Luganville, Vanuatu – Prime Minister Hon. Jotham Napat met with public servants in Luganville yesterday stressing the urgent need for improved public services and outlining the government’s priorities. The meeting followed his recent visits to Pentecost and Maewo, where he observed firsthand the challenges faced by rural communities.

During the meeting, the Prime Minister highlighted four key pillars guiding his administration’s development agenda: governance reforms and stability, strengthening government personnel, fostering engagement with communities—especially through the public sector—and addressing national security concerns.

Napat voiced deep concern over the state of essential services, particularly in education and healthcare, in rural areas. He emphasized the importance of strategic planning and effective budgeting to address these pressing issues.

“I am very saddened when I see the realities in our communities. Planning must be based on real observations, and budgets should be allocated accordingly to resolve these problems. When I visit places like Maewo or Pentecost and see people sitting on the ground or on mats while trying to write, how would you expect me to feel?” he stated.

He called on departmental heads in Luganville to work efficiently and align their efforts with the government’s direction. Public servants were urged to dedicate themselves to their roles in improving the lives of the people they serve.