Despite having no formal science laboratory and limited access to learning resources, Grade 7 students at the Philip Aravure Primay School in Gerehu Stage 3, Port Moresby, successfully staged an impressive mini science and social fair, showcasing innovative projects on climate change and environmental sustainability.The exhibition, held on Friday, 5th June, in observance of the World Environment Day, featured creative models and displays exploring the causes and effects of climate change, as well as practical solutions that communities can adopt to reduce environmental impacts.Among the students presenting was 14-year-old Stalon Kaum, who explained that the project was specifically designed to educate parents, visitors, and fellow peers about the environmental challenges facing the world today.“The students are trying to bring across some ideas and ways we can prevent or limit the effects of climate change,” Kaum said.What made the exhibition particularly remarkable was that many of the displays were created using recycled and discarded materials collected by students themselves.Without the benefit of a science laboratory or even a school library, the students relied on creativity, determination, and guidance from their teachers to bring their ideas to life.“Our school does not have a library, and we do not have a science lab. When projects like this happen, our teachers encourage us to read and use whatever resources available to build our models.”The result was a colourful and educational showcase that demonstrated both scientific understanding and originality.Students proudly presented models promoting renewable energy solutions such as windmills and water turbines to highlight alternatives to fossil fuels and emphasize the importance of sustainable development.Kaum noted that the experience allowed students to deepen their understanding of these scientific concepts by explaining their projects to the public.“When you explain something to someone else, your understanding becomes clearer and you are in a better position to put what you have learned into practice.”According to the teaching staff, the project was aimed at exposing students to higher-level scientific thinking at an early age while encouraging interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) subjects.Although the school’s resources are limited, the quality of the projects demonstrated that students could achieve impressive outcomes when given the opportunity and encouragement to learn through practical activities.The mini science and social science fair not only highlighted the students’ knowledge of climate change, but also showcased their determination, creativity and passion for science, proving that a lack of facilities is no barrier to innovation and learning.

Tuberculosis (TB) and HIV/AIDs remain a top public health priority in this year’s Impact Health budget allocation.Under the East New Britain Provincial Health Authority (ENBPHA), a sum of K262,000 has been earmarked under four activities which includes case funding linked to patient care, treatment, monitoring and evaluation (M&E), and community engagement.This funding is parked under the Health Sector Strategic and Investment Plan (HSSIP) trust account and strictly follows the Public Finance Management (PFM) Act process.Speaking during the opening of the five-day TB review program, Acting Director Corporate Services Carol Malisa said the objective of allocating this funding is to ensure improved outcomes and to secure future financial support.“We must ensure that TB funds are used effectively and transparently and in line with expectations from donors and ENB PHA”She also stressed on strict budget discipline, noting that expenditures will only be expounded on approved lined items.“We will further not spend outside the budget where activity does not correspond with any tied down activity.”Timely reporting and keeping track of supporting documentation for transparency are key expectations that have been stressed to the health staff for improve outcomes going forward.The ENB PHA is focused on strengthening the TB systemin charge of TB to ensure outcomes are improved going forward including identifying gaps, turning practical solutions into clear actions, to implementing its provincial and district facilities for 2027 onwards.However, the TB program must take into account that the delay of procurement itself may lead to treatment interruptions, weak monitoring and evaluation (M&E), and a lack of meaningful impact.If the allocated money sits idle, donors may ultimately revoke the funding and allocate it elsewhere.

The East New Britain Provincial Health Authority (ENBPHA) successfully concluded a five-day tuberculosis (TB) review on Friday, June 05th, 2026.The annual review is designed to assess how effectively the tuberculosis (TB) program identifies, tracks, and treats patients.Like many other provinces, East New Britain will need to improve data collection as it has a rate of 203 cases per 100, 000 people.In 2025, the treatment success rate of all forms of TB was at 58 percent.Current data status shows that there is an urgent need to intensify contact tracing efforts and properly account for patients who are lost to follow-up.With the technical support from the PNG and Australia Transition to Health (PATH) and the National Department of Health (NDoH) TB programs, the review allowed officials to identify gaps and understand the challenges face by TB Basic Management Unit (BMU) within their catchment areas.Senior Medical Officer (SMO) Dr. Simberi Jojoga stated that it is important to have quality data to determine how well the program runs to ensure we are better serving the people in the community.“Initially we started looking at the data from our provincial level and then over the course of the next three days we turned our focus on the 15 existing Basic Management Units (BMU) in the different catchment areas.”“We want a resilient system that can continue to function, despite changes in staff, arise of issues or changes, the system must still allow to cater for all these. This is all part of the review.”Current case notifications registered in the province is 1, 061, where on the actual data, not much is being detected as expected.More needs to be done to generate people’s interest in testing, diagnose, be on treatment and outcome assessment.The way forward for ENB health facilities, is to have community engagement through various existing systems currently functioning to have TB programs fit into, with Dr. Jojoga noting that the disease cannot be viewed as a standalone health sector issue.“This is a cross-cutting issue problem, for every sector to be networking with existing community networks.”“We want the community to be comfortable and know the signs and symptoms and support the six months treatment or longer if its drug resistance or some other serious forms of TB when on treatment.”Continuous education and health awareness are a way forward to be promoted in the communities to allow more people to have knowledge and be comfortable in coming forward to receive treatment.

Papua New Guinea (PNG) has made a commanding start to their OFC U-19 Men's Championship 2026 Qualifying campaign, defeating Tonga 4-0 in the tournament opener at the CIFA Academy in Rarotonga, Cook Islands.Forward David Tita produced a standout performance, scoring a hat-trick and setting up a fourth goal as Papua New Guinea claimed all three points and moved a step closer to securing qualification for next year's OFC U-19 Men's Championship in Samoa.Making their first appearance at the qualifying stage of the competition, Papua New Guinea looked dangerous throughout the contest, with their pace and attacking movement consistently troubling the Tongan defence.The breakthrough came in the 14th minute when captain Nalau Moses turned provider, releasing Tita through on goal. The striker made no mistake, calmly beating Tonga goalkeeper Gordon Li to score the opening goal of the qualifying tournament.Tonga showed moments of promise and created several opportunities of their own. Playmaker Tevita Falepapalangi was influential in attack and helped create the side's best chance of the opening half. His clever hold-up play found Siaki Lonitenisi inside the penalty area, but the forward fired over the crossbar from close range just before halftime.Falepapalangi continued to threaten after the break and came close to levelling the scores, only to see his effort comfortably gathered by Papua New Guinea goalkeeper Ricky Hulana.Tonga's task became even more difficult in the final 20 minutes when defender Vainga Loti received his second yellow card and was sent off, reducing his side to ten men.Papua New Guinea capitalised on the numerical advantage, with Tita taking centre stage in the closing stages. The talented forward doubled his tally in the 82nd minute with a stunning long-range left-foot strike before completing his hat-trick just three minutes later after a brilliant solo run that saw him weave through defenders and round the goalkeeper before finishing confidently.Tita then capped off a memorable afternoon in stoppage time, delivering a pinpoint low cross for Benjamin Kila, who finished from close range to complete the 4-0 rout.The victory marks only Papua New Guinea's third win at OFC U-19 level since 2016, with all three successes coming against Tonga. More importantly, it places the young Kapuls in a strong position to qualify for the OFC U-19 Men's Championship 2026 in Samoa.Papua New Guinea will now turn their attention to hosts Cook Islands on Friday, knowing another victory would secure qualification. Tonga must defeat the hosts in their next match on Tuesday to keep their hopes alive.

The 8th of each month is the time the country’s consumer watchdog, the Independent Consumer and Competitions Commission (ICCC) announce the new prices for fuel, either an increase or a decrease, but for this month, thankfully the price will remain steady.This is because for the month of June, the fuel prices will continue as that of last month and the previous month thanks to the National Government’s Fuel Relief Assistance.The ICCC informs all consumers, suppliers and stakeholders in the petroleum industry that the Government’s Fuel Assistance will continue into its third month (June) as per the National Executive Council (NEC) Decision No. 71/2026.“The Indicative Retail Fuel Prices (IRP) for this month will see the domestic pump prices maintained at March 2026 levels despite the prevailing higher global oil prices,” the ICCC stated.As of Monday 8th June, prices for fuel in Port Moresby city will remain at K4.39 per liter for petrol, K4.44 per liter for diesel and K4.09 per liter for kerosene. Similarly, prices in the other centers will also be maintained at March levels.The ICCC is urging all fuel importers, distributors, wholesalers and retailers to comply with the price that is set. The ICCC together with PNG Customs, Internal Revenue Commission (IRC), Bank of Papua New Guinea and Treasury will conduct ongoing compliance and monitoring to ensure that the Fuel Relief Assistance trickles down to the final consumers.The Fuel Relief Assistance is a decisive measure to protect PNG’s economy and people from external shocks. This ensures price stability and supply security during this time of global fuel crisis due to the ongoing the US/Israel- Iran conflict in the Middle East.

Corporate support continues to roll in for the 2026 Rosso Mountain Bike Race, with JV PNG presenting a K25, 000 cheque to the event’s organizing committee early this week in Lae.The presentation marks another official sponsorship contribution received by the committee for this year’s race.Committee Chairman John Byrne said the support from JV PNG is appreciated and thanked JVPNG who have been a sponsor for the past 5 years, this year increasing to Gold Category.“The company has stepped forward with a major contribution, and the committee deeply appreciates the backing.”JV PNG General Manager Operations, Patty Phalahon, reiterated the company’s pride in maintaining its support towards the Rosso Mountain Bike Race.She said JV PNG has been supporting the event for a number of years.The company remains committed to the race because it brings people together and promotes sport in the community.“This sponsorship is part of our ongoing commitment to giving back to the people of Lae and supporting community events that create positive impact.”The committee has confirmed that the event will be held over two consecutive weekends with Adult Riders competing in heats and finals on June 20th and 21st from the Lae showgrounds plus a People with Different Abilities (PWD) event, which supports and recognizes para-athletes in the community.The following weekend, Saturday, June 27th and Sunday, June 28th, will see the youth take over.Children competing in categories ranging from 7 to 15 years old will race inside the scenic Lae Botanical Gardens.The event is open to both male and female categories across all age groups, with organizers placing a special emphasis on encouraging girls and ladies to sign up and participate. This year's event runs under the theme of Safety, Health, and Dringim Wara (Drink Water).The Rosso Mountain Bike Race Committee extended its formal thanks to its sponsors, the Lae City Authority (LCA), the Lae Cycling Association, and the riders themselves.Intending participants are urged to act quickly as registrations close soon.The committee warns that once a racing category reaches capacity, it will be closed immediately.

Papua New Guinea (PNG) is strengthening the systems that help ensure health funding is managed transparently, risks are identified early, and resources reach frontline services.A four-day internal audit training held in Port Moresby this week brought together audit officers from across the health system to build practical capability in financial oversight, reporting and risk-based assurance. The training brought together internal audit managers, auditors, and audit officers from all 21 Provincial Health Authorities (PHAs), the Bougainville Department of Health, and the Autonomous Bougainville Government.Delivered by PwC in collaboration with the National Department of Health (NDoH), the training is supported by the Governments of Australia and New Zealand, together with Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance. The initiative also contributes to broader public financial management reforms led by the Department of Finance.NDoH Deputy Secretary, Mr. Ken Wai emphasized that strong internal controls are central to delivering better health outcomes.“By strengthening internal controls, we help ensure that every kina allocated to healthcare reaches the frontline,” Mr. Wai said.“This training equips participants with the tools to move beyond compliance towards proactive, risk based financial management.”Meanwhile, NDoH Chief Internal Auditor, Ms. Miriam Yupanga noted that the training would support stronger compliance and reporting across all PHAs.“Strong internal audit functions are key to improving financial management, transparency and accountability,” Ms. Yupanga said.“We expect to see improvements in reporting and greater adherence to financial management requirements.”Australia remains committed to working with Papua New Guinea to strengthen health systems to support better health outcomes.

321 Group joined World Environment Day celebrations by participating in mangrove planting activities at Koke Hanua, Central Province.The company's team visited the Koke Hanua mangrove nursery, which operates in partnership with TotalEnergies, to support ongoing efforts to protect and restore coastal ecosystems. As part of the visit, 321 Group donated essential equipment to assist the nursery's operations, including a wheelbarrow, spades, garden forks and rakes. The tools will help the Koke Hanua team cultivate mangrove seedlings and maintain clean and healthy shorelines. This year's World Environment Day theme, "Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future," highlights the role of nature-based solutions in addressing climate change, reducing pollution and preserving biodiversity for future generations. 321 Group General Manager Ben George said supporting events such as World Environment Day was important because they help raise awareness about environmental challenges and encourage communities, businesses and individuals to take action. "At 321 Group, we recognize the vital role businesses play in driving positive change, which is why we actively participate in activities such as mangrove planting and shoreline clean-ups that support environmental conservation and sustainable community development.” He said such initiatives provide an opportunity for the company to give back to communities, promote environmental stewardship and contribute to a healthier, greener and more sustainable future for Papua New Guinea. 321 is proud to contribute to environmental sustainability efforts and support community-driven projects that help protect and restore our natural ecosystems.

Residents of Ialibu-Pangia District in Southern Highlands province are witnessing a major milestone in healthcare delivery following the successful installation and operationalization of radiological (X-ray) services at Ialibu District Hospital. The restoration of the service ends nearly eight years without an X-ray facility at the hospital, a situation that had created many challenges for patients and healthcare workers across the district. For years, patients requiring diagnostic imaging were referred to hospitals in Mendi and Mt Hagen, often incurring additional travel expenses and experiencing delays in receiving treatment. The burden was particularly difficult for residents from remote areas including Williame, Sembirigi and Tukupangi, many of whom travel long distances to access medical services at Ialibu District Hospital. The new facility brings essential diagnostic services closer to communities and strengthens healthcare delivery at the district level. This achievement reflects the vision of the Southern Highlands Provincial Health Authority under the leadership of Chief Executive Officer Dr. Joseph Birisi, who is a strong supporter for the decentralization of healthcare services to rural communities where the majority of the populations reside. The project required extensive planning, coordination and commitment from healthcare professionals and administrators. Special recognition was given to Dr. Undi and the hospital management team for their leadership and dedication in bringing the long-awaited service to fruition. The establishment of the X-ray facility is being regarded as one of the most important healthcare developments in the history of Ialibu-Pangia District and is expected to reduce patient referrals while enhancing the quality of care available locally. The Ialibu-Pangia District Health Authority said the milestone demonstrates the progress being made under the district's healthcare administration and serves as a positive example of rural healthcare development in Papua New Guinea.

More than 300 participants from Papua New Guinea and Europe gathered in Port Moresby this week for the 5th European Union–Papua New Guinea Business Forum, aimed at strengthening economic cooperation and unlocking new investment opportunities. Held from June 2-3 under the theme "The EU Global Gateway for Sustainable Investment, Connectivity and Growth in Papua New Guinea", the forum brought together government leaders, private sector representatives, financial institutions, development partners and investors from both regions. Representatives from 77 companies, including 23 European businesses, attended the event, which provided a platform to deepen commercial partnerships and explore opportunities across key sectors of the PNG economy. Discussions focused on renewable energy, water security, digital transformation, connectivity, sustainable extractive industries and agricultural value chains. Participants also took part in practical business sessions on exporting to European markets, doing business in Papua New Guinea and understanding new European Union regulations affecting trade. Opening the forum, Prime Minister James Marape welcomed growing engagement between Papua New Guinea and the European Union and encouraged European investors to partner with PNG in developing the country's vast economic potential. Prime Minister Marape reaffirmed the Government's commitment to sustainable and inclusive economic growth, calling on businesses from both regions to "grow together" through partnerships that create jobs, encourage investment, transfer technology and improve livelihoods. He also stressed that Papua New Guinea remains open for business and is committed to providing a stable and predictable environment for responsible investment and private sector development. Minister for National Planning and Monitoring Sir Ano Pala described the European Union as a trusted and strategic development partner that has supported Papua New Guinea's development journey over many years. Speaking at the closing ceremony, Foreign Affairs Minister Justin Tkatchenko said the forum reflected the growing relationship between Papua New Guinea and the European Union. "This forum not only advances concrete business ties but reinforces partnership in general. The EU and Papua New Guinea have evolved from development partners to strategic partners," he said. European Union Ambassador to Papua New Guinea Erika Hasznos said the forum reflected a shared vision for sustainable development and stronger economic cooperation. "This forum is about translating political commitments into bankable projects and building long-term, high-quality partnerships between European and PNG businesses," Ambassador Hasznos said. The forum concluded with both sides reaffirming their commitment to strengthening trade, investment and sustainable economic growth under the European Union's Global Gateway Strategy.

More than 400,000 people in Papua New Guinea are expected to benefit from improved access to clean drinking water following the announcement of a major new investment under the European Union's Global Gateway Initiative. A highlight of the 5th European Union–Papua New Guinea Business Forum in Port Moresby was the signing of the Water Wise Communities Project Loan and Grant Agreement, which will support water infrastructure development and climate resilience initiatives across the country. Under the agreement, the European Investment Bank (EIB) will provide a concessional loan of 25 million euros (approximately K126 million), while the European Union will contribute a grant of 16.4 million euros (approximately K83 million). The combined investment of more than K209 million is expected to improve access to safe and reliable drinking water for an additional 400,000 Papua New Guineans while strengthening urban sustainability and climate resilience. The funding forms part of the European Union's Global Gateway Initiative, which supports sustainable investment in infrastructure, renewable energy, water security, digital connectivity, and private sector development. Speaking during the forum, European Commission Director for Asia, Central Asia and the Pacific, Peteris Ustubs, reaffirmed Papua New Guinea's importance within the European Union's Indo-Pacific strategy. He said Papua New Guinea's strategic location, abundant natural resources and commitment to sustainable development make it an important partner for the European Union. European Union Ambassador to Papua New Guinea Erika Hasznos said the Global Gateway Initiative aims to transform development commitments into practical projects that deliver long-term benefits. The Water Wise Communities Project is expected to play a significant role in addressing growing demand for safe water services while helping communities adapt to climate-related challenges. The agreement reflects the ongoing commitment of the European Union and Papua New Guinea to deepen cooperation in sustainable development and improve living standards through strategic infrastructure investments.

Kandes Rugby League Club will make a historic first appearance at Santos National Football Stadium this Saturday when they take on ladder leaders PRK Mendi Muruks in the headline match of the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup's Amazing Round. The clash marks another milestone in Kandes' remarkable inaugural season, with the competition newcomers emerging as genuine premiership contenders after a rapid rise up the ladder. After finishing third following Round 1, Kandes slipped to eighth after Round 2 before steadily climbing through the rankings. The side moved to seventh in Round 3, sixth in Round 4, fourth in Round 5 and third in Round 6 before claiming top spot after Round 7. Although they currently sit second behind the Muruks following Round 8, their impressive form has established them as one of the competition's most exciting teams. While Kandes have enjoyed a meteoric rise, the Muruks have built their campaign on consistency. After opening the season in seventh place, the Mendi-based outfit climbed to fourth in Round 2, fifth in Round 3 and third in both Rounds 4 and 5. Their steady performances earned them first place after Round 6, and despite briefly dropping to third following Round 7, they reclaimed top spot after Round 8. Kandes Head Coach Stanley Tepend said the club was excited to make its debut at the country's premier rugby league venue. "It's exciting for the club to make its first appearance at Santos National Football Stadium this season," Tepend said. "The players have worked hard to earn their place near the top of the ladder, and we're looking forward to the challenge against a quality Muruks side. It should be a great contest." Leading the Kandes charge will be captain Charlie Simon and emerging star Ames John. Simon has been instrumental in the club's success, guiding the team with experience and composure from the halves. His game management, leadership and reliable goal-kicking have played a major role in Kandes' rise this season. John has also been one of the competition's standout performers. The energetic edge back-rower has impressed with his work rate, ability to break tackles and knack for finding the try line. Despite his youth, he has become an influential figure within the squad and a consistent performer throughout the campaign. Muruks Head Coach Roderick Puname said his side respected the challenge posed by the competition's newest club. "We've got a lot of respect for what the Kandes have achieved in the first half of the competition in their debut year," Puname said. "They've shown they can compete with the best teams in the competition and their position on the ladder reflects that. We're pleased with our own progress so far, but every round presents a new challenge." "The players are looking forward to the opportunity to test themselves against another top side in what should be a great match for the fans." The Muruks will again look to influential forward Limbi Henry to provide impact through the middle of the field. Henry has been one of the competition's most dangerous forwards this season and currently leads the club's try-scoring tally with six tries from five appearances. Muruks captain Mark Tony has also played a pivotal role in the team's success. Widely known as "Captain Courageous", the veteran halfback has led from the front with his defensive toughness, game management and accurate goal-kicking. With first place on the line, several of the competition's biggest stars in action and Kandes preparing for their long-awaited Port Moresby debut, Saturday's Amazing Round blockbuster is shaping as one of the most anticipated matches of the 2026 Digicel ExxonMobil Cup season.