Papua New Guinea (PNG) joined the rest of the world in celebrating World Teachers’ Day on Thursday 2nd October, paying tribute to the nation’s more than 70,000 teachers for their tireless contributions to education and national development. This year’s global theme, “The transformation of education begins with teachers,” resonated deeply across the country, as education leaders, schools, and communities recognized the essential role teachers play—not only in the classroom, but in shaping future leaders and building a stronger society. In a media statement marking the occasion, the country’s education leadership expressed deep appreciation to all educators, past and present. “Your dedication, passion, and commitment in shaping the minds and hearts of students—and in building what we are today—is truly inspiring,” stated Education Minister Mr. Lucas Dekena. Teachers were praised for being more than just instructors: they are mentors, guides, role models, and what the message called “the architects of our future.” He said, their influence stretches far beyond academics, as they also instill life values such as perseverance, empathy, and critical thinking—essential traits for navigating a changing world. As education systems across the globe evolve to meet new challenges—such as digital learning, diverse student needs, and shifting workforce demands—PNG’s teachers are adapting with creativity and resilience. “They work tirelessly in all circumstances, showing immense patience and sacrifice. They go the extra mile, finding new ways to make learning exciting and meaningful,” said Mr. Dekena. From early childhood classrooms to flexible distance education programs, teachers in PNG are helping expand access and improve learning outcomes. Special recognition was given to those who support struggling students, organize extracurricular activities, and provide their own time and resources to ensure no child is left behind. The message highlighted the lifelong impact teachers have on students’ futures: He said, “The influence of a great teacher can never be erased. They empower us to think critically, solve problems, and pursue our dreams.” In a call for ongoing respect and support, the statement urged the public not only to celebrate teachers on World Teachers’ Day but to recognize their efforts daily—through action as well as words. This includes active participation in education, support for school initiatives, and simply expressing gratitude. “Our country has come this far because of the many sacrifices made by our teachers and the love they have for teaching,” Mr. Dekena concluded. The message closed with a quote reflecting the spirit of teaching: “A teacher plants the seeds of knowledge, sprinkles them with love and patiently nurtures their growth to produce tomorrow’s dreams.” — Anonymous As celebrations took place in schools and communities across the country, the message served as a timely reminder of the vital role teachers play in transforming education—and the future—one student at a time. Happy World Teachers’ Day, Papua New Guinea.

In a stirring conclusion to the 34th Papua New Guinea Senior Education Officers Conference, the country’s top education leaders undertook a special journey to Kokoda College, reaffirming a powerful partnership driving education reform across the nation.The delegation, which included senior officials from the Department of Education and provincial governments, travelled three hours through Oro Province’s rugged terrain to visit Kokoda College—described as the "beating heart" of the Kokoda Track Foundation’s (KTF) education efforts. More than a symbolic gesture, the visit marked a recommitment to a shared vision for inclusive, quality education across Papua New Guinea. For more than two decades, the Kokoda Track Foundation has placed education at the centre of its mission. Over 80% of KTF’s work is focused on delivering educational access and opportunity, particularly in remote and underserved communities. Since 2017, over 10,000 students have benefited from KTF's programs, with more than 3,000 currently enrolled across 14 Flexible Open Distance Education (FODE) colleges spanning six provinces. FODE graduation rates are rising steadily—between 75–81%—thanks in part to KTF’s innovative “FODE patrols” that take lessons into some of PNG’s hardest-to-reach areas. “Education reaches into the heart of our communities. It shapes opportunity, strengthens equity, and builds nations,” said Dr. Genevieve Nelson, CEO of KTF. She said, “We are proud to walk alongside our partners in education to bring learning to where it’s needed most.” KTF’s impact spans the full educational journey—from early childhood through to tertiary training: · Early Childhood Education (ECE): Teaching manuals and dedicated classroom spaces are being rolled out in preparation for the introduction of a national ECE curriculum and policy. Elementary & Primary Schools: Teachers are supported to upgrade to Diploma qualifications, while targeted coaching, in-service training, and resource support are delivering statistically significant literacy gains—particularly in Western Province, in partnership with the Sustainable Development Program (SDP). Tertiary Education: At Balimo College, KTF is preparing the next generation of educators through Diploma of Teaching programs—ensuring skilled teachers lead classrooms across PNG. Since its establishment by KTF in 2012, Kokoda College has grown into a flagship institution. The college now features upgraded facilities, including a new solar-powered mini-grid and a fully equipped inclusive ICT lab with assistive technologies for students with disabilities—supporting equitable access to education for all learners. The visiting delegation included leaders such as Maino Vegoli (Oro), Charlie Buia (Western), and Roma Tuidam (Milne Bay)—all long-standing partners of KTF. Their presence underscored the critical role of provincial leadership in driving education reforms that reach communities in every corner of the country. Closing the visit, Dr. Uke Kombra, Secretary of the Department of Education, described KTF’s work as nothing short of “miraculous,” commending the Foundation for its unwavering dedication to reaching the furthest and most forgotten communities. “This visit is more than a site inspection—it is a powerful statement of what can be achieved when government, civil society, and communities work hand in hand,” Dr. Kombra said.  KTF’s work demonstrates the transformative potential of long-term, deeply rooted partnerships. By aligning with national education goals and provincial priorities, the Foundation is helping shape a more inclusive, effective, and far-reaching education system for Papua New Guinea. This visit stands not only as a milestone in KTF’s journey—but as a reminder of what is possible when partnership is more than a word. When it is purpose in action, progress shared, and a collective commitment to a better, brighter future for every child in Papua New Guinea.

A transformative partnership between the EU-STREIT PNG Programme and Queen Emma Chocolate is breathing new life into Papua New Guinea’s cocoa industry, revitalizing farms, upgrading factories, and opening doors to premium international markets.Once challenged by limited production capacity, inconsistent bean quality, and restricted export access, Queen Emma—PNG’s leading domestic cocoa processor—is now experiencing a remarkable turnaround. Supported by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) through the EU-STREIT PNG Programme, the company has modernized its production lines, secured reliable supplies of fine-quality beans, and cultivated demand for its locally made chocolate products abroad. At the core of this success is a comprehensive approach that aligns every stage of the cocoa value chain—from improved farming techniques and post-harvest handling to factory processing and overseas marketing. Queen Emma General Manager, Karina Makori stated, “The biggest impact has come from the work done in the cocoa value chain by the EU-STREIT PNG Programme to teach, train and equip farmers.” Makori said, “Improved tools, better dryers, roads, and knowledge have all contributed to raising the quality of Sepik cocoa and our supply base.” Historically, farmers struggled with smoke contamination during bean drying, leading to lower quality and lost income. FAO’s interventions introduced better post-harvest practices, infrastructure upgrades, and strengthened connections between cocoa cooperatives and Queen Emma’s factory. In 2025 alone, farmer groups from Mupa, Juar, Ramangs, and Esse Mart supplied over 24 tonnes of dried cocoa beans—valued at more than PGK 750,000—reflecting a growing network of quality-focused producers enjoying stronger incomes and expanded market access. Inside the Queen Emma factory, a USD 2.8 million investment from the EU-STREIT PNG Programme is driving modernization. Twelve new machines are being installed to double output and enhance product consistency, enabling the company to meet international food safety standards and compete in high-value markets. Between January and August 2025, Queen Emma exported over PGK 5.6 million worth of cocoa products, buoyed by its debut at major trade shows in Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore. “This partnership has greatly supported Queen Emma to partake in international chocolate festivals and trade events. It’s helped us grow sales and connect with new foreign buyers,” Makori added. The company’s focus on quality is paying off: production volumes, sales revenue, and international client numbers have all doubled in recent years. Queen Emma’s brand is gaining traction among boutique chocolatiers and premium ingredient buyers throughout the Pacific and East Asia. With global cocoa shortages disrupting supply chains, Papua New Guinea’s niche, high-quality beans and proximity to markets offer a competitive edge. Queen Emma aims to refine its premium product range and shed the legacy of “smoky beans” that once constrained PNG’s cocoa potential. For farmers, the benefits are clear: higher prices for premium beans, fewer rejections, and stable contracts with a domestic processor committed to quality. The programme’s support for logistics, training, and compliance has unlocked opportunities for rural producers in competitive markets. “The vision for Queen Emma is to produce a truly PNG-made chocolate,” Makori said. “It has been rewarding to witness firsthand the impact cocoa has on farmers’ lives. We want to be part of the positive changes happening in communities.” Queen Emma’s transformation exemplifies how public-private partnerships—backed by technical support, investment, and market access—can elevate an entire sector. By linking Sepik farmers to a modern, standards-driven processor, the EU-STREIT PNG Programme is fostering a more sustainable, inclusive cocoa value chain. With rising quality, expanding capacity, and growing exports, Queen Emma is well-positioned to take Papua New Guinea’s cocoa to new heights—bringing greater value and pride to the communities that nurture it.

Papua New Guinea’s top para table tennis player, Haoda Agari, has claimed a silver medal at the inaugural ITTF Oceania Para Table Tennis Championships held in New Zealand over the weekend, marking a proud moment for the country on the international stage.The tournament, hosted for the first time by New Zealand, brought together 19 para-athletes from across the Pacific, with Agari flying the PNG flag as the country’s sole representative. Agari teamed up with Rodney Satini of the Solomon Islands in the doubles event, where the pair delivered a strong performance to finish second and secure the silver medal. In the singles competition, a round-robin format saw Agari face off against top athletes from Australia and New Zealand, both of whom fielded full-strength teams. Despite a valiant effort, Agari narrowly missed out on a podium finish in the singles category. Speaking after the event, Agari described the championship as a major milestone in his sporting journey. “This was a great Oceania Championship for para table tennis,” Agari said. “Powerhouse teams Australia and New Zealand had more than 20 athletes, which really inspires me and gives me the courage to train harder and do better next time.” Agari’s participation was made possible through a collaborative effort led by PacificAus Sports and ITTF-Oceania, who provided financial support to six para-athletes from across the Pacific region, including representatives from Fiji, Tonga, Tuvalu, Solomon Islands, and PNG. While Agari competed without a coach present, he received unexpected and heartfelt support from Anne Motuga, a Samoan journalist based in Auckland, who stepped in to assist during matches. “I did not have a coach with me, but Anne kindly sat in my coach’s chair and supported me—she even gave me water between matches. I am very grateful to Anne, to the International Table Tennis Federation for selecting me for this scholarship, and to PacificAus Sports for making this opportunity possible,” Agari shared. More than just a medal, Agari’s silver represents a step forward for para sports in Papua New Guinea, where athletes often face limited access to coaching, facilities, and competition opportunities. His performance on the international stage is expected to inspire other athletes living with disability to take up sport. While some pacific athletes are staying on in New Zealand for an extended training camp, Agari will return home with a medal, new experience, and a renewed determination to grow para table tennis and inclusive sport back in PNG.

Two Papua New Guinean sign language interpreters have achieved formal certification at the recent 2025 World Association of Sign Language Interpreters Oceania Conference, marking a major step forward for inclusive access to justice for Deaf communities across the nation.The newly certified interpreters, Ms. Anna Thomas and Ms. Francisca Sam, both from PNG’s Department for Community Development and Religion (DfCDR), were part of the first-ever graduation of regional sign language trainees. This certification formally recognizes the vital role of sign language in PNG's justice system and expands access to essential legal and public services. For deaf Papua New Guineans, trained interpreters are crucial in ensuring the right to justice is a reality. They facilitate communication in police stations, courtrooms, and correctional facilities, helping Deaf individuals understand legal processes, participate meaningfully, and advocate for themselves. The certification is a significant milestone for disability inclusion, especially since sign language is now recognized as Papua New Guinea’s fourth official language. Anna Thomas, a Sign Language Coordinator at DfCDR, emphasized the broader impact of the achievement stating that this graduation is about recognition, empowerment and progress. “We are building a future where deaf Papua New Guineans can access information, education, and public services in their own language.” The certification was secured with support from the Australia-PNG Law and Justice Partnership. In addition, the Partnership maintains that effective communication is foundational for an inclusive justice system, viewing interpreter certification as a key step to ensuring deaf citizens can engage with legal institutions with dignity, autonomy, and equal protection under the law. Held in Fiji in late August, the conference brought together deaf leaders, interpreters, and disability advocates from across the Pacific, including representatives from PNG, Tonga, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Australia, and New Zealand. Moving forward, the DfCDR will take the lead in implementing a National Sign Language Implementation Plan (2025–2030). Key actions will include establishing a national registry of certified interpreters and integrating sign language training into mainstream services, particularly within justice sector institutions. Furthermore, the Australia- PNG Law and Justice Partnership confirmed its continued commitment to strengthening inclusive access to justice by supporting initiatives that build a system that is accessible, equitable, and responsive to the needs of all citizens.

A new culinary docuseries titled Kin and Kai has officially launched, offering viewers a rich, sensory journey through Papua New Guinea’s diverse food culture in celebration of the country’s 50th anniversary of independence.This five-part mini-series, produced as part of the Australian High Commission’s Yumi Stap Wantaim (We Stand Together) campaign, is co-hosted by Papua New Guinean Chef Julz and Australian actor and producer Aaron Fa’Aoso, a proud Torres Strait Islander. The series is now streaming online at yumistapwantaim.com, with new episodes released weekly via the Australian High Commission’s Facebook page. Blending the warmth of home cooking with deep storytelling, Kin and Kai goes beyond the plate to explore themes of identity, memory, and connection. Through shared meals and ancestral recipes, Chef Julz and Fa’Aoso highlight the cultural bonds that unite Papua New Guinea and the Torres Strait Islands, emphasizing traditions that span generations and borders. “Food is the thread that connects culture, memory and legacy,” said Chef Julz. “It’s how we honour our past and nourish our future. Kin and Kai is a celebration of identity. It’s about bringing our cultures together.” Each episode showcases authentic PNG kaikai, with Chef Julz drawing on his family’s recipes and personal history. Fa’Aoso contributes his own heritage and curiosity, deepening the series' exploration of cultural overlap and shared roots. “The connections between the Torres Strait and PNG stretch back over 65,000 years,” Fa’Aoso said. “These historical, familial, and cultural connections have woven a fabric that still binds us together today. Kin and Kai is a chance to listen, to learn, and to walk together through our shared past, as we walk side by side into the next 50 years.” Kin and Kai serves as both a tribute to 50 years of Papua New Guinea’s independence and a powerful reminder of the enduring ties between communities across the region—offering stories that are as nourishing as the food itself.

The Enga Provincial Government (EPG) is commemorating 50 years of the province’s journey with a three-day celebration from today Wednesday October 1st to Friday 3rd October, placing God at the center of the milestone event.The inaugural Enga Day celebrations begin with a day dedicated to honoring the churches and missionaries who first brought the Gospel to the province—recognizing their spiritual, social, and developmental contributions across Enga's six districts. Acting Director of the EPG’s Community Development Division and event organizer, Dorethy Kukum, said that 16 churches will be officially acknowledged for their long-standing partnership in shaping the province’s moral and social fabric. “The Enga Provincial Government is grateful to these churches and their early missionaries for being partners in the province’s development,” Ms. Kukum said. On Day One, pastors from across Enga will join with district officials and local congregations to offer prayers of thanksgiving and dedication to God. Due to the current State of Emergency (SOE) in Enga, Ms. Kukum advised that all celebrations and services be held in safe locations, such as churches or district stations. In Wabag, the capital, the day will also include a special welcome for Resident Judge Justice Ellis, followed by a Law-and-Order Summit in the evening with Enga's key leaders. Under the theme “Celebrating Enga’s Past, Present, and Future,” the remaining two days of Enga Day will showcase the province’s progress over five decades. Planned highlights include: Local exhibitions from institutions, businesses, and community organizations The first-ever Miss Enga Pageant at the Innovative University of Enga A music festival featuring local and national artists at Aipas Oval The event will conclude with a grand fireworks display The EPG is encouraging all citizens of Enga, both in the province and living elsewhere, to take part in this historic celebration.

The 14th Chinese Medical Team, led by cardiologist Dr. Chen Zijun, has donated a vital consignment of specialized medical consumables to Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH), aiming to boost life-saving procedures and reduce delays in the hospital’s Catheterization Laboratory (Cath Lab).The donation included high-demand items such as Extension Catheters, Atrial Septal Defect Occluders, Drug-coated PTCA Balloon Dilatation Catheters, Intravascular Ultrasound Diagnostic Catheters, Rotational Guidewires and Catheters with Advancers, Radiation-protection glasses, Femoral artery sheaths, Ultrasound coupling gel, and Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) Occluders. Receiving the donation, Interventional Cardiologist Dr. Wesong Boko expressed heartfelt thanks to Dr. Chen and his team, highlighting the urgent need for such supplies. “These are the everyday essentials we rely on to perform procedures in the Cath Lab,” said Dr. Boko. “Unfortunately, these are also items we sometimes lack, causing delays and long waits for patients. This timely support from the Chinese team will go a long way in helping us deliver critical care to those who need it most.” Dr. Kone Sobi, speaking on behalf of PMGH’s Senior Executive Management, acknowledged the continued contributions of the Chinese Medical Teams over the years across various hospital departments. “China Medical Teams have consistently provided specialist support—from cardiologists and pediatricians to obstetricians and surgeons,” said Dr. Sobi. “By working closely with our local teams, they understand our specific needs. Dr. Chen’s collaboration with our Cath Lab is a perfect example of this. Ultimately, the biggest winners are our patients.” Dr. Chen expressed hope that the donated supplies would help shorten waiting times and save more lives in Papua New Guinea. The 14th Chinese Medical Team’s donation is the latest in a long-standing partnership between China and Papua New Guinea in advancing healthcare delivery and capacity-building at PMGH.

The final leg of Papua New Guinea’s regional consultations on the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) concluded today in Buka, marking a major step in the country’s efforts to fulfil its international human rights reporting obligations. The two-day workshop, held from September 25 to 26, brought together representatives from the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG), national government agencies, people with disabilities, and members of civil society, including churches and non-government organizations.The consultations are supported by the Building Community Engagement Program (BCEP) and aim to prepare PNG’s combined initial and periodic report to the UN Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities—a key requirement following the country’s ratification of the CRPD. Speaking on behalf of the Secretary of the Department for Community Development and Religion (DFCDR), Mr. Jerry Ubase, Deputy Secretary Karen Haive opened the event and emphasized the government’s ongoing commitment to disability inclusion.“As a government, our approach to supporting people with disabilities is guided by key national policy frameworks that promote the message: ‘Remove Barriers, Make Rights Real,’” said Ms. Haive.She noted that PNG has ratified six of the nine core United Nations human rights treaties, with DFCDR leading the implementation of three—including the CRPD.Representing the Autonomous Bougainville Government, Mr. Donovan Tami, Manager for Mandatory and Social Services, welcomed participants and outlined key objectives within Bougainville’s Disability Policy, reinforcing the region’s support for inclusive development.During the workshop, participants engaged in open dialogue and completed structured questionnaires assessing how services such as education, health, infrastructure, and transport are being made accessible to persons with disabilities.The feedback gathered is critical in assessing PNG’s progress in implementing the CRPD and will directly feed into the drafting of the national report.With all four regional consultations now completed, attention shifts to consultations with national agencies, followed by three report drafting workshops and a final validation session.The process is led by a Technical Working Group (TWG) comprised of representatives from:· Department for Community Development and Religion (DFCDR)· Department of Justice and Attorney General (DJAG)· Department of Prime Minister and NEC (PM&NEC)· National Statistical Office (NSO)· Department of Health· Department of Treasury· Department of Foreign Affairs· State Solicitor’s Office, among other key departments.Once completed, the final report will be submitted to the United Nations Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, fulfilling PNG’s reporting requirement and contributing to global efforts toward disability inclusion.

In a vibrant celebration of unity and community spirit, the 2025 Island Petroleum Charity Colour Run raised over K1 million across Port Moresby, Lae, and Kokopo—an extraordinary achievement aimed at strengthening health and education services throughout Papua New Guinea.Held under the theme “We Are One”, the event drew more than 10,000 participants nationwide, all rallying behind a shared cause: to directly support critical healthcare institutions and schools in their respective regions.Speaking at the official cheque presentation in Port Moresby, Douglas Avusi, CA Rep of Islands Petroleum Limited, confirmed that the K1 million in total funds is being distributed among six beneficiary institutions, spanning three provinces:🔹 Port Moresby· Port Moresby General Hospital – Accident & Emergency (A&E)-K87, 318.70· And Obstetrics & Gynecology (O&G) departments. -K87, 319🔹 Lae· Milford Haven Primary School· Milford Haven Urban Clinic🔹 Kokopo (East New Britain)· St. Mary’s Vunapope Hospital· Nonga General Hospital“Although we refer to five institutions, Port Moresby General Hospital has two critical departments receiving dedicated support, making it six divisions overall,” Avusi explained.Island Petroleum has taken full responsibility for managing the funds transparently, ensuring that all contributions from sponsors and public participants—especially from t-shirt sales—are used strictly to fulfill the project needs submitted by the beneficiary institutions.“We procure directly the equipment, materials, and resources requested by each school or hospital,” Avusi said. “Every kina raised is accounted for and goes toward these targeted improvements.”A total of K174,637.70 was officially presented to Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH) to support two of its most vital and heavily burdened departments:· Accidents & Emergency (A&E)· Obstetrics & Gynecology (O&G)Dr. Sobe, Director of Medical Services at PMGH, expressed deep gratitude, noting that these departments serve tens of thousands of patients annually, including up to 30,000 emergency cases and over 16,000 births per year.“This support from Island Petroleum and the broader community is remarkable,” said Dr. Sobe. “With Port Moresby’s population exceeding one million, every bit of help makes a huge difference.”Lloyd Trusty, Retail Manager at Island Petroleum, delivered a powerful keynote reflecting the company’s broader mission:“We’re not just in the business of fuel—we’re in the business of community. This year’s theme, ‘We Are One’, captures our belief that unity can drive real, lasting change.”Trusty also announced the 2026 Charity Colour Run will expand to seven locations, adding Madang, Kimbe, Kavieng, and Alotau to the existing three.A newly proposed Islands Petroleum Foundation will oversee long-term impact initiatives in health and education.The event was brought to life by strong participation and wide community involvement:Over 10,000 t-shirts distributed across the country: 3,000+ in Port Moresby, 2,500 in Lae and 2,000 in Kokopo“These aren’t just numbers or t-shirts,” said Trusty. “They represent the heart of our community, coming together to make a difference.”The success of the 2025 Colour Run wouldn’t have been possible without its diverse range of sponsors and supporters, including:· Mobile Oil New Guinea· Dulux PNG· Boroko Motors· ZENAG, AGMARC, Vuelux Group, Deep Boy Investments· PNGFM, Daytech, NEA, Tropicana· Number One Super· Range View Plaza, and many more“It was a fabulous day,” said Helen from Dulux Group PNG. “We’re proud to be part of something that brings joy and impact—and yes, we’ll be back in 2026 with more jellybeans!”“This is only the beginning,” said Avusi. “Our commitment to health and education goes far beyond this event.“We are one – in challenge, in change, and in community,” said the event’s closing speaker. “And that’s something truly worth celebrating.”

In a major boost to connectivity across the country, Digicel PNG has launched its new ‘One Nation Connected’ campaign, offering customers up to 33 times more data at no extra cost. The campaign aims to simplify communication for Papua New Guineans, allowing users to call anyone nationwide without needing multiple SIM cards to access on-net services. Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Digicel PNG Tarik Boudiaf, said that this campaign is about giving their customers more, more data, more freedom and more value without any additional cost. “We are making it simpler for people to connect and easier for families and businesses to stay in touch.” Timed to coincide with PNG’s 50th Independence Anniversary, the campaign is also a celebration of the country’s digital progress and a commitment to future development. Digicel PNG says the initiative is part of its continued investment in expanding network coverage, enhancing internet speeds, and improving the customer experience, reaffirming its role as PNG’s leading digital operator. “This is not just a celebration of the past; it is a commitment to the future.” “We remain dedicated to connecting communities and supporting digital and financial inclusion under One Nation Connected.” Looking forward, Digicel PNG plans to continue empowering local communities through accessible, affordable, and reliable digital services. Customers can find more information about the campaign by calling 123 or visiting www.digicelpacific.com

Women in East New Britain (ENB) province will no longer need to travel to New Ireland for cervical cancer testing, thanks to the commissioning of a state-of-the-art Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) laboratory at Nonga Provincial Hospital. Health Minister Elias Kapavore officially opened the PCR lab along with a new medical waste incinerator during a ceremony held on the eve of Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence celebrations. The milestone project is part of a World Bank-funded initiative, implemented by the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) in collaboration with the National Department of Health (NDoH). “This is a major step forward in improving our healthcare services.” “We now have the capacity to deliver same-day test results without needing to send samples to Port Moresby. This is vital for timely diagnosis and treatment.” The PCR lab is equipped to test for a wide range of diseases, including COVID-19, influenza, HIV, hepatitis, tuberculosis, cervical cancer (HPV), and even genetic disorders and forensic analysis, making it the most advanced and only fully operational PCR lab in the country. Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of ENB Provincial Health Authority (PHA) Dr. Ako Yap, described the lab as a “game-changer” for both clinical and public health services in the New Guinea Islands region. “It is a one-stop shop for diagnostics. We can now manage testing locally and reduce delays that previously risked patient outcomes.” The upgraded incinerator, replacing an outdated eight-year-old model, doubles the medical waste disposal capacity, from 20kg to 30kg per hour, improving infection prevention and control at the facility. The commissioning was attended by senior government officials, including Member for Rabaul Dr. Allan Marat, Fisheries Minister Jelta Wong, representatives from UNOPS, the World Bank, and local community leaders. Meanwhile, UNOPS Country Manager Sirpa Jarvenpaa, said the infrastructure reflects a strong partnership between the PNG government, the World Bank, and implementing agencies. On the other hand, World Bank Acting Division Director Stephen N. Ndegwa, expressed their support towards sustainable health services that improve care and build resilience across PNG. The laboratory and incinerator are part of the broader COVID-19 extension project, which continues to address critical gaps in health infrastructure and disease preparedness nationwide.