The inaugural MCPNG PNG Media Summit, organized by Women in Media (WiM PNG), will be held on Saturday, May 3rd, 2025, at the Hilton Hotel in Port Moresby. This inaugural event will bring together media professionals, policy makers, and academics to address the most pressing issues in Papua New Guinea’s media landscape in commemoration of World Press Freedom Day 2025. While the Global Theme for World Press Freedom Day this year is ‘Reporting in the Brave New world: The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and the Media’, this first PNG Media Summit will discuss Artificial Intelligence, and how to understand it in a media context, with a special focus on the role of women in media and the broader Pacific region’s journalism. Media Council of PNG President, Neville Choi says the Council’s vision is for the PNG Media Summit to be a permanent feature on the Council’s annual calendar of events. “The media has always been criticized for no longer operating to what many critics have referred to as a standard of media reporting from a different time of reporting, with journalists who had different tools at their disposal, and with audiences who had different ways of accessing the media. Yet no one explains what standard they are talking about. “Having an annual gathering of media practitioners, partners and stakeholders is the way forward to have collective agreement on what the industry standard is, and how to not only maintain it, but develop it even further,” Mr. Choi says. The summit’s high-profile keynote speaker is Mary-Louise O'Callaghan, an award-winning Australian journalist renowned for her in-depth coverage of Pacific affairs, and who, until most recently, was leading the Pacific operations of Internews. O'Callaghan will share her expertise on the challenges and opportunities in Pacific journalism, particularly regarding media development in PNG. "This summit is a crucial platform for open dialogue, fostering collaboration and advancing ethical media practices," says Belinda Kora, Lead for the Women In Media Core Team who are leading the organization of the summit. "We are especially thrilled to welcome Mary-Louise O'Callaghan, whose work has significantly impacted regional journalism and media development." The summit will also feature Fred Wesley, Editor-in-Chief of The Fiji Times, who will discuss the state of press freedom in the Pacific and Patrick Matbob, a veteran Journalist now trainer from Divine Word University. The event aims to foster a more vibrant media environment, support women in the industry, and address how AI impacts journalism in PNG. By convening media leaders, policymakers, and influencers, the summit seeks to ensure a future of ethical and inclusive journalism. Ms. Kora also took the opportunity to thank sponsors from the corporate, private and development sector for supporting this inaugural event.

As the ANZAC round nears, the SP PNG Hunters are gearing up for a meaningful clash against the Burleigh Bears this Saturday, 26 April, at Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby city. This will mark the Hunters' first ANZAC round at home since joining the Queensland Cup, and the occasion holds special meaning for both Australia and Papua New Guinea (PNG). To commemorate the round and pay tribute to the brave soldiers who served in World War I and World War II, the Hunters team visited Bomana War Cemetery out side Port Moresby. The players and staff were warmly welcomed by the cemetery's staff , who shared insights into Papua New Guinea’s pivotal role in wartime history. A highlight of the tour was viewing the commemoration of the Australian soldier Private George C. “Dick” Whittington who was injured during the Battle of Buna. The players will wear a special one-off commemorative jersey that features this iconic image of Whittington. He was being helped along a track through the kunai grass towards a field hospital at Dobodura. The Papua New Guinean assisting him was Raphael Oimbari. Whittington was with the 2/10th battalion at the time and had been wounded the previous day in the battle for Buna airstrip. He recovered from his wounds but unfortunately passed away from scrub typus in Port Moresby, 12 February 1943. He is commemorated and buried alongside over three thousand fallen at the Bomana War Cemetery. “It was a humbling experience for all of us,” said team captain Ila Alu. “We are grateful for the tour and the opportunity to learn about the sacrifices made by our ancestors. The staff were incredibly kind and informative, and we are honoured to carry this knowledge with us into ANZAC Round.” Rowan Foster of the Office of Australian War Graves said, “It was especially poignant for our war cemetery team, sharing history between Papua New Guinea and Australia. It was a powerful reminder that the freedoms enjoyed today were hard-won through unity, sacrifice, and the enduring bonds between our nations. For the PNG Hunter players, young men are navigating their own paths of discipline, teamwork, and service and this experience serves as a reminder that greatness is not only measured on the field, but also in respect for history, legacy, and those who came before us.” This year’s ANZAC Round serves not only as a competitive fixture but as a heartfelt reminder of the sacrifices made for freedom. The SP PNG Hunters are proud to stand in remembrance, unity, and respect as they take to the field. There will be a ceremony held at Santos NFS before the match begins on Saturday, 26th April.

Prime Minister James Marape has issued a directive for the immediate finalization of the Community Development Agreement (CDA) for the Porgera Mine in Enga province, urging all stakeholders to bring the process to a swift and collaborative conclusion. The CDA forms the final component of the Porgera Project Commencement Agreements, and the Prime Minister has instructed the Minister for Mining, Rainbo Paita, to lead its completion in close coordination with the Enga Provincial Government, the Mineral Resources Authority (MRA), and affected landowner groups. “Our landowners have waited long enough,” said Prime Minister Marape. “With gold prices now over US$3,400 per ounce — up from US$1,536 when we signed the new Porgera deal— we must conclude the CDA and protect the mine so benefits reach our people faster.” Under the new agreement, landowners and Enga Province will receive a 15% equity share (up from 5%) and 3% royalty (up from 2%), with no deductions. Taxes will be paid upfront, ensuring immediate returns. According to the Prime Minister, these changes represent a 300% increase in direct benefits compared to the previous mining arrangement. “This is the most beneficial benefit-sharing agreement we’ve ever secured as a country since 1975,” he said. “If we protect and preserve the mine, all stakeholders will begin receiving the full benefits—including equity—much sooner than expected.” To safeguard the project, the Government will begin National Identification (NID) registration of all landowners, enforce a zero-tolerance policy for illegal mining, and implement a comprehensive resettlement plan. New law enforcement infrastructure will include a holding facility in Porgera and the development of Mukumanda Jail, while early investments in roads, law, and justice services are also planned. “Everyone living or operating in Porgera must do so lawfully. There will be no room for illegal activities around the mine,” the Prime Minister warned. "Trespass will carry serious consequences.” Prime Minister Marape also commended landowner factions for halting conflicts and encouraged continued unity. “I commend those who’ve chosen peace over conflict. Let’s complete this CDA together—transparently and fairly—for the benefit of all.” He also acknowledged Barrick Gold and CEO Mark Bristow for honouring the agreement, noting that PNG did not pay any upfront capital to restart the mine, and now holds four board seats in the joint venture company. “We’ve taken back control. Barrick has supported our equity model with a total of 51% equity for PNG beneficiaries, including the 15% referenced earlier, and the mine is now producing. Now, we must finish the final leg.” On the Wafi-Golpu project, the Prime Minister said the Government is awaiting formal feedback from Harmony Gold and Newmont Corporation on PNG’s final position. Once confirmed, he will brief stakeholders and landowners accordingly. “We want to deliver the SML at the earliest.” As Papua New Guinea approaches 50 years of Independence, Prime Minister Marape said these new resource agreements reflect the Take Back PNG agenda in action. “This is how we define PNG at 50—by securing fairer and better project agreements that put our people first. The future of our nation depends on it. Our nation has a history of project agreements skewed towards investors, and the major policy differences between my coalition and those opposing me are centred on my drive to get more for PNG.”

An epic three days of competition held at the Taurama Aquatic Center saw over 50 corporate companies join together to form teams to take part in the long Easter weekend Port Moresby Corporate Volleyball Competition (POM CVC) "Super League Challenge". POM CVC Chairman, Nuga Dick said the competition started off on a high note on Friday with the open division matches with a total of six (6) teams taking part. Each of the six teams has 8 divisions with 2 men's and 2 women's teams. These teams are Soaring Kingfisher, Fearsome Sharks, Mighty Whalers, Slithering Eels, Electric Stingrays and Graceful Dolphins. As of this morning, the quarter finals started and are currently on with the semis and finals set for this afternoon. "All our semifinals will be played today for the open division. All the women's finals will be played in court number one, court number two will be the men's grand final and in court number three, the boys under-19 will play their finals." He said this the second of its kind where the first took place in 2019, but due to COVID-19, the super league challenge was put on hold. "This is the second of its kind, 2019 was the first one. This is much bigger because we got the booths set up and 13 new companies joined this year and a total of 78 teams taking part in the normal weekend games." "We got pool A, premier division, Division 1, 2 and 3 are for all the new teams. And we have around 60 plus games happening here every weekend." He added that apart from the super league challenge, the U-19 boys will play the quarter finals next weekend (Saturday) while the corporate teams will still play their round robin matches. He stated that this is the first time POM CVC brought in the U-19's were the winners from here will represent POM CVC in the National Championships next year.

The race is on — and time is running out! The Papua New Guinea Football Association (PNGFA) Competition Department is calling on all prospective Premier Soccer League (PSL) clubs to act quickly, with less than 14 days remaining to submit their Expression of Interest (EOI) and secure a coveted place in the 2025 PSL season. The affiliation fee for PSL involvement stands at K77,000, alongside a player registration fee of K100 per player. Lead Competition Coordinator Leo Jakanduo emphasized that each club's total payment amounts to K100,000, which must be finalized before the competition kicks off. “With an increasing wave of interest flooding in, your commitment will be determined by the fees paid to register your participation.” He highlighted that completed EOI forms and the corresponding EOI fee payment receipts must be submitted by the close of business (COB) at 5:00 PM on Wednesday, April 30, 2025. Additionally, the deadline for the full affiliation fee payment of K77,000, along with the total player registration fee (for example, K3,000 for 30 players), is Friday, May 30, 2025. “Only ten spots are available for the exhilarating 2025 PSL season, and late submissions will not be accepted.” Jakanduo reiterated that all intending clubs must submit completed EOI forms along with their EOI fee payment receipt. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity—secure your team's future in the PSL today!

The International Rugby League (IRL) Board has officially named Papua New Guinea, France, and Wales as its priority nations, with a fourth country in Africa to be selected later this year. These nations will receive targeted investment and support through bespoke national strategies co-developed with their respective federations. By narrowing the focus to just four countries, the IRL aims to concentrate its resources for maximum impact. Other strategically significant or high-potential nations may be added to the initiative in the future. France, Papua New Guinea, and Wales were selected due to their historic importance to the sport, established participation bases, elite development pathways, and deep-rooted rugby league cultures. France remains the most advanced of the tier-two nations in Europe, with a strong professional and semi-professional club infrastructure operating in one of the continent’s largest sports markets. Mr. Stanley Hondina, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL), emphasized the country’s unmatched passion for the game. “Papua New Guinea, the only nation where rugby league is the national sport, continues to shine as a global example of dedication and excellence,” he said. He highlighted PNG’s six regional development pathways and academy programs, linked to the 12 clubs in the Digicel ExxonMobil semi-professional competition, as crucial building blocks for future stars. Strategic appointments—such as Tony Archer, Joe Grima, and Stanley Gene—have strengthened PNGRFL’s pathway and performance systems. Hondina also pointed to recent standout performances by the Junior Kumuls and Junior Orchids as evidence of PNG’s rising potential. “As we approach our 50th year of independence, rugby league is more than a sport—it’s a symbol of national unity and pride,” he said. He also marked December 12, 2024, as a historic milestone: PNG was granted an NRL license, laying the groundwork for a Port Moresby-based team to join the NRL in 2028. This move is expected to boost grassroots development and deepen ties with Australia. The PNGRFL’s 10th AGM, held in Port Moresby on March 29, further demonstrated the organization's maturity, with audited financials presented by Ernst & Young—highlighting strong governance and transparency. Wales Rugby League (WRL) was also honored by the IRL Board, with Chairman James Davies welcoming the recognition. “It’s a real honour for Wales Rugby League to be recognized as a priority nation for growth,” Davies said. “We’ve got a proud legacy—starting with our first international win over New Zealand in 1908—and a bold vision for the future.” He noted that WRL’s development pathways are expanding each year, with more than 40 players now linked to Super League clubs. Wales’ junior, women, and wheelchair teams are all gaining momentum, with the latter two already qualified for the 2026 World Cup. Davies praised the new leadership under CEO Richard Hibbard—former Wales and British & Irish Lions international—who brings elite sporting experience and business acumen to the role. “Our community game is the bedrock of everything we do,” Davies said, “and that’s where our future lies.” The IRL sees competitive French and Welsh teams as essential to creating a commercially viable northern hemisphere international calendar, giving England alternatives to frequent matches against southern hemisphere teams. In a major boost for PNG, the Australian Government will provide significant investment in rugby league development, aligned with the new Port Moresby-based NRL team’s entry in 2028. Meanwhile, the Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) has introduced a policy allowing NRL clubs to sign up to two PNG Pathway Players—defined as athletes who participated in PNG’s junior competitions—outside of the salary cap. This move is designed to fast-track elite talent into the professional ranks. Recognizing the growing interest in Africa, the IRL Board will select one priority nation from the continent following consultations with national governments. The region is seen as a long-term growth area for the sport. The Las Vegas IRL Board meeting also laid out steps for a refreshed global strategy, including a Chair-led strategy committee. This work builds on the commercialized international calendar first outlined at the IRL Board’s mid-2023 meeting in Singapore. World Cup hosts for 2028 (Women’s), 2029 (Wheelchair), and 2030 (Men’s) will soon be confirmed. Once set, full qualification pathways and tournament formats will be finalized, with planning for the 2028 Women’s World Cup already well advanced. Revenues from future World Cups and major tournaments are expected to fund participation programs, capacity building, and other initiatives designed to grow the game globally. In addition to backing the four focus nations, the IRL’s broader vision includes expanding global player participation and strengthening international rugby league at all levels.

Datec PNG Learning Centers saw a total of 255 students graduate today in Port Moresby city from its six (6) programs offered. These programs, with the aim of providing job-oriented and industry skills-focused courses, include Information Technology, Server & Network Administration, Data Analysis & Data Science, Project Management, Data Analysis & Business Intelligence, Project Management and Cyber Security. The General Manager-Training & Education Mr. Ravichandran. C said, to date, over 1400 students have graduated from their programs, with 60-70% of them successfully securing employment. "Looking ahead, we plan to focus on more AI programs in the coming year as we anticipate that these skills will be in high demand both locally and globally in the near future. We are committed to providing our students with the necessary tools and knowledge to succeed in the ever-evolving job market," he said A total of 77 students got their diplomas in Advanced Professional in Information Technology, 52 students in Advanced Diploma in Server & Network, 44 students in Advanced Professional Diploma in Data Analysis & Data Science, 3 students in Advanced Professional Diploma in IT Distance Mode, 51 students in Diploma in Project Management, 22 students in Diploma in Data Analysis & Business Intelligence and 6 students in Diploma in Cyber Security.

The Port Moresby Technical College (POM TECH) is not having any classes today in respect of a student who was tragically killed in a freak accident on Saturday 12th April. The student body agreed to suspend classes today following the tragic hit-and-run incident that claimed the life of Jeremiah Peka, a first-year student from the West New Britain Province. At this time, the POM TECH West New Britain Student Association are waiting for the arrival of late Jeremiah Peka’s family from West New Britain to have a meeting with the school administration on what steps to take next with his body. The West New Britain Student Association has confirmed that they will present their concerns to the administration and the immediate family present theirs by this afternoon. According to the WNB Student Association, the school administration has agreed to stand with the student body and suspend classes today. It is understood the institution will be hosting a meet the parents of the late student and the West New Britain Students Association at 2pm.

The Rumginae School of Nursing in North Fly District, Western Province, marked its 50th anniversary with a graduation ceremony held on Friday, April 11 where 23 health professionals graduated. This health institution run by Evangelical Church of PNG had produced over 800 Community Health Workers since its establishment in early 1967. The Western Province will see more nursing officers and community health workers in the near future as Rumginae School of Nursing is committed to train and equip health professionals. The 50th graduation ceremony of CHW held last Friday will contribute to improve health services in rural areas within Western Province and PNG. The Rumginae Mission Station run by ECPNG provides health training including missionary training which both are aimed at equipping students and graduates with better clinical trainings and act of service to others. Speaking at the graduation ceremony, Rosie Crowter in representing the Unevangelized Fields Mission who were the early missionaries who brought health and mission services into North Fly District who are currently known as Pioneers International, said their great effort in training health workers had been fruitful at Rumginae and Western Province as a whole. She said that Rumginae Nursing School remains highly regarded with many students not only from Western Province but from PNG who applied because of its respected legacy left behind by early missionaries and trainers. “First doctors arrived in 1966 with vision to train nationals to take over the work. Their priorities were to ensure there was a good training school. Early missionaries and health workers brought health and mission services," she said. Currently, the school is offering both CHW and Diploma in General Nursing program to ensure that the development plan of the Provincial Government is achieved for improved health delivery services in Western Province. Also speaking at the graduation ceremony, the school principal Mr. Amos Kupaloma thanked all development partners, Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology and National Department of Health and pioneer health workers for their continued support towards improving this health institution. “The school is growing in terms of its learning facilities such as a library, classrooms and dormitory for students. More support is still needed to train and produce more health professionals,” he said. In total, 23 CHW students graduated after completing their two-year studies at Rumginae. Graduates have been urged to serve people in remote areas with skills and knowledge gained at the health institution as well as maintaining their code of conduct and work ethics when employed. Rumginae, being the first health institution in PNG and Western Province, is looking forward to train, equip and produce more health professionals in years to come.

Since its inception in 2022, Kopr8 Mixed Futsal championship has seen a total of ten (10) championships with the final round robin matches played on Saturday at the Taurama Aquatic Centre. According to Kopr8 Sports & Events Director Julienne Bodigai, the competition runs quarterly with the aim to bring companies together to not only relax and enjoy the sport but to also create bonds and networking. “We love to encourage the idea of people getting out of their offices to stay fit and do a little jog and before they get back to their offices. Most people just sit in their office the whole day, go home and repeat the same thing. So, we just love to do that.” “With this competition, championship number ten (10), we’ve got twenty-two (22) companies taking part for this year. So, we’ve divided them into 2 pools, and we just have one round robin of games and then we go into the finals.” Julienne said, the five (5) aside futsal competition only runs for two days at the end of every quarter with the aim to bring in more corporate companies to take part, stay fit and enjoy the sport. She said, the registration fee for every quarter is K1, 000 and the take home prize money for the three (3) top teams: K2, 500. 00 for 1st place, K1, 500.00 for 2nd place and 3rd place is, K1, 000. 00. Julienne mentioned that every team is allowed to bring in four (4) guest players, and of the 4 players, two (2) must be dependents. “We also love to encourage males and females to participate. This is why we’ve been continuing to run mixed teams only.” She encouraged more teams to take part in the upcoming second quarter of the Kopr8 Futsal Championships in June or July. Meanwhile, the National Sports Trust Limited claimed the championship 10 title.

In a strong reaffirmation of the government’s development agenda, Prime Minister James Marape, MP, emphasized that agriculture remains central to Papua New Guinea’s future. Speaking at the National Agricultural Industry Public-Private Sector Partnership Conference recently, he highlighted agriculture as a key driver of the country’s economic growth and rural development. The conference brought together stakeholders from across the sector, reinforcing the government's commitment to boosting agricultural productivity and enhancing the livelihoods of Papua New Guineans through strategic partnerships and sustainable initiatives. Prime Minister Marape highlighted the significance of the agriculture sector, which has been strategically divided into four vital components: the main Agriculture Department, Coffee, Cocoa, and Oil Palm. This restructuring aims to refine focus and boost the productivity of these subsets, integral to the nation’s economic framework. “For four consecutive years, we have witnessed a growth of four percent in the non-resource sector,” PM Marape stated. “This growth is a testament to the effective harnessing of economic activity and productivity that sustains our people.” The Prime Minister also addressed graduates in attendance, urging them to leverage their education and communal resources to foster agribusiness initiatives. “With your wealth of knowledge gained from learning institutions, you can utilize your lands and collaborate with your tribal clansmen to drive business success." "This is your opportunity to make a profound impact,” he said. PM Marape committed to taking the insights and outputs from the conference back to his office to form actionable strategies to further advance the agricultural sector. He referred to the Government’s price support program launched in 2020 and emphasized the critical need for an established policy mechanism, particularly in light of six years without a robust agricultural structure from the Agriculture Department. “How can we progress without an established policy mechanism?” he challenged. Despite the visible improvements in infrastructure, PM Marape expressed concern over lagging productivity levels. Encouraging the agricultural community, he implored stakeholders to take full advantage of recent legislative changes, including the new income tax act, which offers reductions in taxes and enhanced incentives and tariff measures. “The government is also establishing access to Asian markets, particularly China, and we are actively working with bilateral partners to enhance food security,” Marape added, highlighting the Administration’s efforts to integrate Papua New Guinea’s agricultural sector into the global market. In conclusion, the Prime Minister reiterated his belief in agriculture as a vital driver for the nation’s economic future and a key element in enhancing food security and community well-being. The government remains committed to supporting the agriculture sector and its stakeholders, with a focus on ensuring sustainable growth for generations to come.

The Institute of Business Studies University (IBSU), located just outside Port Moresby city, saw the graduation of just over 200 students today in its 5th graduation ceremony. Theme: “Coalescing minds, building communities and nation”, the graduation saw 201 students graduate from the various courses offered by the university. While congratulating the graduands, Acting Vice Chancellor Auvita Rapilla encouraged the students to be proud of today as they have reached a big milestone in their lives which will take them places, if used in the right way. She said, “you are not just receiving degrees, you are being entrusted with the responsibility to lead, serve, and to shape the future of the nation and determine its path for the next 50 years and beyond. Today marks an important milestone in your life, one that reflects years of effort, dedication and growth. You have worked hard, faced challenges, and reached this important stage in your journey.” She said, through this journey, all experienced different challenges along the way but are now at the end of this academic journey and are now set for the next chapter. “With all the knowledge you have acquired from the IBS University, it is now up to you to put it into practice, translate it into action and make impact.” As the country celebrates 50 years of independence, there is a need for industrious and ambitious value driven professionals with the right work ethic and ethos for modern day challenges. “And so today, you are not just receiving degrees, you are being entrusted with the responsibility to lead, to serve, and to shape the future of our beloved nation, and determine its path for the next 50 years and beyond.” Out of the 201 students, a total of 5 students were awarded academics excellence awards.