Member for Kokopo, Mr. Ereman Tobaining Jnr, has expressed serious concerns over the increasing number of secondary school students in East New Britain Province who have been arriving late for classes due to transportation problems. Mr. Tobaining stated that most secondary schools in the province lack proper coordination of school trucks and other vehicles needed to transport students to and from schools. “Principals and teachers must be fair to their students.” “The trucks that the school has are not your private vehicles to carry your families around or to only take teachers shopping. Be considerate and pick up students in the morning and coordinate drop-offs in the afternoon.” “If you drive around town, you will witness many students wandering after 9AM in which most of them are still waiting for transport to get to school.” He stated that some of the affected schools include Warangoi Secondary, George Brown Secondary, and Bitapaka Secondary among others. In addition, he also highlighted the dangerous practice of students hanging onto the back of public vehicles where it is risky and questioned as to where all the school trucks and vehicles are. He emphasized that certain schools had been given vehicles, yet these schools are not sufficiently assisting their students with transportation. Mr. Tobaining has raised this matter several times during assembly sittings and called on local Members of Parliament, the Education Division, and school boards to address this issue urgently. Meanwhile, East New Britain Provincial Member and Chairman of the Provincial Assembly, Michael Marum, echoed similar sentiments, pointing out that many institutions were not utilizing the trucks as intended. Governor Marum said that over the past two years, the provincial government had distributed trucks and vehicles to schools to support their operations, including the transportation of students. He added that the provincial government would initiate a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with schools to establish a proper body to manage the vehicles in each secondary school. “I suggest that they can open bank accounts and perhaps operate the trucks as Public Motor Vehicles (PMVs), generating revenue for school operations.”

The East New Britain Provincial Government (ENBPG) has now officially established the ENB Provincial Project Implementation Management Unit (ENBP-PIMU). The decision to set up the PIMU was one of three decisions that was endorsed during a recent provincial assembly sitting that was held last month (April) in Kokopo city. The ENBP-PIMU will serve as the Implementing Agent for the ENBPG and the provincial administration with its official office located within the Division of Infrastructure Development. PIMU will be responsible for designing new roads, bridges, wharves, and institutional houses, as well as scoping works for civil and building projects. The unit will as well manage and supervise civil and building projects from the initial stages to completion. Former Chairman of Human Resources Management in the ENB Provincial Assembly, Mr. Robert Mati, while reading the submission, stated that the Gazelle Restoration Authority (GRA) was previously the implementing agent of the ENBPG. Mr. Mati explained that the Act establishing the GRA has now become obsolete, as the Authority has completed its mandate of restoring basic government services and infrastructure within the Gazelle Peninsula. “In 2010, the ENBPG decided to retain GRA as its implementing agent, and between 2010 and 2021, GRA implemented over K41 million worth of projects.” He further noted that since 2021, there has been minimal implementation of major projects in the province, highlighting the need to establish a unit specifically tasked with the design, scoping, implementation, and supervision of government projects. In 2024, the Provincial Executive Council (PEC) agreed and endorsed the Special Projects Authority (SPA) as the implementing agent. However, that decision has now been revoked as it conflicts with the District Development Authority (DDA) Act. Mr. Mati emphasized that the purpose of the PIMU is strictly to implement projects, while decisions and procurement responsibilities will remain with the respective DDAs and the provincial government headquarters, adhering to standard administrative and legislative requirements. According to the submission, the unit will be staffed by five personnel: a project manager, two contract officers (civil and building), and two administration officers. The unit will be fully funded by the ENBPG through its internal revenue, with an annual allocation of K500, 000 to cover the wages of the five PIMU officers. In addition, project supervision and management across the province will be carried out by the PIMU in collaboration with officers from the Division of Infrastructure Development and the respective districts. Meanwhile, Minister for Health and Member for Pomio district, Elias Kapavore, commended the establishment of the unit stating that it will significantly uplift the standard of project implementation in the province. He remarked that while many projects are being implemented, there has been a lack of proper management and supervision. “I commend the provincial administration and the team for advancing these initiatives. This will enhance the alignment of projects so that we all achieve a common goal for our province.”

The East New Britain Provincial Government held its final sitting of the current ENB Provincial Assembly last month, April, at the Gazelle International Hotel in Kokopo, East New Britain. The sitting formally endorsed three government business papers and marked the official farewell of the eighteen Local Level Government Presidents serving as members of the East New Britain Provincial Assembly. The government business papers passed during the assembly include: • The establishment of the ENBP Implementation and Management Unit (ENB – PIMU), • Status progress report on the NGI Referral Hospital • Status of ENB Early Childhood Education (ECE) formerly Bismarck as an agency of ENB Provincial government and request for registration with DHERST. ENB Provincial Member and Chairman of the Provincial Assembly, Michael Marum, in his address, commended the eighteen LLG Presidents for their support since he assumed office in 2022. Governor Marum said the LLG presidents had been active members of the assembly and had played an integral role in the numerous Provincial Executive Council decisions. He acknowledged that their journey had been marked by a fair share of debates and differences. “What unites us is our shared commitment to the advancement of East New Britain.” He also stated that the provincial government has made progress in various sectors in infrastructure, education, agriculture and tourism and added that law and order remain a top priority. “We have instituted targeted interventions in high-risk areas, reinforced community policing initiatives, and broadened our youth engagement programs to mitigate crime and foster social responsibility.” “These initiatives are supported by both national and local partners, underscoring our collective commitment to restoring peace and ensuring safety throughout the province.” In attendance at the assembly were member for Rabaul district, Doctor Allan Marat as well as member for Kokopo district Ereman Tobaining Jnr, and member for Pomio district and Minister for Health, Elias Kapavore. Member for Gazelle and Minister for Fisheries and Marine Resources, Mr. Jelta Wong, was absent due to work commitments. Meanwhile, Pomio MP Elias Kapavore, expressed similar sentiments in commending the LLG Presidents for their active role in the Provincial Assembly. “Some of you will return, while others will move on. We extend our best wishes to each of you in defending your respective LLG seats.” Furthermore, the next sitting is scheduled for September this year, during which newly elected Provincial Assembly members will be sworn in. The number of LLG Presidents represented in the Provincial Assembly will increase from eighteen to twenty-three, following the creation of five new LLGs that will be contested in the upcoming election.

The Laila Foundation, in partnership with Pacific International Hospital (PIH), successfully concluded a four-day cataract outreach from April 26th to the 29th at Lorengau General Hospital (LGH), delivering sight-restoring cataract surgeries to underserved communities across the Manus province. A total of 130 patients were on the list after being screened by the devoted Sister Loras at the LGH eye clinic, resulting in 111 successful surgeries, including 92 cataract operations and nine pterygium excisions with conjunctival grafts. These procedures have had a profound impact, restoring vision and independence to patients who had been living with preventable blindness. Many were blind in both eyes and were dependent on guardians and saw that the day after surgery, were happy at regaining their sight resulting in better quality in life. This marks the eighth outreach initiative led by the Laila Foundation and PIH with its Provincial Health Authority (PHA) partners for Manus since the year 2019. With over 550 cataract surgeries performed to date, the program stands as the most consistent and impactful eye care initiative in the province’s recent history. Chief Executive Officer of Lorengau General Hospital, Mr. Francis Possy remarked that Laila Foundation and PIH continues to return year after year to provide the vital cataract outreach program to provide access to eye specialists for patients who are screened for cataracts by Sr Loras at the Eye clinic. “Their work is transforming lives in communities where access to eye care is extremely limited.” Patients travelled from across the island; some up to two days by boat or four hours overland in order to receive the care that they need. Many also expressed hope that future programs could either reach more remote regions or that the administration provide transportation support to Lorengau General hospital. In addition, Manus Provincial Administrator, Mr. Mame, reassured that they are committed to working with the PHA and NGO health partners such as Laila Foundation to improve access to specialist care in Manus. “Logistics will be a priority in future outreach efforts, so no one is left behind.” Meanwhile, Director and Consultant ophthalmologist at PIH, Doctor Amyna Sultan, OBE, said that the Laila Foundation and PIH remain dedicated to their mission of restoring sight and transforming lives. “We look forward to working with the Provincial Health Authorities and other partners to expand their reach across Manus Province and with other PHA’s across Papua New Guinea where specialist eye doctors are not available.” “This year we have plans for returning to Wewak in East Sepik, Kimbe in West new Britain, Kapuna in Gulf and Tari in Hela province. Also adding to our visits will be Pimaga in Southern Highlands and Vanimo in West Sepik province.”

The Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) in a media conference today, issued a stark warning, stating that corruption is now actively eroding the very systems designed to uphold Papua New Guinea's democracy. This follows a concerning surge in publicly reported incidents of potential corruption involving high-ranking government and political figures in recent weeks. Deputy Commissioner for ICAC, Mr. Daniel Baulch stated that despite legal obligations under the Leadership Code, these particular individuals have reportedly failed to report suspected corrupt conduct. Recent events have amplified these concerns whereas in the last fortnight, there were publicly reported incidents regarding potential corruption by those high-ranking government members and politicians. “This includes a letter, purportedly from the Minister for Finance, directing the release of approximately K73 million in outstanding payments to various businesses.” “Subsequent reports in the Post-Courier indicated that the Prime Minister intervened to halt these payments. Notably, the finance minister has since been replaced.” Mr. Baulch also stated that last week, media outlets revealed a court determination on the civil standard that the mining minister had engaged in bribery, allegedly providing vehicles and cash to sway votes during the election. “Despite these stories, ICAC has received no official reports of suspected corrupt conduct has been made to ICAC about these matters. This silence speaks volume.” Moreover, Part IV Section 45 (1) of the Organic Law on the Independent Commission Against Corruption (OLICAC) mandates that all leaders subject to the Leadership Code report any suspected corrupt conduct to the ICAC. The apparent failure to adhere to this legal obligation underscores a serious breakdown in accountability. “Let us be clear; corruption in PNG is not just about money but it also causes harm. It deprives citizens of essential services such as healthcare, education, and employment opportunities, fuels violence, and in the most extreme cases, contributes to loss of life.” Despite the claims made, repeated requests were often ignored, meetings did not happen, court processes were delayed and even simple things like getting a search or arrest warrants blocked. “For twelve months, we have submitted frameworks, drafted national responses and sought high-level coordination to confront PNG’s corruption and crime epidemic.” Mr. Baulch also briefly addressed recent discussions regarding budget matters and expressed optimism about ongoing positive engagement with the government concerning funding. He also said that ICAC’s annual budget for this year in which they were told that they would receive is K52 million whereas had made it clear that this funding is not enough. However, while acknowledging that funding remains a critical factor for operational effectiveness and managing public expectations, he reiterated ICAC’s commitment to proactive investigation. Meanwhile, ICAC also clarified its distinct role compared to the Ombudsman Commission, emphasizing its primary focus on criminal acts of corruption, particularly bribery and theft of public funds, while welcoming collaboration to avoid duplication of efforts. He also confirmed discussions with the current finance minister in the coming weeks regarding the efficient delivery of funding moving forward to ensure the agency can operate strategically rather than on a month-to-month basis. Furthermore, in a direct message to the people of Papua New Guinea, Mr. Baulch urged citizens to utilize the reporting mechanisms available on its website, www.icac.gov.pg and to stand up against corruption. “People often say; 'ICAC is the last hope for PNG’. We are doing everything we can to live up to that hope. But we cannot do it alone.” “We are again asking all leaders in government and public service: Work with us. Take action. Do your duty. Stand up against corruption.” “We will keep going but we need your help. For the sake of our people, this nation and the future of this country-Be part of the solution, not part of the problem.”

The University of Papua New Guinea celebrated its 70th graduation ceremony this week at the Sir John Guise Indoor stadium in Port Moresby; a milestone marked by numerous inspiring stories of perseverance and achievement. Among the graduates, was Ms. Wangganne Hombunaka who hails from Yangoru- Saussia in East Sepik province, whose journey in receiving her degree spanned over a decade. This showing a testament to her unwavering determination amongst her personal challenges. Hombunaka who is now a mother of two, began her journey at UPNG back in 2010 where she took up law and completed her first to her third year of studies. It was until in 2014, whilst in her fourth year, Hombunaka stepped away from her studies as she fell pregnant with her first child; a boy. “I returned for studies not long after I had my son but then I left again and then returned the second time, however, I had left again." "The third time I had returned for studies, I became pregnant again with my second child; a girl.” It was not until last year (2024) that Hombunaka finally completed her fourth and final year in which she received her degree in the School of Law (SOL) on Tuesday this week. Reflecting on her challenging journey, Hombunaka acknowledged the profound motivation provided by her children her 10-year-old first son, her 7-year-old daughter, her partner, sisters and families. She also expressed deep gratitude for her father, whose unwavering support proved to be a constant source of encouragement. In addition, she also shared the primary challenge she faced during her extended academic journey which was the financial strain of having a partner who was unemployed. With her daily struggles and added responsibilities as a student and a mother, she emphasized on the strength she drew from her support system. “My main challenge was being with my partner who was not working and struggling every day trying to get through each day but thankfully, I had a good support system, who supported me and that is my family including my sisters and most importantly my father." “My father kept me going and pushing me to not give up. There were many times I had given up and had told him that I did not want to go back to school but he always told me that as long as he is alive, he will pay for my education until I graduate.” It was an emotional yet satisfying journey of achievement for Hombunaka and her family who never gave up on her. “I thank God for my family and for my partner and children.”

The University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) held its second day of its 70th graduation today where a total of 188 graduates received their bachelors and diplomas (prosecution) in the School of Law (SOL). Many families and friends gathered today at the Sir John Guise Indoor Stadium in Port Moresby city to witness the graduation of their loved ones who successfully completed and achieved a milestone in their lives. UPNG Acting Vice Chancellor, Professor Cecilia Nembou expressed her gratitude to the parents, guardians, and sponsors of the graduates for their continued confidence in the university in preparing their children to meet the challenges of employment. “Each graduate is equipped to continue learning by engaging in the world around them with a positive attitude.” “At UPNG, every student and every staff member are encouraged to identify their respective roles and responsibilities and how each person can achieve their individual aspirations by working together to achieve the aspirations of the university and those of our beautiful country.” “As Papua New Guinea celebrates fifty years of nationhood, UPNG also celebrates sixty years of birth right as the national university of Papua New Guinea.” The School of Law was one of the foundation faculties of the University of Papua New Guinea and for many years it was the only source of legal graduates for PNG, Solomon Islands and Vanuatu. She further thanked the graduates for allowing the university for being the change agent in their lives and stated that they are now the future lawyers of the next fifty years. She also urged the graduates that whatever they may face in their pathway, that they may lead with humility and emotional intelligence. “The journey is just beginning; there is much uncertainty, and you will encounter many challenges, but there will also be many opportunities and successes and if you raise your aspirations too high and do not match them with the same amount of hard work, then you will be disappointed.” “Therefore, in all your endeavors, be moderate and be realistic. If you find something that needs improvement, be the change by changing yourself first and then encourage others to see how and why change would serve humanity better.” Professor Nembou also acknowledged the UPNG alumni who have made significant contributions in the public sector including the Late Sir Mekere Morauta, Sir Rabbie Namaliu, Sir Anthony Siaguru, Sir Charles Lepani, Sir Arnold Amet, Sir Gibbs Salika and many more. Meanwhile, Professor Nembou stated that in the next two years, there will be a major review and update of the curriculum and course offerings in each school of the university to modernize them and to make them more relevant in the world of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and unseizing adventures in technology including the School of Law.

This morning, Prime Minister James Marape signed the condolence book at the Vatican Embassy in Port Moresby, extending Papua New Guinea’s heartfelt sympathies following the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. Speaking on behalf of the government and the people of Papua New Guinea, Prime Minister Marape reflected on the late Pope’s deep connection with the country, especially during his final international tour, which included a memorable visit to PNG in September 2024. “PNG was in his heart when he made his last tour, and our country holds dear the memories of his visit." "For that, we are grateful; especially knowing he continued to serve humanity despite the challenges to his health and well-being.” As a mark of national respect, the Prime Minister has directed that the national flag be flown at half-mast to honour the life and passing of the Head of the Vatican State and leader of the global Catholic Church. “To all Catholic faithful in Papua New Guinea, we stand with you in this moment of mourning." "May His Holiness Pope Francis rest from this life in eternal peace.” The Prime Minister’s gesture highlights the close ties between Papua New Guinea and the Holy See and the profound impact Pope Francis had on millions, including those in the Pacific.

The Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH) has acknowledged the comments made by Professor Doctor Glen Mola on the dire need of medical care by pregnant mothers and newborns and has responded highlighting their similar concerns. Professor Mola, who is the Head of Reproductive Health, Obstetrics and Gynecology at the School of Medicine, and clinical lead of one of the two PMGH Women’s health units, spoke on the stresses on the Maternity Ward and his concerns about the provision of appropriate support for birthing mothers. According to Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of PMGH, Doctor Paki Molumi, the overload situation that Professor Mola describes is common to a number of wards at the hospital, including the emergency department, labour ward, outpatient clinics, radiology and pathology services. He said that PMGH is dealing with the challenge of providing primary and secondary health care for a rapidly growing population not just in NCD but in surrounding Gulf and Central Province. Delays in the establishment of Level five and Level four hospital facilities and staffing is compounding this challenge. “PMGH is at the same time transitioning to become the Level 6 National Tertiary Referral, Research, and Teaching Hospital, consistent with government policy and has been making good strides on specialist services in cardiac, cancer, kidney and eye.” A decision was taken (in consultation with PMGH’s Board, National Capital District Provincial Health Authority (NCD PHA), National Department of Health (NDoH) and the Ministry of Health) with regards to a Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Grant Proposal for Maternal and Child Health to establish this facility at Gerehu Hospital; a Level four Hospital. NCD Provincial Health Authority (PHA) aims to develop the Gerehu Hospital as a center of excellence for maternal and child health, where PMGH has a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with NCD PHA to provide human resources and technical support for the facility. Logically, Gerehu Hospital’s strategic location offers easy access to cover over seventy per cent of city residents and one hundred per cent of rural patients travelling via the Hiritano and Magi highways. “Over 80 per cent of deliveries at PMGH are normal cases which can be handled at Gerehu allowing PMGH to concentrate on complicated deliveries and tertiary care services.” While this longer-term plan is actioned, the concerns raised by Professor Mola do need to be addressed urgently. Furthermore, Dr Molumi said that PMGH is working on plans to install modular delivery rooms and maternity wards at Gerehu Hospital, Six Mile Clinic and other clinics identified by NCD PHA with technical and staffing support from PMGH. Complicated cases will be transferred to PMGH.

The Head of Obstetrics and Gynecology School of Medical and Health Sciences, University of PNG, Professor Doctor Glen Mola, recently addressed the critical challenges faced by mothers at the Maternity Ward at Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH) as well as the lack of medical care they received whilst being attended to. After completing 72 hours of continuous on call for emergencies in Obstetrics and Gynecology (O&G) at PMGH during the Easter weekend, Professor Mola spoke on the struggles over at the maternity ward where there are ten to thirty patients who have received health care for on the floor every day. Records have also shown that over 7, 000 women who go to PMGH for life-saving supervised birthing services receive at least part of their care on the floor; either in the admission area to the labor ward, in the birthing area itself or in the post-natal (after birth) ward. “Our senior doctors and midwives have reported this degrading situation (both for the patients and the staff) to the PMGH management on so many occasions, including in our annual report, and on at least two occasions, the management have come and actually seen the situation for themselves.” In 2022, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA); the independent institution of the Government of Japan, offered a grant of K100 million to PMGH to build a new ‘perinatal center.’ The plans for this new maternal and newborn care facility were developed over a period of ten months by the women’s doctors (O&G) specialists, newborn specialists (neonatologists), obstetrics anesthesia specialists, midwives and senior nurses in conjunction with three teams of Japanese hospital planning and building specialists including, architects, draftsmen, hospital building specialists and engineers and representatives from PMGH management and the National Department of Health (NDoH) facilities branch. “This perinatal center would not only have provided us with 24 additional full nursing care beds for post-partum women who have needed operative births such as caesareans or have serious medical problems or obstetrical problems associated with their pregnancies, but also a dedicated laboratory for the maternal and newborn care section as well as an ICU to provide specialist tertiary care for women with very serious birthing complications and an ICU for newborns (NICU).” However, Professor Mola stated that the PMGH Hospital Board with the advice from the Chief Executive Officer and PMGH management team, rejected the JICA K100m offer on the grounds that it ‘did not fit with their vision for the future development of PMGH’. He said that this vision was later explained to them that it was to establish a maternal and newborn health care at PMGH in an eight-story tower along with other eight story towers for internal medicine, surgery and pediatrics over on the west side of the PMGH campus and take over the expansive MacGregor wing (Susumama) site to build a hotel and commercial shopping precinct. “The Japanese aid team estimated that it would take 12-18 months to build and equip the new perinatal center; this being the case it would be up and running today which would supposedly provide better medical care for women and newborns. In addition, Professor Mola shared that in the previous week, there were so many women on the floor including the passageways into the labor ward and up to the operating theatre and out into the ambulance vehicle bay outside the labor ward door. This causing hospital staff to step over women in order to get into the labor ward also making it very difficult to wheel emergency trolleys carrying emergency cases to the operating theatre from the labor ward. “Not to mention the empty soap dispensers so that staff can't wash their hands, no paper towels so we dry out hands on our trousers, power points and lights that do not work for months now so we work in dimly lit birthing cubicles.” “This weekend alone, I have had to counsel and console two mothers who lost their babies and the families of two young women who have died because of insufficient capacity and lack of space in our NCD health care facilities.” Furthermore, Professor Mola commended the maternity section nursing managers and O&G medical coordinators who have done their best over the past four to five years though things have not improved.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA), Eric Mossman Uvovo, has commended all industry members, stakeholders, and participants for their contributions to the successful staging of the National Tourism Conference & Expo 2025, held from Wednesday 9 April to Thursday 10 April at the Hilton Hotel in Port Moresby. In a statement, Mr. Uvovo expressed heartfelt appreciation to the national leaders, corporate sponsors, tourism operators, community representatives, and development partners who came together to honour five decades of tourism in Papua New Guinea under the theme ‘Honouring Our Past, Transforming Our Future.’ He said that week's events were nothing short of extraordinary. "We gathered not only to celebrate 50 years of tourism in our beautiful country, but to honour the visionaries, communities, and industry builders who laid the foundation for where we are today.” The event was also a tribute to three iconic figures who have shaped the course of tourism in the country: the late Sir Peter Barter, the late Mr. Max Benjamin, and Mr. Bob Bates. These individuals were honoured during the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Awards segment of the Gala Dinner. Mr. Uvovo, acknowledged their lasting legacy and the profound impact of their work. “We honour the families of these great pioneers who dedicated their lives to building Papua New Guinea’s tourism industry from the ground up.” “Their vision, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment continue to inspire us. And to Mr. Bob Bates, the last strong man still standing in PNG’s tourism legacy, we salute you. Your resilience and lifelong service are a beacon for the generations to come.” The CEO acknowledged the generous support of the event sponsors, highlighting the Mineral Resources Development Company (MRDC) and its subsidiaries as Platinum Sponsor. “Your investment and belief in the future of PNG tourism empowered us to host this event and recognize the legends of our industry with the honour they deserve.” In addition, he extended gratitude to the Gold Sponsors; Ok Tedi Mining Limited and ExxonMobil PNG, as well as the Bronze Sponsors who are from the Department of National Planning and Monitoring, and China CSCEC Steel (PNG) for their partnership and continued support in strengthening tourism in the country. Over the two-day conference, more than 300 participants engaged in sector updates, strategic panel discussions, and keynote presentations from leading tourism and business figures. Day one focused on post-COVID recovery, sustainability, SME development, and access to finance with compelling input from speakers such as Alan Manning, Moses Wai, Andrew Abel, Dominic Sikakau, Lloyd Piari, and Cheyne Benjamin. Meanwhile, the second day shifted toward the future, featuring sessions on investment, infrastructure, connectivity, and destination marketing. Presenters included John Tuaim, Fantasha Lockington, Simon-Marc Brendling, Gibson Holemba, Dominic Kaumu, Walter Yangomina, Charlie Wanma, David Rawlings, Noor Ahmad Hamid, Hannah Pearson, and Dr. Marcus Lee. “To everyone who participated, from SMEs and landowners to youth representatives and investors, thank you. You are the heartbeat of this industry. Your stories and energy are shaping a future that is sustainable, inclusive, and authentically Papua New Guinean.” He noted that the outcomes of the conference provide a strong platform for future international milestones including Expo Osaka 2025 and the PNG-China Tourism Year 2026, as well as renewed commitment to improving industry standards, financing access, and digital marketing strategies. Furthermore, Mr. Uvovo also extended special thanks to the TPA organizing team, the PNG Tourism Industry Association (PNGTIA), and all the behind-the-scenes staff whose hard work ensured a professional and meaningful event experience. “ I thank you all for believing in the power of tourism to connect people, preserve culture, and transform lives.” “Let us move forward with pride, unity, and a shared purpose to take PNG tourism into the next 50 years.”

Hutjena Secondary school located on Buka Island in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, experienced an unfortunate event when its computer lab went up in flames on Saturday afternoon the 12th of April 2025. Principal of Hutjena Secondary Mrs. Elaine Baris stated that a total of eighteen (18) computers, including other important documents and files, were destroyed in the fire. “At this point, we are suspecting that this fire could have been caused by an electrical fault.” “A disaster team has already been at the site over the weekend to assess the fire and (we) are now awaiting a report from them to find out the exact cause of the fire.” “This is a great loss to the school especially for the students who are taking ICT subject.” With the unfortunate event that had occurred, Mrs. Baris stated that herself including her two deputies, need to do a proper planning now in terms of funding towards a new computer lab as well as looking for temporary building that can cater for the ICT classes to take place. Furthermore, Mrs. Baris is appealing to the Education Department or any other organizations apart from the government who can assist the school. Meanwhile, further updates on the state of the computer lab will be made once a report on the assessment of the fire is completed.