The Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) continues to make progress in its Law and Justice sector through targeted infrastructure upgrades.This week, a ground-breaking ceremony was held to mark the beginning of a new facelift of the Bekut Correctional Facility in Peit Constituency, Buka. The project, which will deliver upgraded male and female dormitories, secured fencing and associated works, reflects the ABG’s ongoing commitment to improving correctional services and preparing Bougainville’s institutions for greater responsibility in the justice sector. The ceremony was attended by ABG Minister for Police and Member for Konnou Constituency Hon. Willie Masiu, ABG Secretary for Law and Justice Ms. Leontine Ivano, alongside key national and development partners including Resident Judge Justice Peter Toliken, Chief of Bougainville Police and Deputy Police Commissioner Francis Tokura, Assistant Commissioner Correctional Services (AROB) Vincent Kundi, and representatives from the Australian High Commission and Papua New Guinea Correctional Services. Speaking at the event, ABG Secretary for Law and Justice Ms. Leontine Ivano described the upgrade as a critical step forward for Bougainville’s justice sector development. “Strengthening correctional infrastructure is a key priority for the Autonomous Bougainville Government as we progress towards the transfer of functions,” she said, adding that such investments ensure systems are better equipped to manage facilities safely, effectively, and in line with future obligations of the justice sector. Ms. Ivano emphasized that the upgrade would contribute to improved standards of detainee management, staff welfare, and overall facility operations, aligning with ABG’s broader vision of a fair, secure, and well-functioning justice system. She acknowledged the PNG Correctional Services and the Government of Australia for their continued partnership and support in advancing Bougainville’s Justice Sector. Assistant Commissioner for Correctional Services (AROB) Vincent Kundi welcomed the commencement of works, noting the direct impact the improvements will have on frontline officers and detainees. “This project will make a real difference for our officers stationed here and the people in our care. Strong infrastructure helps us do our job properly by improving safety, supports better management of detainees and lifts the standard of Bekut,” he said. The Bekut upgrade is being delivered in partnership with Papua New Guinea Correctional Services and the Australia–PNG Law and Justice Partnership (APLJ), as part of continued collaboration to support justice sector development in Bougainville. Development partners acknowledged ABG’s leadership in advancing justice sector reforms and reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Bougainville’s priorities through practical infrastructure and capacity-building initiatives. The current works represent the first phase of a broader development plan for the facility, with future investments expected to include a new guard house, expanded male and female accommodation, and upgraded ablution facilities.

The Teaching Service Commission (TSC) has issued a firm directive aimed at safeguarding the stability of Papua New Guinea’s teaching workforce ahead of the 2026 academic year, declaring the displacement of serving teachers through improper processes illegal.TSC Chairman Maini Mike Ugaia said the Commission is taking decisive action to protect teachers from unlawful removals and administrative errors, particularly as the critical Pay 9 auto-suspension deadline approaches. He stressed that all serving teachers must remain in recognized teaching positions in the 2026 postings. Any teacher not in a position must have exited the system through proper legal channels, including disciplinary action, resignation, or other formal processes. “The Commission’s position is absolute.” “If serving teachers are displaced through illegal processes, TSC will maintain them on pay in their 2025 positions and they must not be moved.” “Teacher movements should only occur through gazetted positions and promotions.” He further emphasized that under Section 24 of the Teaching Service Act, it is strictly illegal to displace serving teachers, warning that any appointing authority acting outside the law will face intervention from the Commission to ensure continuity of service. Ugaia said that TSC’s core responsibility is to guarantee job security for serving teachers, while also ensuring fairness in the appointment process. “We are sending a clear warning to all Provincial Education Boards (PEBs): the appointment process must never be used as a tool to discipline teachers. Displacement is not a disciplinary measure.” He added that all provinces must have formal disciplinary committees to address conduct-related issues through lawful procedures, noting that priority will be given to protecting current teachers while allocating remaining vacancies to new graduates. Meanwhile, TSC Commissioner for Policy, Dr. Charly Muke, called on Provincial Education Boards to urgently convene meetings to correct appointment lists before the Pay 9 auto-suspension takes effect. “We must ensure that active, serving teachers are not wrongfully removed from the payroll due to administrative delays.” To address ongoing concerns, the Commission has nullified recent appointment decisions in Hela, Gulf and Manus provinces, as well as in all national institutions. Teachers in these areas will remain in their 2025 positions until proper processes are followed. Affected teachers have been urged to report their cases to Provincial TSC Officers and submit required documentation, including their Oath of Loyalty, to TSC headquarters by March 27, 2026. In addition, Provincial TSC, Salaries and Payroll Officers have been directed to immediately process TSC-approved tenure listings and Provincial Education Board-endorsed appointments through the Teachers Online Appointment Management System. The Commission warned that strict compliance with TSC Circular 1 of 2026 and directives issued on December 12, 2025, is mandatory to avoid further disruption to the education system.

On World Tuberculosis (TB) Day held on Tuesday March 24th, Australia highlighted the impact of its long‑term investment in the fight against tuberculosis (TB), as new, life‑saving treatments for drug‑resistant TB are now being delivered in Papua New Guinea.With TB remaining a persistent challenge in the region, including in Papua New Guinea, Australia has made sustained investments to change the way drug‑resistant TB is treated. Australia has invested K51million (AUD 17 million) to help make research into new TB drugs commercially viable. This investment has led to the development of new treatments that are more effective, require shorter treatment periods, and have fewer side effects. That investment is now delivering real impact in Papua New Guinea. New all‑oral BPaLM treatment for drug‑resistant TB is being offered in Port Moresby and Daru, Western province. These game‑changing medicines have reduced treatment times by two‑thirds and helped increase TB treatment success rates in PNG from 71 per cent in 2020 to 88 per cent in 2025. Previously, people with drug‑resistant TB were required to take more than 20 tablets per day for over 18 months, alongside regular injections. Under the new regimen, patients take just five tablets per day for six months. These treatments have a cure rate of more than 90 per cent. In addition to funding research and development, Australian technical partners – including the Therapeutic Goods Administration and the Burnet Institute – worked closely with PNG counterparts to ensure the rapid registration of these medicines. Australia has also used its position on the Board of the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, TB and Malaria to priorities access to these drugs across the region, including PNG. Marking World TB Day, the transition of these treatments from research to reality highlights the value of sustained investment, scientific collaboration and strong partnerships. Australia has expressed its continued support towards innovation that saves lives, working alongside PNG to strengthen TB care, improve treatment outcomes, and protect communities. Together, we can end TB.

The Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) is taking decisive steps to strengthen its law and justice sector, with plans underway to transfer command and control of key law enforcement institutions to Bougainville.ABG Minister for Police, Willie Masiu, announced in the ABG Parliament this week that his Ministry has, over the past six months, been undertaking a comprehensive assessment of the law-and-order situation across the region, identifying critical reforms needed to support Bougainville’s transition towards eventual independence. “Currently, command and control of both the Bougainville Police Service and Correctional Service (CS) remain with the Government of Papua New Guinea. This presents a significant challenge to our aspirations for self-governance,” Minister Masiu said. “I have therefore, recognized the need to initiate the process of transferring command and control of these key institutions to the ABG.” A key milestone in this process is the recent approval by the Bougainville Executive Council for the establishment of the Bougainville Civilian Police Service Secretariat, which will provide oversight and coordination to ensure the Police Service operates effectively, efficiently and transparently. The Secretariat will undertake a series of priority reforms aimed at strengthening policing across Bougainville, including: Full transfer of command and control of the Bougainville Police Service to the ABG Development and implementation of a five-year Corporate Plan Expansion of police manpower to 800 officers by 2029 Training and formalization of town rangers in urban centres Upskilling of Community Auxiliary Police to strengthen community-level policing Integration of selected veterans into a reserve police unit Establishment of rural police posts across all constituencies Construction of rural lockups in key regional locations Establishment of a Bougainville Intelligence Organization Creation of a Bougainville Water Policing Unit Minister Masiu reiterated that these reforms are necessary to build a professional, disciplined and accountable police service that reflects the needs and aspirations of our people. The Civilian Secretariat will also play a central role in facilitating the immediate drawdown of powers from the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary and the National Correctional Service. Progress is also being made within the Correctional Services sector. Ground-breaking ceremonies have been conducted at Kuveria and Beikut, with developments already underway. At Kuveria, land has been cleared for the construction of a new correctional facility, while at Beikut, works have commenced on essential infrastructure, including secure fencing, dormitories for male and female inmates, and a dedicated juvenile facility. These developments are being supported through the Government of Australia, and Minister Masiu expressed appreciation for the continued partnership. Minister Masiu also highlighted the urgent need to restore police presence in Nissan and Kokopau, noting that both stations were previously operational but have since been vacated. “These stations were previously operational but have since been vacated and must now be restored as a matter of priority,” he said. Minister Masiu emphasized that strengthening law and order institutions remains central to Bougainville’s future. “Law and order remain the foundation of peace, stability and development. As we move towards our political future, it is imperative that we build strong, disciplined and accountable institutions.”

The Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) is conducting an internal investigation into the recent recruitment activity following allegations from the public and even parliament, of corruption in the recruitment process.The allegations came up following a video that went viral on social media of the newest recruits of the PNGDF arriving at the Goldie River Training Depot that showed some of the recruits looking too old and unfit to be considered as defence force material.The Acting Chief of Defence, Brigadier General Lari Opa in a recent written statement, stated that the investigation and review will examine current processes, decision points, use of technology to produce fake documents and oversight mechanism, and it will recommend improvements and take necessary actions against staff as deemed necessary.“Our commitment is clear; recruitment must be fair, merit- based, and aligned with the Defence Force’s core value,” said the Brigadier General.Brigadier Opa, who spoke on behalf of the Chief of Defence Force Rear Admiral Philip Polewara, said that in the recent past, there have been similar allegations. Hence, for this recent recruitment, the PNGDF introduced online recruitment rather than using the PNGDF internal procedures to identify suitably qualified candidates for further processing.“However, the allegations that have resurfaced seem to indicate that the process is still being challenged even though we trailed online recruitment.”He then went on to say that there could be a mistake somewhere in the process that saw some of these individuals put on the list in the last minute.“It is suspected that few of the recruits who failed the medical test may have been included in the last minute, and through the internal review, those recruits will be removed and service personnel who are implicated will be charged and dismissed."The men and women of the PNGDF represent the values that underpin their service to the nation: loyalty, courage, discipline, respect and integrity.“These values guide our actions and drive our determination to maintain a strong, professional defence force that Papua New Guinea can trust and relay upon,” stated Brigadier General Opa.

Minister for Community Development, Youth and Religion and Member for Huon Gulf, Jason Peter, continued his weekend community outreach with the presentation of a full set of musical instruments to the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Papua New Guinea (ELC PNG) Baya Parish. The instruments, valued at K15,000, were delivered to Malolo Seket in Ward 1, Hote, within Salamaua Local Level Government (LLG). The support was funded through the Huon Gulf District Development Authority (HGD-DDA) under Minister Peter’s leadership. Hote, a remote inland area bordering Bulolo District, remains one of the most isolated parts of Huon Gulf. Despite the logistical challenges, Peter has maintained efforts to ensure government services and support reach communities in hard-to-access locations. The instruments were handed over to the church, with community representative Geotau Lee highlighting the historical and spiritual significance of Baya Parish. He explained that the parish was named after early missionary Edwig Baya, who first travelled into the area to spread Christianity. Mr. Lee described the donation as a historic moment for the community, saying it reflects the leader’s vision of recognizing churches as a key pillar of development in the district. “This is a blessing for our people. We thank God Almighty for giving wisdom, strength, and courage to a young and vibrant leader who continues to prioritize the spiritual wellbeing of our communities.” The parish pastor also encouraged members of the congregation to remain strong in their faith, respect leadership, and promote unity within the community. The presentation ceremony was attended by local villagers, former Ward 1 councilor Alex Awateng, and newly appointed Ward 1 councilor Able Yasap, who all expressed appreciation for the continued support from district leadership. Peter reaffirmed his commitment to inclusive development, stating that churches play a vital role in shaping communities and promoting peace, unity, and moral values across Huon Gulf District.

East New Britain Students from the University of Papua New Guinea’s ENB Students Association received positive words from the ENB’s Governor Michael Marum, during their orientation. The Governor congratulated those from the province for earning their place at the country’s premier university, describing their achievement as a testament to hard work, determination, and the support of families and communities. He encouraged students to make the most of the opportunities available to them at university, urging them to remain focused on their academic goals while also developing personally. Additionally, he emphasized that students from the province are not only pursuing education but also representing their province, calling on them to uphold values of discipline, unity, and respect in their conduct both on and off campus. Students were also urged to support one another and maintain strong bonds as a provincial community, while showing respect to lecturers and peers from across the country. The Governor stressed the importance of fostering harmony in a diverse academic environment. He acknowledged the role of the ENB Students Association in supporting students studying away from home, noting that the organization provides mentorship, guidance, and a sense of belonging. Reaffirming his government’s commitment, the Governor announced that the province’s tertiary education school fee subsidy program will continue, stressing that investing in education remains a key priority. He said supporting students today is an investment in the future leadership of East New Britain, expressing confidence that many will return to contribute meaningfully to the province’s development. The Governor concluded by wishing students success in their studies and encouraged them to remain focused, disciplined, and committed to making their province proud.

Papua New Guinea Swimming Inc. (PNGSI) is set to host the 2026 Theodist PNG National Swimming Championships this weekend, from 27th–29th March, at the Taurama Aquatic and Indoor Centre in Port Moresby city.The event promises an action-packed weekend as swimmers from across the country, including Lae and Port Moresby cities, compete for national honours. PNGSI has received entries from approximately 85 athletes, including members of the Lae Amateur Swimming Club (LASC), Boroko Amateur Swimming Club (BASC), visiting swimmers, offshore competitors, and masters' swimmers. Team PNG Swim Team members will also be in action, aiming for strong performances and qualifying times for upcoming international competitions. These elite athletes represent the pinnacle of Papua New Guinea swimming and serve as inspiring role models for aspiring swimmers, showcasing the values of discipline, dedication, and perseverance. The championship also officially launches PNGSI’s 2026 competition calendar and will serve as a key selection event for international meets, subject to qualifying standards and athlete commitment. Key International Competitions for PNG Swimmers in 2026: Oceania Aquatics Swimming Championships (50m) – Suva, Fiji, 8–13 May Commonwealth Games (50m) – Glasgow, Scotland, 24–29 July Summer Youth Olympic Games (50m) – Dakar, Senegal, 31 October – 13 November World Aquatics Swimming Championships (25m) – Beijing, China, 1–6 December PNGSI expressed gratitude to Theodist PNG for their continued sponsorship and in-kind support, helping to ensure a successful championship for athletes, officials, and spectators alike. Session Schedule: Session 1 – Friday, 27 March, 4:30 pm Session 2 – Saturday, 28 March, 8:30 am Session 3 – Saturday, 28 March, 3:30 pm Session 4 – Sunday, 29 March, 8:30 am The public is invited to attend and cheer on the nation’s swimmers. A K5 spectator entry fee applies, as set by the Taurama Aquatic and Indoor Centre. On behalf of the PNGSI Executive, President Ryan Pini, MBE, extended best wishes to all athletes, coaches, officials, and supporters, looking forward to a weekend of thrilling competition and the continued growth of swimming in Papua New Guinea.

PNG Fashion Week has announced the launch of exclusive Fashion Photography and Content Creation Masterclasses to be held in Port Moresby over the Easter weekend.The two-day training, scheduled for April 3–4, will feature internationally recognized photographer Asvin Singh, who will travel from Fiji to deliver hands-on, industry-level instruction to local photographers, content creators, and aspiring creatives. Organizers say the initiative is aimed at strengthening Papua New Guinea’s growing creative sector by providing participants with practical skills and real-world experience. The masterclasses will focus on high-quality fashion photography and digital content creation as these areas are seeing increasing demand across media, fashion, and online platforms. PNG Fashion Week described the program as more than just a workshop, highlighting its role in creating opportunities for young creatives to develop their talent, compete in the global market as well as supporting the next generation of storytellers. The sessions will run from 9:00am to 1:00pm each day, with the venue yet to be confirmed. Due to the practical, hands-on nature of the training, organizers have warned that spaces will be limited.

Farmers in Atataini village, Menyamya District, are calling for government support as they expand a local taro project. The group has developed two farm sites using their own resources. But progress is slow without training, tools, and funding. Farm coordinator Hamsron Kennedy said the group has been waiting for assistance since last year. “We have been waiting for government help, but there has been no response. We are still working, but we need support to improve,” he said. The first farm has grown from a small nursery into a planned plantation of 50 to 55 hectares. Farmers are adding new activities to sustain the project. A nursery house is being built for cabbage seedlings, and a poultry house is under construction to help raise funds. The second farm is still in its early stages. Farmers plan to grow taro before moving into crops like potatoes and bulb onions. They also plan to plant kaukau to feed workers and pigs after harvesting taro. Avocado trees will support livestock. Kennedy said the project has strong potential but cannot grow without outside help. “We are trying our best, but we need training and proper tools to move forward,” he said. The farmers say timely support would boost food production and create income for the community.

Acting Chairman of the Teaching Service Commission (TSC), Maini Mike Ugaia, has issued an urgent directive to Provincial Education Boards (PEBs) and national education authorities to expedite the processing of teacher appointments and duty resumption data.The directive comes as the deadline for the 2026 “auto-suspension” approaches; a system-driven process that will remove teachers from the government payroll if their administrative records and Resumption of Duty Summary Sheets (RODSS) are not finalized and entered into the Alesco payroll system. Reports indicate that several provinces have yet to complete the required data input for the 2026 academic year, raising concerns about the potential impact on teachers nationwide. Ugaia expressed disappointment that despite the decentralization of payroll functions, there has been little improvement in processing efficiency. He warned that delays could disrupt the education system and place unnecessary hardship on teachers and their families. To safeguard teacher welfare and maintain stability in schools, the TSC has issued strict instructions to all provinces. Current teachers are to be prioritized in appointments, whether at their existing levels or for promotional roles. Confirmed tenure holders must also be protected in accordance with the Teacher Tenure Confirmation Gazette, with any review of tenure only to be conducted based on official non-performance reports from the Inspectorate. The Chairman further stressed that appointment processes must not be used as disciplinary measures and should remain strictly merit-based, free from political interference. “Teachers are nation builders, and we must ensure their welfare is prioritized.” “Provinces must act now to ensure every genuine teacher remains on the payroll and in the classroom.” “We want to see a significant decrease in the number of teachers affected by auto-suspension, which causes undue hardship to families.” Teachers who have not yet been confirmed in their 2026 appointments or whose RODSS have not been processed have been urged to immediately contact their respective provincial TSC offices.

Six of the 12 up-armoured Landcruiser vehicles gifted by Australia to the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) late last year are now being used in a driver training program at Murray Barracks and the Goldie River Training Depot outside of Port Moresby city. The course is designed to equip PNGDF personnel from across the country with the skills to operate the vehicles, strengthening the force’s protected mobility capability. Eight PNGDF members have qualified as driving instructors and are now delivering training to participants, with additional support from the Australian Defence Force (ADF) through the Defence Cooperation Program (DCP). Corporal Maria Andaku, who has served for 12 years in the Force Support Battalion (FSB), is among the instructors. She is training transport personnel in technical operation, maintenance and the safe handling of the up-armoured vehicles for use in exercises and operations. “We are training them to be qualified to handle the up-armoured vehicle. It’s a big change to the course and we are grateful to the ADF for the vehicles,” she said. Corporal Petra Kimbis, also from the FSB with 14 years of service, is a participant in the course. She is the only female among 15 men in her training group. “As a female behind the wheel of an armoured vehicle, I am grateful. It’s challenging, but it’s interesting and I’m really enjoying the course,” she said. Australian Defence Force Lance Corporal Emily Murphy, a tactical training instructor assisting in the program, said she values the opportunity to work alongside PNGDF members and learn from them, particularly Corporals Andaku and Kimbis. The joint training highlights the important role of women as both leaders and learners within the PNGDF and ADF, while strengthening the enduring defence partnership between Papua New Guinea and Australia.