Minister for Fisheries and Marine Resources and Member for Gazelle District, Jelta Wong has condemned the recent riot that took place at the University of Natural Resources and Environment (UNRE), Vudal Campus in East New Britain Province and the damage caused. Minister Wong said it is indeed unfortunate when situations escalate to violence, especially in educational institutions. “It is important to address grievances and issues internally before they reach boiling point.” Having a formal process of reporting accusations and conducting investigations can certainly help resolve conflicts and prevent such incidents. This process would allow for a thorough examination of the concerns raised and ensure that appropriate actions are taken. He said there are much better and peaceful means of solving grievances as educated elites than resorting to violence, which does not help anyone at all. “I also acknowledge the efforts of the police in responding promptly and quelling the issue.” “Their presence and assistance helped restore calm and maintain a safe environment”. He further expressed that it is disheartening to see the negative impact on parents who work hard to pay for their children's education, therefore is crucial for students to understand and appreciate the sacrifices made by their parents. “It is through education and proper channels of communication that we can work towards resolving issues and creating a harmonious learning environment.” Meanwhile the provincial administration and provincial government are currently working together to resolve the issue.

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like diabetes and heart disease are the leading public health problems in the Pacific, say health experts. NCDs are the region's biggest killers. Dr Paula Vivili, Deputy Director-General of Science and Capability at The Pacific Community, said they were a "death sentence" for many people because treatments were often not available. "We keep talking about it all the time because that's what kills most of the people, and prematurely at that," Vivili said. "About 70 percent of the people who die in the Pacific die from non-communicable diseases." Dealing with the region's high rate of NCDs was a major topic at the Pasifika Medical Association Conference that finished in the Cook Islands this week. Sir Collin Tukuitonga, Auckland University's associate dean of public health, told the conference crowd of about 600 health professionals that efforts to reduce the rate of NCDs has not "made much difference at all". "Despite all the good work over many years, the impact on reducing risk factors for non-communicable diseases is pretty disappointing," he said. [caption id="attachment_45378" align="aligncenter" width="1084"] Deputy Director of General Science and Capability at the Pacific Community, Dr Paula Vivili, Photo: RNZ Pacific / Caleb Fotheringham[/caption] "Non-communicable diseases are responsible for about three quarters of all the deaths around the world and we have in our region amongst the most obese people in the world. "NCDs have a disproportionate impact on small island states, so mortality rates and premature mortality rates are much, much higher in small island states compared to other countries." Tukuitonga said alcohol was also a contributing factor and he wanted to see more regulation on the sale and purchase of it. "There really ought to be some restrictions placed on the number of outlets that can sell alcohol and the hours of trading. "It's a major cause of not just health problems but social problems." The more freely available alcohol is, the more alcohol-related problems there are, Tukuitonga said. Cook Islands Secretary of Health Bob Williams said his ministry's focus has shifted to NCDs post covid-19. Williams said nearly half the country had NCDs and the country had a goal to reduce the number by a quarter over the next 25 years. "Most of our people are dying from heart diseases, followed by diabetes and hypertension," he said. The Cook Islands is rolling out its healthy and smoke-free island initiatives. The focus is for tobacco products to be only available for existing smokers, reducing the consumption of sugary drinks, and introducing physical activity. Williams said the initiative also includes increasing the number of NCD screenings. Source: RNZ.com

Panthers teammates are confident Jarome Luai will be ready to go for Friday night's preliminary final against the Storm as the star five-eighth looks to return from a shoulder injury. Luai joined the main squad on Sunday morning for a field session and looked comfortable but his main test is set to come on Wednesday when the Panthers have an opposed session where he is expected to undergo contact training. Club medical staff have always been hopeful Luai, who dislocated his shoulder less than a month ago against the Eels on August 24, would be available for the preliminary final with last week's break giving him valuable time to rehab. "He should be good," departing centre Stephen Crichton said after the session on Sunday. "He was running around today and it was good to see him back out there with his loudmouth and energy." Panthers prop Matt Eisenhuth, who is among those likely to be testing Luai's shoulder in the coming days as the game nears, believed the premiership-winning playmaker was on track to play. "I haven't been asked to yet [to test him out] but if that's what he needs then I will," Eisenhuth said. "If he does need to do something like that though he'll call out some of the bigger boys because that's what he would do to show everyone he's sweet. "There might be one or two more tests he's got to do but at the moment I'm backing him in." Panthers winger Sunia Turuva said Luai's expected return on the left edge alongside he and Crichton was a boost ahead of the grand final qualifier at Accor Stadium. Luai has been part of all three preliminary and grand finals the Panthers have played since 2020 as Turuva prepares to enter his first on Friday. "He'll bring the experience and overall is a real calm head," Turuva said. "He's played in big games now with Samoa World Cup games, Origin and grand finals. “Cogs (Jack Cogger) has been awesome for us though too. If Romey isn't right then we'll just stick to what we've been doing and build on that." Meanwhile, Panthers centre Izack Tago is also on track to be available after joining teammates at training as he looks to return from a pectoral strain in time for Friday night's clash. Tago has been restricted to 14 games in 2023 but is likely to be included in Ivan Cleary's squad named on Tuesday. Source: NRL.com  

The Storm won both match-ups against the Roosters throughout the 2023 regular season but face a much different prospect this time around with Trent Robinson's side full of confidence after extending their winning streak to six. Not only are the Storm coming off a demoralising defeat but they also have the added anguish of Ryan Papenhuyzen's fractured ankle to deal with as they look to put their premiership campaign back on track. Perhaps most alarming for coach Craig Bellamy was his side's disjointed attack, with star halves Cameron Munster and Jahrome Hughes throwing very little at the Broncos in a performance far removed from they dished up for most of the season. The Roosters have injuries dramas of their own after a tense struggle with the Sharks but they arrive at AAMI Park with a strong belief that they can march on for at least another week and set up a preliminary final blockbuster against the Panthers. That would pit two of the best teams of the modern era against one another but first the Roosters must triumph at AAMI Park, a ground where they have won just four times in 11 matches. Source: NRL.Com

Roosters flyer Junior Pauga was unloading shipping containers when he got a call offering the opportunity to join the Roosters NRL pre-season in 2023. When the Wests Tigers told him there was nothing left for him at the club at the end of 2022, the 27-year-old returned home to Brisbane to live with his family and began full time work at a freight company. After already having cracks with the Warriors, Broncos and Wests Tigers systems, Pauga accepted his NRL dream had past - but handed a new glimmer of hope in becoming a Rooster - he packed up his bags and returned to his share house in Auburn. “I had nothing, my manager told me I had nothing and I was pretty sad. I wasn’t sure what I was doing," Pauga said. “I went back to work full-time and was unloading containers. It was a pretty hard job, the first couple of days were alright but it takes a toll. “But five weeks later, North Sydney gave me a call to ask if I was keen to come back and play for the Bears, through the Roosters.” After busting his gut in the NRL pre-season, Pauga made his presence felt immediately on the Bears edge, scoring 14 tries and averaging over five tackle busts in 11 games in reserve grade. Come May, when veteran winger Daniel Tupou suffered a hamstring injury, coach Trent Robinson looked to the Samoan speedster to fill the vacant edge position. “They gave me six weeks at the Roosters for preseason and so I took that and just ran with it and six weeks turned into 14 weeks and I ended up making my club debut,” he said. “So I took a risk, and it was worth it. “Everyone calls me young, I don’t think they know I'm 27… but I’ve just got to keep believing and just back myself.” Pauga hasn’t looked back since making his club debut in Round 14, having played seven games on the Roosters edge, including Saturday's stunning 13-12 triumph over the Sharks. When the humble winger returns to the Roosters’ left edge in Friday's semi-final against Melbourne, Pauga will be living proof that a second, third, or even fourth chance could not be far away for those hungry enough to chase it. “Obviously this is my first year of finals so I’m just enjoying the week and spending time with the boys and when it comes to the weekend and just get my job done and just do my part of the team,” he said. “When I walk through these doors each day I just feel truly grateful and very lucky. "I’ve worked so hard to get here and I have to pinch myself, that’s something I do every day when I wake up.” Source: NRL.com

The NCD Governor, Powes Parkop, has paid tribute to physiotherapists nationwide and overseas for the important duties they perform in helping patients recover from their medical conditions. He paid this tribute upon celebrating World Physiotherapy Day, which was held recently on Friday 8th of September in Amazing Port Moresby. Drawing from his own recent medical condition, Governor Parkop, a preventive health champion, highlighted the critical roles physiotherapists play in patient care. He emphasized that physiotherapists are essential for patients' care and rehabilitation, particularly after a surgery or infection. While reflecting on his recent medical emergency in Gold Coast in Australia, Governor Parkop underscored the significant role physiotherapists played during his rehabilitation. In addition to this, he also highlighted the city's health goals, urging everyone to take them seriously and called on everyone to embrace the vision and journey of building a healthier and safer city. “I want to remind us of our vision to be a healthy, clean, safe, and well-planned city.” “Lifestyle diseases are on the rise, and it's everyone's responsibility to prioritize their own health through healthy habits that prevent illness before medical intervention is necessary.” He further stressed that this vision is crucial for everyone.

The New Ireland Provincial Government is proud to announce its readiness to undertake the crucial Census, a monumental event that reaffirms their commitment to ensuring every citizen is represented, included, and actively participating in contributing to the nation of Papua New Guinea. Last man standing and New Ireland Governor, Sir Julius Chan, said the census is a comprehensive enumeration of the province diverse population, stands as a cornerstone for informed decision making and strategic planning at both the provincial and national levels. “The data collected during this significant event will not only shape the future of New Ireland Province but will also play an integral role in the selection of leaders who will steer our province towards prosperity and unity.” He said the province with its rich tapestry and vibrant communities acknowledges the importance of accurate data in determining the needs and aspirations of its people. “It is our collective responsibility to ensure that no citizen is left uncounted or underrepresented.” “Regrettably in previous elections our province faced a challenge where over 20,000 people were inadvertently excluded from voting even though New Ireland has a very accurate village record book.” “We understand the frustrations and concerns of those affected, and we are committed to rectifying this issue.” As they now embark on the census, the Provincial Government in collaboration with the Electoral Commission is working diligently to ensure that such oversights are not repeated. “Our aim is to create a fair and transparent process that accurately reflects the aspirations and voices of all New Irelanders.” Meanwhile, Sir J called on all citizens to embrace this census as an opportunity to be counted and to actively contribute to the betterment of the province and the nation. He added that together, they will ensure that every voice is heard, every community is recognized, and every citizen is represented as the province and country celebrate 48 years of Independence. “The New Ireland Provincial Government remains committed to promoting unity, diversity, and inclusivity in our province and throughout Papua New Guinea.” “Let us stand together, shoulder to shoulder as we pave the way for a brighter future for all.”

BSP Financial Group Limited is pleased to support PNG’s oldest cultural show - the Goroka Show with a silver sponsorship of K20, 000. Goroka BSP Branch Manager, Rosemary Mawe expressed that BSP is pleased to support an event that not only showcases the unique singsings and rituals of more than a hundred tribes but also provides an avenue for BSP to offer its banking services. The three-day event will kick off with the Pikinini Festival on Friday 15th September then onto the main event; the Goroka Show from Saturday 16th to Sunday 17th September 2023. “This year’s theme is ‘Agro-Tourism’ and BSP being the bank that offers the best SME Loan Products in the market, is pleased to support an event that would provide a platform for BSP to reach more customers and encourage them to sign up on our Digital Banking Platforms." “During the event, our team will assist customers with SME Banking Products; SME Account opening requirements, how to access our SME Loans, including the Credit Enhancement Scheme and other SME banking payment solutions that show goers in the Agri-Tourism industry can benefit from.” She also added that they can assist with Personal Account Opening, Registration for Mobile and Internet Banking and General banking queries. “Our support in Eastern Highlands Province does not only stop at such festivals. BSP has given back to the people of Eastern Highlands through our Community Projects where our Goroka and Kainantu branch have delivered 28 Community Projects totalling over K670, 000 since 2009 covering Education, Health, Sports and the Environment. Meanwhile, Goroka Show Committee Chairperson, Keryn Hargreaves in thanking BSP for the support and said the show would be bigger, more entertaining, and better than previous years. “It’s the oldest cultural show in PNG that continues to attract visitors from within PNG and overseas to the Eastern Highlands Capital. First introduced by ‘Kiaps’ back in 1957, the Goroka Show continues to attract over a hundred tribes from all over Papua New Guinea to participate.” “I encourage everyone to attend and experience the splendour of traditional cultures and the region’s exquisite biodiversity.”

Father Isaiah from Irawi Catholic Parish in Hela Province has been serving there for ten years and for the past three years, has been leading teams of mediators in a peacebuilding ministry that seeks to address the high levels of tribal fighting in Hela. His teams, who frequently witness violence and hear retellings from survivors, must tread a careful path to maintain neutrality and bring fighting parties to a resolution; the work can take its toll. “We focus more on helping others that are survivors of violence and prolonged crises. We forget that we, too, as mediators of these issues, can be affected as well.” “Self-care is paramount for us because we are the middlemen when it comes to conflict resolution and reaching a decision that is agreeable for the conflicting parties.” He has a total of sixteen mediators who work across Koroba and Tari. They were joined by mediators from the United Church from Komo-Magarima for a two-day workshop on psychological first aid, facilitated by UNFPA with support from UN Women. As part of a joint programme to support local peacebuilding efforts in the Highlands Region, UNFPA and UN Women delivered sessions on self-care, non-violent communications, and psychological first aid strategies for supporting survivors of violence. According to Fr. Isaiah, not only has this training showed the participants the importance of self-care, but also opened their eyes to the different ways conflict and crises, including environmental events, can affect individuals and communities, and how strategies can be implemented to help these individuals and communities’ cope. “Most times we just look at the local context of addressing issues and we seek to address what we see on the surface.” “But now, with this training, we are aware that survivors can be affected physically, emotionally, and socially.” “We’ve also come to understand that not all communications are helpful to survivors of violence and crisis, however, are grateful for the communication aspect of this training and for learning how to communicate in a manner with survivors that is more understanding of their circumstances.” Furthermore, UNFPA and UN Women’s support to peacebuilding in the Highlands Region aims to address the underlying causes of conflict responsible for the cycle of inter-group violence by providing Mental Health and Psycho-social Support (MHPSS) to women, men, and youths. Engaging local mediators is key to the sustainability of these efforts. On behalf of the three mediation teams, Fr Isiah expressed his gratitude for the training and thanked UNFPA and UN Women for the support. He added that they will now fully utilize what they have learnt and will prioritize their self-care when dealing with issues as well. Meanwhile, earlier this year, UNFPA conducted a psychological first aid training with partners in Laiagam, Porgera and Kompiam-Ambum as part of the organization’s response to the ongoing fighting in Enga Province.

CPL Group is pleased to be able to continue our support to the largest gathering of Medical Professionals in Papua New Guinea, affirming their commitment to Healthcare in Papua New Guinea as the Gold Sponsor of the 2023 Medical Symposium. The Medical Symposium, now in its 57th year, is an annual event hosted by the Medical Society of PNG with support from its partners, including CPL Group. The 5-day event is hosted from the 11th to 15th September 2023 at the Stanley Hotel in Port Moresby, with the theme; ‘A holistic approach to cancer’, which reflects the pressing need to address cancer comprehensively. This sees various health care professionals come together to discuss issues and solutions pertaining to the theme. As part of CPL’s sponsorship, they supported six different sub-specialty meetings, and branded shirts, lanyards, and backpacks towards the event’s 800 plus attendees, adding to a total value of over K100, 000. The donation was presented by CPL Head of Pharmacy, Pradeep Panda to the President of the Medical Society of PNG, Professor Nakapi Tefuarani and the organization’s members. Prof. Tefuarani, as well as members of the MSPNG expressed their gratitude for CPL Group’s contribution, emphasizing that such support is essential in making the event more accessible and engaging for healthcare professionals, researchers, and students. These items will not only serve as valuable resources for the symposium's participants but also as lasting mementos of this critical gathering. CPL Group is represented by the City Pharmacy Medical & Lab Supplies division of the Group, with an expert team of medical experts, lab technicians and sales teams from partner brands such as Fujifilm present throughout the event. Additionally, CPL Group’s involvement in this important event underscores our commitment to advancing healthcare and medical knowledge. By taking the lead in supporting events like the Medical Symposium, City Pharmacy not only contributes to the fight against cancer, but also fosters collaboration and knowledge-sharing within the medical community.

The Grand Papua Hotel in Port Moresby is the proud winner of The World Travel Awards 2023, which recognizes and celebrates the hotel industry worldwide. It is the third year the Grand Papua Hotel has entered the World Travel Awards and are proud to have been awarded; ‘Grand Papua Hotel - Leading Business Hotel – Country Win for Papua New Guinea.’ Hotel General Manager of the Grand Papua Hotel, Vic Namasivayam, stated that this is another prestigious milestone for the Grand Papua Hotel again this year to be recognized as a world class Upscale Hotel, providing a high-end product and services in Papua New Guinea (PNG). The Grand Papua Hotel is situated in Port Moresby’s Central Business District, and offers 161 upscale guest rooms, suites, and residences. The Hotel was built in 2011 and continues to provide a high standard in its products and services for business travelers and corporate guests who want an upscale hotel experience with friendly service. Furthermore, the hotel is currently undergoing a significant upgrade which will secure its position as PNG’s leading business hotel in the years to come; the hotel remains open so all guests can follow its progress. “We continue to take pride in giving our guests reasons for coming back, not only to Grand Papua Hotel, but also to Papua New Guinea and Port Moresby. This award is dedicated to all our employees and guests.” The hotel boasts an upscale setting and guest experience with the Grand Brasserie, 15th Floor by Lal Tamang, Grand Bar, Grand Café, Grand Spa, and the Executive Lounge. Meanwhile, Group General Manger, Coral Sea Hotels, Peter Laigaard Jensen, expressed his gratitude and thanked all staff and management of Grand Papua Hotel who have during the last year gone the extra mile to look after their guests and their safety, and is very pleased to be awarded a best-in-class property.

Margaret Emmanuel has always wanted to be a change maker in her community. That calling came about when she saw people in her local church struggling to read the Bible and that’s when she decided to teach literacy. A teacher by profession with fifteen years experience, Margaret with the support of her family and church, has been volunteering to teach adult literacy classes in her community in Ialibu of Southern Highlands Province for almost two years now. This calling came about when she saw that there was lack of education services in her community and wanted to do something. “People in my church struggled to read the Bible and understand the word of God. Since there were classroom buildings left vacant for many years, I combined the two and saw an opportunity to teach literacy.” In 2022, over a three-month period, Margaret completed a phonics training and a Level one Adult Literacy Teacher Training with the support of the Baptist Union of Papua New Guinea (BUPNG) Church in Kompiam in Enga Province and the Australian Government’s Church Partnership Program. She has now taught three groups, including one combined for students in Grade eight to twelve. This approach has encouraged parents to support their children to further pursue their education and dreams. “Most parents don’t know how to read and write thus find it difficult to support their children.” “For example, they can’t read report cards, so they neglect participating in their children’s learning. Through these literacy classes, parents and children can work together.” The community further supported Margaret's initiative and hopes that there can be positive change when everyone learns how to read. She has also gained recognition as a rising leader in her community and is in her hope to further this adult literacy trainings throughout her District. “I believe that when I change someone, that person will go out and change the community; I want to build that foundation early in the community.” Moreover, through the Australian Government’s Church Partnership Program, church partners such as BUPNG, are delivering adult literacy training programs which are contributing to improving PNG’s literacy rate.