisions. The PALM program also allows for up to a 4 year visa, or short term 3 year (read seasons) visas. The impacts on whether those workers re-apply past that initial visa is to be determined in, well, 3-4 years!

Very inspirational, hope one day your dream of building a school at you community come true.

Tough life experience as young human we proud of you 👏 🥰 💛 Your experiences are our motivation ✨️ 💪 🙏 🙌 🙂 ❤️

Well done Mek. You certainly have a brighter future ahead.

Very interesting and an inspiring story ... Congratulations for successfully withstanding the challenges to get to the Point you are right now ... All the best in your final year studies @UPNG ...

Mr Robert Mek, "Hard times create strong men, strong men create good time ... ". G. Michael Hopf. Your story is inspiring and I hope to read a full autobiography in the future if I'm lucky. All the best in your final year of study @UPNG and may the good Lord continue to lead you ...

Very inspiring ... keeping rocking brother 🙏

Very inspirational, commitment, sacrifice and struggles is most important to become successful person.

What an inspiring story of self-sacrifice, commitment, and endurance that pays off. The characters you displayed are associated with many successful men on the planet. Your story is an inspiration to others who may be struggling with the same situation. There is always a light at the end of the tunnel. Good luck in the remaining months of your school life.

An inspiring story of hardship, perseverance, and triumph. Congratulations, Robert. I wish you well in your endeavours to assist others access opportunities for education.

Awesome ideas! Love the research questions. Just one random thought, is it possible to relate climate change and it’s effect on the alternative use of the lands and also human behaviour as it could be a possible risk factor for the disease outbreak.