Selected students from schools around the country are fortunate to visit the National Parliament, experiencing the heart of where the country’s ultimate political decisions are made. Here’s five things to know about one of their recent visits:

1. Students experienced Parliament firsthand

Thirty students from Manus and Simbu provinces spent their school holidays learning how Papua New Guinea's Parliament works through the Parliamentary Service's Student Educational Visit Program.

2. Students were chosen for their leadership and academic performance

The participants, from Grades 7 to 12, were selected by their schools based on academic merit and leadership potential. The group included students from Papitalai Secondary School in Manus and four schools in Simbu Province: Muaina Secondary School, Ku Junior High School, Mai Junior High School, and Suai Junior High School.

3. They learned how laws are made

Students took part in interactive sessions with Parliament's Education and Civics, Committees, Reporting, Media, Legal, and Library and Research Services divisions, gaining a better understanding of the legislative process and parliamentary operations.

4. The learning extended beyond Parliament House

The students also visited the University of Papua New Guinea, Pacific Adventist University, Government House, Independence Hill, and the National Museum and Art Gallery to learn more about national leadership, governance and PNG's history.

5. The program will continue during future school holidays

Clerk of Parliament Kala Aufa said the program aims to inspire young people to become informed and responsible citizens. The next intake is scheduled for September and will include students from Milne Bay, Morobe and the Autonomous Region of Bougainville.