The office of the Vice Chancellor of the PNG University of Technology, its council and the senior management executive management team have spoken out to clarify and correct some of the erroneous and misleading commentaries on various social media platforms of a picture depicting empty graduands seats at the 56th Graduation Ceremony on Friday, 5th April. The VC, Profesor Ora Renagi stated that those who attended the graduation ceremony, would confirm that the ceremony was delayed by no more than an hour to accommodate the arrival of the keynote speaker, Prime Minister James Marape. “However, with the understanding of the Council and the Prime Minister’s office, we proceeded with the commencement of the ceremony. The Prime Minister arrived at the preliminary stages of the proceeding and all necessary protocols were observed to receive him.” Vice Chancellor Renagi mentioned that contrary to what was being speculated on social media, graduating students did not walk off during the prime minister’s speech nor did the Prime Minister speak to an empty audience. “He delivered his speech before the graduands were conferred their degrees and to fully engaged audience.” “Following the Prime Minister’s delivery of keynote address, despite his demanding schedule, he graciously opted to stay for the entirety of the degree conferral process.” “His decision to remain present for over five hours until the final graduate received their degree exemplifies a rare level of patience and dedication, qualities which the University deeply appreciates and acknowledges.” Furthermore, he said that there was no political demonstration as is being claimed by political spin-doctors. “While we recognize the hype surrounding the graduation and probably the heat, we do not condone the behaviors of graduates who left the arena after receiving their degrees, while dignitaries, including the Council, SEMT, Academics, Keynote Speaker, and potential employers, remained seated on stage.” He highlighted that those graduands were inconsiderate towards their peers who observed and cheered them on when they received their papers. “Such actions not only show disregard for their peers but also reflect poorly on their professionalism, a quality highly valued by potential employers.” “At PNGUoT, we strive to cultivate professionals who demonstrate patience and respect throughout the entirety of any process. We commend the graduands who remained until the official closing of the ceremony.” Renagi stressed that PNGUoT is the only technological university in the country, and they take pride in themselves in producing graduates with technical skills and expertise needed to build the nation. “These qualifications will certainly go a long way with commitment, perseverance, and the right attitude to succeed.” Meanwhile PNGUoT Graduate statistics from 2021, 2022 and 2023 show a steady increase in the employment percentage of our graduates and will continue to ensure that our curriculum meets industry standards. “We are embarking on fully accrediting our courses to international standards so that our graduates can find jobs anywhere in the world.” “Having addressed the misconceptions, we assure everyone that we will also work on improving the standards and procedures of graduation ceremonies moving forward.”

The Waigani Christian College (WCC) on Friday officially ended their term one school period at 12pm. WCC Principal Mr. Abakure Kaupa granted and released the students off to their term one week holiday during their final 12pm assembly in school. Also congratulating the student body, school staff and representatives on their term one endeavours and a successfully ending term one period on a high note. Mr. Kaupa told PNG HAUSBUNG that term one was excitingly challenging, but a smooth term all around despite the concerns due to the new overwhelming number of students registered in this 2024 year. This was the highest number ever in the WCC history since it begin. Mr. Kaupa expressed his gratitude to his school staff and representatives for the productive and sensible collaboration among school staff concluded an adequate teacher-student ratio to compensate for the high number of students and has really progressed tremendously throughout the term. The new students who were unfamiliar with school policy and boundaries didn’t take long to find their place among their classes and peer’s. Teachers and staff provided minimum observation and care to new comers who had already made the school their home. The high number of students this year has not wavered the teacher’s focus to teach and learn but motivates and drives the teachers to perform their duty and have fun with the students in the process. Furthermore Mr. Kaupa further stated the students have been informed to enjoy their holiday and be productive during the holiday period to come back to school in one piece. “Education does not stop, and neither should the student’s curiosity to learn.” “WCC grants second chances and will uphold the duty to encourage and promote students to excel in their studies.”

The Easter Bunny showed the Post-Natal Ward at Port Moresby General Hospital a lovely surprise in a kind gesture that remembered the moms waiting for their bundles of joy. A well-liked shopping centre, Waterfront Foodworld, kindly provided two boxes of 240 fresh buns to make the new moms smile this holiday season. Shop Manager Danny Tjoeng expressed his satisfaction at being able to cheer people up and stressed how important it is to make moms' days, especially during Easter. Grace Roland, from Friends of POMGEN Operations and Communications, expressed gratitude towards Waterfront Foodworld for their ongoing support to the hospital, stating, "Our friends at Waterfront Foodworld have always supported our cause here at the hospital and for that, we are truly grateful." Sr. Bamo, speaking on behalf of the PMGH Post-Natal Ward, expressed sincere gratitude to Waterfront and Friends of POMGEN for making the donation possible. She also noted the importance of the act in making the moms' Easter smiles. Setter Wailo, Assistant Director of the Department of Justice, and Attorney General's Community Engagement Crime Prevention Branch, emphasized in a different project the significance of fostering a culture of lawfulness from a young age. Giving children reading materials is a strategy to redirect their attention toward moral values and deter them from committing minor infractions, he emphasized. Wailo expressed gratitude to Friends of POMGEN and Australia's Books for PNG Kids for their support on this endeavour. Speaking on behalf of the coordinators and manager of the paediatric ward, Sr. Saira conveyed appreciation for the provided reading materials. She emphasized that the nurses' attempt to encourage learning in the kids was to create a little reading area within the hospital. Throughout their treatment, the kids will find great use for the books that have been given to them.

Prime Minister, James Marape, has responded to concerns from DHERST Minister Don Polye over the promised K10million for the damaged University of Goroko 7-storey dormitory from a 7.6 magnitude earthquake in September 2022. The prime minister issued a statement recently to address, what he termed as the ‘center of the latest media scrutiny’, confirming that the Government is well aware of this matter, and pledging full government support to address the issue. “We will support DHERST (Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology) fully in this matter.” His disclosed technical assessments are underway to evaluate its structural safety, confirming a Cabinet decision for a thorough investigation before determining whether the building can be salvaged or condemned. “There is a standing decision by the National Executive Council to investigate the full extent of damages and status of the building before a further decision can be taken whether to maintain the building or to condemn its use altogether.” “The building suffered extensive damages in an earthquake several years ago.” Despite ongoing assessments, operational funds continue to be allocated to the university, ensuring classes proceed while restoration efforts progress, “I have met with Minister Don Polye and Secretary for DHERST this week, and this is one of the things that has come up for discussion.” “I am in receipt of a full brief from DHERST and have instructed that the NEC decision be honoured.” “In the meantime, all operational funds for the University of Goroka continue to be released, including funds for HECAS, TESAS and Student HELP so that our university administration can maintain classes as we catch up on the full restoration of the earthquake-related losses.” "I encourage students and local communities to co-exist in these times of stress as the government and university redevelop the university."

The acting Directing of PNG’s National Research Institute, Associate Professor Eugene Ezebilo has urged the PNG Government, through the National Statistical Office, to address concerns raised on the recent inflation figures for PNG. “In Papua New Guinea (PNG), inflation has become a great concern because it directly reduces the value of the Kina.” “During high inflation, people buy less goods and services or need more Kina to buy the same amount of goods and services.” “The loss in the value of Kina negatively impacts the cost of living, the welfare of the people, and the cost of doing business.” Professor Ezebilo said the recent NRI paper titled “Are the recent inflation figures for Papua New Guinea reflecting the changes in prices of goods and services?" by Dr Thomas Wangi, provides a highlight into the recent general increase in the prices of goods and services (inflation) figures in PNG. (See separate story on PNGHAUSBUNG) “In recent years (2020-2023), domestic inflation numbers were generally lower than expected.” “Some quarters such as September 2020, December 2022, and March 2023 officially recorded negative price changes, indicating falls in inflation.” “These inflation figures have been a concern because inflation pressure was high, and people were struggling to afford the high cost of living during those times.” “Inflation in PNG has been caused mainly by the coronavirus outbreak and war in Ukraine.” “To improve the reliability of the inflation figures, it is important for NSO to review its data collection and recording procedure to address potential technical and human errors, review the sampling procedure to expand the sample size, and conduct a new household income and expenditure survey to update the weights of the indicator items.” Prof. Eugene Ezebilo is the Deputy Director for Research at the PNG National Research Institute. Before his appointment, he was the Program Leader for the Property Sector Development Research Program and the Staff Representative to the PNG NRI Council, which he was nominated to that post in March 2017.

The Papua New Guinea Taekwondo Federation (PNGTF) Team landed back in the country on Sunday at the Jackson’s International Airport, after qualifying for the 2024 Paris Olympic set on July. The PNG Taekwondo Federation left the country with a strong six-man team focused on qualifying for the Paris Olympics in the Solomon Islands Qualifiers but came back two man short and four qualifying to participate in the 2024 Paris Olympics. However, the loss, this is an exciting Milestone that will go down in the history of the PNG Taekwondo Federation as they look forward to their first ever Olympic Games in the history of PNG in the Taekwondo Athletics division. The PNG Taekwondo athlete qualifiers Mr. Gibson Kaogo Mara, Ms. Manage Tapari, Mr. Kevin Kassman and Mr. Harea Loi were very excited and speechless of their achievement but remain focused on the bigger prize in Paris. According to Mr. Mara he had only begun taekwondo training for less than two years and excelled quickly to into the competitive selections to join the PNG Taekwondo Team. Though he felt unready and unworthy for the in the event, the heartily and warm motivational support from his team encouraged his win greatly. “The support from the team really pushed me to do my best when I was in uncertainty. I will do my best in training and aim to bring home a gold medal.” said Mara. PNG Taekwondo President John Cholai expressed gratitude to the Taekwondo athletic team with a warm welcome from the Jackson International Airport. In SI, the team was led by Head Coach Edward Kassman and Assistant Coach Paschalis, along with training and conditioning was led by the Taekwondo Federation’s strength and conditioner Coach Colland Koki. Head Coach Kassman was pleased with the efforts from the team staff and athletes and expects to begin training immediately once settled. “I am pleased with the results despite the few unexpected challenges, we have qualified for the team look forward to Paris Olympics Games.” According to Coach Kassman, the Paris Olympic Games will be an unpredictable event for the team as the result gained from the SI Olympic Qualifier was an eye opener of the potential of the athletes. "Being new in the event brought uncertainty but we conquered better than anticipated."

The Green Machine hit top gear on Sunday night as Matt Timoko and Xavier Savage starred in a 41-8 win over the Eels at GIO Stadium. The speed of Canberra's backline proved too much for the Eels as Ricky Stuart's Generation Next ran in seven tries to bury the demons of last week's fadeout against Cronulla. The Raiders took the lead through a Jamal Fogarty penalty goal in the 10th minute after Joey Lussick held on too long in the play the ball. The Eels had a golden opportunity to hit back in the 13th minute but Wiremu Greig spilled the ball and the Raiders came away. In Canberra's next set five-eighth Ethan Strange exploding into the back field and found Hudson Young who combined with Simi Sasagi before Seb Kris finished off the movement and the home side led 8-0. Five-eighth Dylan Brown was next to come up with an error with the Eels in good field position as the Raiders continued to hold firm. The Eels crossed in the 24th minute when Brown grubered for Maika Sivo to score in the corner but replays showed Clint Gutherson had lost the ball into a Raiders defender in the lead-up. Come the 29th minute and the Raiders had a second when Savage left Gutherson in his wake with some slick footwork and the score hit 12-0. A pinpoint kick by Strange in the shadows of half-time earned the Raiders a repeat set before James Schiller repeated the dose with a grubber kick but both times the Eels were able to recover the ball via a short dropout. The Raiders rounded out an impressive opening term when Fogarty landed a field goal in the 40th minute to make the score 13-0. Three minutes into the second half the home side produced another long range special after Schiller found space and sent the pass inside to Timoko who produced an acrobatic finish to plant the ball down in the corner. Trailing 17-0 the Eels hit back when Gutherson put Sivo over in the left hand corner with a long cutout pass but the No.1 couldn't land the conversion. Savage then stamped his class on the game again in the 53rd minute with a grubber back infield for Danny Levi to regather and score to make it 23-4. A right side raid in the 59th minute finished with Schiller crossing out wide after some slick hands from Jordan Rapana and Timoko. The tireless Young then capped a big night in the 61st minute when Timoko busted the line and sent the ball back inside for the back-rower to streak away and score. Fogarty converted for 33-4. An error by youngster Blaize Talagi with 13 minutes to play handed the Raiders good field position before Fogarty slotted another penalty after J'maine Hopgood was pinged for not being square at marker. Sivo completed his double with nine minutes to play thanks to a long ball from Brown as the Eels grabbed a late consolation before Timoko completed his double in the 79th minute to round out a 41-8 win. The Raiders have now won both their home games in 2024, racking up 67 points to 20 in victories over Wests Tigers and the Eels. Source: NRL.com

In a seismic shift of leadership, the South Pacific Brewery Media Pool Competition (SPMPC) ushered in a new era during its annual general meeting (AGM) held at the prestigious Lamana Hotel in Port Moresby on Saturday 6th April. With a resounding mandate, Tony Dindilo emerged as the new chairman, flanked by Kametan Sibunakau as deputy chairman and Lee Thomas taking the reins as treasurer. The steadfast Henry Iamo retains his position as secretary, ensuring continuity in the management structure. Representatives from each participating team in the 2023 competition convened to deliberate on crucial matters concerning the pool games and overall management. Following intense discussions, the spotlight turned to the election of the new executives, culminating in the appointment of Dindilo, Sibunakau, and Thomas. Addressing the assembly, Chairman-elect Dindilo expressed his profound honor in assuming the mantle of leadership, vowing to elevate the competition to unprecedented heights. He extended gratitude to major sponsor SP Brewery Ltd and the Lamana Hotel for their unwavering support, “I also acknowledge our major sponsor SP Brewery Ltd for its continuous support and Lamana Hotel for providing a much-needed avenue to host our pool games.” He also thanked the unwavering support from other sponsors. “We look forward to another great relationship in 2024.” “My management will work assiduously in close consultation and collaboration with all teams and stakeholders to build on where our predecessors have left and extend boundaries for development and growth.” Meanwhile, former Chairman Kepson Pundu gracefully bowed out, alongside his deputy Murray Vila and treasurer Vali Kapi, citing a desire to explore new horizons after dedicating four years of unwavering service. “Firstly, congratulations to Tony, Kametan and Lee for your election to lead MPC.” “I decided not to seek re-election as my deputy Murray Vila and treasurer Vali Kapi…we felt that we gave enough energy and time to MPC for the last four years (and) it’s time to move on in life for us” Pundu affirmed his belief in leaving behind a legacy of excellence, attributing the current stature of the MPC to the collective efforts of the outgoing leadership. Amidst the transitions, members of the pool, including Karai Taukarai, offered congratulations to the incoming executives while acknowledging the indelible mark left by their predecessors. Dr. Sam Yockopua encapsulated the sentiment, heralding the handover as a symbol of optimism for the future of pool games. “Congratulations to the incoming executives and thanks to the exiting executives. The hand-over-take-over is immortalized to suggest the brighter future of pool games.” As the SPMPC embarks on this new chapter under the stewardship of Dindilo and his team, anticipation mounts for a thrilling journey marked by innovation, collaboration, and sporting excellence.

The leading technology provider in Papua New Guinea (PNG), SNS Tech announced and launched its groundbreaking integration between Kina Bank's Integrated Payment Gateway (IPG) and Xero, a popular cloud accounting service, allowing businesses of all sizes to process secure card payments directly through Xero invoices, simplifying financial transactions. This innovative approach saves businesses precious time and resources protecting confidential financial data for both business and their clients, providing a custom URL integration that guarantees security for the entire transaction process and managing accounts and track cash flow in Xero account as Safety and convenience is priority to SNS tech. This innovation eliminates manual processing. Should you choose to explore a service or product through this, an invoice would be sent customer, a customer through their Xero account simply clicks “Pay with Card” on an invoice and enters his credit card information. A notification will be received on both parties in real time confirming payment enabling reconciliation and tracking of cash flow. Now think of a small business in PNG that uses Xero. CEO and CTO of SNS Tech Samson Korawali mentioned the thrill to launch such cutting-edge integration service. “This innovative approach can stand as a testament to Our Commitment to empowering entrepreneur with effective progressive tools to transform financial & business operations to revolutionize solutions for the people of PNG, ultimately to promote growth and security in a digital age.” “We believe the platform’s potential will lead to a significant improvement in the client experience and significantly increase our financial reconciliation effectiveness,” said Korawali. Kina Bank Chief Transformation Officer Ivan Vidovich commented the excellent example of how Kina Bank collaboration with top Indonesian tech companies such as SNS Tech to overcome the digital divide in Papua New Guinea banking. "Demonstrating that Kina Bank is the leading digital bank in PNG, small businesses are a cornerstone of communities throughout PNG and we have developed first to market digital solutions for making doing business easier and supporting customers' growth for both payers and businesses." In addition to enjoying the benefits of credit cards with points or miles, this payment solution conducts secure and convenient transaction with an organized history of transactions for easy record keeping. Also embracing the efficiency of fast payment with transactions. As a result, cash flow and costs related to the handling of paper checks have been improved. In addition, this solution allows for streamlined accounting procedures and the convenience of a Direct Payment Option attached to Xero. Witness for yourself how easy and quick this solution is! Here you can see SNS Tech's Samson Korawali demonstrating in real time.

The Capital Rugby Union will commence their rugby Union pre-season this today at Bava Rugby Park and will be conducted over 3 weeks. CRU President Kori Chan stressed due to circumstances beyond the association’s control pushed the game after Easter and expressed gratitude to the CRU Clubs for their patience. The Defence Rugby Union Club for discipline reasons has been stood down from competing in the CRU competitions and tournaments for 12months. Despite the unfortunate decision, Kone Sharks will be joining the Men’s A, B and Under 20 (U20) Division and the Women’s senior and U20 division. With the history of the Kone Storms being Relentless in its beginning in 2000, getting knocked out in the semi-finals in 2008, kone Premier secured a grand final berth against University Piggies who ran out victors. Kone produced a number of PNG pukpuks like Frank Genia and Danny Khaiser and their jersey has been worn by none other than wallaby Great Will Genia who played few matches with club before his debut with the Queensland Reds. In Kone’s welcome Mr. Chan mentioned as a former player of the club, he was pleased to see new generations willing to re-establish the club and continue the legacy of the mighty sharks. In addition to the CRU season opening, the Brothers Rugby Union Club’s association 50th anniversary will kick start the CRUW which will be a standalone for women and girls. This competition will be conducted at the Port Moresby International School and similar to the men’s competition, senior Women’s matches will be live streamed. Mr. Chan pointed out from an administrative standpoint that all CRU Clubs have secured a major naming rights sponsor and further details will be provided at the CRU season launch on the 24th April, 2024.

Papua New Guinean shareholders of New Porgera Mine stand to receive well over K26 billion over the 20-year life of the mine. That's according to Prime Minster James Marape. In a statement, he highlights that more than K11 billion is expected in the first 10 years. That is only if gold price keeps at its current rate. His stated this following a recent meet with Barrick Gold Corporation President and Chief Executive Officer Mark Bristow in Port Moresby. The PM explained that this is the monetary value of the new agreement under Special Mining Lease 13 where Papua New Guineans own 51 percent and 49 percent is shared by Barrick Niugini Limited (BNL) and its joint-venture partner, Zijin. He further elaborated that the new majority owners of New Porgera Limited, the State through its mining company Kumul Minerals Holdings Limited owns 36 percent of the shares, while 15 percent is being shared between Enga Provincial Government and the landowners. “Previously, landowners shared a 5 percent equity with the provincial government; now under SML 13, there is nearly a 200 percent increase to 15 percent, including royalties. Comparatively, this is massive." “At an assumed gold price of US$1,800 per ounce, PNG shareholders can expect to receive nearly US$7.2 billion (about K26.6 billion) over a 20-year mine life and US$3.0 billion (about K11.2 billion) in the first ten years." Prime Minister Marape pointed out that the current gold price is significantly higher at over US$2,150 per ounce. “The share of equity and economic benefits that belong to the landowners is a first in PNG’s agreements with international investors." “I have been confidently advised by Mr Bristow that the mine ramp up remains on track and is expected to reach full production before the end of the third quarter of this year." “Porgera is forecast to reach production of approximately 250,000 ounces of gold in 2024, more than 400,000 ounces in 2025, and above 600,000 ounces in 2027 and years beyond, returning it to its Tier 1 status as one of the world’s largest gold mines." The Prime Minister also highlighted that New Porgera Limited will be a significant contributor to the PNG Treasury, subject to a 32 percent corporate tax rate in return for fiscal stability under the Resource Contracts Fiscal Stabilization Act, including an increase in royalty from 2 percent to 3 percent. The mine has rapidly increased the number of employees, with over 2,000 currently, of which 98 percent are Papua New Guineans, with 60 percent coming from Enga and 38 percent from Porgera. NPL expects to employ approximately 3,200 people by the end of this year. Meanwhile, Marape confirmed Cabinet this week approving a special joint military and police callout to secure the mine against a large illegal-miners threat because of PNG’s substantial shareholding interest in the mine.

In a momentous ceremony today, PNG Deputy Secretary for Defence, Mr. Simon Tunapai, alongside Australian Department of Defence Assistant Secretary for Pacific Infrastructure, Ms. Laura Darlington, unveiled the cutting-edge Live in Accommodation (LIA) facility at Moem Barracks in Wewak. The LIA, designed to house 100 PNGDF soldiers from 2RPIR, boasts modern amenities including revamped bathroom and laundry facilities, as well as upgraded sleeping and living quarters, complemented by sustainable power solutions through solar panels and battery storage. This collaborative effort underscores the enduring partnership between the PNGDF and ADF, with Australia's commitment showcased in delivering essential infrastructure to bolster the capabilities of our esteemed PNGDF counterparts. Meanwhile, in another collaboration between the governments of PNG and Australia, another state-of-the-art facility is being worked on for the Lombrum Naval Base redevelopment on Manus Island. The facilities are designed for 20-year durability with minimal maintenance, according to PNG's Defense Minister, Dr. Billy Joseph, who along with senior officials from both the PNGDF and Australian Defence Force inspected the site yesterday. The project includes constructing an international standard wharf, living quarters, training facilities, and medical resources and is set for completion by September 2024 with the potential handover to the PNGDF in November 2024. This redevelopment aims to boost the capabilities of PNG’s Defence Force (PNGDF) in protecting maritime borders and resources.