Port Moresby residents can experience a lineup of Christmas events courtesy of National Capital District (NCD) Governor Powes Parkop and his team from the National Capital District Commission (NCDC) this festive season. At a recent press conference at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium, Governor Parkop revealed a number of interesting Christmas events residents like the Carols by the Sea, the Whitecember Walk, and the Active City Combined Church Service. The good Governor said that the Christmas season is a time to spread love, kindness, unity, and peace as we celebrate the birth of Christ the Saviour. In order to make Port Moresby city a more habitable and peaceful, he welcomed the cooperation of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary, the Body of Christ Alliance, and the Papua New Guinea Council of Churches (PNGCC), all of which have joined forces with his administration to ensure a good festivity period in the capital city. “As Governor and host, I call for unity, reconciliation, and peace in our city as we prepare to come together on Sunday, 15th December." “When we unite and start practicing good deeds, we can fully realize the potential of becoming a better and greater city.” “Most of us are peace-loving and decent people. By coming together, we can discourage the unethical behaviors of the minority that hinder the city’s development and progress." PROGRAM SCHEDULE FOR SUNDAY, 15TH DECEMBER 2024 1. Combined Church Service •     Time: 6:00 AM – 8:00 AM •     Venue: Sir Hubert Murray Stadium. •     A light refreshment will be provided for attendees. 2 . Whitecember Walk •     Start Time: 5:00 AM •     Location: From Ela Beach to Sir Hubert Murray Stadium. •     Residents are encouraged to wear white to symbolize peace in the city. 3. Carols by the Sea •     Start Time: 5:00 PM onwards •     Location: Ela Beach. The event will feature Christmas dramas, choirs, performances, stalls, and markets, culminating in a spectacular fireworks display.

On Sunday, December 1st, youths from a number of wards in the Sinivit Local Level Government (LLG) of Pomio District in East New Britian (ENDB) province made amends with leaders and community members. Following a summons by Pomio MP Elias Kapavore, the youths turned themselves in with their guns at a surrender ceremony last month in Warangoi. This program is a follow-up to that event. In the midst of persistent lawlessness in the LLG that had gotten worse in recent months over the previous two years, the MP and National Health Minister had made a call. On the final day of a five-day crusade program led by the Governing Church and sponsored by other LLG denominations, the reconciliation ceremony took place. Church leaders like the head of the Governing Church and guest speaker Pastor Gerson Passingan, Senior Provincial Magistrate (SPM) Samuel Lavutul, Deputy Provincial Member and Sinivit LLG President Boniface Gerep, and other Ward Members in the LLG, as well as representatives from the business houses, the offices of the Pomio MP and Provincial Member, and other community elders and members of the public, attended the reconciliation. Pastor Gerson Passingan encouraged the Sinivit LLG community members to view this reconciliation as a step toward a better future for this LLG by quoting Ecclesiastes chapter 3 verses 1-2. "There's a season for everything. But seasons are not permanent, and thus when a season ends, everything ends with it. This reconciliation and surrender marks a new season. And everything in the old season such as the crimes you've committed against others in the community, ends today.” Senior Provincial Magistrate Mr. Lavutul used the occasion to make awareness on a number of laws and penalties for those who find themselves on the wrong side of the law. He further educated youths especially, on the amended laws surrounding the cultivation and consumption of drugs like marijuana. "Under the Dangerous Drugs Act, for your information, the court fine has risen to K1 million with an imprisonment term of 40 years. So, if you are someone who plants or smokes marijuana, this is the penalty imposed by law.” But the SPM further advised that with the current trend in the abuse and use of marijuana, there won't be a court fine, only jail time. LLG President and Deputy ENB Provincial Member Boniface Gerep said that the ceremony is part of an ongoing process dealing with both the perpetrators and the victims within the LLG. "This is a reconciliation. But if you look at the message on the banner for this week's crusade, it talks about restoration and healing. So, on behalf of the government, I want to say sorry to our service providers like business houses, PNG Power Limited (PPL), schools and our hospital, for the crimes committed against their officers.” He also apologized on the absence of the Pomio MP and National Health Minister Elias Kapavore, and the Provincial Member Michael Marum, who are caught up in parliament. LLG Manager Pennie Maroro Junior advised that because it's an ongoing process, they will still attend to the victims, whose identities are known, as well as the whole youth population in the LLG. "We know that there is another group in this process, which are the victims. So, with the aid of the Open MP Kapavore, we will still assist the victims, some of whom have lost homes, been robbed by the criminals and even injured or lost family members." He said that there are short term and long-term efforts to address the ongoing issue with the increasing number of unemployed youths in the LLG. "For the short term, we are engaging youths under the 40 registered groups with the LLG's Community Development sector, to do grass cutting. In the long term, we are supporting all the youths in the LLG, with funded programs in the economic sector, apart from training programs through the Division of Community Development." Since it is the province's first program of its kind, the political leadership and staff of the LLG are still figuring out how to help and care for the youth population in the LLG in order to make sure the government takes them in and gives them the ability to support themselves in the long term. Youths from each ward donated a number of live pigs, bundles of taro, and bananas to various organizations, including Nukumal women, medical and educational facilities, the police, PPL, business establishments, and the offices of the Pomio MP and the Provincial Member.

National Capital District (NCD) Governor Powes Parkop and his City Manager Mr. Ravu Frank, just recently turned on the Christmas Lights at the Ela Beach, heralding in the festivity spirit into the city of Port Moresby, spreading the joy and cheer of Christmas to city residents. Since its modest beginnings at Unagi Oval ten years ago, the event—which was started by Governor Parkop—has become a beloved tradition every Christmas. In front of families, kids, locals, and a few foreign guests, Governor Parkop thanked the Port Moresby community for their tenacity and solidarity over the course of the year. "Everyone looks forward to this Christmas Lights ceremony, which has grown to be a significant tradition in our city's calendar." “It’s a beautiful way to welcome the festive season—a time to celebrate with family, friends, and loved ones.” Governor Parkop encouraged residents to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas. “Christmas is a time to reconcile, unite, and bring peace to our minds, spirits, and families. Let it remind us to embrace love, forgiveness, and togetherness.” Governor Parkop also extended his appreciation to the NCDC Board and current and past city managers for their continued support in making this initiative a regular feature of the city’s Christmas celebrations. He emphasized the significance of this festive season as PNG approaches its 50th independence anniversary in 2025, urging everyone to share love and foster peace across the city and the nation. The City Manager echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the importance of community and respect during this time. “The Christmas lights are more than decorations; they symbolize our shared values of kindness, generosity, and love.” He asked locals to take charge of the project, show consideration for the installations, and abstain from stealing or breaking the lights. Frank also expressed gratitude to the NCDC team, the contractor, and Governor Parkop for their hard work in planning and putting up the beautiful lights. The children's enthusiastic countdown with Governor Parkop was the Sunday evening's high point. Thousands of shimmering lights were turned on in Ela Beach and other sections of the city with a simple flip of a switch, changing the cityscape and making everyone there happy. The yearly Christmas Lights Ceremony, which celebrates POM as "one city, one people, one future," not only ushers in the holiday season but also acts as a potent reminder of camaraderie and community spirit. As the lights shine brightly on the evening of Sunday December 1st, they illuminate a path of hope, joy, and unity for all residents of the city this Christmas season.

Buk bilong Pikinini (BbP) recently hosted a high-level visit of members from the Ministry of Education of Tonga. The visit took place at BbP’s Vabukori village Library Learning Centre sponsored by Steamships Trading Company and the Motu Koita Association. Mrs. Ileini Takeifanga (Chief Education Officer, Curriculum Development Unit), Mr. Eddy Fakahua (Education Officer, Assistant Director for the Primary Division), and Mr. Herbert Takeifanga (Director Primary Division) visited as part of their tour to explore Early Childhood Education (ECE) programs in Papua New Guinea. The team stressed that Tonga, as a Pacific Island nation, has made significant strides in improving literacy rates in recent decades. However, there are still areas where illiteracy remains a challenge, particularly in rural or remote regions, and among disadvantaged groups. Tonga, similar to Papua New Guinea uses English as its language of instruction, with a local tongue as the official language. In early education, bilingualism can occasionally provide difficulties, especially for young learners who may find English to be a foreign language. Although the quality of early education has improved, the nation still faces issues similar to PNG, such as inadequate teacher preparation, a lack of resources (such as play equipment and instructional materials), and overcrowded classrooms. The visiting team engaged with the children during their activities, watched a class taught by one of BbP's highly qualified instructors, and learned more about the organization's curriculum, which covers literacy, numeracy, inclusive education, digital learning, and nutrition education. All of this is done as part of the program to get the kids ready for school and increase their chances of performing at a high level for the rest of their lives. The team were greatly inspired by BbP’s program materials and resources and impressed by the school readiness shown by the 5-year-old children, who demonstrated their great reading skills, phonics prowess and classroom discipline. A child's future literacy abilities, general education results, academic accomplishments, and ability to transfer to higher education levels are all influenced by early literacy, according to international research. Both organized and play-based learning are incorporated into BbP's ECE curriculum to keep the kids interested and enjoying their educational journey. Starting strong is crucial because those who fall behind early often fall behind even more as they age. Thanks to the assistance of the Program's sponsors and donor partners, BbP was honored to host the visit and have the chance to highlight the organization's excellent learning environment, which is provided to kids at no cost.

UNICEF has warned of the startlingly high rate of HIV transmission, about a 30% increase, from mother to child in Papua New Guinea (PNG). On World AIDS Day on Sunday 1st December, UNICEF in a statement revealed that an estimated 790 new child infections were caused by this problem in 2023 alone, endangering the nation's success in the fight against HIV. PNG is having difficulty preventing HIV transmission from pregnant women to their unborn children, despite notable progress in lowering HIV-related deaths—more than 33,300 lives have been saved since 2010 because to anti-retroviral medication. UNICEF states that more work must be done to address the situation, pointing to significant barriers in the form of gaps in diagnostic, prevention, and treatment services for expecting mothers. UNICEF’s Acting Representative in PNG, Kateryna Lytvynenko, described the situation as a call to action, saying no child should be born with HIV, Syphilis, or Hepatitis. “By expanding testing, strengthening healthcare systems, and increasing awareness, we can turn the tide and save lives - 30 percent transmission rate is unacceptable.” While testing efforts have improved, only 58,014 (23 percent) of pregnant women of 253,243 tested for HIV in 2023. Only one in five pregnant women know their HIV Status according to UNICEF. Testing needs to improve for Prevention of Parent-to-Child Transmission (PPTCT) in the country. UNICEF is collaborating closely with the Government of Papua New Guinea and other partners to increase test kit availability, improve training for healthcare workers, and increase community awareness in order to address the issue. While public education initiatives are being conducted to lessen stigma and encourage expectant mothers to seek antenatal care, training programs are being implemented to ensure healthcare providers are prepared to give comprehensive care. According to Lytvynenko, the transmission crisis requires immediate investments in outreach and healthcare infrastructure. The organization cautioned that the problems are not limited to HIV, as hepatitis and syphilis also pose serious threats to the health of mothers and children.

The Waiting Hut Inc. formally opened on November 22nd, revealing its purpose to empower communities through affordable and sustainable healthcare solutions, marking a revolutionary step towards improving maternity and infant health in Papua New Guinea. In order to guarantee that rural populations have access to life-saving medical treatment, the organization is committed to establishing partnerships, supplying essential resources, and increasing public knowledge of maternity care. Co-Founder and Chairperson Dr. Freda Wemin elaborated on The Waiting Hut’s role. “Our mission is to bridge the gap in maternal healthcare by supporting rural facilities with vital resources like temporary accommodations, solar lighting, and essential medical supplies.” The distribution of "Baby Bundles" and "Mama's Packs" in 2016 marked the start of a grassroots project that has now developed into a recognized organization dedicated to tackling issues related to maternal and perinatal health. The Waiting Hut Inc. has broadened its influence by registering as an organization in 2021, offering waiting huts to pregnant moms, encouraging the use of modern contraceptives, and promoting prenatal care. In partnership with MAF Technologies PNG and MAF UK, The Waiting Hut Inc. has installed solar lights in 23 rural health sites since 2023, guaranteeing safer and more efficient birthing facilities. Through health and capacity-building initiatives, partnerships with groups such as New Guinea Highlands Coffee Exports Ltd, have further empowered women. David Hannon, CEO of New Guinea Highlands Coffee Exports Ltd, emphasized the importance of these partnerships. “We remain committed to supporting innovative initiatives that improve the lives of women and their families in remote communities.” The Waiting Hut Inc. is urging partners and donors to join its mission to cut maternal and perinatal mortality by 20% over the next three years. Plans to increase interventions, improve solar lighting installations, and fortify community engagement initiatives were presented by Ms. Pamela Krisimpa, co-founder and secretary. “Together, we can create a brighter future for mothers and newborns in Papua New Guinea,” The Waiting Hut Inc. is more than an organization—it’s a lifeline for women and families in Papua New Guinea. With the support of the community, government, and private sector, it is determined to ensure that every mother can thrive.

Pacific Adventist University (PAU) sent out its 39th graduating class on Sunday (24.11.24) with a strong message for them to use the knowledge gained to make a difference and touch lives. In addition to thanking the graduates, Prime Minister (PM) James Marape emphasized the unique opportunity they had at an institution that equipped them with the skills necessary to make a difference in all facets of life. Prime Minister Marape, who spoke on the theme of "Prepared to Lead, Ready to Serve," told the students that they were fortunate to receive an education that not only equipped them for their professional careers but also instilled in them the values and principles that will allow them to positively impact their communities and the country. According to Prime Minister Marape, the graduates' mission extended beyond their academic success, and they were recognized by more than just their credentials. "You are not just graduates of the Pacific Adventist University; you are created in God’s image.” “You are made for a unique purpose in your community, in your place of placement as you step out of this university.” “As God’s image, what is your reflection to the world around you.” “In Genesis 1:27, it is written, ‘So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them'.” “You are a part of God's creation, and as such, you have been endowed with inherent value, dignity, and purpose.” “Your education has prepared you to lead and serve, but it is your faith and relationship with God that will give you the wisdom, courage, and compassion to fulfill your purpose.’’ PAU began 40 years ago like most church-run institute with little support from the government, but is today one of the recognized universities that is helping to produce the country’s manpower. Thus, it is getting financial support from the government through tertiary scholarships, the HELP program as well as infrastructure development. Vice Chancellor of the university Professor Lohi Matainaho used the opportunity to thank the government for its support. He noted that the university has currently an infrastructure project on staff housing, female dormitory, a lifestyle medicine center and training hospital. The construction of the 12 staff apartments is expected to be completed by the end of the year, and another block to add another four apartments also in the same time frame. Prof. Matainaho noted also that the university has received technical support from the Department of Works and Highways (DoWH), enabling efficient progress of projects. Additionally, he stated that PAU and DoWH have inked a Memorandum of Understanding to enable technical advise, including project design and approval by the Commission Building Board of the National Capital District. With K2 million in government seed money, the Lifestyle Medicine Centre and Wellness Retreat's design and business plan have advanced thanks to collaboration with Dr. Geraldine Przybylko. The National Capital District and the Marape-Rosso Government have pledged to provide funding for the project. Before building can start, earthworks for the female dormitories have been finished and are awaiting DoWH approval of the tender recommendation. Before the year ends, a groundbreaking ceremony will be held to begin building on the auditorium. Design drawings will then be presented to the council and SPD for approval before construction can begin. Plans for the training hospital are progressing with proposal design funded by the external advisors from the Department of Health. In addition to thanking the Marape-Rosso Government for its financial assistance, the vice chancellor encouraged the graduating students to use their education to uplift and empower others, form connections with others, and serve with humility and compassion.

The U.S. Embassy hosted a reopening of their American Corner in the Papua New Guinea National Library and Archives on Monday. The American Corner is part of a network of four public community centers across PNG providing free and open access to internet, resources, and programming to showcase American values and the partnership between Papua New Guinea and the United States. Ambassador Anne-Marie Yastishock expressed her delight in reopening the American Corner. “We are thrilled to reopen the doors to this incredible resource, which serves as a hub for learning, professional development, and community engagement,” “At its core, the American Corner represents the spirit of partnership between our nations—a shared commitment to fostering growth, innovation, and mutual understanding.” This event marks the reopening of the American Corner after the Library was closed for nearly a year. For the betterment of the Port Moresby community, the American Corner will frequently hold events and programming on subjects like professional development, media literacy, climate change, and more. The reopening of the Corner in 2025, which also marks the 50th anniversary of Papua New Guinea's independence and our diplomatic partnership, excites the U.S. Embassy. In September 2013, the National Library and Archives established the American Corner. Additional American Spaces can be found at the Friendship Library at Divine Word University, the Matheson Library at UNITECH, and the US Embassy. These areas highlight American values and innovation while offering free internet access, tools for scholars and students, and programs for the local community.

Educators and staff of Don Bosco Technical Institute (DBTI) in Port Moresby city were the recipients of encouraging words from the Minister for Higher Education, Kinoka Hotune Feo during the 23rd Graduation recently. Keynote Speaker and Deputy Secretary for Research & Innovation in the Dept. Of Higher Education, Research, Science & Technology, Leah Margis was present to deliver MP Feo’s speech on his behalf. Margis encouraged the educators and staff of DBTI, stating that their dedication towards their students has not gone unnoticed. “Your unwavering commitment to nurturing and transforming the minds of your students is truly exemplary.” “Through your tireless dedication you have not only imparted essential knowledge and technical skills, but also fostered a deep sense of integrity, compassion and resilience in these young individuals.” “You have cultivated an environment in which character development is paramount as well as academic and technical proficiency.” “By instilling in your students' values of ethical leadership, perseverance and social responsibility, you’ve laid a solid foundation for your students to excel in both their personal and professional lives, playing a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of leaders.” DBTI’s graduation ceremony took place on Thursday 21st November 2024, which saw 223 candidates graduate with degrees and diplomas. Degrees: 32 candidates – BA of Education Technical 26 candidates – BA of Information Technology 16 candidates – BA of Electrical Technology 15 candidates – BA of Electronics & Communication Technology 12 candidates – BA of Instrumentation Technology 10 candidates – BA of Maintenance, Fitting & Machining Technology 5 candidate – BA of Metal Fabrication & Wielding Technology 9 candidates – BA of Automotive Technology Diplomas: 29 candidates – DP in Information Technology 11 candidates – DP in Electrical Technology 18 candidates – DP in Electronics & Communications Technology 11 candidates – DP in Instrumentation Technology 10 candidates – DP in Maintenance, Fitting & Machining Technology 5 candidates – DP in Metal Fabrication & Wielding Technology 13 candidates – DP in Automotive Technology

Title: Impasse (2008) Director: Bram Schouw Genre(s): Short Duration: 8mins Cast: Sieger Sloot, Mutaleni Nadimi A neo-Nazi skinhead becomes intrigued by an African woman he encounters on a train ride, but his white supremacist beliefs leave him conflicted. This film is about close-mindedness and how the wrong belief system can prevent you from establishing meaningful connections with other people. In Impasse, the skinhead experiences a brief moment of cognitive dissonance as he tries to come to terms with the fact that he may be attracted to a non-white person – a person he was taught to hate. During the train ride, it appears as though he wants to speak to the woman but instead, he holds back and refrains from speaking until she gets off at the next stop. Although the film does not contain dialogue, the acting, non-verbal cues and symbolism tell the story perfectly. For instance, in the beginning, when the man is waiting for the train, he stands in between a pair of closed eyes painted on the wall behind him, which can symbolise ignorance; living a life unable to see the beauty of people from a difference race or culture. Impasse, as the title says, refers to a situation in which no progress is possible usually due to a disagreement, and sure enough the relationship does not develop due to conflicting beliefs. This film contains valuable lessons about unlearning the wrong teaching and I highly recommend for people to watch.

Students in the Early Childhood Education program at Buk Bilong Pikinini (BbP) joined athletes in celebrating Universal Children's Day just recently with focus on exercise and nutrition for good cognitive development. In order to emphasize the value of children's rights, their well-being, and the necessity of elevating their voices for a better future, this year's theme was "Nurturing Futures through Nutrition and Fitness." Launched in September of this year, the BbP Nutrition Education Program aims to help parents and kids become "nutritionally literate" and recognize the value of eating a balanced diet for learning and overall health. Exercise is a vital component of a child's health and learning capacity, because it fosters both cognitive and physical development, exercise is essential for the brain development of young children. The brain is extremely malleable in the early years, making it especially responsive to experiences and stimuli; therefore, frequent exercise promotes the development of brain connections necessary for memory, learning, and general cognitive function. Children who walk more have higher blood flow to the brain, which helps carry nutrients and oxygen that are essential for a healthy brain development. BBP also welcomed Trukai Industries Ltd. brand ambassadors Florence Daple and William Darius Moaina from East Street Fitness to lead a fitness challenge session for the kids enrolled at the Vabukori Library Learning Center. Darius highlighted how fitness and nutrition go hand in hand in shaping happy and healthy children, reinforcing the theme of the day. At BbP’s UPNG Library Learning Centre athletes Lera Kose (Karate), Rayleen Bauelua (PNG Women’s Soccer team), Kele Lessy (PNG Mens Touch Football team) and Mickey Tamarua (PNG Olympic Committee programs coordinator) spoke to the children about the types of food they eat to power their athletic efforts for maximum performance. They also had fun with the children going through a very professional obstacle course for lots of fun drill exercises and games. BbP is grateful to Ryan Pini for assisting with the organization of this. In order to have lots of energy available for their sessions BbP and Deloitte volunteers Ethelynne Bundu, Roselyn Owen, Stephanie Potoi, Gau Arua, Alice Makati, Adrian Neroggai, and Nellie Makamet had prepared healthy rainbow of fruit snacks and water for the active children. Parents participated in an engaging Nutrition Information session with BbP’s Nutrition Education Officer, Leo Khim, learning how to plan simple, practical ways to provide nutritious meals to fuel their learning in the classroom and sports activities. Through a collaboration with Trukai Industries, a picture book and a nutrition exercise and guidebook were also released in 2024. In the academic year 2025, the program will be fully implemented across all of BbP's LLCs. Buk bilong Pikinini’s published Nutrition Education text books are available for purchase from Theodist and directly from Buk bilong Pikinini’s office and webshop: https://bukbilongpikinini.charity/

Boreboa Primary School students have been urged to concentrate on learning the fundamentals in order to build a solid foundation for future success. Powes Parkop, the Governor of the National Capital District (NCD), made this statement on Friday 22nd November, when he gave the keynote presentation at the school's Grade 8 graduation ceremony. Governor Parkop underlined the significance of instilling positive attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors at a young age. "Success is not difficult. It begins with the fundamentals: discipline, respect, and a desire to learn. "You will clear the path for a better future when you concentrate on these straightforward yet effective principles." In his speech, he congratulated the 344 graduating kids on their accomplishments and wished them well in making the most of their eight years of elementary school. “I am proud of each one of you for reaching this milestone. Use what you’ve learned here as a stepping stone to even greater accomplishments in your education and life.” Governor Parkop also reminded the students that respecting their teachers, valuing their education, and presenting themselves well are key habits that will help them excel not only in school, but in life as well. “I commend you all for being so well-dressed today.” “It may seem like a small thing, but it’s the small things done consistently that lead to big success.” He emphasized how Papua New Guinea's educational system is changing, pointing out that as options for education have grown, so has competition. He exhorted the pupils to maintain their concentration and put forth great effort in order to meet the high expectations of their education. With more than 3,000 pupils, Boreboa Primary is one of the biggest schools in the nation's capital, and although its buildings are more than 30 years old, Governor Parkop promised to help with infrastructure upgrades in the upcoming year, assuring the school community of his support. “In addition to supporting the construction of an IT lab and teacher housing, NCDC will collaborate with the school to build a new six-in-one classroom according to a standard layout.” “We are committed to creating a better learning environment so that our children can receive the quality education they deserve.” He ended his speech with an encouraging note for the graduates. “Education is the key to unlocking your potential. Dream big, work hard, and never stop believing in yourself.” “The future is in your hands.”