13/04/2026
Maino Lucas, MD and the owner of Kayop Investment Limited is emerging not only as a successful businessman but also as a strong voice for youth empowerment and community development, following his impactful appearance at the Fly Rivers Students Association Orientation Week held at the University of Papua New Guinea yesterday
In his address, Mr. Lucas encouraged students to remain grounded and connected to their roots, while urging them to become agents of change for Western Province. He emphasized that academic performance alone does not define success, stating that what truly stands out is the ability to build and uplift others.
It is not your GPA that will make the difference but the people you build in life,its people that you need in life,he told the students, highlighting the importance of empowerment and community impact.
He also committed to the Graduate Development Scheme (GDS), allocating one placement each for the five districts of Western Province:
1.North Fly District
2.Middle Fly District
3.Delta Fly District
4.South Fly District
5.Telefomin District
He further encouraged students to invest in one another, build strong networks, and uplift those around them, noting that true leadership is measured by the ability to empower others.
Backing his words with action, Mr. Lucas made a significant contribution of K10,000 to the Fly Rivers Students Association (FRSA) and an additional K10,000 to support school fees for the under privileged students. This follows an earlier donation of K3,500 further demonstrating his consistent commitment to supporting young people.
His message centered on returning to one’s roots, empowering others, and taking ownership of the future. He urged students to remain grounded in their identity while stepping forward as leaders who can drive meaningful change in Western Province.
In a major announcement, Mr. Lucas also outlined plans to establish a new institution, the Star Mountains University of Technology, targeted for launch by April. He described the initiative as part of a broader vision to strengthen education and build local capacity within Western Province.
He emphasized that long-term development must be driven by the people themselves, stating:
“When all resources cease, there will be nothing else to rely on but people.”
Mr. Lucas reinforced a strong message of self-determination, stating that Western Province must rely on its own people to drive progress. He encouraged students to become agents of change by influencing those around them and creating a ripple effect of education and empowerment.
During the event, Mr. Lucas also acknowledged the longest-serving Fly River patron, Mr. Kolokolo. He presented him with a beautifully hand-crafted traditional bilum that was initially gifted to him by the students as a token of appreciation for his long-standing support of the Fly River student community
Students expressed their appreciation for Mr. Lucas’s presence, acknowledging his willingness to take time out of his busy schedule to support and engage with them.
As he continues to champion education, opportunity, and grassroots development, many are beginning to see Mr. Lucas as a promising emerging leader whose impact may extend well beyond the boardroom and into the national arena
His participation at the event reflects his ongoing commitment to education, youth empowerment, and the development of Western Province, where he continues to advocate for positive change through both words and action.
