Divine Word University (DWU) in Madang province has officially released its 2026 Progression, Readmission, and New Intake lists, confirming the student body for the upcoming academic year.Acting Registrar Ms. Ali Clare Aribi issued the announcement, extending congratulations to students who met their 2025 academic requirements and welcoming both new and returning individuals to the campus community. The university has made these lists available for downloading on its official website. To ensure students are well-prepared, electronic copies of admission letters, academic transcripts, and 2026 registration documents have been dispatched to registered email accounts. New and readmitting students can also expect to receive hard copies of these documents via their nominated postal addresses. The official registration period is scheduled for Monday, February 2, through Friday, February 6, 2026, at the St. John Paul II Multipurpose Hall. Completion of registration during this timeframe is a mandatory requirement for enrolment. Students should note that late registration incurs a daily fee of K20, and no registrations will be processed after February 13, 2026. Anyone facing unavoidable delays is urged to contact the Office of the Registrar immediately. A specific exception applies to Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) Year 5 students, who are required to register earlier between January 19 and January 22, 2026, by reporting directly to the Office of the Registrar. Students who cannot find their names on the published lists are advised to check their student emails or reach out to the administration at mcregistration@dwu.ac.pg for further clarification on their status.

A prominent landowner representative has congratulated ExxonMobil following the successful full retirement of the PNG LNG project debt. Mr. Martin Hora, Deputy Chairman and Public Officer of the Komo Airfield Landowners Association in Block 1787 of PDL 8, issued the remarks following Prime Minister James Marape’s recent announcement that the project had settled its bank-financed debt six months ahead of schedule.With the debt now cleared, Mr. Hora is calling on the National Government, through the Mineral Resources Development Company (MRDC) and the Department of Petroleum and Energy (DPE), to prioritize the opening of clan accounts. He emphasized that many landowners have struggled for years to obtain Incorporated Land Group (ILG) certificates and titles at their own expense. Since the initial stages of the project in 2009 up until 2026, these clans have worked consistently to meet state identification requirements despite significant administrative hurdles. Furthermore, Mr. Hora pointed out that under Sections 47 and 63 of the Oil and Gas Act 1998, the developer typically holds the prerogative to undertake social mapping and landowner identification studies. He noted that while these studies should assist communities in the project's proximity with ILG registration, many landowners were left to manage the process themselves. Despite these setbacks and various challenges, he maintained that landowning groups have remained peaceful and have complied with all state requirements to finally register their groups. In his concluding remarks, Mr. Hora urged the MRDC and DPE to move forward by verifying clans on an individual basis. He argued that the authorities should settle the accounts for those who have met all legal requirements rather than allowing the internal issues of one or two clans to delay the opening of accounts for everyone else.

A three-day soccer tournament featuring 13 teams concluded on December 31st, 2025, in Kaparoko village, Rigo District, marking the end of the sporting year for Central Province.The annual tournament which began on Monday, December 29th, 2025, was organized to raise funds in support of student pastors and ordained pastors who returned to the village for the holiday period. Funds raised will help them prepare to return to their respective United Church circuits and theological colleges to continue their studies and ministry work. The event also formed part of Kaparoko’s festive season celebrations. The tournament attracted strong competition, featuring several PNG National Representatives and National Premier League (NPL) players who hail from Kaparoko, a small fishing village and the home of the Koupa Soccer Association. PNG women’s national players Phylis Pala, Anasta Gunemba Kila, and Kila Dou took part in the tournament, alongside Premier Soccer League (PSL) players from reigning champions Gulf Komara, including Ezekiel Vela, Ronald Reggy, Geno Clement, and Karo Kila. Other notable players included Stanley Karo of Kula FC, Wally David of Highlands United, and Kule Lesly of Hekari United FC. Players from the PNG U18 Men’s National Youth team and Central Amoana FC also participated. The teams were led by PNG’s renowned striking legend, Rev. Kema Jack. Meanwhile, a children’s soccer festival for boys and girls aged 6 to 12 is scheduled to run from Thursday, January 1 to Saturday, January 3, 2026, continuing the village’s commitment to grassroots football development. The annual tournament as well as the upcoming children’s festival, are sponsored by the president of the Koupa Soccer Association and his siblings. Organizers say the event continues to strengthen community ties while supporting church work and football development in the region.

Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH) has welcomed 23 New Year babies born between midnight and midday on January 1st, 2026, marking a positive start to the year and highlighting the dedication and hard work of its maternity and neonatal teams.The births included 13 boys and 10 girls, delivered through a mix of normal vaginal deliveries and assisted procedures, all under the careful supervision of PMGH's skilled midwives, nurses, obstetricians, and support staff. All mothers and newborns are reported to be in stable condition and are receiving appropriate postnatal care. PMGH Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr Paki Molumi, commended the maternity ward staff for their commitment, professionalism, and resilience in providing quality care around the clock, often under demanding conditions. “These births are a reminder that life continues every day at PMGH, and our staff remain committed to ensuring safe deliveries and the wellbeing of both mothers and newborns.” PMGH continues to serve as the country's main referral hospital, providing essential maternal and newborn health services to families from Port Moresby and across Papua New Guinea. Dr. Molumi also congratulated the 23 mothers and their families as they welcomed their new members into the New Year. Among the mothers was 32-year-old Erue Gabutu from Baruni, Central Province, who gave birth to her fourth child at exactly 12:00 midnight, making her baby the first baby born at PMGH of year 2026. “The mother was overjoyed and grateful to welcome a baby boy born on the New Year.” Meanwhile, among the 23 mothers, were two 18-year-old young mothers who each gave birth to their first child.

Ok Tedi Mining Limited (Ok Tedi) has stepped in to assist the Water Police with supplies to help in their operations, showing also its commitment to community safety and law and order.The donation includes four 200-litre drums of zoom to the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) Water Police Directorate in Port Moresby city.The fuel support will enable the Water Police team to increase maritime patrols and maintain law and order across Fairfax Harbour, safeguarding it, the surrounding areas and the Motukea logistics corridor. This contribution forms part of Ok Tedi’s ongoing assistance to Police in the National Capital District, reinforcing the company’s existing Memorandum of Understanding with the RPNGC.Acting Director of the Water Police Directorate, Inspector Giwi Yaku, whilst welcoming the donation described the support as timely and essential.“This is a timely donation as we move into the peak hour of the festive period. We greatly appreciate the support from Ok Tedi Mining Limited. It will boost our maritime patrols, especially around the critical high-risk zones in the harbour,” Inspector Yaku said.Ok Tedi Manager Media and Public Relations, Ms. Ruth Waram, who officially handed over the zoom drums, said the company values its partnership with its stakeholders, including the police.“Ok Tedi is committed to contributing to a safer community, and supporting the work of the Water Police is one way we can help maintain peace and security during this busy festive season. We appreciate the important role Police play in keeping our people, assets and communities safe,” Ms. Waram said. She said through partnerships like this, Ok Tedi continues to support law enforcement efforts and promote a secure environment for all.

Two youths have been arrested in Bulolo in the Morobe province after police found them in possession of illegal firearms and ammunition.The arrests were made on the night of December 30 during a special police operation along the Wau–Bulolo Highway near the AOG Church.Police were conducting random checks at about 9pm when officers stopped and searched the youths. The search uncovered two semi-factory firearms and live ammunition. The items were confiscated.Both suspects were taken to Bulolo Police Station and charged with possession of illegal firearms and ammunition. They were refused bail and remain in police custody.Morobe Provincial Police Commander Chief Superintendent Samson Siguyaru said the operation was successful.“This is another successful operation by Bulolo police in keeping dangerous weapons off the streets,” he said.Police believe the suspects are linked to the “38 Special” gang operating in the Bulolo and Wau areas. Chief Superintendent Siguyaru said more gang members have been identified and further arrests are expected.He warned gang members to surrender their weapons and become law-abiding citizens in 2026.

Almost three years later and still no license for Starlink as the National Information Communications Technology Authority (NICTA) and the Ombudsman Commission (OC) continue to tussle in formalities and legal reviews.Here is the essential breakdown of the dispute and why Starlink services remain restricted. In December 2023, Starlink was set to have its license through NICTA since its initial approval by the end of that same year; with the only thing stopping it being additional review of terms and conditions before it would be awarded its license. According to reports, Starlink had met all requirements from NICTA to begin services so the halt felt uncalled for. By January of 2024, Public concerns had been sparked after a statement by the Minister for Information Communication Technology (ICT) at the time, Timothy Masiu, who said that NICTA had approved for Starlink to operate in Papua New Guinea (PNG) under a five-year license, when in fact, negotiations over terms and conditions were still under way for an official license to be given. However, Minister Masiu said the announcement in January was essentially an intent based on the decision of the NICTA board to grant an approval in principal to Starlink. By February 28 - March 2024 NICTA was effectively halted in its advanced negotiations to finalize Starlink’s licensing. The Ombudsman Commission (OC) justified this decision through citing constitutional authority under Section 27(4), saying the matter required further stakeholder consultation. Forward to August 5 - September 5, 2025 NICTA fired back at the OC by filing for lawful review of the commission’s interference. A report by a notable newspaper stated that the issue is now being reviewed in a court of law. “The matter is currently before the court, and all the parties are awaiting its determination, Minister Masiu said. “It is imperative that due process is followed to ensure compliance with national laws and regulations.” Recently in December 11, 2025, Starlink was advised by NICTA to stop all of its services in PNG; which would effectively be a ban in light of unlicensed use of Starlink routers by over 160 users. NICTA subsequently confirmed that it formally instructed SpaceX, the parent company of Starlink Internet Services PNG Limited, to cease the provision of Starlink satellite services in PNG. Subsequently, on 16 December 2025, SpaceX disabled Starlink satellite services to PNG. Meanwhile, ongoing importation, installation, and use of Starlink terminals across the country have been observed in recent months and warned that such activities are unlawful under the National Information and Communications Technology Act 2009. All further use of Starlink and its services are considered unlawful until a definite resolution and confirmation of license and operation for Starlink is met. On December 18, 2025 - One year since the entire ordeal started - NICTA held a press release to provide clarification and an update. The NICTA Board in their release said, “NICTA reaffirms that it remains ready and willing to license Starlink once the legal impediment is resolved.” “NICTA has acted in good faith throughout the process and continues to support the expansion of innovative, reliable, and affordable connectivity solutions for PNG, within the framework of the law.” Today, what can be expected from the almost three-year-long tug of war over legal implications, politics and user concerns is a resolution as NICTA and the Ombudsman Commission are still in court over the matter. Additionally, for NICTA and all eager users, it is a matter of whether the Ombudsman withdraws from further interference in halting Starlink’s licensing through NICTA, or a Supreme Court decision that leans in favour of licensing. Until then, no official decisions have been made in regard to Starlink and its license to operate in PNG. What Has Happened? December 18, 2023 Starlink gets its license approved by NICTA to carry out its network operations with only little legal paperwork to sort out before it officially commences. January 2024 Public speculation raised concerns about the nature of Starlink’s licensing. Minister for ICT Hon. Timothy Masiu made a public statement on the matter saying that NICTA had licensed Starlink to operate in the country. Negotiations over terms and conditions were still under way for an official license to be given. Feb 28 - March 2024 The Ombudsman Commission ordered a halt by NICTA in licensing Starlink. OC justified this decision through citing constitutional authority under Section 27(4), saying the matter required further stakeholder consultation. NICTA had been effectively stopped from any advanced negotiations to finalize Starlink’s licensing. Aug 5 - Sept 5 NICTA fires back at the OC by filing for lawful review of the commission’s interference. OC meets NICTA in judicial review as Arguments ensue over legal concerns from both parties. What’s HappeningDec 11 - 16, 2025 Starlink was advised by NICTA to cease all of its services in PNG SpaceX, parent company of Starlink, followed up by disabling its satellite services nationwide to comply with NICTA’s instructions. Dec 17 - 22 NICTA addresses speculations online through a press release stating that these decisions were made under legal implications. Meanwhile concerned citizens joined a petition that grew to about 200 signatures; additionally, they sent emails sharing their opinions. What to Expect? NICTA and the Ombudsman Commission are still in court over the matter at hand As of today, December 26, 2025, no official decisions have been made in regard to Starlink and its license to operate in PNG. For NICTA and all eager users, it is a matter of whether the Ombudsman withdraws from further interference in halting Starlink’s licensing through NICTA, or a Supreme Court decision that leans in favor of licensing.

The Itsir Primary School in the Morobe province has received two 9,000-litre water tanks valued at K6,138, with the donation facilitated by the Australian Consulate General in Lae city.Mr. John Gaif, the chairman of Itsir Primary School and the Markham Smart Farmers Association, expressed his gratitude. “I really appreciate this partnership for development,” he said.He added that partnerships like this, supported by Australian taxpayers, are an inspiration for real development in rural areas of Markham and across Papua New Guinea (PNG).“We need to partner. We need to make an impact today so future generations can be proud and build from where we left,” Gaif said.He described the donation as a true gift of Christmas and hoped it would help make PNG a better place today and tomorrow.

People wanting to own their own homes next year can expect 2026 to be a year for the implementation of new reforms aimed at easing the burden of first-time home buyers.Prime Minister James Marape has given that reassurance when outlining a new suite of housing and tax reforms aimed at helping working Papua New Guineans secure their first home.Speaking during his recent site visit to the PNG LNG facility in the Hela province, the Prime Minister said the Government will introduce measures in 2026 that include: Removal of stamp duty on first-home purchases under K700,000 Removal of 10 per cent GST on first-time home purchases Allocation of state land for first-time home buyers in both the public and private sectorsThese initiatives build on recent cost-of-living reforms, including raising the tax-free threshold to K20,000 and removing GST from key household items. “We want employment to translate into long-term security. Every working Papua New Guinean should have the opportunity to own a home in their country,” Prime Minister Marape said.He encouraged workers to save and plan responsibly, saying home ownership is central to family stability and national development.

Taulil United Church, located in Toma LLG, Gazelle District, has received K20,000 in financial support from East New Britain’s Provincial Government.The donation is part of ongoing church partnership programs aimed at fostering community development and spiritual growth. The cheque was officially presented by Provincial Church Representative Ps Tony Kivung on behalf of East New Britain Governor Michael Marum to Taulil United Church Chairman, Mr. Wenzelm M. Apolos. The presentation took place during the introductory service of the newly established Taulil Circuit under the Gaulim Division, a significant event for both the church and the local community. The occasion was attended by Bishop RT Rev. Abel Uraboro, clergy members, and church leaders, marking it as a momentous occasion for the church and the region.

East New Britain Governor Michael Marum has showed continued support towards one of the biggest community-based organizations in the North Baining area — the Sogar Cooperative Society of Gazelle District through his Community Enrichment Program.The cooperative, with more than 1,000 members, received K50,000 to strengthen its existing Cooperative group. The funding will enable the purchase of vital equipment including a new outboard motor for the Messakanapuka fishing groups, as well as support operational activities in Karo Ward and provide assistance to Catholic churches, nearby schools, and surrounding wards within the Vunamarita area of North Baining. This occurred after a recent visit to Vunamarita Village in the Lassul Baining Local Level Government (LLG) area, accompanied by Danley Pauapena, Provincial Deputy Administrator for District & LLG Affairs, Thomas Monep - Deputy District Administrator - Kokopo District Administration, Misiel Waliria, the newly elected Inland Baining President, and members of the media. He also visited Messakanapuka Island – a potential tourism attraction, near Karo Ward and also the popular Clean Wara recreation area, which continues to attract many local visitors and families. In support of local tourism and community recreation, the Clean Wara Area Program also received K50,000 in funding from the Office of Governor Michael Marum. The funding was presented to Mr. Wolcott, the principal owner of the Clean Wara area, to upgrade recreational facilities.                       

A Lae city nightclub has had its liquor license cancelled after continuing to sell alcohol during Morobe’s provincial liquor ban this festive season.The Muse Night Club stayed open and sold liquor on Christmas Day, Thursday December 25th, despite police warnings on December 24th. License holder Jason Kang Xue, 37, from China, and Bar Manager Phoe Hla, 35, from Myanmar, were arrested for the breach. Both were charged and convicted under Section 104 (1)(b) of the Liquor Licensing Act. District Court Magistrate Cathleen Sopa cancelled the club’s liquor license and fined each man K1,000. The fines were deducted from their K5,000 police bail.