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.

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.

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.

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.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be remembered as a tournament that redefined football's biggest stage. Hosted jointly by the United States, Canada and Mexico, it was the first World Cup to feature 48 teams, expanding the competition and giving more nations than ever before the chance to compete on football's grandest stage.From the opening whistle, the month-long tournament delivered drama, surprise and unforgettable moments. Traditional football powers were pushed to their limits by emerging nations, while several debutants proved they belonged among the world's elite. The expanded format created new storylines, packed stadiums and a festival atmosphere across North America.Spain arrived at the tournament among the favourites, having entered as reigning European champions under coach Luis de la Fuente. Their campaign, however, did not begin smoothly, as they were held to a goalless draw by World Cup debutants Cabo Verde. That early stumble quickly became a wake-up call. Victories over Saudi Arabia and Uruguay secured Spain's place in the knockout stage and restored confidence within the squad.Once the knockout rounds began, Spain emerged as the tournament's standout team. They dismantled Austria 3-0 in the Round of 32 before edging neighbours Portugal 1-0 in a tense Iberian derby. A hard-fought 2-1 victory over Belgium followed in the quarter-finals before Spain produced one of their finest performances to defeat France 2-0 and book a place in the final. Throughout the tournament, Spain's disciplined defence and patient, possession-based football made them one of the most complete teams in the competition.Waiting for them in the final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey was defending champion Argentina, led by Lionel Messi in what was widely expected to be his final World Cup appearance. More than 80,000 fans packed the stadium as millions around the world watched two football giants battle for the sport's greatest prize.The final was a tense tactical contest. Spain dominated possession and created numerous chances, but Argentina's defence, led by goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez, kept the scores level throughout regulation time. The breakthrough finally arrived in the 106th minute of extra time when Ferran Torres capitalised on a loose ball inside the penalty area to score the only goal of the match. Spain held firm to secure a 1-0 victory and claim their second FIFA World Cup title, 16 years after their maiden triumph in South Africa in 2010.Spain's triumph was built on teamwork rather than individual brilliance. Midfield captain Rodri marshalled the side with authority, while the youthful flair of Lamine Yamal, Nico Williams and Pedri complemented the experience of the squad. Defensively, Spain were outstanding, conceding just one goal throughout the tournament—setting a new benchmark for a World Cup-winning team.For Argentina, the defeat marked a heartbreaking end to their title defence and likely the final World Cup appearance of Lionel Messi. Despite falling short of back-to-back championships, Messi left the global stage as one of the greatest players in football history, having inspired Argentina to World Cup glory in 2022.As captain Rodri lifted the FIFA World Cup trophy amid celebrations in New Jersey, Spain completed a remarkable campaign that showcased discipline, tactical excellence and resilience. Their victory not only crowned them champions of the expanded 48-team tournament but also confirmed the return of La Roja as football's dominant force on the world stage

Former Sydney Roosters premiership winner and New Zealand Kiwis star Joseph Manu arrived in Port Moresby this afternoon at the Jacksons International Airport, sparking fresh speculation over his future with the incoming PNG Chiefs NRL franchise.The 30-year-old arrived with his family but did not speak to waiting media at Jacksons International Airport. He was escorted from the terminal shortly after landing.Manu is widely regarded as one of rugby league's premier outside backs. Born in Auckland, New Zealand, he made his NRL debut for the Sydney Roosters in 2016 and played a key role in the club's back-to-back premiership victories in 2018 and 2019.Following the 2024 NRL season, Manu switched to rugby union, initially playing in Japan before signing with French Top 14 club Racing 92.His visit to Papua New Guinea comes amid ongoing reports linking him with the PNG Chiefs, who are preparing to enter the NRL as the competition's newest franchise in 2028.Earlier this year, Australian media outlet Code Sports reported that Manu was open to returning to rugby league once his contract in France expires at the end of 2027. The report quoted his father, Nooroa Manu, as saying Papua New Guinea was "an option" as the star considered the next stage of his career."Yes, PNG is an option," Nooroa Manu told Code Sports."We are looking at options at the moment... Joey is signed for another year, so he is there for this year and next year. But he is deciding what to do next."The report said Manu was weighing up whether to continue in rugby union or return to the NRL, with the PNG Chiefs emerging as a potential destination for the club's inaugural season.Signing Manu would represent a major statement for the PNG franchise as it builds its playing roster ahead of its historic entry into the NRL.The club has already begun laying the foundations for recruitment, with several high-profile players linked to the expansion side in recent months.Neither Manu nor the PNG Chiefs have publicly confirmed any negotiations or agreement regarding a possible contract.Manu's visit to Port Moresby is expected to attract significant attention from rugby league fans, with many eager to see whether one of the game's biggest names could become the face of Papua New Guinea's first NRL club.

The upgrade of Hoskins Airport in West New Britain Province has reached 57 percent completion, with temporary runway restrictions remaining in place as construction enters its next phase.The National Airports Corporation (NAC) said airside works under Stages One to Seven have been completed, with Stage Eight now underway after receiving approval from the Civil Aviation Safety Authority of Papua New Guinea (CASA PNG).As construction continues, the airport's available runway length has been temporarily reduced to 1,090 metres, allowing operations only by DHC-8-300, ATR-42 and smaller aircraft.NAC said once Stage Eight is completed at the end of July, the available runway length will increase to 1,240 metres, allowing Q400 aircraft to resume operations.Runway construction is expected to be completed by the end of 2026, subject to favourable weather conditions.The Corporation said the upgrade is designed to improve aviation safety, security, reliability and operational efficiency at Hoskins Airport.NAC acknowledged the temporary inconvenience caused by the restrictions and thanked airline operators, passengers, businesses and the people of West New Britain for their patience and cooperation while the project progresses.The Hoskins Airport Upgrade Project is being delivered under the Civil Aviation Development Investment Project II (CADIP II), funded by the Government and the Asian Development Bank.

TISA Bank Limited now has a new boss to handle its affairs following a rigorous process of recruitment and selection carried out by the Board.TISA Bank Limited today announced the appointment of Luke Kaul as the substantive Chief Executive Officer of TISA Bank Limited, subject to the completion of all applicable regulatory requirements.The appointment follows a comprehensive recruitment and selection process undertaken by the Board through its Remuneration and Nominations Committee.  In announcing the appointment, the Chairman of the Board of Directors, Moses Koiri said the Board’s decision reflects its confidence in Mr. Kaul’s deep institutional knowledge, proven execution capability, and strong alignment with TISA Bank’s strategic priorities as the Bank moves from establishment into a phase of disciplined growth, operational stability, and long-term value creation.“Mr. Kaul has played an important role in the foundational establishment and operational scaling of TISA Bank. He brings a practical understanding of the Bank’s performance, regulatory environment, operational priorities, and growth trajectory,” the Chairman said.The appointment of Mr. Kaul provides leadership continuity at a critical time and reinforces the Board’s commitment to building a strong, trusted, and locally anchored financial institution.The Chairman further stated that the appointment represents an important milestone for senior leadership localization in Papua New Guinea’s banking sector.The Board congratulates Mr. Kaul on his appointment and looks forward to working closely with him as TISA Bank continues to consolidate its position as one of Papua New Guinea's newest commercial banks, strengthen stakeholder confidence and execute its long-term strategic objectives.

The Constantinou Group of Companies has jumped on the band wagon to support the 53rd Hiri Moale festival in Port Moresby city with a massive sponsorship announced today, just days after the National Capital District Commission (NDCD) announced its sponsorship for the event.Today the Constantinou Group Chairman and Governing Director – George Constantinou reaffirmed their commitment with a Gold Sponsorship of K100,000 in support of the 2026 Hiri Moale Festival. The cheque presentation ceremony was done at the Airways Hotel, in Port Moresby.According to Mr. Constantinou, today’s presentation marks the third consecutive year for the Constantinou Group to partner with the Motu-Koita Assembly as a Gold Sponsor of the Hiri Moale Festival, reflecting the Groups ongoing commitment to preserving and celebrating the traditions of the Motu Koitabu people.“The Constantinou family has proudly called Port Moresby home for three generations, building enduring relationships with the Motu Koitabu community through decades of partnership, support and shared history. This continued sponsorship of the Hiri Moale Festival reflects that commitment to strengthening local culture and investing in initiatives that celebrates Papua New Guineas identity,” said Constantinou.He concluded his short remarks by stressing that, the Constantinou Group remains committed to supporting initiatives that strengthen communities, preserving cultural traditions and contribute to the continued growth of Papua New Guinea.In welcoming this sponsorship, Chairman of the Motu-Koita Assembly and Deputy Governor of NCD, Mr. Russell Wavik extended his sincere gratitude on-behalf of the people of Motu Koitabu, the Motu-Koita Assembly and the organizing committee of the 2026 Hiri Moale Festival to the Constantinou Group of companies for its continued support and confidence for the Festival.Mr. Wavik emphasized on the Hiri Moale Festival as not only just another annual event, but it is a celebration of the Motu Koitabuans Identity, cultural heritage and leadership of their ancestors that shows their sea fairing courage and skills to the spirit of trade that birthed the Hiri Trade.“We remain committed to presenting this event, that honors our tradition and showcases the rich cultural diversity of PNG. The festival will bring communities together, through culture, music, dance, art performances, and community participation. This sponsorship is more than just a financial support. It is an investment in preserving our culture, empowering our people, supporting local business, promoting tourism and strengthening national unity,” said Mr. Wavik.He further commended the Constantinou Group for their recognition of this event as their cultural representation and community development. He said the support can help make this year's Hiri Moale Festival a memorable and successful event.“I want to assure our sponsors and shareholders that our partnerships will be managed with transparency, accountability and mutual respect. Today’s sponsorship is a meaningful partnership built on culture community and progress. We look forward to this year's Hiri Moale Festival as we celebrate our past, embrace our present and inspire our future,” concluded the Chairman of Motu-Koita Assembly.The 53rd Hiri Moale Festival, 2026, will be celebrated from the 8th to the 13th of September in Port Moresby, with Ela Beach (Era Kone) as the central venue for all activities and events.

Police have used a police helicopter to rescue a man who was among four other people who were seriously wounded after being accused of practicing sorcery in Wenaiyo village, Karimui Local Level Government, Simbu Province.Simbu Provincial Police Commander Superintendent Mazuc Rubiang, who escorted the team to the site, thanked Police Commissioner David Manning for deploying police officers via the police helicopter to respond to the complaint in this extremely remote part of Simbu Province. PPC further thanked the Seventh-day Adventist Church for their quick response in evacuating three of the wounded men to Kundiawa Hospital on Tuesday. PPC Rubiang said the police helicopter, supported by Mobile Squad 13 members from Lae, was deployed today (Friday, July 17, 2026) to rescue the remaining wounded victim and transport him to Kundiawa, where he is currently receiving medical treatment.He said the helicopter relieved a lot of stress for his police officers, who otherwise would have had to walk for days to respond to the incident.He also confirmed that nine suspects have been arrested in connection with the incident and will be investigated and charged accordingly.PPC Rubiang said that according to the police brief, it is alleged that at around 5:30 a.m. on Sunday, the 12th of July,2026, fifteen men armed with offensive weapons surrounded the victims and seriously wounded them. The attack resulted in one death, while the other survivors were taken to the hospital.The suspects alleged that the victims were sorcerers involved in the death of one of their elderly tribesmen a month earlier."I want to thank my police officers from Kundiawa and the others who responded and rescued the seriously wounded men.""Those who have been arrested will be thoroughly investigated and charged accordingly. Sorcery-related violence (SARV) cases in Simbu have increased, and police are doing their best to raise awareness so that people respect one another, "PPC said.Rubiang reminded the locals that when there is respect, there will never be violence.

A student population of about 4,000 at Wardstrip Primary School in Port Moresby has welcomed a new values-based program aimed at improving student behaviour, discipline and character development.The school’s Student Representative Council (SRC), made up of teachers, the head boy and girl, and prefects, took part in a program awareness session conducted by the Education Department’s Guidance and Counselling Division and the PNG Tribal Foundation team from Senisim PNG.Following the session, the SRC agreed to introduce the Value of the Month program, beginning next week, by sharing the values with teachers for implementation in classrooms.SRC Coordinator Gabriella Bata said the program would benefit students as the school caters for 4,000 learners from elementary to Grade 8.She said the program will be introduced to the school management before it is rolled out into classrooms.Education Department First Secretary for the Guidance and Counselling Division, Allan Jim, said many schools were facing challenges with student discipline and needed programs that could help develop responsible future leaders.The Value of the Month program was introduced to schools this year, with one value taught and practised over a four-week period.Values covered from January to June include Compassion, Punctuality, Teamwork, Humility, Courage, Mindfulness and Commitment, with the program continuing throughout the year.Assistant Coordinator Kylie Bellam said Wardstrip Primary School would also participate in the 11-week Transformation Table program.She said SRC members would be the first participants before becoming facilitators to deliver the program to their classrooms and peer groups.Senisim PNG Program Officer Anges Andrias encouraged students and teachers to take the program seriously, saying it promotes good character, leadership skills and qualities that can benefit students in their future careers.The Transformation Table program is free and available to schools, communities, groups, homes and families interested in participating.

The Autonomous Bougainville Government's (ABG) Minister for Education, Hon. Thomas Pa’ataku, has reaffirmed that education is the bedrock of the region’s future, describing it as the “number one priority” for building a better society. Speaking at the closing of the 2026 Senior Education Officer’s Conference (SEOC) this week in Buka, Minister Pa’ataku emphasized that the region’s recovery from past conflict depends on a robust and effective education system.The Minister expressed his deep appreciation for the newly appointed National Education Minister, Hon. Francis Kikin Siune, who chose Bougainville for his first official visit just two days after taking office. Pa’ataku noted that this visit signals a strong commitment from the national government to work with Bougainville."We believe that a better society will only come about if we must make sure we make education our number one priority," Pa’ataku stated, adding that the ABG is eager to utilize national strategies to achieve maximum benefits for Bougainvillean students.He also called for a revitalization of local leadership within the education department to ensure that the transferred powers effectively serve the people. "In Bougainville, the people who have voted to become independent too will be able to see that this department—our departments—can work together to make sure that we must have a better system that can effectively serve our communities," he remarked.Following Minister Pa’ataku’s address, the National Minister for Education, Hon. Francis Kikin Siune, delivered his speech committing to significant infrastructure development and the formal decentralization of educational authority. Minister Siune described the education portfolio as a "challenging" but "vital" responsibility that requires total cooperation between national and regional leaders.Minister Siune also announced the official transfer of 22 education functions to the ABG, including school registration, compliance, and the Government Free Education Policy (GFEM). This shift allows Bougainville to have full authority over its schools' status and management. "Our country can be destroyed if we do not fix our education system," the Minister warned, emphasizing that policymaking must focus on the people.Minister Siune pledged tangible support, including a K400,000 commitment to a 4-in-1 classroom to be built for Haku Day High School and a promise to build education facilities in all nine districts of Bougainville. "We are going to build infrastructure in all the districts in Bougainville," he said, stating his goal to ensure every child has a proper chance at learning. "I believe in cooperation. Cooperation. Partnership... It's very important for us all to work together to serve our people in improving education,” Minister Siune added.The 35th SEOC hosted in Bougainville was officially closed on Thursday this week. The 37th SEOC will be hosted by Eastern Highlands Province in 2027.