The Kina Bank team in Lae took part in the Rosso Lae Community Cleanathon in early May, a project aimed at enhancing the cleanliness and appearance of Lae City. Rayeleene Elston, Executive General Manager of Business and Retail Banking at Kina Bank, expressed her pride in the team's engagement. "We are pleased with our team’s participation in this community program to beautify and keep our second-largest city clean." She also thanked Mr. Michael Earley, Deputy Chairperson of the Lae District Peace and Good Order Committee, and John Rosso, Deputy Prime Minister and Lae Open MP, for their efforts in organizing the event. The staff, along with their families, focused on cleaning various locations including Lae Market, Dunlop, Top Town, the Post Office, the Bank of Papua New Guinea branch, and the Lae City Council. "At Kina Bank, we are committed to various staff-led community initiatives and actively engage in community programs.” “This event marks one of the largest participations by our staff, reflecting our values of unity, making a difference, and contributing to the development of stronger, safer communities.”

The Censorship team is actively raising awareness in selected primary and secondary schools across Imbonggu District in the Southern Highlands province. After arriving on May 11th, their efforts focused on educating students and staff about the essential roles and responsibilities of the Office, facilitated through their Desk at the Imbonggu District Community Development Centre (DCDC). Recently, the team has engaged with several schools, including Sumia Primary School, which has 507 students and 20 teachers; Mendi Day Secondary School with 1,870 students and 64 teachers; Kumin Primary School, hosting 1,200 students and 35 teachers; Pape Primary School, with 300 students and 13 teachers; and Iombi Primary School, which has 655 students and 28 teachers. Participating schools expressed gratitude for the Censorship Office's initiative to provide education at the district level. The awareness campaign is set to extend to Perepa Primary School, Iliabu Secondary School, and Kaupena High School in the near future. The Office's responsibilities encompass monitoring, classifying, and regulating information content across various communication mediums, while also promoting responsible usage of mobile phones and social media platforms among users. The Censorship team also plans to continue its outreach until a sustainable arrangement for the office desk in the district is established, and they are also revisiting the Desk to ensure it is adequately equipped for its operations. The Imbonggu District Community Development Centre (DCDC) serves as a facility offering a range of services and programs to the residents of Imbonggu District. The Desk was launched in September 2023, following the DCDC's opening in 2021, with support from the Ministry for Community Development, Youth and Religion. This initiative was financed by the National Government, the Department for Community Development and Religion, the Southern Highlands Provincial Government, and the Imbonggu District Development Authority.

“Be eager to learn and always put your hand up to try something new.” Twenty-eight-year-old Verbena Rema from Kou Village in Ialibu, Southern Highlands Province, shares her inspiring thoughts as she gets ready to start a new chapter with HEINEKEN Global Shared Services (HGSS) in Kraków, Poland. Verbena, who attended both primary and secondary school in her hometown, graduated from Sogeri National High School in 2014 and earned her degree from the University of Papua New Guinea in 2018. Looking back on her experiences, she feels thankful for the hard work and discipline her parents instilled in her, which have played a crucial role in her journey to success. These principles have been instrumental in shaping her path to success. "My parents taught us to work for something if we wanted it.” “Back in the days, when we wanted a new pair of shoes or trousers, we had to work for it.” “My siblings and I made cabbage or broccoli gardens, sold our harvest, and with the money we made, we bought what we wanted.” “Growing up was a lesson in self-reliance, as Verbena explains, "It was, and still is, literally like, you work, you eat; if you do not work, you do not eat." “As the famous proverb goes, 'Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime.'" Fueled by her passion for learning and growth, in July, she reached out to a colleague in HGSS hoping for a short-term assignment placement, however, the STA role was already filled. Despite facing this challenge, her determination earned her a role as a Global Process Management (GPM) Business Consultant in Business Intelligence (BI). "This will be a completely new adventure for me since it's my first time traveling abroad, and I am thrilled." When asked about her biggest anticipation, she mentioned: Gaining deeper insights into the cutting-edge financial technologies and commercial tools that HEINEKEN provides. "I am eager to learn from all the brilliant individuals, exchange ideas, and apply what I learn." Verbena became part of SP Brewery in 2019 through its Graduate Development Program and worked as a Commercial Analyst before transitioning to the position of Marketing Controller. “SP Brewery is the first Company I have worked at. The daily support I receive from colleagues, and the environment is amazing because I work alongside managers (both local and expatriate) who share their knowledge and help support young Papua New Guineans like me, to further develop our careers.” She further made special mention to former SPB Finance Director Archer Ning, and Adnane Islam Chekirine, the current SPB Finance Director, for their unwavering support and guidance in reaching this milestone. As she prepares for her departure, Verbena offers the following advice to young Papua New Guineans. “Work with a company that you believe will develop your skills and knowledge as an individual.” “The package may not meet your expectations but if the Company has a great reputation in developing its staff, take that leap of faith because you will not regret learning the skills on the job.” In congratulating Verbena, SP Brewery Managing Director Ed Weggemans explained that SP Brewery was committed to developing Papua New Guineans to compete on the world stage.

BSP has reaffirmed its commitment to the GoGreen Campaign, aimed at increasing awareness about plastic pollution, by presenting K40,000 to the Port Moresby Nature Park. The amount was present by BSP General Manager Corporate Affairs & Community, Hari Rabura in support of the 2025 festival. “We have a responsibility to care for the environment and to support initiatives that help our communities thrive.” “The Trash to Treasure Festival is a powerful platform that turns waste into wonder—transforming discarded plastics into meaningful, large-scale sculptures that inspire action.” “This partnership with the Port Moresby Nature Park aligns with our values of care and growth.” “From annual school clean-up campaigns to tree planting on World Environment Day, BSP is proud to be a part of these collective efforts.” As the naming sponsor, BSP encourages the public to explore these impressive sculptures—made from solid waste and inspired by marine creatures, reptiles, and birds—on display from June 5 to July 5, 2025, at the Port Moresby Nature Park. The festival will include school trips during the week and offsite banking events on weekends, providing students with the chance to open bank accounts while participating in environmental education. Johnpaul Houston, the Chief Executive Officer of Port Moresby Nature Park, expressed gratitude for BSP’s support, stating their pride in continuing this collaboration for the Trash to Treasure Sculpture Festival. “This is an initiative that transforms waste into powerful environmental art.” “BSP’s support enables us to engage schools, businesses, and families in meaningful conversations about reducing plastic waste while showcasing the creative potential of recycling. “We look forward to welcoming the public to experience these sculptures and be part of a movement towards a cleaner, greener PNG." The Trash to Treasure festival is a yearly event aimed at encouraging recycling, creativity, and environmental consciousness. As the foremost bank in the South Pacific, BSP acknowledges that its duties go beyond traditional banking. By collaborating with partners to promote innovation and community growth, BSP is dedicated to creating a more sustainable and eco-friendly future. BSP is unwavering in its commitment to the environment and anticipates the ongoing influence of the Trash to Treasure Sculpture Festival in motivating a cleaner, greener Papua New Guinea.

The World Health Organization in collaboration with the Papua New Guinea National Department of Health (NDoH), hosted the Stage 2 Consultation Workshop on the National Health Research Agenda (NHRA) 2025–2030, which started today and will end on Wednesday May 14th, 2025. This event, held at the Airways Hotel in Port Moresby, brought together key stakeholders from across the country’s health sector, including representatives from provincial health authorities, research institutions, government agencies, development partners, and academia. After the successful Stage 1 Consultation in November 2024, which identified over 60 research questions, this second stage aims to refine and prioritize those topics while establishing a foundation for implementing the agenda. Over two days, participants will take part in collaborative sessions to finalize the research priorities, discuss implementation strategies, and provide feedback on the draft NHRA document. The consultation also highlights the significance of sustainable domestic funding and cross-sector partnerships to transform the Agenda into a dynamic strategy that fosters genuine improvements in health outcomes. The NHRA serves as a key initiative within the National Health Plan 2021–2030, designed to ensure that health research in the country is locally driven, evidence-based, and addresses the most urgent health challenges. The NDoH expresses heartfelt gratitude to all participants for their dedication and input, as well as to WHO for its ongoing assistance. Together, they are developing a research agenda aimed at enhancing PNG’s healthcare system and bettering the lives of all citizens of Papua New Guinea.

Papua New Guinea’s National Department of Health hosted the official handover-takeover ceremony, which saw Deputy Secretary for Public Health, Mr. Ken Wai, become the new Acting Health Secretary, taking over from outgoing Health Secretary Dr. Osborne Liko. Dr. Liko described the ceremony as not just a transition in leadership but an opportunity to reflect on the challenges that have been overcome. He expressed his sincere gratitude towards the hardworking staff of the health sector as well as acknowledging the support received from political leaders. Newly appointed Acting Secretary for Health, Mr. Wai, acknowledged Dr. Liko’s achievements during his time as Acting Health Secretary. “Dr. Liko's leadership has been nothing short of transformational. From the reorganization of the Department of Health to the legislative reforms that have strengthened our healthcare framework, his vision has paved the way for a healthier future for Papua New Guinea.” “As we reflect on his achievement, we recognize that Dr. Liko has not only led us through the transformative reforms, but he has also laid a strong foundation for the health sector's continued development.” “His leadership has been instrumental in reshaping the narratives of the health system we see today.” Wai promised to continued Dr. Liko’s work but also introduce new reforms to benefit the health sector. He added that health is a critical aspect of our lives, and any decision must be made carefully. “Health is an essential and vital sector; therefore, any decision about the health sector should be done with great care when it comes to appointment of the secretary, the CEOs of the provincial health authorities too.” “And then when it comes to budget, when it comes to procurement decisions, when it comes to human resource allocation, we need special consideration.” “There is no second chance when it comes to life. Therefore, decisions must be best to benefit the mothers and the children; for those who cannot speak for themselves – we are here for them and not for ourselves," he said.

After it was introduced to PNG in 2024 by Kendo expert, Yuki Nishimaki Sensei, Kendo or Japanese Fencing, is now taking a step further with the support of All Japan Kendo Federation through the Japanese Embassy in Port Moresby. The sport was trialed at the East Gate Karate Academy with the support of Karate instructor, Julius Piku Sensei. Two years have passed since those Karate students tried their hand in Kendo. The Ambassador of Japan to PNG, His Excellency Hisanobu Mochizuki presented Kendo equipment to Sensei Julius on Thursday 8th May 2025. The equipment included 20 uniforms with armour and masks, and 40 bamboo swords or “Shinai,” which will be used for training and mini bouts among the students. Ambassador Mochizuki expressed that Papua New Guinea and Japan have shared historical and cultural interests, and he is delighted to witness the adoption of Japanese sports such as Kendo and Karate in PNG. He noted that as PNG approaches its 50th independence anniversary, Japan is also celebrating 50 years of diplomatic ties with the nation. The introduction of a new sport and martial art is particularly significant as PNG prepares for its silver jubilee. Julius Sensei expressed gratitude to Ambassador Mochizuki and the Japanese people for their support, emphasizing that celebrating and recognizing traditional culture fosters a connection between the two countries. According to him, Kendo is a relatively new sport that shares its traditional martial arts heritage with Karate, and he believes that over time, more individuals will adopt its philosophies and principles in both competitive settings and community growth. Julius Sensei thanked to Nishimaki Sensei for imparting his Kendo knowledge and urged all martial arts enthusiasts and sports fans to give it a try. Accompanying Julius Sensei was Mr. Andrew Molen, a senior student from the East Gate Karate club, who has expressed interest in pursuing Kendo. Mr. Molen, an avid follower of martial arts and sports, was thrilled to be able to witness the small ceremony. Kendo, which translates to 'Way of the Sword,' is a combat sport that has its origins in Kenjutsu, the 'Art of the Sword,' historically practiced by the Japanese warriors known as Samurai. For those interested in learning more about the Kendo program in Papua New Guinea, they can reach out to Sensei Julius, follow the East Gate Karate Academy on Facebook, or visit their gym located at Savannah Heights in Port Moresby.

Senior officers from the Department for Community Development and Religion (DFCDR) recently visited Kundu International Academy to engage with and inform students about the department's roles, policies, and initiatives. David Nugi, the Provincial Coordinator for Southern Highlands and Simbu, emphasized that DFCDR operates within the social sector, focusing on protective and empowering programs aimed at vulnerable groups, including children, youth, individuals with disabilities, the elderly, and victims of gender-based violence and sexual assault. As PNG approaches its 50th Independence anniversary, Nugi highlighted the department's efforts to advance the Disability Service Bill and the Community Development Bill. Additionally, Assistant Director of Informal Economy, Cecelia Wrondimi, clarified the differences between Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and the informal economy. Research indicates that approximately K12bill remains unbanked in the informal sector, prompting the department to actively engage and empower those involved to ensure they pursue legitimate pathways. She also agreed to offer financial literacy training for 28 grade 12 students, preparing them for potential business opportunities should they not gain admission to tertiary institutions. The students actively participated in the session, posing questions that were met with informative answers. School Principal Emmanuel Yawiapui expressed gratitude to DFCDR for their visit and expressed eagerness for future awareness and training going forward.

The National Capital District Provincial Health Authority (NCDPHA) promotes equal opportunity and gender equity by helping young women start careers in Information and Communication Technology (ICT). NCDPHA has teamed up with Don Bosco Technical Institute (DBTI) in Port Moresby to offer hands-on training for ICT students. These on-the-job training (OJT) placements enable students to use their classroom knowledge in real-life situations, providing them with essential practical skills for their careers. NCDPHA is proud to recognize the success of Ms. Serah Bonny, one of its outstanding ICT trainees, who recently received her certificate upon completing her OJT under the Corporate Services Directorate. Acting IT Manager Mr. Samson Raxford Was commended Ms. Bonny’s dedication and professionalism. “At NCDPHA, we are strong advocates for equal opportunity and gender equity, especially in sectors like ICT where female participation has traditionally been limited.” “Empowering women and girls in ICT are essential for building a diverse, innovative workforce that can meet the growing technological demands of our health services and the communities we serve.” In addition to ICT, NCDPHA offers practical training placements for students in nursing and technical colleges, supporting education and workforce development. The management congratulates Ms. Bonny and encourages more young women to explore careers in ICT and all sectors. "Together, we aim to empower everyone to reach their full potential."

A group of teachers along with their families that were left stranded in Port Moresby city for six months have finally been able to return back to their various Local Level Governments (LLGs) in the Goilala District, after Governor for Central Province Rufina Peter chartered three Air Sanga flights for their return. The teachers, who serve at various remote schools in Goilala, travelled to the Nation’s capital during the fourth term of 2024 for administrative duties but were unable to return due to delays in school subsidies and lack of funding. Hence, they remained in the city, living with friends and relatives while waiting for support. Jeremy Tamatai, Education Coordinator for Goilala, expressed heartfelt gratitude to Governor Peter and her office. “Goilala is one of the hardest-to-reach districts, especially when it comes to delivering social services, it’s often forgotten." “When you consider that one-way airfare for a teacher, it is about one thousand kina and when many travel with families, it becomes an expensive journey." “We are thankful to Governor Rufina Peter for stepping in and assisting us financially. We truly appreciate this and look forward to working closely with her office,” he expressed. Deputy Head Teacher for Ononge Primary School, Mr. Michael Ome, further explained that the teachers came down from their respective schools in good faith but were caught in a difficult situation. Governor Peter used over K49, 000 funds that the Central Provincial Government has budgeted in 2025 budget to assist teachers and health workers in rural areas to safely return to their locations of service and resume their vital roles in the classroom.

International Day of the Midwife falls annually on May 5th – a day which recognizes the significance of the role of midwives especially under serious circumstances, and this year’s theme "Midwives: Critical in every crisis," honors midwives as essential individuals involved in emergency response. In Papua New Guinea, organizations involved in health and population marked this day emphasizing the importance of midwifery. On social media platform, Facebook, organizations such as the Catholic Church Health Services PNG made special mention of their midwives in the Kundiawa Diocese who celebrated the day with the Simbu Provincial Health Authority. [caption id="attachment_65097" align="aligncenter" width="1280"] Pic Credits: Catholic Church Health Services PNG FB Page[/caption] Likewise, the United Nations Population Fund, who posted on their socials since Friday, May 2nd communicated a statement made by the UNFPA Executive Director Dr. Natalia Kanem. “Midwives can provide 90 per cent of essential sexual, reproductive, maternal and newborn health services, including family planning.” “They also support survivors of gender-based violence, which skyrockets during crises.” “Midwives often put themselves at enormous risk when they venture out to provide care to women and girls in hard-to-reach homes and communities in crisis settings.” “Yet, midwifery is still not always recognized as the vital health profession it is.”

PNG’s team of 13 athletes scored one gold medal, five bronze, as well as a host of personal best times in the Philippine Open Championships which concluded on Sunday. In the full range of events in Open and Under 18 divisions, about 1000 athletes took part over four days with clubs from all over the country being joined by eight international teams including Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia. Athletics PNG President Tony Green commented that the competition was beneficial for the athletes. Elite athletes Daniel Baul and Benjamin Aliel had strong competition as did all the other senior athletes including Dilu Goiye, Siune Kagl , Robert Oa, and Karo Iga. Baul won gold in the 400m hurdles in 52.91 seconds with Sialis Passingan taking third with a personal best 53.55 and William Peka fourth (54.73), again demonstrating PNG’s depth in this event. Aliel won bronze in the 400m with a time of 47.97seconds. The competition was also a great experience for developing sprinter Patricia Kuku who won bronze in both 200m and 400m with personal best times in both events (25.53 and 57.88 seconds). Ray Kumala Heru won bronze in the 3000m steeplechase with a personal best time of 12min 16.75 seconds. Many other personal best performances were recorded, including Robert Oa in the 110m hurdles, Abel Siune, Monica Kalua and Ray Kumala Heru in 1500m, Denlyne Kinbangi in 200m, and Dilu Goiye in 10000m. Overall, it was a very challenging competition at the right level, that propelled the athletes to better performances.