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PACIFIC ISLAND TEAMS SET FOR GLASGOW COMMONWEATH GAMES
PACIFIC ISLAND TEAMS SET FOR GLASGOW COMMONWEATH GAMES
Eleven Pacific Island nations will be represented at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games scheduled to officially open on Friday (New Zealand time).Cook Islands, Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru, Niue, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu have all sent teams to the event.While majority of the athletes will be using the Glasgow Games to measure their growth in their respective sport, there are some who will be genuine medal contenders against the best in the Commonwealth.There are 74 nations and territories represented at this year's Commonwealth Games, which includes separate teams for the four home nations of the United Kingdom - England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.There are also various overseas territories, and debutants, with Togo and Gabon making their first appearances.For the Pacific, there have been different hurdles as the respective countries worked on assembling their best for the Games.Finance has always topped the list of challenges island teams faced, particularly with the change in hosting venue.But that is now behind the teams as their focus shifts to participating and competing at the 23rd Commonwealth Games.The event was originally planned to be held in Victoria, Australia, but moved to Glasgow following the initial hosts' inability to get their hosting in order.Victoria cancelled hosting the 2026 Commonwealth Games due to massive cost blowouts, following an increase in projected costs from the originally budgeted AU$2.6 billion to around AU$7 billion.The increased budget came from the decentralised model that was to be used, which would see the Games' events hosted across four regional hubs in Geelong, Ballarat, Bendigo and Gippsland.The Victoria State government withdrew their hosting rights and paid AU$380 million in compensation to the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) and Commonwealth Games Australia (CGA).Glasgow put its hand up and agreed to host, but with a reduced competition format, settling for only 10 sports from the usual 20, as was the case at the 2022 Commonwealth Games.So, to Glasgow the Pacific island teams have flown, with a lot more to pay for the exercise.The majority of Pacific Island contingents have arrived at the host city.It includes Team Vanuatu members, who were unable to leave Port Vila on Monday, but are now on their way to Glasgow because of flight cancellations.With the popular sevens rugby competition not part of the event this time around, Pacific Island teams would be banking on their weightlifters, bowlers and judokas to lead their campaigns for medals.Weightlifting will see 10 of the 11 Pacific Island nations competing and should be the sport that will win the most medals for them.
Published on July 23, 2026
OPPOSITION LEADER REMEMBRANCE DAY MESSAGE CALLS ON PNG TO HONOUR FALLEN AND RENEW NATIONAL VALUES
OPPOSITION LEADER REMEMBRANCE DAY MESSAGE CALLS ON PNG TO HONOUR FALLEN AND RENEW NATIONAL VALUES
Opposition Leader James Nomane is urging Papua New Guineans to honor the sacrifices of the nation's wartime heroes by renewing the values of integrity, faith and service that helped shape the country on this National Remembrance Day.Reflecting on the significance of 23 July 1942, when soldiers of the Papuan Infantry Battalion fought invading Japanese forces at Awala, marking the first time Papua New Guineans fought and died defending their own land during World War II.He also paid tribute to the soldiers, carriers, and the Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels whose courage during the Kokoda Campaign contributed to the nation's journey towards independence.It said the sacrifices of those who served laid the foundation for Papua New Guinea's sovereignty, which was realised on 16 September 1975 under the leadership of the country's founding fathers, including Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare, Sir John Guise and Sir Julius Chan.Nomane noted that the nation's founders envisioned a country built on Christian principles, strong traditions and responsible leadership.“Our founders wrote a Constitution that pledges us to guard and pass on our noble traditions and the Christian principles that are ours. They gave us nationhood. They asked us to give it character.”However, he also expressed concern over rising violence, corruption, weakened families, and declining public trust, arguing that these challenges stem from shortfalls in leadership rather than a loss of faith among ordinary citizens.“When leadership serves itself, society learns to serve itself. Moral failure at the top becomes moral erosion at the bottom.”The message also questioned whether the goals of Vision 2050 were being achieved.“Seventeen years after its launch, that promise of 2050 is drifting. Vision without discipline is a dream, and progress without values is decaying in disguisez.""Our forebears knew better they anchored the nation in faith, family, and land — and so must we.”Nomane called on political, provincial, local-level and church leaders to lead with integrity, serve selflessly and protect the values for which Papua New Guinea's wartime heroes sacrificed.Young people were also encouraged to carry forward the courage and commitment of those who defended the country during World War II.“The soldiers of 1942 did not die for a corrupt State; they died for a free people. Let us remember with gratitude. Let us rebuild with faith. Let us rise with purpose.”
Published on July 23, 2026
PRESIDENT TOROAMA’S SEND SYMPATHY AND PRAYERS TO THE PEOPLE OF EAST NEW BRITAIN PROVINCE
PRESIDENT TOROAMA’S SEND SYMPATHY AND PRAYERS TO THE PEOPLE OF EAST NEW BRITAIN PROVINCE
It is with profound sadness that I acknowledge the tragic boating mishap in East New Britain Province, which has resulted in members of three families being reported missing at sea.On behalf of the Autonomous Bougainville Government and the people of Bougainville, Autonomous Bogainville Government President Ismeal Toroama sends heartfelt sympathy and prayers to the affected families and the people of East New Britain during this distressing time.Toroama says that in Bougainville, they too understand the pain and uncertainty that such incidents bring, because on that same day, their own people were affected by a separate boat incident, with three Bougainvilleans still unaccounted for. "This shared experience strengthens our resolve to stand alongside our brothers and sisters in East New Britain province.""As a maritime province and island region, we understand the dangers and uncertainty faced by our people when travelling by sea and we share in the pain and anxiety being experienced by the families whose loved ones remain missing.""Our thoughts and prayers remain with the affected families. May Almighty God grant them strength and comfort, and guide and protect those undertaking the search".He further made an appeal to all seafarers and boat operators throughout all maritime provinces to exercise extreme caution during this period of strong winds and rough seas.You are all urged to please check weather conditions before travelling, avoid unnecessary journeys, do not overload boats, and ensure that adequate fuel, communication equipment and life jackets are carried at all times. "No journey is more important than the safety of our people."
Published on July 23, 2026
CHICKEN PROJECT TO FUND EDUCATION IN HUON GULF COMMUNITY
CHICKEN PROJECT TO FUND EDUCATION IN HUON GULF COMMUNITY
A new community-led poultry project for helping children stay in school has been launched in Awasa Village in Huon Gulf District, Morobe Province.The "Chicken for Learning" Project, established by villager Jetta Caleb, will use income earned from poultry farming to support students with school fees and other educational expenses.Funded through the Santos Foundation Employee Benefit Small Grants Program, the work is the first of its kind in Huon Gulf District, combining sustainable livelihoods with education support.The project will be managed by the Christian Outreach Centre (C.O.C.) Church Youth Ministry who will be responsible for raising, managing, and marketing the poultry.This’ll aid young people develop practical skills in agricultural and business skills while helping fund education for future generations.The first beneficiaries will be students attending Buakap Early Childhood Learning Centre and Busamang Primary School.During the launch, Mr. Caleb said the project was created to provide long-term support for children rather than one-off assistance."Education changes lives. If we can create a sustainable project that continually supports our children to attend school while empowering our youths with practical skills, then we are investing in the future of our community.”The official launch and ribbon-cutting ceremony was attended by Ward 15 Councillor Tom Boya and Huon Gulf MP and Minister for Community Development, Youth and Religion, Jason Peter.Minister Peter praised Mr. Caleb's leadership, describing the initiative as an example of community-driven development that creates opportunities for young people while strengthening education and local ownership.“I commend Mr. Jetta Caleb, for his vision and assure him of my support in helping expand this initiative wherever possible."He also expressed his confidence in the future success of Mr. Caleb’s project, inspiring other communities to follow in similar initiatives.
Published on July 23, 2026
PM DEFENDS RECENT SENIOR ICAC APPOINTMENTS
PM DEFENDS RECENT SENIOR ICAC APPOINTMENTS
The prime minister has come out to defend the decision into the selection of the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) acting Commissioners in light of commentaries criticizing and accusing the government of having a hand in the selection process.In a statement released by his office, Prime Minister James Marape said his Government does not interfere with the daily operations of the ICAC and has called on Papua New Guineans to respect the constitutional, transparent and merit-based processes governing appointments to the Commission.He made the statement following public and political commentary concerning recent changes to ICAC’s Acting Leadership, including the appointment of Retired Judge Don Sawong as Acting Commissioner and the appointment of Mr. Thomas Eluh and Retired Justice Ellenas Batari as Acting Deputy Commissioners.The Prime Minister said the Leadership arrangements were made by the legally constituted ICAC Appointments Committee and were not unilateral decisions made by him or by the Executive Government.“Let me make it absolutely clear that my Government, under my watch, does not interfere with or impose itself upon the everyday operations of ICAC,” Prime Minister Marape said.“The former substantive Commissioner and Deputy Commissioners, as well as the present Acting Leadership, can confirm that I have never directed ICAC on whom to investigate, how to conduct its investigations or how to discharge its Constitutional responsibilities.ICAC is an independent Constitutional institution. Its operational independence must be protected and respected by everyone, including the Government, the Opposition, Political Parties and the wider Public.”Prime Minister Marape said Commentary suggesting that Mr. Eluh had been improperly removed or demoted from the position of Acting Commissioner failed to recognise the Legal qualifications and processes governing appointments to the Office.Meantime, the prime minister said supporters of the People’s National Congress (PNC) Party and others questioning the decision should seek accurate information about the Appointment Process before making politically motivated allegations.“I have seen too many Commentaries from PNC Party supporters questioning why Mr. Eluh, who was Acting Commissioner, is now serving as an Acting Deputy Commissioner,” he said.“People must first understand the due process and merit requirements for these Appointments. The Leader of the Opposition, James Nomane, is a senior member of the ICAC Appointments Committee. Those raising political concerns should also ask the Opposition Leader about the process because these are not decisions made by the Prime Minister alone.”The ICAC Appointments Committee includes the Prime Minister, the Leader of the Opposition and other designated Members responsible for considering Candidates emerging from the independent Recruitment and Shortlisting process.
Published on July 21, 2026
YABEM DISTRICT WOMEN’S CONFERENCE OPENS IN ASINI VILLAGE
YABEM DISTRICT WOMEN’S CONFERENCE OPENS IN ASINI VILLAGE
Huon Gulf MP and Minister for Community Development, Youths and Religion, Jason Peter, recently opened the Yabem District Women’s Conference at Asini Village in Salamaua LLG.The week-long conference began on Sunday, July 19, and will continue until July 26.It has brought together women from churches across the Yabem District for worship, fellowship, leadership development, Christian teaching and community empowerment.The Huon Gulf District Development Authority (HGD-DDA) provided K60 000 through its Church Partnership Program to support the conference as well as donated K15 000 worth of water tanks and polyethylene pipes to improve water supply at the venue.The water infrastructure is expected to continue benefiting the people of Asini Village beyond the conference, including during future church gatherings, community events and household use.Minister Peter said churches were important partners among communities."Our churches are important partners in nation-building. They strengthen families, guide our young people, promote peace, and help build stronger communities.”“Through our Church Partnership Program, we are committed to supporting churches not only during major events but also through projects that leave lasting benefits for our people."He also commended the organising committee and the women attending the conference for their dedication and encouraged them to continue being leaders within their families, churches, and communities.Conference representatives expressed their heartfelt appreciation to Jason Peter and the Huon Gulf DDA for their generous support, remarking that the financial assistance ensured the successful hosting of the conference while the water tanks and poly pipes would remain as a valuable community asset.
Published on July 21, 2026
EAST SEPIK LEADS NATIONAL YOUTH ENGAGEMENT STRATEGY ROLLOUT
EAST SEPIK LEADS NATIONAL YOUTH ENGAGEMENT STRATEGY ROLLOUT
East Sepik has become the first province in Papua New Guinea (PNG) to roll out the National Youth Engagement Strategy 2025–2029 across an entire province.The program was initially being piloted in one Local Level Government per district before expanding all 28 LLGs in the province.The rollout followed a four-day Youth Online Registration and Socialisation Program involving LLG managers, provincial officials, divisional heads and other stakeholders.The training concluded with the signing of LLG Youth Engagement Action Frameworks between the East Sepik Provincial Administration, districts and the National Youth Development Authority.Seven LLGs have begun the initial registration process, including Numbo, North Wosera, Ambunti Rural, Drekiker, Wewak Urban, Maprik Urban and Angoram.The strategy aims to register young people and connect them to education, employment, training and other opportunities.Acting Deputy Provincial Administrator for Social Services, Mr. Emanuel ToMarum, spoke on behalf of Provincial Administrator Mr. Torovi, who was unable to attend the launch.He said the initiative was more than a data-collection exercise — it was the first practical step to putting every young person in the province on the national record, “visible, counted and connected to opportunities.”“The Prime Minister James Marape has made the call already -youths must be mobilised and counted: government alone can't achieve this it needs a collaborative effort – you and me must play our part.”“The National Youth Engagement Strategy 2025–2029 was launched to encourage collaboration, establishing the online registration portal as the central youth database nationwide so that every young Papua New Guinean — out of school, in informal work or seeking a pathway — can be identified, referred and supported.”The province plans to extend the rollout to the remaining 22 LLGs and aims to engage 60-thousand youths under the strategy by 2029.
Published on July 21, 2026
42 CHILDREN RECEIVE CARDIAC SCREENINGS AT MT HAGEN HOSPITAL
42 CHILDREN RECEIVE CARDIAC SCREENINGS AT MT HAGEN HOSPITAL
Forty-two children underwent specialised cardiac screenings at Mt Hagen Hospital last week, strengthening access to paediatric heart care in Western Highlands Province.The two-day screening program, conducted on 15 and 16 July, was led by Chief Paediatrician for the National Department of Health and Port Moresby General Hospital, Dr . Cornelia Kilalang, alongside Dr . Kunera Kiromat.The screening identified two children with complex congenital heart conditions, while two postoperative patients returned for follow-up assessments after successful heart surgeries—one following a Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD) repair and another after a Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) repair.Three children were identified as requiring further surgical intervention, including one scheduled for PDA ligation and two referred for further assessment for open-heart surgery.The program also brought reassuring news for 11 families, with their children found to have no heart abnormalities.Dr Kilalang said early diagnosis remains critical, particularly for children developing pulmonary hypertension, a serious complication associated with congenital heart disease."Pulmonary hypertension is a complication we see in many children with heart disease in the Highlands region, especially those with lesions that increase blood flow to the lungs," she said."They develop pulmonary hypertension very quickly, and when they do, it is not safe for us to refer them for surgery. These children are instead managed with medications."Mt Hagen Hospital Paediatrician Dr Ian Kintwa acknowledged the support of the Western Highlands Provincial Health Authority, Air Niugini Limited and BSP Financial Group Limited for making the outreach program possible.Beyond patient care, the screening clinic also served as an opportunity to strengthen local clinical capacity. Dr Kilalang said Mt Hagen Hospital Paediatrician Dr Clyde Kamo gained valuable hands-on experience during the program."Screening has been really good in the sense that we spend most of the time teaching," Dr Kilalang said."It's encouraging to see our doctors on the ground able to perform scans with their own machines here. That's a bonus for us."The outreach program will continue later this month with specialist cardiac screening visits to the Autonomous Region of Bougainville and Madang Province as part of the 2026 national paediatric cardiac screening program.
Published on July 20, 2026
NEW TRAINING PROGRAM BOOSTING PNG'S ROAD ENGINEERING WORKFORCE
NEW TRAINING PROGRAM BOOSTING PNG'S ROAD ENGINEERING WORKFORCE
The Papua New Guinea Department of Works and Highways (DoWH) is strengthening the capacity of the country’s future road engineers through a new workforce development initiative supported by the PNG-Australia Partnership.The initiative includes the launch of DoWH’s Five-Year Training Plan (2025–2029) and Graduate Development Program, designed to address critical skills gaps and develop a new generation of engineering professionals responsible for planning, managing and delivering road infrastructure across Papua New Guinea.With technical support from Australia, DoWH identified priority areas for professional development that informed the Five-Year Training Plan, providing a long-term framework to strengthen the department’s workforce and improve infrastructure outcomes.The Graduate Development Program will recruit and develop up to 20 graduate engineers per cohort from 2027. Participants will undertake structured training, receive professional mentoring and complete 24 months of practical workplace experience to prepare them for careers as registered engineering professionals.As part of the program, DoWH has also introduced a Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) Manual to provide graduates with a clear development pathway, outlining the skills, training requirements and milestones needed for professional growth.For Principal Engineer Roads for the Highlands Region, Sophie Ere, the new system represents a significant improvement in supporting young engineers entering the profession.Ms. Ere joined the department’s graduate program in 2020 and was mentored by Leka Bonoro, Assistant Secretary of the Materials Science and Technology Branch. In August 2023, she became part of the first graduate cohort to complete the program in more than 20 years.“I didn't have a Training Plan or a GDP Manual. I had a good mentor who showed me the way,” Ms. Ere said.“A documented pathway makes all the difference. It tells you exactly what skills and milestones you need, instead of learning by trial and error.”Ms. Ere encouraged future graduates to gain broad experience by rotating through different sections of the department, understanding the full scope of its work and seeking mentorship early in their careers.Secretary for Works and Highways Gibson Holemba said Ms. Ere’s success demonstrated the value of investing in professional development and building local technical expertise.“Our road network is only as strong as the people responsible for planning, designing, building and maintaining it,” Mr. Holemba said.“Sophie shows exactly what this program can do. With the Training Plan and the SOP Manual now in place, the graduates who follow her will have the pathway she didn't.”Australian High Commission Minister Counsellor Dr Cate Rogers said Ms. Ere’s journey highlighted the long-term benefits of investing in people and strengthening local capability.“Roads and bridges create opportunities for communities, but they rely on skilled people like Sophie to keep them safe and serviceable for years to come,” Dr Rogers said.“Australia is proud to support the PNG Government's commitment to building local capability like Sophie’s and others who follow in her footsteps.”Through the new training framework and graduate pathway, DoWH and the PNG-Australia Partnership are working to develop a stronger engineering workforce capable of supporting Papua New Guinea’s infrastructure needs into the future.
Published on July 20, 2026
DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION SUMMIT & PACIFIC CYBER WEEK BEGIN IN POM
DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION SUMMIT & PACIFIC CYBER WEEK BEGIN IN POM
Pacific leaders, government representatives, industry stakeholders and development partners have gathered in Port Moresby for the Digital Transformation Summit and Pacific Cyber Week, highlighting regional efforts to build a secure, inclusive and Pacific-led digital future.Hosted by the Government of Papua New Guinea, the Digital Transformation Summit brings together governments, private sector representatives, development partners and civil society organisations to discuss practical digital priorities and opportunities for the region.Running alongside the Summit, Pacific Cyber Week is jointly convened by Papua New Guinea, Australia and the United States with Pacific partners, focusing on key emerging issues including cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, digital public infrastructure, online safety and cybercrime.The week-long programme will conclude with the Pacific ICT Ministers Meeting, where regional ministers will discuss priorities such as connectivity, cyber resilience, trusted technology and the implementation of the Lagatoi Declaration.The opening of the events was attended by Prime Minister James Marape, Minister for Information and Communications Technology Robert Naguri, Australian High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea and Special Envoy for the Pacific and Regional Affairs Ewen McDonald, and Australian Ambassador for Cyber Affairs and Critical Technology Jessica Hunter.Minister Naguri said trusted, inclusive and resilient digital development was essential to Papua New Guinea’s future growth and participation in the global digital economy.“As we accelerate technologies such as artificial intelligence, trust must be at the centre of our approach,” Minister Naguri said.He said digital transformation depended on strong and accessible infrastructure that allowed all provinces and districts to participate in the digital economy.“Together, we can build a digital future that expands opportunities and ensures every Papua New Guinean benefits from the digital age,” he said.Prime Minister Marape highlighted the role of digital connectivity in strengthening relationships between Pacific countries and overcoming geographical challenges.“The vastness of our space in physical location can be bridged with an ICT platform infrastructure highway that brings all of us together in real time,” Prime Minister Marape said.Australian High Commissioner Ewen McDonald said Papua New Guinea’s hosting of the events reflected its important role in shaping the Pacific’s digital future.“Australia is proud to support Papua New Guinea as it brings the region to Port Moresby to advance practical cooperation on secure connectivity, digital transformation and cyber resilience,” Mr. McDonald said.He said Pacific Cyber Week, and the Digital Transformation Summit were focused on converting regional ambitions into practical action.“By bringing together governments, industry and partners, these events will help our Blue Pacific harness digital technologies safely and securely, in ways that reflect our Pacific priorities and values,” he said.Australian Ambassador for Cyber Affairs and Critical Technology Jessica Hunter said the discussions provided an important opportunity to address current and emerging challenges and opportunities in information and communication technology.“Australia remains committed to working with Pacific partners to strengthen cyber resilience, support trusted technology and ensure our region can safely harness the opportunities presented by critical technologies, including artificial intelligence,” Ms. Hunter said.Papua New Guinea and Australia are continuing to collaborate on initiatives aimed at strengthening digital development, cybersecurity and connectivity across the country. Key initiatives include the Pukpuk Digital Connectivity Initiative, which aims to expand Papua New Guinea’s international cable connectivity, and the PNG Telecommunications Blueprint, an independent assessment designed to guide future investment and reform priorities.The Digital Transformation Summit and Pacific Cyber Week demonstrate growing Pacific leadership and regional cooperation in building a secure, resilient and inclusive digital future for the Blue Pacific.
Published on July 20, 2026
MEDIA LEADERS ENCOURAGE DWU JOURNALISM STUDENTS TO EMBRACE ETHICS & DIGITAL SKILLS
MEDIA LEADERS ENCOURAGE DWU JOURNALISM STUDENTS TO EMBRACE ETHICS & DIGITAL SKILLS
Journalism students at Divine Word University (DWU) in Madang gained valuable insights into the future of the media industry during an interactive session with representatives from BBC Media Action and the Media Council of Papua New Guinea.The engagement brought together Communication Arts (Journalism) students and staff at DWU's Madang Campus, along with participants of the BBC Media Training Programme, to discuss the evolving media landscape, professional development, journalism ethics, digital transformation and industry challenges.The visiting delegation included Media Council of Papua New Guinea President Neville Choi, Post-Courier Online Digital Director Matthew Vari, BBC Media Action Papua New Guinea Project Coordinator Reilly Kanamon, and Media Council Secretary, Papua New Guinea Women in Media founder and ABC Asia Pacific journalist Belinda Kora.Addressing students from all year levels, the speakers encouraged aspiring journalists to develop the skills, professionalism and adaptability needed to succeed in an increasingly dynamic media environment.Mr. Choi highlighted the importance of investing in the next generation of journalists and strengthening partnerships between universities and the media industry."We need to empower young journalists and help push them into more senior roles through programmes that develop leadership skills," he said.He also stressed the need for closer collaboration between academia and industry to ensure journalism graduates possess the skills required in today's newsrooms."We are having conversations to bring universities, editors and industry together so that we can discuss the skills needed for today's media landscape," Mr. Choi said.Encouraging students to uphold professional standards, Mr. Choi urged them to become familiar with the journalism Code of Ethics."Read the Code of Ethics. You are the batches that are going out now. You have to be better than us," he said.He also reminded future media practitioners that media organisations have a responsibility to protect the welfare, safety and wellbeing of their employees.Mr. Vari spoke on the rapid growth of digital journalism, describing digital media skills as increasingly essential across the industry."There is a problem in the industry with the lack of digital journalism knowledge," he said.He encouraged universities to consider expanding digital journalism training within their curricula to better prepare graduates for modern newsrooms.Mr. Vari also challenged students to question assumptions, investigate issues critically, and use journalism as a tool to drive positive social change.Drawing on her experience as both a journalist and advocate for women in media, Ms. Kora shared practical advice on preparing for interviews and maintaining professional independence."Prepare well before you go to a press conference. You should already know what you are trying to get out of that conference," she said.She also encouraged aspiring journalists to remain objective, resist external pressures and continue advocating for media freedom and greater access to information.The session concluded with an open discussion, allowing students and staff to engage directly with the visiting media professionals on current industry issues and career opportunities.DWU Head of Department for Communication Arts (Journalism), Patrick Matbob, thanked BBC Media Action and the Media Council of Papua New Guinea for engaging with students and sharing their industry expertise.He said such engagements provide valuable exposure to current media trends, professional expectations and the practical realities of journalism, helping prepare graduates for successful careers in the profession.The visit reflects DWU's ongoing commitment to strengthening links with the media industry and equipping future journalists with the knowledge, ethical foundation and practical skills needed to contribute to Papua New Guinea's evolving media landscape.
Published on July 20, 2026
DWU MEDICAL ALUMNI STRENGHTEN SKILLS THROUGH ULTRASOUND TRAINING
DWU MEDICAL ALUMNI STRENGHTEN SKILLS THROUGH ULTRASOUND TRAINING
Medical alumni from Divine Word University (DWU) have strengthened their diagnostic capabilities after completing a Basic Ultrasonographic Skills Workshop aimed at improving patient care and healthcare services across Papua New Guinea.The intensive training program, delivered by the Department of Medicine at DWU's Madang Campus, was supported through the Old Dart Foundation (ODF) program and equipped participants with practical ultrasound skills increasingly recognised as essential in modern clinical practice.The workshop combined classroom instruction with extensive hands-on training, covering the fundamentals of ultrasound, sonographic anatomy and the diagnosis of common conditions affecting the abdomen, urinary system, breast and thyroid, as well as obstetric and gynaecological patients. Participants received supervised practical experience by performing ultrasound scans on patients and training with the SonoSim virtual ultrasound simulation platform. The advanced simulator, acquired through the support of the Government of Poland, enabled participants to practice diagnosing common medical conditions using realistic clinical scenarios.Head of the Department of Medicine, Professor Dr. Jerzy Kuzma, said ultrasonography has become a core clinical skill for modern doctors, particularly with the growing use of point-of-care ultrasound to support faster and more accurate bedside diagnosis."Ultrasonography has become an essential clinical skill for every modern doctor. Point-of-care ultrasound is transforming patient care by enabling faster, more accurate bedside diagnosis, making it a core competency for 21st-century medical practice," Professor Kuzma said.He said the university remains committed to preparing future doctors for the evolving healthcare environment through investment in innovative training technologies."We have invested in a state-of-the-art virtual ultrasound training system and have recently integrated basic ultrasonographic skills into the MBBS curriculum, ensuring that our current students graduate with this important competency," he said.The workshop also included supervised ultrasound assessments of pregnant mothers, giving participants practical experience in maternal and antenatal care. Early ultrasound examinations play an important role in detecting pregnancy-related complications and improving health outcomes for both mothers and babies.The training was made possible through the continued support of the Old Dart Foundation, which also provides 200 scholarships each year to DWU students enrolled in health science programs. The foundation's investment in education and professional development continues to strengthen Papua New Guinea's future healthcare workforce.Participants described the workshop as highly valuable, saying it significantly improved their confidence in using ultrasound as a diagnostic tool. They said the new skills would help them identify common medical conditions more effectively, make timely clinical decisions, and deliver better patient care in their respective workplaces.The Department of Medicine congratulated the participating ODF-supported DWU medical alumni on successfully completing the program and acknowledged the contributions of the Old Dart Foundation and the Government of Poland in advancing medical education and healthcare capacity in Papua New Guinea.The workshop forms part of Divine Word University's ongoing efforts to strengthen practical medical training and enhance healthcare delivery by equipping medical professionals with modern diagnostic skills.
Published on July 20, 2026