The Somare Institute of Leadership and Governance (SILAG) has taken a major step toward achieving university status after completing a key set of accreditation requirements mandated by the Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (DHERST).The milestone follows a week-long intensive workshop in Port Moresby, where senior institute staff developed critical academic and governance documents required under DHERST's university accreditation framework.The workshop, coordinated by the SILAG University Accreditation and Establishment Working Committee (UAEWC), resulted in the completion of 36 key documents, including governance committee terms of reference, institutional policies and narratives addressing national accreditation standards.Executive Director for Higher Learning and Research, Professor Maretta Kula-Semos, described the achievement as a significant breakthrough in SILAG's transition toward becoming a specialized public service university by 2027."These documents are not just administrative checklists," Professor Kula-Semos said."They are highly intellectual, academically rigorous frameworks that form the foundation of a credible and sustainable university."The completed requirements include seven governance committees in terms of reference, 17 institutional policy documents and 12 narratives addressing DHERST standards.SILAG Chief Executive Officer Michael Barobe praised the efforts of the working committee and staff involved in the process."This is one of the most important DHERST requirements on our path to university status," Mr. Barobe said."We are now one step closer to realizing our goal, and it's all thanks to the relentless efforts of our team."The institute aims to become Papua New Guinea's first specialized university dedicated to leadership, governance and public service education.The accreditation process forms part of SILAG's strategic goal of attaining full university status by 2027, expanding its academic programmes and strengthening research capacity.Mr. Barobe said the institute remains focused on meeting the remaining accreditation benchmarks, including infrastructure development, programme accreditation and stakeholder engagement.With the latest milestone completed, SILAG is positioning itself to play a greater role in developing future leaders for Papua New Guinea's public sector.

The Papua New Guinea National Rugby League Competition (PNGNRLC) has unveiled the draw for the 2026 Santos Cup, with the country's premier women's rugby league competition set to expand its reach across multiple provinces as it enters its third season.The 2026 competition will kick off on July 11-12 following the mid-year representative window, featuring six elite teams competing over eight rounds before a two-week finals series.In a significant step forward for women's rugby league in Papua New Guinea, matches will be played in Port Moresby, Lae, Rabaul, Goroka and Minj, bringing the competition closer to communities around the country.The opening round will feature a highly anticipated Grand Final rematch between reigning premiers Gas Resources Central Dabaris and perennial contenders Bintangor Goroka Lahanis, who have contested the competition's major honours over the past two seasons.Joining the two powerhouse clubs in this year's competition are the Lae Snax Tigers, Wamp Nga Mt Hagen Eagles, ENB Agmark Gurias and Moni Plus NCDC Pom Vipers.The competition schedule also includes several feature events aimed at celebrating and promoting the women's game. Round Five, scheduled for August 8 and 9, has been designated as the "Women in League Round", highlighting the contribution of women to rugby league across Papua New Guinea.The Santos Cup will continue to strengthen its connection with the broader rugby league pathway, with several fixtures scheduled alongside SP PNG Hunters and Digicel ExxonMobil Cup matches throughout the season.Following the completion of the regular season, the top four teams will advance to the semi-finals in Port Moresby on September 6, before the season concludes with the Grand Final at the National Football Stadium on September 13.PNGNRLC Women's Competition Manager Urith Toa said the continued growth of the competition reflects increasing opportunities for female athletes across the country."This year's competition marks the third year of the Santos Cup and reflects the continued growth of the women's game, with matches being taken to more communities across the country," Toa said."We have only been able to see this progress because of the steadfast support of Santos, PacificAus Sports and KMHL. We are excited to provide greater opportunities for our female athletes while allowing fans to witness the skill, passion and commitment that exists throughout women's rugby league in Papua New Guinea."The Santos Cup has become a key component of Papua New Guinea's rugby league development pathway, providing elite-level opportunities for women and strengthening the nation's reputation as one of the sport's emerging forces in the Pacific region.

The National Volunteer Service (NVS) has extended its New Guinea Islands (NGI) regional outreach to East New Britain Province, calling on partner organisations and skilled Papua New Guineans to join its growing volunteer programme.The outreach follows a successful visit to West New Britain and forms part of the implementation of National Executive Council (NEC) Decisions 220 and 335 of 2025. The directives task the NVS, an agency under the Ministry of Defence, with expanding its national network to 900 professional volunteers to help address service delivery gaps in rural and underserved communities.During the visit, the NVS team met with East New Britain Governor Hon. Michael Marum and Provincial Administrator Levi Mano to discuss opportunities for collaboration in key development sectors.NVS management said the partnership aims to deploy qualified volunteers to support health, education, agriculture and community development programmes, while strengthening skills and knowledge at the grassroots level.The East New Britain outreach builds on progress made in West New Britain, where plans are underway to establish the NGI Regional Volunteer Academy at Moramora Technical School.NVS is now encouraging provincial authorities, District Development Authorities (DDAs), churches and non-government organisations to apply as host partners for volunteers. Organisations seeking support must demonstrate a genuine need and be able to provide accommodation and local support for volunteers.The agency is also inviting qualified Papua New Guineans with degrees, diplomas or trade certificates in areas such as healthcare, teaching, agriculture and social work to submit Expressions of Interest to join the programme.Over the past four days, the NVS team conducted awareness activities across East New Britain, visiting tertiary institutions, identifying potential volunteer placement sites, and engaging with key stakeholders. The outreach concluded with a debrief on Radio East New Britain (RENB) on Friday.

For a vanilla farmer, patience is essential. From the moment an orchid flower is pollinated to the time a mature vanilla bean is ready for harvest; the process takes nine months of careful attention and hard work. Every flower must be pollinated by hand, vines require constant monitoring and farmers must contend with changing weather conditions throughout the growing cycle.For many years vanilla farmers in East Sepik Province faced challenges that prevented them from fully benefiting from one of the world’s most valuable spices. Problems affected every stage of production. Farmers struggled with poor farm management, crop diseases, and limited technical knowledge. Curing and processing methods were often based on trial and error, while inadequate storage facilities left harvested beans vulnerable to humidity, spoilage, and theft.Without proper equipment to preserve their harvest, many farmers felt pressured to sell their vanilla immediately. Fear of losing crops to moisture damage or theft often led them to market immature or poorly cured beans. Middlemen offering quick cash benefited from the situation, while farmers accepted low prices simply to avoid losing everything.Among those who experienced these hardships was veteran vanilla grower Nancy Fale, affectionately known throughout the region as Mama Nancy."Vanilla once gave my family a good income and a better life," she recalls. "It felt like a dream, but when the industry faced major challenges, we struggled financially."With nearly three decades of experience growing vanilla, Nancy has witnessed the industry's highs and lows. She has seen prices collapse, watched farmers abandon their crops and observed others return only when international prices rose again.Recognising these challenges, the EU-STREIT PNG Programme, implemented by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), introduced practical solutions aimed at rebuilding the vanilla industry and improving farmers' livelihoods.The support began at the farm level. Farmers received training in improved cultivation techniques, organic treatments to combat vine diseases, and specialised tools for pollination and vine management. These interventions transformed vanilla farming from an uncertain venture into a more organised and productive business.The Programme also focused on improving post-harvest practices, including curing, drying, and packaging. One of the most significant innovations was the introduction of solar drying technology.Traditionally, farmers dried vanilla beans on mats under direct sunlight, often resulting in uneven curing. Pods would become scorched on one side while remaining underprocessed on the other, reducing quality and market value.The solar dryer addressed this issue by distributing heat evenly throughout enclosed drying shelves, producing a more consistent product."The colour is now even all around," Nancy says. "Nice, shiny black beans. That is the best quality."To further improve storage and marketing opportunities, the Programme introduced solar-powered vacuum sealers. This technology allows farmers to store cured vanilla beans for extended periods without losing quality or weight, giving them greater flexibility in deciding when and where to sell.As a result, Nancy no longer feels compelled to accept the first offer that comes her way. Depending on volume and market conditions, she now earns between PGK350 and PGK600 per kilogram. One export sale to buyers in Thailand fetched PGK600 per kilogram—significantly higher than local market prices.Over four years, her family has harvested and sold approximately 200 kilograms of cured vanilla, generating at least PGK70,000 in income at the lower end of the pricing range.Nancy often compares vanilla to cocoa."Cocoa gives you money every two weeks," she explains. "It's like a fortnight pay. But vanilla is different. If you keep 20 kilos and find the right buyer, you can earn a large amount all at once."The income has delivered tangible improvements for her family. Vanilla earnings helped build a permanent family home constructed from timber and concrete, purchase water tanks for reliable access to clean drinking water, and support her children's education through school and college.Improved profitability also encouraged the family to address one of vanilla farming's biggest challenges—crop theft.To protect their investment, Nancy's son, Nollan, established a shade house near the family home. The structure replaced scattered plots located deep in the bush, where crops were difficult to monitor and secure. The new system allows more vines to be grown in a smaller area while protecting plants from harsh weather conditions and keeping them within sight of the family."Farmers lost their love for vanilla because they kept losing their harvest," Nancy says. "The Programme has helped bring back its value."Beyond improving production, the Programme also promoted greater participation and decision-making for women through the Gender Action Learning System (GALS) and its Farming as a Family Business approach.Traditionally, women carried out much of the labour-intensive work involved in vanilla production—including pollination, maintenance, harvesting, curing and processing—yet often had little say in how income was managed.The Programme encouraged families to plan and make financial decisions together, ensuring that both men and women contributed to and benefited from the business.Inspired by the training, Nancy established a women's group and now serves as its chairlady. The group has grown to 50 members and provides support to widows, single mothers and young women who have left school due to unplanned pregnancies."Farming should be a family business, not only the father's business," Nancy says. "When the whole family is involved, the mindset changes."Today, women within the group manage their own vanilla income, participate confidently in family and community discussions, and contribute to household decision-making.Nancy hopes this transformation will spread across East Sepik and beyond.Her advice to fellow farmers is straightforward: harvest only mature beans, follow proper curing practices, protect crops from theft, and work together as a family.A farmer who can protect their crop, process it properly, and choose when to sell is no longer relying on luck or guesswork. They are running a business.Nancy's success demonstrates what is possible when farmers have access to the right knowledge, tools, and support. Now, she hopes more growers across the Sepik region will follow the same path.

Buk Bilong Pikinini recently marked World Environment Day by engaging children across its Library Learning Centres in educational activities focused on environmental awareness and renewable energy under the theme, "Solar Energy: Clean Light for a Healthy Earth."The was to teach children about the importance of protecting the environment while introducing them to the benefits of renewable energy through interactive and hands-on learning experiences.A key highlight of the celebrations was the distribution of Solar Buddy Lights, donated by schools in Australia.The solar-powered lights provided children with practical STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) learning opportunities by demonstrating how sunlight can be converted into electricity to generate clean, renewable energy.Through the activities, children learned about the role of solar energy in reducing pollution, conserving natural resources and supporting sustainable communities.The program also helped reinforce the importance of environmentally friendly technologies and responsible environmental stewardship.For many children, the Solar Buddy Lights will provide a reliable source of light for reading, studying and household use, while promoting greater understanding of renewable energy solutions.BbP acknowledged and thanked the Australian schools that contributed the Solar Buddy Lights, noting that their generosity is helping children in PNG gain valuable knowledge about renewable energy while encouraging positive environmental practices.

Buk Bilong Pikinini recently marked World Environment Day by engaging children across its Library Learning Centres in educational activities focused on environmental awareness and renewable energy under the theme, "Solar Energy: Clean Light for a Healthy Earth."The was to teach children about the importance of protecting the environment while introducing them to the benefits of renewable energy through interactive and hands-on learning experiences.A key highlight of the celebrations was the distribution of Solar Buddy Lights, donated by schools in Australia.The solar-powered lights provided children with practical STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) learning opportunities by demonstrating how sunlight can be converted into electricity to generate clean, renewable energy.Through the activities, children learned about the role of solar energy in reducing pollution, conserving natural resources and supporting sustainable communities.The program also helped reinforce the importance of environmentally friendly technologies and responsible environmental stewardship.For many children, the Solar Buddy Lights will provide a reliable source of light for reading, studying and household use, while promoting greater understanding of renewable energy solutions.BbP acknowledged and thanked the Australian schools that contributed the Solar Buddy Lights, noting that their generosity is helping children in PNG gain valuable knowledge about renewable energy while encouraging positive environmental practices.

Member for Huon Gulf and Minister for Community Development, Youth and Religion, Hon. Jason Peter, has presented K50,000 to Bethel Parish Lutheran Church at West Taraka in Wampar Urban LLG to support renovations to the church building and the pastor's residence.The funding fulfills a commitment made by the minister several months ago in recognition of the role churches play in community development, social and spiritual growth.Speaking during the cheque presentation, Minister Peter said churches remain key partners in nation-building, providing guidance and support to families and young people."The church continues to play a critical role in shaping values, promoting unity, and nurturing our communities. This support reflects my commitment to assisting faith-based organizations that serve our people and contribute positively to society.”The funding will enable the parish to undertake much-needed improvements to its facilities, enhancing both worship services and pastoral work within the community.The presentation was attended by the Member's Executive Officer, Mr. David Zemo, officials from the Huon Gulf District administration, church leaders, congregation members, and community representatives.Church leaders thanked Minister Peter for honouring his commitment and acknowledged the district's continued support for the work of the Lutheran Church.

Eastern Highlands Province has become the first in the Highlands Region—and the eighth nationwide—to complete the National Youth Engagement Strategy (NYES) 2025–2029 Socialization Program, the National Youth Development Authority (NYDA) announced today.Held in Goroka from 3–5 June, the three-day program brought together government officials, community and church leaders, youth representatives, and development stakeholders to consult on the NYES framework, validate provincial and district implementation plans, and build capacity for youth engagement.Kainantu District was identified as the province’s Pilot District for NYES rollout.Provincial Administrator Mr. Allen Los reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to actively engaging youth in development initiatives, while practical training on the NYES Online Youth Registration System Prepared Community Development Officers for on-the-ground implementation.The program concluded with formal signings of the Eastern Highlands Provincial Joint Inception Implementation Plan and Kainantu District Collaboration Framework, alongside the official launch of the online youth registration system in Kainantu District.The program also showed strong alignment with the Saemaul Undong community development model, which emphasizes collaborative initiatives in agriculture, entrepreneurship, skills development, and ward-level economic growth.Stakeholders noted that NYES will strengthen youth participation in these local development efforts.With Eastern Highlands’ completion, eight provinces have now finalized NYES socialization programs, and the NYDA continues planning for further provincial rollouts.The National Youth Engagement Strategy 2025–2029 provides a national framework for youth development, civic participation, skills training, and livelihood creation across Papua New Guinea, implemented in partnership with government, civil society, and community organizations.

Twelve (12) Papua New Guinean athletes have left for Manila on Monday afternoon, to compete at the Philippine Open Championships that will be held at Clark City Athletic Stadium today.For several team members including Commonwealth Games hopefuls Daniel Baul, Robert Oa, William Peka and Denlyne Kinbangi, it's their second visit after a successful outing at the same event last year as it is for Ray Kumala Heru.The team also included javelin throwers Lucas Osida and Damien Kote. Leroy Kamau will be out to prove his readiness for the Commonwealth Games whilst the in- form Jiuteis Robinson will get another shot at the 1500m national record.For female middle- and long-distance runners Heru, Joyline Eric and Mary-Kate Pais, it’s a step along the way in their development towards next year's Pacific Games.With the Olympic Youth Games being held later this year in Dakar in Senegal, PNG has been granted a quote of one male athlete in the 100m. Port Moresby based Kabake Lansana is being prepared for this event following his dominant performances in the U20 division at last year's NCD Championships and this Championships will give him his first taste of international competition.Mike Smith is the team manager, and he will share coaching responsibilities with Rellie Kaputin.

Minister for Energy and Member for Kairuku, Peter Namea Isoaimo, officially launched the OFKAI Cooperative at Latsi in Inawi Village, Ward 7 of the Mekeo Rural Local Level Government in the Central province on Saturday, June 6.The event marked a significant occasion for the people of Kairuku as Minister Isoaimo returned to his electorate after spending three months on sick leave. His arrival at Bereina town and later at Latsi was met with overwhelming emotion, with many constituents shedding tears as they welcomed back their Open Member and Minister for Energy.Community members, leaders, and supporters gathered in large numbers to witness the launch of the cooperative, which is expected to promote economic empowerment and community-driven development within the area.During his address, Minister Isoaimo praised OFKAI Cooperative Chairman Peter Ofoi for his leadership and commitment to community development. He encouraged the people of Kairuku to emulate Mr. Ofoi's example and take greater ownership of development initiatives.“Look at what Peter Ofoi has done through the OFKAI Cooperative and follow his example. Development begins with individuals who are willing to work hard and create opportunities for their communities,” Minister Isoaimo said.Ward 7 Councillor Andrew Maino echoed the Minister's sentiments, urging local communities to make better use of the support provided by their elected leaders.“The Minister has continuously provided financial support to our people, but often we fail to grow and sustain the assistance that is given. We must learn to build on the opportunities and support provided to us,” Councillor Maino said.The launch of the OFKAI Cooperative is expected to create new opportunities for local participation in business activities, agriculture, and community development projects, while promoting self-reliance and sustainable economic growth throughout the Kairuku District.

It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we mourn the passing of our dear colleague and friend, Genesis Ketan.Genesis was a respected journalist, leader, mentor, and a cherished member of the PNGFM family. Throughout her distinguished career, she served in various news leadership roles within our organization, including News Editor for NAU FM and Legend FM, before becoming News Director of PNGFM and PNG Hausbung. She dedicated many years to journalism, helping shape the stories that informed our nation and mentoring the next generation of media professionals.Beyond her professional achievements, Genesis will be remembered for her kindness, strength of character, unwavering commitment to excellence, and her genuine care for those around her. She was a passionate advocate for journalism, a leader within the media industry, and a source of encouragement and inspiration to many.Her passing leaves a deep void within our PNGFM family and across Papua New Guinea's media community. We are grateful for the privilege of having worked alongside her and for the lasting impact she made on our organization and on countless lives.On behalf of the Board, Management, and Staff of PNGFM Limited, we extend our deepest and most heartfelt condolences to Genesis's family, loved ones, friends, and all who knew her. During this time of sorrow, may you find comfort in the memories you shared, strength in the love that surrounds you, and peace in knowing that her legacy will continue to live on through the many lives she touched.Genesis will be greatly missed, fondly remembered, and never forgotten.

The video of a little girl being abused by an adult that is circulating on social media platforms, has caught the attention of the National Office for Child and Family Services (NOCFS). In a statement released by the NOCFS, the Chief Executive Officer Mr. Jerry Wap, said they are working with police to ensure the suspect involved in abusing a girl in Porgera in Enga Province, is arrested and charged for child abuse.Mr. Wap said the video went viral on social media platforms over the weekend showing a girl, about four-years-old, being threatened by an unidentified man, who had filmed the child and forced her to pack her clothes and leave the house she was residing in.He strongly condemned the incident saying no child in Papua New Guinea should be allowed to go through such situation.“When I was notified of the video over the weekend, I had immediately written to the Police Commissioner, the Enga Provincial Police Commander and the Police Station Commander for Porgera, expressing my concern over the incident and called for the immediate arrest of the offenders,” Mr. Wap said.“As the office that is mandated to protect the rights and interests of PNG children, we have also laid a formal complaint with the police regarding the incident.”“Our Child Protection Officer in Porgera is also working with police to ensure the child is assessed and protected from further abuse and harm,” he said.What had happened in the video is unlawful and totally contradicts the Lukautim Pikinini Act (2015), the primary law that protects children in the country and which the NOCFS administers.Mr. Wap said the child in the video has been verbally, emotionally and psychologically abused by the suspect.“No child in the country should endure this kind of treatment because it is not only against the law, but it will also affect their immediate and long-term health and physical, emotional and psychological development,” Mr. Wap said.“As the office in charge of the welfare and well-being of PNG children, we will not sit idly and allow this kind of abuse to take place in our homes, communities and society,” he said.Mr. Wap said despite NOCFS’s limited resources and manpower, abuses reported to the office or captured on social media platforms will be swiftly investigated with the help of its partners and perpetrators implicated will be dealt with by law.