PNG Haus Bung

Digicel PNG has joined the Digital Transformation Summit 2026 (DTS26) as a Gold Sponsor, reaffirming its commitment to supporting a more connected and digitally inclusive Papua New Guinea.The telecommunications provider announced its participation in the national digital development event, which is led by the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and brings together government leaders, industry partners, development organisations, innovators and digital stakeholders.DTS26 will focus on advancing Papua New Guinea's digital transformation agenda under the theme: "Building Papua New Guinea’s Digital Public Ecosystem: Trust. Infrastructure. Innovation. Inclusion."Digicel PNG said its sponsorship reflects its ongoing commitment to expanding reliable connectivity, supporting innovation and improving digital access for communities, businesses and government services across the country.Through its participation in the DTS26 Expo, the company will showcase how digital connectivity and services are creating opportunities in areas such as education, commerce, public service delivery and economic development.Digicel PNG Interim Chief Executive Officer Brett Goschen said digital transformation begins with connectivity and collaboration."Digital transformation starts with connection. When people, businesses and government are better connected, opportunities grow and communities thrive," Goschen said.He said the company was proud to support DTS26 because it provides an important platform for collaboration, innovation and discussions around Papua New Guinea's digital future."As Papua New Guinea's leading telecommunications provider, we remain committed to building a better connected nation by investing in the networks, technologies and partnerships that help empower our customers and support the country's digital future," he said.Digicel PNG said its involvement in DTS26 will also contribute to national conversations around digital inclusion, infrastructure development and the role of technology in accelerating sustainable development.The company said its sponsorship demonstrates its continued commitment to working with government, industry and community partners to strengthen Papua New Guinea's digital ecosystem and create opportunities for current and future generations.

National St John Ambulance (NStJA) has welcomed Prime Minister James Marape's commitment to strengthen ambulance services across Papua New Guinea, describing the announcement as a major step towards improving emergency medical care nationwide.The Prime Minister announced in Parliament on Wednesday that the Government intends to introduce legislation to formally recognise and support National St John Ambulance's role as the country's national emergency ambulance service.National St John Ambulance Commissioner and Chief Executive Kai Tane said the Government's commitment would provide greater certainty for the organisation as it continues delivering emergency medical services throughout the country."On behalf of the National St John Ambulance Council, our staff, volunteers and the thousands of Papua New Guineans who rely on our services each year, I sincerely thank Prime Minister James Marape for his leadership and his strong commitment to strengthening emergency medical services in our country," Tane said.He said the Prime Minister's recognition of ambulance services as an essential public service reflected the realities faced daily by frontline emergency responders."Our ambulance doctors, nurses, health extension officers, paramedics, ambulance officers, emergency dispatchers, educators, volunteers and support staff respond to people during some of the most difficult moments of their lives, often under challenging conditions," he said.Tane said the proposed legislation would establish a stronger legal and institutional framework to support the long-term growth and sustainability of ambulance services in Papua New Guinea.He said National St John Ambulance looked forward to working closely with the Government, the National Department of Health and other stakeholders as the legislation progressed through consultation and Parliament.According to Tane, the strengthened legal framework would help expand ambulance services, improve clinical governance, strengthen the country's ambulance workforce and enhance coordination between National St John Ambulance, Provincial Health Authorities, hospitals, police, fire services and disaster response agencies."The National St John Ambulance remains committed to delivering safe, professional and clinically excellent pre-hospital emergency care for all Papua New Guineans," he said.Tane also welcomed the Government's commitment to developing sustainable funding arrangements to support the continued delivery and future expansion of ambulance services, acknowledging the challenges of providing emergency care across Papua New Guinea's diverse and often difficult geography.National St John Ambulance reaffirmed its commitment to working in partnership with the Government, the National Department of Health, emergency service agencies and communities to build a stronger, sustainable and nationally coordinated ambulance service aimed at improving access to emergency medical care and saving more lives across the country.

Planning for retirement should focus not only on when members want to retire, but also on how much they will need to maintain their desired lifestyle, says Nasfund.The superfund's boss highlighted the importance of target-based retirement planning during the Finance in Resources & Energy session during the PNG Resources Week 2026.Nasfund Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Rajeev Sharma said members often set retirement goals around a specific age, such as 50, 55, or 60, without identifying the level of savings required to support their desired lifestyle after leaving the workforce.Aligning a retirement age with a savings target provides a clearer and more realistic pathway to long-term financial security. Sharma said inflation is one of the most important factors members should consider when setting retirement savings targets.For example, a member requiring K1,000 per month in living expenses today could need approximately K2,500 per month in 30 years' time to maintain the same standard of living. "Retirement planning should be about a target amount, not just a target age.Members need to understand the amount they'll need, and how inflation affects that amount over time, so they can plan a retirement that actually works. Helping members accumulate sufficient savings for retirement remains a core focus for Nasfund.Achieving this requires both disciplined investment management by the fund and informed financial planning by members throughout their working lives. With a membership base spanning multiple age groups, including many members approaching retirement, Nasfund's investment decisions must balance reliable liquidity and cash flow needs with opportunities for long-term growth.This balanced approach supports members nearing retirement while continuing to deliver sustainable returns for younger members, building their savings over time. Approximately 65 per cent of Nasfund's total portfolio is currently invested in Papua New Guinea, reflecting the fund's commitment to generating value for members while contributing to national economic development.Sharma's comments were part of a broader address to the Finance in Resources & Energy session, hosted by the PNG Chamber of Resources & Energy (PNG CORE), on the role of superannuation funds in supporting long-term financial security for members while contributing to national economic development.

More than 30 residents, including youths and Mothers from Taikone Village in Port Moresby city recently participated in a Phase 2 gender-based violence (GBV) awareness conducted by the Pilai Long Senis Program.Pilai Long Senis is a community-based program delivered through a partnership between AFL PNG and PNG Tribal Foundation.Senisim Pasin National Coordinator Marjorie Finkeo said the second phase of the awareness focused on helping participants identify common domestic issues, their causes, and the impacts they have on families and communities.Participants took part in interactive group activities and discussions on gender-based violence (GBV) and sorcery accusation-related violence (SARV).They were also introduced to non-violent communication tools, referral pathways, and support services available to survivors, including police, safe houses, counselling centres, family support centres, and health clinics.During the discussions, a participant, Ms. Rose Vavine identified intercultural marriage as one of the common issues affecting families.“Different beliefs and cultural norms between husbands and wives can sometimes lead to misunderstandings, conflict, and violence,” she said.Participants also raised concerns about the lack of action on issues reported to community police and leaders, which they said has contributed to increasing law and order problems.Alcohol and drug abuse were identified as major contributors to violence in the community, often resulting in arguments, family breakdowns, child neglect, unemployment, and other social challenges. Ms. Finkeo said the first phase of the program, conducted in March, involved documentary screenings focused on gender appreciation and promoting positive attitudes towards women.“The second phase builds on that foundation through interactive learning and discussion aimed at changing attitudes and behaviours, while encouraging men to value and respect women in their homes and communities,” she said.The next Phase 2 awareness will be conducted in the Gerehu community next week. Ms. Finkeo thanked AFL PNG for supporting the program through funding provided under the Australian High Commission’s Team Up Program.

A total of 28 pregnant women in a remote village in Rigo, Central Province received treatment for the first time as a result of a trekking project that was launched in their area last November.For the first time pregnant women were fully checked and vaccinated, with 34 mothers receiving family planning and 207 children below seven receiving vaccinations in the remote Dorobisoro last month.Community Health Worker Elijah Lofulo confirmed that medical treatment has increased since the installation of Starlink, solar power supplying electricity for fridge to keep the medicines for outreach program in neighboring villages.Mr. Lofulo thanked Australian Trekker Peter Gamgee and his community in Queensland for the fundraising drive, PNG Tribal Foundation leading organization in Ghost Mountain Expedition, in partnership with Central Provincial Government, and the health authority for providing everything to the remote area which had helped saved a lot of lives within two months."Treating a total of 1,286 patients at the clinic since reviving the facility in May is such a blessing," said Mr. Lofulo.He said that three mothers gave birth, 15 patients were referred to Port Moresby for further treatment and sadly two other patients passed away.He thanked Central Provincial Health Authority and UNICEF for donating solar powered vaccine fridge in June that has helped them to conduct the vaccination program.

The Huon Gulf District Development Authority (HGD-DDA) has continued its support for churches across the district through its Church Partnership Program, providing musical instruments to two congregations in the Morobe Province.The donations were made on Sunday, July 12, to support worship services, youth ministry, evangelism, and community outreach programs.The beneficiaries were the ELC-PNG Gabsongkeg Congregation in Ward 17, Wampar Rural LLG, and Body of Christ Church in West Taraka, Wampar Urban.Huon Gulf MP and Minister for Community Development, Youths and Religion, Jason Peter, said churches play an important role in strengthening families, guiding young people and promoting peaceful communities.Additionally, supporting churches is an investment in the moral and spiritual wellbeing of communities.The HGD-DDA said the Church Partnership Program will continue providing practical assistance to churches across Wampar, Salamaua and Morobe Local Level Governments."When the Church is empowered, the community is strengthened. Together, we build a peaceful, united, and God-fearing Huon Gulf."

The 35th Senior Education Officers Conference is currently underway at the Autonomous Region of Bougainville at Hutjena Secondary School on Buka Island, a significant milestone for education in Bougainville.Under the theme “Leading Quality Teaching and Learning Through Partnership,” the conference brought together senior education officials, provincial advisors, development partners, church representatives, teachers and students from across Papua New Guinea.Major announcements were made during the conference by the National Department of Education.Secretary Dr. Uke Kombra, PhD, OBE, confirmed the transfer of two major education functions from the national government to the Bougainville Department of Education.The transferred responsibilities include school registration and compliance functions, as well as the distribution of tuition fee subsidies to schools – a responsibility previously centralized at the national level."We are probably the most decentralized department out of the whole government system.”Dr. Kombra added that the national government remains ready to devolve remaining powers—such as curriculum, inspections, and examinations—as soon as the region is prepared to receive themThe conference also outlined ongoing national education reforms aimed at improving access to education, reducing student dropout rates and strengthening teaching and learning outcomes.Regional Member for Bougainville and Minister for Works and Highways, Peter Tsiamalili Jnr, officially opened the conference, stressing the importance of education in developing character and integrity.“Qualifications certify your competence; education cultivates wisdom.”Meanwhile, ABG Vice President and Attorney General Ezekiel Massat challenged education leaders to review the content taught in classrooms to ensure it supports Bougainville’s political transition and future aspirations.He said education must focus beyond infrastructure and place greater attention on teacher welfare, retraining and local training opportunities.The conference continues throughout the week with education leaders discussing policies and strategies that will shape the future of education in Bougainville and Papua New Guinea.

East New Britain Governor Michael Marum has congratulated musician Leonard Kania for reaching 40 years in the music industry.Governor Marum said Kania has proudly represented East New Britain and Papua New Guinea through his music and has become an ambassador for the province’s culture and identity.He acknowledged the Kania family’s contribution to music, noting Leonard’s brother Uralom Kania’s involvement in the industry and the continuation of the musical legacy through Leonard’s son.“This continuation of musical talent across generations is a testament to the Kania family’s invaluable contribution to the cultural and artistic landscape of East New Britain and Papua New Guinea.”Governor Marum described it as a proud moment for the people of East New Britain.“We thank Leonard for carrying the name of our province with pride and wish him many more years of success.”The Governor also called on musicians and artists across East New Britain to work together to establish the East New Britain Music Association.He said a registered association would provide a united voice for artists and allow the Provincial Government to provide structured support programs.Governor Marum said musicians play an important role in preserving traditions, promoting culture, and contributing to the creative economy.He urged the committee established in 2024 under Deputy Provincial Administrator Nick Larme to complete the association’s formation without delay.

Students at Holy Rosary Primary School in Port Moresby have received 1,000 new library books through a partnership between Fincorp and Buk bilong Pikinini.The donation forms part of Fincorp’s K20,000 sponsorship towards Buk bilong Pikinini’s School Library Re-establishment Program, which is distributing 4,000 books to schools across Papua New Guinea.The books include storybooks, early readers, novels, dictionaries, atlases, reference materials and teacher resources to support literacy and classroom learning.Opening the formal remarks, a student representative, speaking in place of the Head Boy, thanked Fincorp and Buk bilong Pikinini on behalf of the student body for the generous book donation.“Thank you for giving our school these books. They will help us learn more, read more, and achieve our dreams. We promise to take good care of them and make the most of this opportunity.”Holy Rosary Primary School Head Teacher Stanley Tonny thanked Fincorp and Buk bilong Pikinini, saying the donation would provide valuable learning resources for more than 3,000 students.“Support like this is vital in helping us provide our students with quality educational resources. We are grateful to Fincorp and Buk bilong Pikinini for recognising the importance of literacy and investing in the future of our children.”Speaking on behalf of Buk bilong Pikinini, PR & Marketing Team Lead Ms. Mary Sawa encouraged students to make the most of the opportunity now before them."These books have come to your school free of charge through the generosity of Fincorp and the many organisations and individuals who have supported this journey, from our book donors in Australia to our logistics partners who helped bring them to Papua New Guinea.”“Now that these books are here and easily accessible, we challenge each of you to set a reading goal and see how many books you can read before the end of the year.”“Every book you read brings you one step closer to achieving your dreams."Fincorp representative Adriaan De La Rey said the company believes investing in children’s literacy helps build future leaders and professionals."Reading builds imagination, confidence and knowledge, and these are qualities that will open doors throughout their lives.”The books were handed over to the school community, with students excited to explore the new collection.

Prime Minister (PM) James Marape has defended his decision for making the recent cabinet reshuffle that saw six new ministers sworn into office yesterday at the Government House, Port Moresby city.He described it as a carefully considered strategic decision aimed at improving the efficiency of Government, accelerating service delivery, and strengthening Institutional Reforms as Papua New Guinea (PNG) enters the final phase of the Government’s current term.Responding to Questions from the Opposition Leader, James Nomane during Question Time on the first Sitting day of Parliament following its resumption, Prime Minister Marape said the changes were not driven by personalities or politics, but by the Government’s responsibility to deliver tangible outcomes for the people before the 2027 National General Election.The Prime Minister thanked all Ministers who had served in his Government over the past four years, acknowledging their commitment and sacrifices while noting that changing national priorities, health considerations, constituency commitments and the need for stronger delivery mechanisms required adjustments to Cabinet responsibilities.“It was an absolute honour and privilege to work with all my Ministers over the past four years. These changes are not about personalities. They are about ensuring Government delivers the outcomes our people expect in the remaining months before the next Election,” Prime Minister Marape said.He explained that as Papua New Guinea moves beyond its 50th Anniversary of Independence and continues implementing the Government’s “Reset at 50” Reform Agenda, it had become necessary to restructure several key Portfolios to eliminate bureaucratic bottlenecks and improve accountability across Government.

The Hutjena Secondary School in Bougainville has become the first school in Papua New Guinea (PNG) to be connected to the National Digital Learning Management System, EduNeX.The digital platform was officially launched on Monday, July 13, during the 35th Senior Education Officers Conference held at the school.The launch was officiated by Minister for Works and Highways and Acting Minister for Information and Communication Technology Peter Tsiamalili Jr.EduNeX will provide teachers with digital teaching resources, structured learning content, and professional tools to improve classroom delivery.Students will also benefit from interactive and personalized learning experiences supported by artificial intelligence technology.Education Secretary Dr Uke Kombra described the launch as a major milestone in PNG’s digital transformation agenda."The connection of Hutjena Secondary School to EduNeX demonstrates our commitment to ensuring every child, regardless of where they live, has access to quality learning opportunities.”“This is about creating a more equitable education system by giving our teachers modern digital tools and our students engaging, personalised learning experiences."The Department of Education will gradually roll out teacher training to support effective use of the platform.In May 2026, Acting Minister for Education Kineoka Feo announced in the Ministerial Policy Statement the implementation of the National Digital Learning Management System (EduNeX), a transformative national education reform initiative aimed at modernizing teaching and learning across the country.The initiative is designed to provide equitable access to quality education across all regions, provinces, and districts, ensuring that a student in remote areas has access to the same quality of learning content as a student in the capital.The policy will apply to all levels of school in the National Education system including FODE, TVET, and IERCs.

The Department of Education has officially transferred two major administrative functions to the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG); School Registration and Compliance as well as Tuition Fee Funding.Education Secretary Dr Uke Kombra announced the transfer during the opening of the 35th Senior Education Officers Conference at Hutjena Secondary School in Buka on Monday, July 13.Under the new arrangement, the ABG will be responsible for auditing school standards, identifying prospective schools and approving new registrations in consultation with the Teaching Services Commission.The Bougainville Department of Education will also directly manage tuition fee payments to schools, replacing the previous national-level payment system as confirmed by Secretary Kombra.“From this day onwards, the Bougainville Department of Education will now directly manage the tuition fees that will come to schools in Bougainville.”The transfer follows the Wabag Joint Statement, which provides for the gradual devolution of national government powers to Bougainville.Dr Kombra stressed that while Bougainville continues its political journey, education must remain focused on providing quality learning opportunities for children.He also outlined national education reforms, including the PNG Education Transformation Vision (PNGETV) 2075 and the 1-6-6 school structure, aimed at reducing student dropouts and ensuring children progress from Prep through Grade 12.The National Government is also supporting education infrastructure development through a K2 billion investment over 10 years.