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APANAIPI LEADERS RAISE CONSTITUENCY BOUNDARY CONCERNS
Leaders and members of the Bobo'gabi and Ai'naba clans from Apanaipi Village in Ward 15 of the Mekeo Rural Local Level Government met with Minister for Energy and Member for Kairuku, Hon. Peter Namea Isoaimo, in Port Moresby today to discuss concerns surrounding the demarcation of the Apanaipi Constituency.The delegation, represented by Mr. Patrick Aga and Mr. Steven Aidaboe, expressed concerns over the boundary lines between Apanaipi in Kairuku District, Central Province, and Miaru in Gulf Province. They said the issue has caused confusion and uncertainty among communities living along the border areas.The leaders appealed to Minister Isoaimo to assist in facilitating a fair and transparent process to address the dispute and provide clarity on the constituency boundaries.In response, Minister Isoaimo acknowledged the concerns raised and encouraged the community leaders to organize themselves and gather all relevant documents and evidence relating to the matter.He also requested that all parties involved agree on a suitable date for a broader stakeholder meeting where the issues can be formally presented, discussed, and addressed.Minister Isoaimo stressed the importance of constructive dialogue, cooperation, and proper documentation in resolving boundary-related matters peacefully.Participants described the meeting as a positive first step toward finding a resolution to the long-standing concerns over the border demarcation between Apanaipi and Miaru.The proposed stakeholder meeting is expected to provide an opportunity for all affected parties to present their views and work towards a mutually acceptable outcome.
Published on June 12, 2026
MATERNITY CARE COLLABORATION STRENGTHENS SAFER DELIVERIES FOR MOTHERS
In a significant boost to community healthcare, the National Capital District Provincial Health Authority (NCDPHA) and Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH) have joined forces to enhance maternity services across the city.Operating under a current Memorandum of Understanding, this strategic partnership has fully transformed the Labor Ward at the Metoreia Urban Health Centre.The facility is now staffed around the clock by trained midwives from both health organizations and is equipped with new delivery beds to ensure mothers have access to reliable care right in their neighborhood.Additionally, specialist doctors from PMGH visit the clinic every week, bringing expert medical attention directly to the community level and saving families from making long trips to the main hospital.This collaborative framework has already yielded impressive results, dramatically increasing Metoreia's capacity from just a few births a day to an average of nine to eleven babies delivered daily.By managing more localized births, the health center is successfully relieving severe overcrowding at PMGH's main maternity ward.The Deputy Director of Medical Services at PMGH, Dr. Henao Asa, highlighted the broader vision behind this initiative, stating, âOur vision at PMGH is to be the ultimate provider of quality healthcare for Papua New Guinea.âHe explained that, âThis partnership with NCDPHA allows us to extend specialist services into the community, reducing congestion at PMGH while ensuring mothers can deliver safely at Metoreia.âDr. Asa further emphasized that, âWith weekly specialist support and trained midwives, we are committed to bringing healthcare services closer to families and achieving the national health plan goals of leaving no one behind.âThe initiative reflects a shared commitment to upholding the dignity and safety of women during childbirth.Chief Executive Officer of NCDPHA, Dr. Robin Oge, echoed these sentiments, asserting, âEvery mother deserves safe, dignified care when giving birth.âHe noted that by working closely with the hospital management, they are expanding essential services so that women across Port Moresby have a dependable local alternative for giving birth.âThis partnership is about bringing care closer to our people and ensuring no mother is left behind,â Dr. Oge stated, adding, âI sincerely acknowledge PMGH CEO Dr. Paki Molumi and his management team for their strong commitment and continued collaboration with NCDPHA to strengthen health services for our communities.âWith the 24-hour service now fully operational, expectant mothers in the capital are highly encouraged to utilize the Metoreia Urban Health Centre Labor Ward for safe deliveries, comprehensive postnatal care, and ongoing medical support for their newborns.
Published on June 12, 2026
DWU STUDENTS LAUNCH MADANG SCHOOL OUTREACH PROGRAM
Students from the Divine Word University Madang Students Association (DWUMSA) kicked off a provincial outreach program on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, by donating books and conducting an educational awareness session at Transgogol Secondary School.The initiative aimed to provide Grade 11 and 12 students with clear information on how to navigate the tertiary application process and secure places at universities and colleges across Papua New Guinea. The DWUMSA team detailed the entry requirements and academic programs available at the DWU Madang Campus, while offering practical advice on how to correctly fill out school leaver forms.To provide the high schoolers with even broader post-secondary options, the team was joined by Advent, a former Madang Technical College student and current leader of the Madang Tertiary Students Union, who shared insights into technical training pathways.The outreach also drew support from university students representing various other provinces, fostering a strong sense of national camaraderie.Organizers expressed deep appreciation for this diverse student involvement, noting that the collaboration reflects a growing spirit of unity. âThis is the time we must unite as Papua New Guineans and stand for change."This little collaboration can lead to bigger things later,â one DWUMSA student remarked.Beyond academic guidance, the initiative heavily focused on literacy, made possible by a donation of reading materials from the Friendship Library. Transgogol Secondary's administration, including Principal Mr. Iven and Deputy Administration Mr. Marib warmly welcomed the visiting group and thanked the library and the university students for providing resources that will directly support student learning and literacy.Following the academic presentations, the university students led an interactive discussion on critical social issues facing today's youth, such as drug and alcohol abuse, peer pressure, and the cultural importance of Gutpela Sindaun.The Transgogol students engaged enthusiastically, asking questions and participating in group discussions about their futures. Transgogol Secondary's Deputy Academic teacher, Mr. Teisua praised the visit as timely and highly relevant to the needs of the student body.âOur students need this kind of guidance. Many are unsure about what course offered in the Divine Word University and life after Grade 12. This helps them see what is possibly make the right choices when it comes to apply to secure a space in universities or colleges,â Mr. Teisua noted.The successful event at Transgogol Secondary marks the official launch of a wider community campaign by DWUMSA, which plans to visit several other secondary schools throughout Madang Province to conduct similar information sessions.The organizers extended their formal gratitude to the Transgogol teaching staff and student body for their hospitality and for making the program a success.The day concluded with group photographs and words of encouragement, with both institutions committing to a lasting partnership aimed at fostering student development and academic success in the region.
Published on June 12, 2026
GOVERNOR GARY JUFFA CHAMPIONS MARITIME SOVEREIGNTY
Commemorating World Oceans Day on June 8, 2026, Oro Province Governor Gary Juffa issued a passionate call to protect Papua New Guinea's vast maritime territory, emphasizing that the health of the marine environment dictates the prosperity of the nation. "For countless coastal and island communities, the sea is their garden, highway, marketplace, and source of sustenance," Juffa stated, noting that marine resources provide food security and cultural continuity for hundreds of thousands of Papua New Guineans. However, he warned that these delicate ecosystems face severe threats from climate change, pollution, illegal fishing, and the dangerous pressures of commercial resource extraction.Chief among these threats is the international push for deep-sea mining, driven by foreign entities the Governor described as "profit and greed merchants." Reminding the nation of the Solwara One project, a costly failure that stripped PNG taxpayers of over K300 million, Juffa strongly cautioned against future seabed exploitation."Humanity's knowledge of deep ocean ecosystems remains extremely limited," Juffa warned, stressing that the consequences could result in irreversible habitat destruction and the extinction of undiscovered species. He urged the government to strictly apply the precautionary principle, insisting that the burden of environmental proof must rest entirely on those pushing to exploit the ocean rather than those trying to protect it.Compounding these environmental dangers is a severe lack of sovereign control over the country's waters, which has transformed the Pacific into a haven for transnational criminal syndicates engaged in trafficking and illegal fishing. Juffa expressed deep concern that foreign investors, whom he likened to "modern-day pirates", plunder hundreds of millions of dollars' worthof marine resources, while not a single operating fishing vessel is owned by a Papua New Guinean. "Conservation without enforcement is merely an aspiration," Juffa declared, criticizing the nation's outdated surveillance technology for failing to track the "dark ships" that illegally raid PNG's tuna breeding grounds. To reverse this trend, the Governor called for urgent investments in satellite tracking, modern patrol vessels, stronger legislation, and tougher maritime penalties.Governor Juffa concluded his address by championing the traditional knowledge systems and customary marine stewardship that have successfully protected PNG's waters for generations. He urged all elected leaders to fulfil their duty to safeguard coastal communities across regions like Milne Bay, Manus, New Ireland, East Sepik, Bougainville, and West New Britain. "Future generations will not judge us by how many tons of minerals we extracted from the seabed," Juffa stated. "They will judge us by whether we protected the oceans that sustain life itself."To secure a lasting legacy, he requested that all future conservation commitments be backed by strict national sovereignty, robust scientific integrity, and practical enforcement.
Published on June 12, 2026
KUDUKUDU 8-IN-1 CLASSROOM BUILDING OFFICIALLY OPENS
The newly completed Kudukudu 8-in-1 classroom building at Dr. George Brown Primary School in Ward 1 of Matalai LLG was officially opened this week, marking a significant milestone for education development in the district.Funded by the Namatanai District Development Authority (NDDA) and through the Lihir royalty component, the modern two-storey classroom facility is expected to greatly improve learning conditions for students and teachers while supporting future growth in student enrolment.The official opening will be conducted by the Member for Namatanai, Walter D. Schnaubelt, the Chairman of the New Ireland District Development Authority (NDDA) and Member for Namatanai, who has championed major investments in education infrastructure across the district.Speaking previously on the project, Mr. Schnaubelt said the facility was designed with the future in mind.âThis school is destined to become our next Junior High School. The construction of this massive facility anticipates the expected increase in student enrolment when the transition takes place. We are planning ahead and ensuring our education infrastructure is ready to meet future demands.âThe new classroom complex represents another major investment in education by the NDDA, reflecting its commitment to providing quality learning environments and expanding access to education throughout the district.Community leaders, education officials, parents, and students are expected to attend the opening ceremony as they celebrate the completion of one of the district's most significant school infrastructure projects. The Kudukudu 8-in-1 classroom project stands as a testament to NDDA's ongoing commitment to strengthening education and creating opportunities for future generations in Namatanai District.
Published on June 12, 2026
PANGU PATI CONVENTION COMMENCES TODAY IN PORT MORESBY CITY
Prime Minister and Pangu Pati Parliamentary Leader James Marape opened the Pangu Pati Convention today in Port Moresby city where he emphasised their commitment to strong internal democracy, leadership succession, policy development and national service.Speaking at a press conference following the opening session of the convention, Prime Minister Marape said the gathering was not about candidate selection for the 2027 National General Election, but about reviewing the party's performance, policies and structures while preparing the next generation of leaders. âPangu Pati must be bigger than James Marape,â the Prime Minister said, stating further that the party leadership does not belong to one person. âWe owe it to the memories and the work of those who came before us to get it right and to pass on our party so it remains viable and usable by generations of Papua New Guineans who will come after us.â Prime Minister Marape said Pangu Pati, formed on June 13, 1967, by eminent sons and daughters of Papua New Guinea, including Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare, Sir Paul Lapun, Sir Albert Maori Kiki, Ebia Olewale, Sir John Guise, Tony Voutas, Tony Ila, Cecil Abel and many others, had played a central role in shaping the nation. He also recalled the role of the famous âBully Beef Clubâ, whose members met in the kitchen of Sir Albert Maori Kikiâs home in Hohola to discuss the future of the country and the vision of a united Papua New Guinea. âOver bully beef and rice, they talked about the countryâs future and the birth of Papua New Guinea, uniting this diverse nation into one sovereignty,â he said. Prime Minister Marape said the party's contribution to nation-building was reflected in the creation of Papua New Guinea's constitutional and democratic institutions. âIt birthed our country. Our Constitution was crafted, our three arms of government were created, and many constitutional offices were born through the work of Pangu Pati.â The Prime Minister said the convention was being held in accordance with the party constitution and the Organic Law on the Integrity of Political Parties and Candidates, with party representatives from all 21 provinces and Bougainville attending. He said ministers would report to party members on the Government's achievements over the last seven years in office.The Pangu Pati Convention is taking place at the Hilton Port Moresby and will conclude on Friday 12th June, followed by a gala dinner event on Saturday 13th June, to mark the Pangu Patiâs 59th Anniversary.
Published on June 11, 2026
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT INITIATIVE LED BY DETAINEES
The National Capital District Commission (NCDC), in collaboration with the Bomana Correctional Service (CS), undertook a community clean-up initiative in Port Moresby last week.Thomas Marinae, the detainee rehabilitation and reform officer for sports, youth, and civic engagement, stated that the purpose of the initiative is to foster environmental responsibility and facilitate detainee rehabilitation.âPrograms of this nature not only help maintain the cleanliness and safety of Port Moresby but also enable detainees to make a positive contribution and reintegrate with society,â he commented.Mr. Marinae expressed gratitude to the Papua New Guinea Correctional Service (CS) and Bomana Correctional Service for their continued partnership.The clean-up effort included 30 detainees from the minimum-security unit, eight correctional service officers, as well as NCDC staff members from the sports, youth, and civic engagement, along with waste management divisions.The clean-up commenced at Croton Street, Waigani, and concluded at City Hall.The waste management division provided garbage bags, personal protective equipment, and rubbish removal services.This clean-up follows a recent food donation from NCDC's sports, youth, and civic engagement division to Bomana Correctional Service.
Published on June 11, 2026
PNG MEDIA LOSES A FIGHTER: âREMEMBERING GENâ
IT is with most profound sorrow that the Media Council of Papua New Guinea announces the passing of its Treasurer, Trainer, Friend, and Colleague, Genesis Ketan. Ms. Ketan passed away peacefully after a courageous battle with Rheumatic Heart Disease and Mitral Valve Stenosis.President of the MCPNG, Neville Choi, speaking on behalf of the Executives and Management Council, said the media fraternity in the country was in shock at the news of Ms. Ketanâs passing. âWe are in mourning. We have lost one of our best and brightest. Gen was an inspiration to many in the industry today. Her role as one of our first local Media Trainers was outmatched only by her determination to build and encourage young journalists and colleagues whenever she saw there was a need to.â âStepping Up to the plateâMs. Ketan was elected by the MCPNG Membership to the Executive Board Position of Treasurer in 2023 while representing PNGFM as News Manager. As Treasurer Ms. Ketan successfully led the process of establishing the Councilâs finances just in time for the staging the Inaugural MCPNG Media Summit in 2025 to commemorate World Press Freedom Day, and the return of the PNG Media Awards event of the same evening.âTraining & MentoringâMs. Ketan was also the Councilâs Nomination alongside Post-Courier Digital Director, Mathew Vari to be the first two senior journalists representing the Council to receive Training of Trainers skills on Social Media Best Practices, facilitated by BBC Media Action in 2025. Out of the first cohort of TOT participants from across the Pacific, Ms. Ketan and Mr. Vari were the first to roll out a series of training for mainstream media digital officers Lae, Mt. Hagen, Kokopo and Port Moresby. A second Training of Trainers by BBC Media Action saw the pair return to build on their skills â now with Verification and Fact-Checking Skills. New skillsets they were to impart via another set of training workshops for mainstream media. Immediately on her return, Ms. Ketan sent a message saying she and Mr. Vari had learnt so much new information and content that she was excited to share with the rest of the digital teams in the media. The first of this second round of training was recently held in Buka. It was the first training which she would not be able to be part of.âImpactâMs. Ketanâs exuberance and forthright attitude drew many to her, and she impacted the lives of many young media friends and colleagues â not just in PNG, but across the region.Ms. Ketanâs first regional media experience came in September of 2024 when she attended the Pacific Islands News Association (PINA) Summit in Niue as a representative of the MCPNG.âGen attended the 2024 PINA Summit in Niue representing the Media Council. It was also her first PINA Summit, so she had many questions. Afterward she expressed how she had learned so much about regional media and its personalities.âThis first positive experience helped her build her confidence in speaking on behalf of PNG Media, on any stage.Her last formal representation of PNG Media came as part of an official MCPNG Delegation to the Global Investigative Journalism Conference in Kuala Lumpur last year. This conference exposed her to ways to improve investigative journalism and media training in PNG.âAn InspirationâMs. Ketanâs work in media training gave her the opportunity to work with and encourage many young journalists across the country.In her most recent role as a producer of a panel discussion at the 2026 Media Summit, her individual mentoring and encouraging of her panellists (mostly editors) displayed her passion to build younger colleagues.âGen inspired us all. If it wasnât a critical analysis of something you had done, it would be through words of encouragement for you to be better, and not to apologise for being where you are because of your own hard work.âTo her staff, she was firm. To her friends, she was loyal to a fault. To those whom she pulled aside to impart words of wisdom to, she will never be forgotten.âTo her colleague executives of the MCPNG, Gen was hope. Hope that the future of PNG media rested in one of what could turn into many sets of hands that would hold the line of truth and integrity. The Media in PNG has lost one of its best.âOn behalf of the Members of the Media Council of Papua New Guinea, our thoughts and prayers will be with Genâs husband Ray, and her beautiful young family, her extended family, and her tribe.
Published on June 11, 2026
IRC & CENTRAL PROVINCIAL TEAM UP TO IMPROVE REVENUE COLLECTION & SERVICE DELIVERY
The Internal Revenue Commission (IRC) and the Central Provincial Government (CPG) have reinforced their strategic partnership following a successful two-day engagement in Kwikila, Central Province.The high-level meeting, held from 8â9 June 2026, aimed at strengthening tax compliance, enhancing revenue mobilisation, and improving service delivery outcomes for the people of Central Province.It was attended by Acting Commissioner General Mr. Sam Loi, Central Deputy Provincial Administrator Mr. Bala Kapa, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Rigo District Development Authority Mr. Murray Konido, Senior Magistrate Ms. Nancy Lipai, and senior officials from IRC, CPG, and the Rigo District Development Authority (DDA).The discussions were centred on deepening cooperation between IRC and CPG through a review of the existing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), establishment of structured quarterly engagements, and allocation of office space for the IRC Central Provincial Manager within the Provincial Administration.Both parties agreed on the need for a strengthened and more operationally focused MoU to guide collaboration. The revised MoU is expected to be formally executed by 23rd June 2026, providing a framework for improved coordination, accountability, and implementation of joint initiatives.Driving GST Compliance and Revenue Growth; A key focus of the engagement was the implementation of Section 65A GST withholding arrangements, which are expected to significantly enhance compliance, improve revenue collection, and promote transparency in the utilisation of public funds.  The IRCâCPG partnership on GST has progressively strengthened since its inception in 2023, with notable advancements in 2024 and 2025 through improved information sharing and coordinated enforcement efforts.A highlight of the meeting was the presentation of a GST remittance cheque for May by the Rigo District Development Authority (DDA), demonstrating practical compliance under Section 65A.Rigo District continues to establish itself as a benchmark in compliance performance. Between 2023 and 2025, the district achieved an 87% compliance rate, increasing to 97% in 2025, while Central Province recorded an overall compliance level of 98%.Full compliance with Section 65A presents significant fiscal potential, with projections indicating a 37% increase in internally generated revenue from GST by 2027, enabling expanded funding for essential services and development priorities.Acting Commissioner General Mr. Sam Loi emphasised the strategic importance of GST as a sustainable revenue stream.âGST must become the primary revenue source for both the National and Provincial Governments. When provinces actively support effective GST collection, they will generate sufficient revenue to fund their own priorities and progressively reduce dependence on national government grants.âHe further urged all withholding entities across provinces and District Development Authorities to emulate the strong compliance demonstrated by Rigo DDA and the Central Provincial Government.In closing, Deputy Provincial Administrator Mr. Bala Kapa reaffirmed CPGâs commitment to: Finalising and signing the MoU by 23 June 2026 Providing office space for IRC within the Provincial Administration Supporting the full implementation of Section 65A GST measuresMr. Kapa underscored the importance of proximity in service delivery: âWe welcome IRC closer to our people, because service improves when we work side by side.âHe further acknowledged the IRC technical teamâs support in taxpayer mapping and compliance initiatives, noting that the partnership continues to strengthen provincial administration capacity.Both IRC and CPG reaffirmed their joint commitment to translate agreements into concrete actions, with a clear roadmap focused on strengthening GST compliance, boosting revenue performance, and delivering tangible benefits to the people of Central Province.
Published on June 11, 2026
PMJM URGES PARLAIMENT TO TREAT BOUGAINVILLE REFERENDUM WITH RESPECT
Prime Minister James Marape has called on the National Parliament to handle the 2019 Bougainville Referendum result with maturity, unity and a deep sense of national responsibility, as the long-delayed process formally enters the parliamentary decision stage.Speaking recently in Parliament, Marape described the issue as one of the most significant and sensitive moments in Papua New Guineaâs history, requiring careful consideration of both Bougainvilleâs aspirations and the countryâs constitutional framework.âThis is a historic moment, a huge moment,â the Prime Minister said. âThe issue before us is sensitive and consequential to our nationâs future, but it is something we cannot ignore. Time is of the essence.âThe PM reminded Parliament that the referendum, held in 2019, was conducted under the Bougainville Peace Agreement and is constitutionally mandated under Part XIV of the National Constitution.He said the process had been widely recognised by international observers, including the United Nations, as free, fair and credible, with an overwhelming voter turnout.âThe people of Bougainville participated peacefully and expressed their views with clarity and dignity,â Marape said. The result stands at 97.7 per cent in favour of political independence.âWhile stressing the significance of the result, Marape said it remains subject to the constitutional process requiring consultation and parliamentary consideration before any final determination is made.He told Parliament that Section 342 of the Constitution now requires the National Parliament to formally deliberate and make a decision on the referendum outcome.âThe National Parliament must make a decision. This law has stood for the last 25 years,â said PM Marape.PM Marape paid tribute to leaders past and present who have contributed to the Bougainville peace process, including former Prime Ministers Sir Michael Somare, Sir Julius Chan, Sir Mekere Morauta, Sir William Skate, Paias Wingti and Sir Rabbie Namaliu.He also acknowledged Bougainville leaders such as the late President Joseph Kabui, Francis Ona and Peter Tsiamalili Sr, along with others who contributed to the peace agreement signed in 2001.âWithout thanking the Bougainville leaders, our thanks to national leaders would be in vain,â he said. âAll who have contributed must be acknowledged.âThe PM said his government had already taken steps to progressively transfer powers to the Autonomous Bougainville Government, including areas such as land, fisheries and resource management, while maintaining key sovereign responsibilities such as defence, foreign affairs and currency under national control.âMy Government stands ready to give every power that enables Bougainville to operate its economy and government effectively,â he said.Marape urged MPs to consider both Bougainvilleâs position and the broader national interest, stressing that the decision must be guided by reason rather than emotion.âThis is an emotional matter, but we must make rational choices collectively. As we think from Bougainvilleâs perspective, I ask Bougainville to also think from our perspective,â he said. He said Papua New Guineaâs unity and Melanesian identity would endure regardless of the outcome of Parliamentâs decision. Marape said, âIf it is yes, we will continue. If it is no, we will continue. We are one people under one Constitution.âIn a key procedural step, Parliament today adopted a sessional order allowing the Minister for Bougainville Affairs to table the referendum writ and for debate to proceed ahead of a final vote.The motion on whether Parliament accepts the referendum outcome will require a three-quarters absolute majority to pass.Members of Parliament are expected to consult their constituencies before casting what is likely to be one of the most consequential votes in the countryâs post-independence history.
Published on June 10, 2026
PNG U-19S FACE DECISIVE QUALIFIER AFTER COOK ISLANDS DEFEATED TONGA
Papua New Guinea's Under-19 men's football team will face a winner-takes-all showdown against hosts Cook Islands on Friday after the home side recorded a convincing 4-1 victory over Tonga in the OFC U-19 Men's Championship 2026 Qualifiers in Rarotonga.Cook Islands captain Dallas Rongokea starred with a first-half double as the hosts secured their first-ever victory over Tonga at Under-19 level in Oceania Football Confederation competition.The result leaves qualification for next year's OFC U-19 Men's Championship in Samoa to be decided when Cook Islands and Papua New Guinea meet in a crucial final group match.Rongokea opened the scoring in the 16th minute, finishing from close range after a dangerous delivery across the face of goal from Josef Crocombe.The hosts continued to apply pressure throughout the opening half, with Kenya Enoka striking the post and Maui Denny narrowly missing the target before Crocombe doubled the advantage two minutes before halftime.Crocombe reacted quickest after Kima Webb's effort rebounded off the post, slotting home to make it 2-0.Cook Islands then added a third goal in first-half stoppage time when Webb's set-piece delivery found Rongokea at the back post, with the captain heading home his second goal of the match.The hosts effectively sealed victory on the hour mark when a cross from Crocombe was turned into the net by Tonga defender Fetu'u Tonga for an own goal.Tonga managed a late consolation goal through Fonua Moala in stoppage time but were unable to threaten a comeback.The defeat means Tonga finish their qualifying campaign without a point after suffering consecutive losses in Rarotonga.Attention now turns to Friday's highly anticipated clash between Papua New Guinea and Cook Islands, with qualification for the OFC U-19 Men's Championship 2026 in Samoa on the line.The winner of the match will top the standings and secure the lone qualifying spot from the tournament.PNG will be aiming to continue its strong youth football development programme and book its place among Oceania's top Under-19 nations when the two sides meet at the CIFA Academy.
Published on June 10, 2026
SILAG EYES UNIVERSITY STATUS TO STRENGTHEN PUBLIC SERVICE LEADERSHIP
The Somare Institute of Leadership and Governance (SILAG) says its push to become a specialized public service university will help strengthen leadership, governance and workforce development across Papua New Guinea.The institute has completed a major phase of preparations required for university accreditation, bringing it closer to its target of attaining university status by 2027.The achievement follows an intensive five-day workshop involving senior staff and members of the University Accreditation and Establishment Working Committee, who developed the governance and academic frameworks required by the Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology.Committee Chairman Robert Nemala said the work represents more than an administrative exercise."What we've accomplished is not just a procedural milestoneâit's a foundation for the future of public service education in Papua New Guinea," Mr. Nemala said.SILAG's transformation aligns with the country's Medium-Term Development Plan IV (2023-2027), which prioritises stronger national institutions, improved governance, and expanded access to quality higher education.As a specialized public service university, SILAG plans to broaden its academic offerings while enhancing research and leadership training opportunities for government officers and future public sector leaders.Chief Executive Officer Michael Barobe said the institute's progress reflects a shared commitment by staff and management to create a centre of excellence for leadership and governance."Teamwork makes the dream work," Mr. Barobe said while commending staff for completing one of the most critical stages of the accreditation process.Mr. Barobe also acknowledged the contribution of Professor Maretta Kula-Semos, whose academic leadership has guided the accreditation preparations.Professor Kula-Semos said SILAG's vision extends beyond achieving university status."We are not just building a universityâwe are building a legacy of excellence in leadership and governance for generations to come," she said.As preparations continue, SILAG's leadership remains focused on meeting remaining accreditation requirements while positioning the institution as a key contributor to national development and public sector reform.
Published on June 10, 2026
