A rural talent identification program in Papua New Guinea’s Gulf province is creating new opportunities for young women and girls in rugby league, following a successful initiative held in Moveave Village. The Cathy Neap Rural Talent Identification Program, delivered at Terapo Primary School in Malalaua District, brought together communities along the Taure and Lakekamu Rivers to identify emerging female rugby league talent while promoting confidence, leadership and life skills through sport. Supported by a grant from the Australian Government’s Team Up Program in partnership with the International Olympic Committee’s Olympism365 strategy, the initiative has completed its first rural talent identification phase in Gulf Province. The program combines exhibition matches and trial games with structured talent identification sessions aimed at uncovering promising players from remote communities. A total of 23 girls from surrounding villages participated alongside 18 women and girls, one male participant, and two women officials who travelled from Port Moresby to support the program. The event also received backing from the Head Teacher of Terapo Primary School and the President of the Mailover Rugby League Association, highlighting strong local involvement. Six standout players, aged between 18 and 23, were identified for their performance across key areas including skill, speed, discipline, teamwork, and determination. They will now travel to Port Moresby for further development opportunities, training and exposure. As part of the transition to elite pathways, the selected players will receive support including life skills training, accommodation assistance for five months, medical check-ups, and small business support to help with living costs while pursuing rugby league careers. Program founder and NRL in PNG Country Manager Cathy Neap, said the initiative is designed to go beyond sport and build long-term opportunities for young women. “This program is about empowering young women and girls through sport, helping them build confidence, courage, and belief in themselves,” Neap said. “There is so much untapped talent in our rural communities, and these girls deserve opportunities to reach their full potential.” Neap also acknowledged the support of the Play for Equity grant through the Team Up Program and Olympism365 strategy, saying it had been essential in delivering the initiative. The program has already begun to make an impact in participating communities, encouraging greater female participation in sport and strengthening community engagement across the region. One of the selected players, Gulf province athlete Mary Sauka, said she was proud to have earned an opportunity to continue her rugby league journey in the capital. “I am very happy to be selected to go to Port Moresby to play rugby league and hopefully one day play in the Santos Cup,” Sauka said. Neap said she now hopes to expand the program to other regions of the country, providing ongoing support which can be secured. “I look forward to travelling to other regions of Papua New Guinea to scout and identify talent,” she said. “Most importantly, I need continued funding and support to keep doing what I love- empowering young women and girls through sport, inspiring them to realize their full potential, and helping them reach the highest level possible.” The success of the Gulf province program highlights growing momentum behind rural sports development initiatives aimed at creating sustainable pathways for women and girls in Papua New Guinea.

Prime Minister James Marape has congratulated the people and government of East New Britain (ENB) on the province’s 49th anniversary, describing ENB as a model province whose resilience, unity, and vision set an example for Papua New Guinea. This historic milestone marks 49 years since East New Britain was officially recognized as a province of the independent State of Papua New Guinea. Celebrated on Sunday, May 31st, the anniversary was marked with deep reflections on governance, service delivery, and community strength. “This event has marked a significant milestone as we celebrated ENB being officially recognized as a province of the independent state of Papua New Guinea,” Prime Minister Marape said. “This day serves not only as a commemoration of governance but also as a reminder of the resilience and unity that define your province.” In his address, the Prime Minister paid tribute to past leaders whose foresight and dedication laid the foundation for ENB’s political journey and development. He also acknowledged the vital role played by churches and the private sector in shaping the province’s progress over the decades. Noting that East New Britain has consistently shown remarkable resilience in recovering from major challenges like volcanic eruptions and natural disasters, Prime Minister Marape emphasized that this spirit of perseverance is what makes the province truly special. He added that the occasion was a time to celebrate achievements and look ahead with optimism and purpose, urging ENB to continue building a prosperous future for its people while contributing to the strength of a greater Papua New Guinea. The Prime Minister’s remarks echo those of the Minister for Fisheries and Marine Resources and Member for Gazelle Jelta Wong, who also commended ENB residents for their unity and forward-looking outlook. To ensure the province keeps advancing and delivering for its people, the National Government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting East New Britain through continued investment in infrastructure, economic growth, and disaster resilience.

Papua New Guinea’s Under-19 Men’s National Team has departed for the Cook Islands ahead of the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) Under-19 Men’s Championship Qualifying Stage, carrying the nation’s hopes of securing a place at the regional championship in Samoa later this year. The qualifying tournament will be held from June 6th to 12th, with PNG competing against Tonga and host nation the Cook Islands for the sole qualification spot on offer. Led by captain Nalau Moses, the 23-man squad features a talented group of young footballers aiming to continue their development on the international stage and take a step closer to achieving World Cup aspirations. Moses brings valuable experience to the side, having competed in the Papua New Guinea Football Association (PNGFA) Premier Soccer League and represented PNG at various national youth levels. He will captain a squad that includes several players from the PNG Under-16 team that impressed at the OFC U-16 Men’s Championship in the Solomon Islands. That side narrowly missed out on qualification for the FIFA U-17 World Cup after a 2-0 semi-final loss to New Zealand, an experience that Head Coach Mathew Witu believes has prepared the players well for the challenge ahead. “The players have worked hard throughout our preparations and are ready to compete,” Witu said. “We know the task ahead will not be easy, but the team is focused on giving their best in every match and achieving the results needed to qualify.” “The experience many of these players gained at the U-16 level has been invaluable. They understand what it takes to compete at this level and are motivated to take the next step in their football journey.” PNG will begin its campaign against Tonga on June 6th before taking on the Cook Islands on June 12th. To advance to the OFC U-19 Men’s Championship in Samoa this September, the team must finish at the top of the standings. The stakes are particularly significant this year with the OFC U-19 Championship serving as a pathway to the FIFA U-20 World Cup. For the first time, Oceania has been allocated three qualification spots for the global tournament, providing unprecedented opportunities for emerging football nations across the region. Meanwhile, speaking at the team’s farewell dinner on Wednesday evening, PNGFA President John Kapi Natto, encouraged the players to embrace the opportunity before them and continue striving towards higher levels of international football. “This squad is a very special squad. You came through the Under-16 programme and now you are in the Under-19 team,” Natto said. “Next year we have the Under-23 Olympic qualifiers and many of you could be part of that same squad.” “We are hosting the Under-23 qualifiers here in the country next year, so the future is good for you. The opportunity is there.” In addition, Natto stated that the expanded FIFA qualification pathway had made the dream of World Cup participation more attainable than ever before for PNG’s young footballers. “With three World Cup qualification spots now available to Oceania, the dream of reaching a FIFA World Cup is no longer out of reach.” “It is an opportunity that this generation of players can strive towards, but it starts with the challenge ahead in the Cook Islands,” he said. The Papua New Guinea Football Association has wished the team a safe journey and success as they represent the nation in the qualifying tournament.

Prime Minister James Marape has announced that Papua New Guinea is entering a period of sustained economic growth and investment, driven by major resource projects including Papua LNG, Wafi-Golpu, P’nyang, Pasca A and other future petroleum developments expected to come online over the next decade and beyond. The country’s energy sector remains a key pillar of PNG’s long-term economic strategy and will continue to generate employment, business opportunities, government revenue and broader economic benefits for Papua New Guineans. Prime Minister Marape said Papua LNG remains one of the country’s most important development priorities and, once it reaches Final Investment Decision (FID), is expected to trigger a continuous pipeline of major energy investments and construction activity across the country. “These projects will provide long-term construction activity, production opportunities, employment and revenue for Papua New Guinea.” “We are looking at the next 10 to 15 years as a period of sustained energy sector activity, not only in construction but also in long-term production and economic growth.” PNG’s economy continues to be supported by major resource developments, particularly in the oil and gas sector, while agriculture and other non-resource sectors continue to contribute strongly to economic growth. He noted that the non-mining and petroleum sector has recorded growth of approximately four percent, led largely by the agriculture sector where the majority of Papua New Guineans continue to earn their livelihoods. The Prime Minister said his government remains committed to ensuring resource development delivers greater benefits to the people and that future projects create opportunities for local businesses, landowners and impacted communities. “Our government is predominantly known for the principle that we are fighting to take back more benefits for our country.” “This Pangu Administration has made it absolutely clear that we will not compromise on ensuring the State secures around or above 55 percent of the total benefit from our major resource projects.” “There can be no clearer example than the New Porgera Limited Agreement. The resource sector industry knows very well our vision and where we want to take the country.” “We want to secure above 55 percent as the total stake for the state.” He further thanked all resource developers, investors and partners for understanding the government’s position. “This is being achieved within our existing laws and through good, amicable negotiations that benefit all stakeholders.” Meanwhile he stated that while his government may not have solved all of the country’s socio-economic challenges during the past seven years, it has remained focused on growing the economy, increasing national participation in resource projects and ensuring the country receives a greater share of the benefits from its natural resources. He said projects such as the Papua LNG Project in Gulf Province and the WafiGolpu Project in Morobe Province, would generate additional revenue, strengthen foreign exchange reserves and create long-term economic opportunities for Papua New Guineans. “We get Papua LNG and Wafi-Golpu online and get more revenue into the country to ensure our foreign reserves improve for the government, landowners and developers.”

The PNG Chiefs have secured a major addition to their inaugural NRL squad, signing England international and St Helens premiership-winning forward Matty Lees as Player 004 ahead of the club's entry into the competition in 2028.Lees becomes the fourth player officially announced by the franchise and joins an emerging roster designed to establish the foundation of Papua New Guinea's first NRL club. Widely regarded as one of the toughest front-row forwards in rugby league, the 27-year-old brings a wealth of experience to the Chiefs after making more than 170 professional appearances and representing both St Helens and England at the highest level. The signing is another significant step in the club's recruitment campaign as it continues building a squad capable of competing with the NRL's elite while laying the groundwork for long-term success. PNG Chiefs General Manager of Football Michael Chammas said the acquisition of Lees reflects the club's focus on securing players who embody the standards and culture it wants to establish. "Matty Lees is one of the toughest and most respected forwards in rugby league," Chammas said. "He's built his career through hard work, consistency and an uncompromising approach to the game. "Those qualities are exactly what we're looking for as we build our roster and culture for 2028. "We're delighted to secure Matty as Player 004 and look forward to seeing the impact he'll have both on and off the field." A multiple Super League premiership winner, Lees has earned a reputation not only for his performances on the field but also for his professionalism, resilience and leadership qualities. PNG Chiefs Chief Executive Officer Lorna McPherson said the club's recruitment strategy extends beyond football ability, with character and leadership considered key components in building a successful organisation. "As we continue building the PNG Chiefs, we're focused on bringing in quality people as much as quality players," McPherson said. "Matty has earned enormous respect throughout his career through his professionalism, humility and commitment to his team. "As Player 004, he becomes part of the foundation group that will help establish the standards and identity of our club for years to come." The Chiefs also acknowledged St Helens for its cooperation throughout the signing process and said Lees will join the club following the completion of his commitments in England. The announcement follows the unveiling of Players 001, 002 and 003 and marks another milestone in the club's preparations for its historic NRL debut in 2028. With each new signing, the vision for the PNG Chiefs continues to take shape, as the club seeks to build a roster founded on talent, leadership, professionalism and character while inspiring future generations of Papua New Guinean rugby league players and supporters.

The New Ireland Provincial Government is launching its largest-ever Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) support program, driven by a new political partnership between Governor Byron Chan and Kavieng MP and Treasurer, Ian Ling Stuckey. ​The massive economic rollout combines direct goods assistance with banking investments to financially empower nearly 5,000 women across the province. ​Announcing the initiative just three months after officially taking office, Governor Byron Chan emphasized that the collaboration between his People’s Progress Party (PPP) and the Pangu Pati represents a united mandate for New Ireland. ​"This is a PPP-Pangu partnership and must be encouraged in order for development to happen," Governor Chan stated. He praised Treasurer Ian Ling Stuckey for leading the way with local projects, noting that the Governor’s office is now building upon that momentum. ​Despite spending his first three months in office dealing with ongoing election disputes in court, Governor Chan stressed that his administration is determined to deliver major projects quickly. ​ ​The initiative targets mothers and women across New Ireland, reaching from Kavieng Urban to the remote communities of Lambom and Laskona in Namatanai, as well as New Hanover and the Mussau Islands. ​The financial and material support structure includes, Direct Goods Assistance, 1,420 mothers across 124 wards will receive K900 worth of starting goods over the next two weeks. ​The New Ireland Provincial Government has backed the Mama Bank with a K1.5 million financial guarantees, following the recent launch of the New Ireland Mama Bank where 3,000 women will benefit from a dedicated financial drive. Furthermore, Governor Chan pledged K1 million annually for the next five years to help local women open bank accounts and grow their investments. ​ ​In addition to the SME and banking programs, Governor Chan announced a K5 million allocation to distribute 2,000 corrugated roofing iron sheets across the province over the next two months. This housing initiative will run alongside and complement ongoing projects managed by MP Stuckey. ​The government's long-term goal is to expand the financial rollout so that eventually, every family in New Ireland can hold an active bank account. Pics: Initial kick starting of Governor Chan’s SME program for wards 1, 3 & 6 in Kavieng Urban LLG signaling start of the province wide roll out.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has officially dedicated its new Papua New Guinea Missionary Training Centre (MTC) in Port Moresby city, marking a significant milestone in the preparation of local missionaries before they begin service across the country and overseas.The facility, located in East Boroko, was dedicated on May 30th by Elder Peter F. Meurs, President of the Pacific Area of the Church, who described the centre as "a holy place of preparation" for future missionaries. The training centre will provide spiritual and practical preparation for young volunteer missionaries before they begin serving in their assigned missions. Missionaries are members of the Church, typically between the ages of 18 and 25, who voluntarily dedicate between 18 and 24 months to sharing their faith and assisting communities. During the dedication ceremony, Elder Meurs offered a prayer asking for blessings upon all who enter the facility and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to share the teachings of Jesus Christ. The Papua New Guinea Missionary Training Centre is one of only three smaller-sized missionary training centres operating globally. Unlike larger centres around the world that also provide language training, the PNG facility has been designed to meet the specific needs of local missionaries. Missionary Training Centre Administrative Assistant, Raphael Puana, said the facility would provide important support for young missionaries preparing for service. “The PNG MTC is truly a blessing to our people. It provides not only practical support for missionaries but also strengthens their spiritual wellbeing,” Puana said. “The opportunity to teach and learn in our native language helps missionaries feel more confident and prepared and allows them to focus fully on their purpose as they serve in their respective missions.” Church leaders and members from Port Moresby, Central Province and Oro Province attended the historic event. Guests were given guided tours of the facility and observed teaching demonstrations by missionaries currently undergoing training. The dedication ceremony also featured musical performances, including the missionary hymn Called to Serve, performed by a group of young men from the Kilakila congregation. Church leaders said the new facility will strengthen missionary preparation and provide greater support for young Papua New Guineans choosing to serve missions throughout the Pacific and beyond.

TISA Insurance hits the Fiji market, officially launching as TISA Insurance (Fiji) Ltd at the Grand Pacific Hotel in Suva, marking the rebrand of Capital Insurance Ltd in Fiji and signalling the beginning of a new chapter for insurance in the Pacific.For almost four decades, the company has stood beside Fiji’s communities. The launch represents a renewed commitment to the families, businesses and communities that have placed their trust in the organisation across Fiji and the wider Pacific. The Grand Pacific Hotel, a venue that has witnessed many defining moments in Fiji’s history, provided the setting for the milestone event. The Prime Minister of Fiji, Sitiveni Rabuka, attended as Chief Guest and delivered an address highlighting the importance of a strong insurance sector to Fiji’s economic future and national resilience. The occasion brought together government and business leaders, Grand Chiefs, diplomats, brokers, agents, customers, partners, and team members from across the region, reflecting the breadth of Fiji’s national and community life and the strength of the relationships that continue to support the company’s growth. The evening opened with traditional welcoming ceremonies and continued with cultural performances, music, and a tenor performance that underscored the human meaning at the heart of insurance: standing with people, families and businesses when it matters most. TISA Insurance Group Chairman Michael O. Koisen OBE ML, Group CEO Jeremy Norton, and TISA Insurance (Fiji) CEO David Ariff Chan each spoke to the significance of the launch, describing it as both the unveiling of a new brand and a reaffirmation of the company’s commitment to serving customers across the Pacific with trust, consistency and care. The company also acknowledged its teams, customers, brokers, agents, shareholders and partners across Fiji, Tonga, Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu and the Solomon Islands, noting that the milestone belongs to all who have contributed to the organisation’s growth and success. As TISA Insurance (Fiji) Ltd begins this new chapter, the company looks forward to continuing to grow with the Pacific and delivering trusted insurance solutions for many years to come.

Papua New Guinea (PNG) is set to become the first country in the world to implement a comprehensive space-based Air Traffic Management (ATM) system across its national airspace following a landmark agreement signed between NiuSky Pacific and Australian aviation technology company, Skykraft. The agreement was signed by Skykraft Chief Executive Officer Michael Frater and NiuSky Pacific Managing Director Graham Blythe, witnessed by Civil Aviation Minister Wake Goi and First Secretary to the Ministry of Civil Aviation Reuben Daniel. The partnership will introduce space-based communication and surveillance technology designed to improve the monitoring and management of aircraft operating throughout the country. According to NiuSky Pacific, the new system will significantly enhance aviation safety, operational efficiency and connectivity, particularly in remote, mountainous and oceanic areas where traditional air traffic monitoring can be challenging. The technology will provide air traffic controllers with improved situational awareness, allowing safer and more efficient aircraft operations across PNG's airspace. In a separate development, NiuSky Pacific also signed a Letter of Intent with the ENAV Group during Airspace World 2026 to explore future cooperation in aviation innovation and air navigation services. Areas of cooperation under the agreement include Air Traffic Management, drone traffic management systems, flight procedure design, digital transformation of aeronautical information services, training and capacity building, and remote tower technologies. NiuSky Pacific said the agreements will provide access to next-generation aviation technologies and expertise from internationally recognized industry leaders. The partnerships are expected to support ongoing efforts to modernize the country’s aviation sector while strengthening air navigation services across the country. The agreements also position PNG among the leading nations adopting emerging aviation technologies within the Asia-Pacific region.

The Member (MP) for Markham District and Deputy Speaker, Koni Iguan, has reaffirmed his commitment to investing in education to shape the future, despite facing criticism over his academic background. In an emotional moment witnessed by students, teachers and district officials at the School, the MP publicly stated that he has forgiven individuals who have been attacking and defaming him on social media through fake Facebook accounts. The attack on the MP and deputy speaker is an ongoing issue, degrading and accusing him of baseless claims via Facebook. When the MP publicly announced his forgiveness just before the announcement of his funding support to the school, most in the crowd fell silent, with some seen moved by his message of forgiveness and focus on the future. “I have forgiven those who are criticizing me. My focus is not on insults, but on building the future through our children,” Mr. Iguan said. He said his belief is grounded in the vision of the late Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare, who championed education as the key to national progress. “I believe in investing in education so that the next generation will rise and take this district, this province and this country to greater heights. They will prove in the future what is being said today,” he said. Mr. Iguan made the remarks while presenting a K200,000 cheque to support the school, which was facing an imminent boarding crisis due to delays in GTFS funds. School Principal Mr. Billy Kayo said the school spends about K11,000 weekly on food rations and was heading towards a shortage within three weeks. “We were about to face serious difficulties feeding our students. This support has saved us,” Mr. Kayo said. He praised the MP for his consistent support, saying the school has never been turned away during times of need. The funding will now ensure boarding students continue to receive meals, bringing relief to both students and teachers. For many present, the moment was not only about financial support, but a powerful message of leadership, forgiveness and hope for the future.

More than 92,000 Grade 10 students across Papua New Guinea are set to sit for the Written Expression (WEX) National Exam on Thursday, June 4. A total of 92,596 students from 554 secondary and high schools, including permitted private schools, will participate in this important assessment. Secretary for Education, Dr Uke Kombra, confirmed that all examination materials have been dispatched to the provinces, including the National Capital District (NCD) and Central Province, ready for distribution to schools. “The Measurement Services Division (MSD) has completed all necessary preparations for the Grade 10 Written Expression Examination. This is the first national exam of the year and marks the beginning of the national examination calendar.” Written Expression accounts for 30 percent of the overall English result, making it a critical component of students’ academic performance. Dr Kombra emphasized that the exam holds similar importance to other lower secondary certificate exams scheduled later in October. To maintain the integrity and fairness of the examination, strict security measures have been put in place for handling and distributing the exam papers. Provincial education advisers, examination supervisors, senior secondary school inspectors, guidance officers, principals, and governing councils have been urged to remain vigilant and follow all rules enforced by the MSD. Dr Kombra advised everyone involved in the examination process to prevent all tendencies towards any malpractice that may compromise the results. Special support will be provided for students with special needs to ensure they can take the exam comfortably and fairly. He wished all Grade 10 students the very best of luck and called on parents, teachers, and communities to support learners during this important time.

The PNG Chiefs have made it official, announcing that Sydney Roosters’ Connor Watson has become player number 003, signed up for the new Rugby League Franchise ahead of its entry into the NRL in 2028. Watson has agreed to join the PNG Chiefs on a two-year deal for the 2028 and 2029 NRL seasons, marking another major step forward as the club continues building its inaugural roster and momentum towards 2028. One of the NRL’s most respected and versatile players, Watson will arrive at the PNG Chiefs with extensive top-level experience across multiple positions, including hooker, lock and the halves. His professionalism, leadership and team-first mentality have made him one of the game’s most valued players throughout his career. Watson has built his career within some of the NRL’s strongest football systems, spending time with both the Newcastle Knights and Sydney Roosters, while also representing New South Wales on five occasions in State of Origin football. As Signing 003, Watson joins the growing list of elite players committing to the PNG Chiefs project, reinforcing the club’s vision of building a world-class organisation grounded in culture, professionalism and long-term success. PNG Chiefs General Manager Football Michael Chammas said Watson’s character and professionalism stood out throughout the recruitment process. “Connor has made it clear from the outset that he wanted to be part of the PNG Chiefs and this incredible journey we are building. “He and his partner Kiana recently spent time in Port Moresby and genuinely fell in love with the country, the people and the opportunity to be part of something much bigger than football. “Connor is the type of player every club wants. He is selfless, tough, professional and incredibly respected across the game. His versatility and experience will be invaluable for us as we continue building our squad towards 2028. “Every signing matters for a new club, but there is something exciting about seeing the roster continue to build piece by piece. Connor becoming Signing 003 is another important moment in the journey of the PNG Chiefs. “We also want to thank the Sydney Roosters for their professionalism, patience and understanding throughout this process,” said Michael Chammas. PNG Chiefs CEO Lorna McPherson said Watson represented exactly the type of person and player the club wanted helping shape the future of the organisation. “What impressed us most, beyond Connor’s football ability, was his sense of purpose and the way he treats people. “He leads with kindness, he listens, and he brings a calm strength into every environment he enters. We wanted people who would genuinely feel at home in Papua New Guinea, and people Papua New Guinea would feel proud to welcome. “Connor immediately connected with the country and our vision for what this club can become. We know he will have a significant impact both on and off the field as we build towards 2028. “You can feel the excitement continuing to build around the club now. With every signing, the vision becomes more real for our fans, our partners and for Papua New Guinea,” said Lorna McPherson. Watson becomes the latest major signing for the PNG Chiefs as the club continues assembling a high-performance roster ahead of the club’s inaugural NRL season in 2028.