With the goal of preventing violence and increasing awareness, South Pacific Brewery is pleased to announce its involvement in the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) campaign. The campaign's dates this year are November 25–December 10. This involvement is a component of SP Brewery's corporate social responsibility programs, which aim to address societal challenges in the nation. The brewery and the National Gender-Based Violence Secretariat (NGVBS) of the Department of Community Development & Religion (DFCDR) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in October to work together and combat gender-based violence in Papua New Guinea. To demonstrate support in the fight against gender-based violence, SP Brewery raised a symbolic flag with the SP Brewery Corporate insignia on a purple field as a significant step forward under this Memorandum of Understanding. As part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, the flag was raised at the SP Brewery offices in Port Moresby, Lae, and Goroka.

With nations marking World Children’s Day on November 20th, many organizations in the country also joined in the celebrations, including UNICEF who spoke on Violence Against Children (VAC). Speaking on the topic was acting country representative for UNICEF, Vikas Singh. “It is no surprise that violence affects children, causing fear and unhappiness and UNICEF is working with governments and companies around the globe to find solutions.” In line with this year’s Children’s Day theme: “Listen to the Future”, Singh emphasized UNICEF’s interest to listen to the children’s experiences. “Let's take time to listen to what you (children) have to say: your dreams, your ideas, your voices – we are here to listen.” He addressed the adults saying that taking time to listen to children gives you motivation to change the world. “Children’s Day is special because it reminds everyone that children’s rights matter.” Deputy Director of the National Offices of Child & Family Services, Jerry Wap stated that child protection was everybody’s business. “Let us all answer the global call to end violence against children.”

To further PNG's digital transformation, the U.S. Government is collaborating with the Ministry of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). The PNG Department of ICT (DICT) and USAID will collaborate to offer broad support for Papua New Guinea's digital transformation, including enhanced connections for marginalized communities, private sector collaborations, and digital government services. U.S. Ambassador Ann Marie Yastishock stressed on the United States desire to partner with PNG in improving ICT. "The United States is committed to partnering with the government, people, and private sector of PNG to advance your vision for digital transformation and to support PNG's regional leadership in ICT." Additionally, the Ambassador praised DICT's commitment to delivering ICT to underprivileged areas. The partnership between USAID and DICT will include assistance for improving project management and business process mapping, re-engineering digital services through collaboration with the private sector, and using inclusive stakeholder engagement - including with women, youth, and persons with disabilities - to improve digital government services. USAID will also work with government and community partners in PNG to co-create future initiatives based on the evolving needs of PNG’s government, businesses, and people. The partnership was formalized on November 19th through the signing of a partnership agreement between the Ministry of Information and Communications Technology and USAID’s Digital Connectivity and Cybersecurity Partnership for the Pacific (DCCP-Pacific) project. DCCP-Pacific is a five-year effort to increase digital access and connectivity and improve efficient delivery and use of digital services throughout the entire Pacific Island region.

Title: Skin & Bone (2023) Director & Writer: Eli Powers Genre(s): Horror, Short Duration: 16mins 55sec Cast: Amanda Seyfried, Thomas Sadoski Christian (Thomas Sadoski), a drifter begins experiencing terrifying visions after he starts working on a secluded farm. On the surface it seems as this film is about a woman getting revenge on men by turning them into animals; however, a closer inspection reveals that it is a response from trauma experienced as a child. In the film we see, the farm’s owner, Serene (Amanda Seyfried), singing about a woman who was sexually assaulted by a group of men, and as she’s dying, she puts a curse on her assaulters. In the next verse, the daughter tries praying to God to save her mother’s life. But with no success she also vows a curse upon the men who took her mother’s life. Skin & Bone hints at a possibility that the woman in the song could be Serene’s mother who was assaulted, and that Serene witnessed it happening but couldn’t do anything as she was only a child. As a result of being traumatized, she resorts to luring and turning men into animals. A poetic depiction on the animalistic behaviour of evil men, in this case, her mother’s assaulters. But while she may appear justified in her actions, the question of who the antagonist in the story is really comes to light because Christian is not responsible for the death of Serene’s mother. However, he suffers the same fate as the other men (turned animals) who had been on the farm previously. The film does not use classic horror techniques such as a jump scare but gives an unsettling vibe almost like a psychological thriller. If you're looking to break away from the traditional horror movies, I would recommend you give this movie a watch.

The 2024 4th National Mock Youth Parliament started yesterday, with 60 young people out of 1, 000 applicants chosen to participate in this event. Through this mock parliament session, participants will have the opportunity to learn and understand the processes, responsibilities and functions of parliament. Speaking at the event, Deputy Clerk of Parliament, Mr. Basil Kambuliagen, petitioned the youngsters to actively participate in the sessions. “How much you gain from this invaluable experience will be the result of how committed you are to this program.” “The skills you will learn are essential, should you assume roles in the parliament or other leadership positions.” “I encourage you to take advantage of this opportunity, to ask a lot of questions and learn as much as you can.” He thanked the young people present for their interest and passion in leadership. “Leadership is a journey that requires commitment, integrity, and a desire to serve the community in the near future.” He added that the National Parliament is keen to partner with UNFPA to mentor aspiring leaders and look forward to building a future for a generation of leaders with both intellect and integrity. Meanwhile, UNDP Chief Technical Advisor on Anti-Corruption, Dr. Alma Sedler, spoke on the core values of being a leader. Dr. Sedler called upon the youths to answer the question: 'What Makes a Leader, an Ethical leader?' A question which they responded with answers of having qualities of honesty, integrity and a heart for the people. "An ethical leader is one who is able to weigh the effects of their choices on others and base them on ethics and principals."

Digicel PNG’s new Christmas Smartphone Promotion will see customers enjoy an exclusive discount on a range of low, medium and high-end Smartphones in all Digicel and Fone Haus Stores across PNG. Customers will also enjoy free data and talk every month for up to nine months with their new Smartphones. Digicel PNG Chief Executive Officer, Tarik Boudiaf talked about the importance of keeping in touch with loved ones over the holidays. “Christmas is one of the most important times of the year and we want to ensure our customers remain connected with their loved ones during the festive season, with quality handsets and free data and talk bundles.” “With this smartphone offer, our customers now have the option to upgrade to quality smartphones or upgrade their smartphones at a cost that is suitable to their budget.” “We are also offering an exclusive 10% discount off every smartphone to every customer who pays for their smartphone using their CellMoni wallets.” “I encourage every customer to activate their CellMoni wallets using *888# so they too can take advantage of the 10% discount.” “With every smartphone purchased, the customer will also be eligible to get a free data and talk bundle each month for either 3, 6 or 9 months, depending on the price of the smartphone purchased.” “Whether customers are looking for the perfect gift or something special for themselves, there’s something for everyone.” “They can visit our Digicel Stores across the country to take advantage of this great value offer.” “We wish all our customers and their families a very Merry Christmas and safe celebrations.” Customers who spend at least K30 in the last 30 days and purchase a smartphone up to K499 will be eligible for 4GB of data and 30 minutes of talk time for three months. Customers who purchase smartphones between K500 and K1,499 will receive 8GB of data and 60 minutes of talk for six months if they spend at least K75 in the previous 30 days. Customers who spend at least K100 in the previous 30 days will receive 12GB of data and 120 minutes of talk for nine months. Customers can visit Digicel or Fone Haus stores nationwide now to take advantage of these offers. The Christmas Smartphone promotion will end on December 31st, 2024. For more information on our Christmas Promotion, please visit www.digicelpng.com or call 123.

The ongoing collaboration between PNG schools and India's Parul University has been praised by Prime Minister James Marape for facilitating a prosperous scholarship program for a select group of recent Grade 12 graduates from PNG. In a meeting with Parul University representatives earlier at Melanesia Haus, Prime Minister Marape expressed his satisfaction with the scholarship program's current state, citing information from local resource people and presentations from the Parul University team. Last month, 120 students from Hela Province schools departed for Parul University in India in a historic event. The majority of the successful students were selected from Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET) and Flexible, Open, and Distance Education (FODE) centers. Following Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent state visit to PNG, the PNG and Indian governments formed an education partnership agreement that made this feasible. Recognizing the collaboration, PM Marape urged more PNG students to enroll at Parul University in the future. “The number of Grade 12 students graduating every year in PNG is far greater than the quota or space available for them in tertiary institutions in PNG, resulting in a lot of them missing out.” “Since my government took office in 2019, our aim has been to create different pathways and avenues so that no child gets left behind in the education space of PNG.” “If there is no space for them in PNG, we can go overseas through partnership arrangements.” “In order to give some of our best students in the nation the chance to experience both the international working environment in a variety of professional fields and prestigious universities abroad, we developed the scientific, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) curriculum.” “We have sent groups of students to China, India, and the United States.” “Furthermore, we are creating avenues for PNG students to pursue higher education abroad through our bilateral ties with our friendly partners, such as India.” “I truly acknowledge Parul University for this partnership that has been fruitful with our students progressing well.” We look forward to expanding on this going forward.” Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science, and Technology Kinoka Feo was also present at the event. He thanked Dr. Devanshu Patel, the president of Parul University, and his team, and they talked about the different study programs that Parul University offers and that PNG students can pursue in relation to the country's development needs. Given that the provinces are located in key resource project areas, the scholarship agreement with Parul University will now be expanded. Meantime, Southern Highlands Province is considering supporting and joining the program. Southern Highlands Governor William Powi and Hela Governor Philip Undialu both attended the meeting. Prime Minister Marape also encouraged Parul University to partner with PNG universities such as Western Pacific University in Southern Highlands Province to deliver certain programs under the partnership, thus enabling people-to-people and knowledge-sharing between PNG and India to enhance greater cooperation between the two nations.

Title: Gladiator II (2024) Director: Ridley Scott Genre(s): Action, Adventure Rating: MA Duration: 2hrs 28mins Stars: Paul Mescal ∙ Denzel Washington ∙ Pedro Pascal ∙ Connie Nielsen “A gripping tale of how corruption can lead to societal collapse.” After his home is conquered by tyrannical emperors of Rome, Lucius (Paul Mescal) must fight as a gladiator in the Colosseum to survive. Although Gladiator II centers on Lucius getting revenge on his enemies, the film also carries heavy themes on colonization, corruption and its side effects. It demonstrates the palpable truth of how depravity within an empire can cause systemic and societal collapse leading to the possible end of even a powerful civilization. Denzel Washington’s character Macrinus, one of the villains in the story, is crafted in a way that makes it difficult to determine your stance – whether it be with the Romans or with the rebels. A captive from an African country who was sold into servitude with nothing and later rose to power, eventually ending the corrupt emperors’ tyranny, makes you want to root for him. However, he himself is not immune to corruption as demonstrated in the film. Macrinus’ deceitful methods of getting himself an influential position makes him no better than the depraved leaders running the empire. Additionally, Macrinus’ is a representation of the aftermath of colonization. When he finally gets ultimate control over the city’s affairs, he now has to deal with the chaos that ensues as a result of the former leaders’ corrupt rule as well as his own depravity – a striking image of the present-day situation of country’s who were once under colonial rule. No words need to be spoken about the movie’s rating, as the depiction of war, violence and brutality definitely earns its rating for matured audiences only. Audiences who did not watch the first instalment of Gladiator, may find it difficult to connect the story, otherwise director Ridley Scott has not fallen short of delivering a spectacular sequel to the beloved film.

The issue of gender equality and women's empowerment was discussed by Prime Minister (PM) James Marape on Wednesday, November 13th at the final day of the Women's Summit and Expo. He emphasized the significance of men's role in protecting and empowering women, starting in their homes, neighborhoods, and communities, as the solution to the gender equality problem. Drawing on his own experiences of avoiding domestic violence in similar situations, he utilized the platform to urge males in PNG to abstain from violence against women and domestic abuse. The Prime Minister was addressing the closing of the National Capital District Commission on Women and Girls' Empowerment's "NCD Women's Summit and Expo," a three-day summit and expo that started on Monday, November 11, 2024, and finished on Wednesday, November 13, 2024. Stakeholders from the public and business sectors, as well as the diplomatic community, convened for a three-day summit in the nation's capital to examine challenges that require government assistance. On behalf of the males, Prime Minister Marape then took the time to apologize to the nation's female residents for not doing more to protect and empower women and girls. He claimed that although women make up half of the population and contribute to the nation's progress, they are hindered by the male population's lack of support. In PNG, where matrilineal customs are prevalent and women are cultivated as leaders and hold title positions in land ownership, he emphasized the traditional responsibilities that women have played in society. Although they did not own land and were unable to speak directly at clan and tribe meetings, Prime Minister Marape also emphasized that women still held a position of authority in the patrilineal areas. "We have lost our way along the way, and we need to change that now as the 50 years of self-determination arrive." The Prime Minister emphasized that the safeguard and empowerment of women must start at home. "I call on all the men and boys whose families have grandmothers, mothers, sisters, nieces, and daughters to step up in their roles as the champions of women empowerment in their families." He continued by saying that the national government's efforts will only make the work of the international community obsolete with the help of the families, which form the foundation of society. He urged all boys and men in PNG to take the initiative and support the cause of women's empowerment in their households. The Prime Minister also promised the women of PNG that his government would continue to fund safety and women's empowerment initiatives in the nation, which they had initiated during the 2020 pandemic, and pledged to mobilize support from the National Parliament to address the recommendations made during the summit. In his appeal for harsher punishments for those who commit gender-based violence, Prime Minister Marape urged women to report such crimes to the police, let the rule of law take its course, and refuse to have their cases dropped when the offenders offer a compensation settlement.

With great pleasure, Hilton Port Moresby Hotel & Residences announces that on Sunday, December 15, 2024, the much-anticipated Christmas Under the Stars for Charity event will return for its sixth year. In celebration of the season of giving, this endearing evening is expected to unite families, local communities, and supporters of two outstanding philanthropic organizations. The occasion serves as a forum for the community to come together in support of those in need and is a component of Hilton's dedication to hospitality and corporate responsibility. Hilton Port Moresby will focus its efforts this year on assisting the Well Women's Clinic and the WeCare Foundation, two organizations that have significantly improved the lives of many people in the area. By providing essential programs in Early Childhood Development, Women's Empowerment, Special Needs assistance, and Educational Assistance, the WeCare Foundation has been a ray of hope for marginalized communities since 2007. The work of the foundation demonstrates the transformational potential of empathy and communal cooperation. The Well Women's Clinic has been giving women in the area vital medical care, education, and therapy for more than 15 years, giving them the tools they need to change their futures. Hilton is pleased to back these groups that keep improving people's lives. "Christmas Under the Stars for Charity" is a key component of Hilton's global CSR program, Travel with Purpose, which aims to make a lasting good influence on the environment and society. We are proud to support two groups whose work genuinely epitomizes the generosity and sense of community that this annual event produces. The public is welcome to attend the event, which will be held at the Hilton Port Moresby Amphitheatre from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM. The Hilton Hotel Reception and the WeCare Foundation office in Waigani are currently selling K5 raffle tickets, and guests are urged to attend by making a gift. A fantastic evening full of family-friendly entertainment is in store for attendees, featuring storytelling, magic displays, dance routines, choir performances, solo musical acts, and a special visit from Santa Claus. Everyone will find something to enjoy, fostering a joyous and cozy atmosphere that perfectly captures the spirit of the holidays. Ryan Mikkelson, General Manager of Hilton Port Moresby, shared his enthusiasm for the event. “We’re incredibly proud to host this event year after year.” “Over the past five years, we’ve raised over K100, 000 in cash and in-kind donations.” “This event has become a meaningful way for businesses, corporate partners, and individuals to give back to the community.” “We look forward to continuing this tradition in 2024 and making it an even more special occasion.” Hilton invites everyone in the community to join in this celebration of kindness, joy, and giving. Whether you're a local business, a family looking for a memorable holiday experience, or an individual eager to make a difference, we encourage you to come together and share in the spirit of Christmas with us. For more information or to learn how you can get involved, please visit Hilton Port Moresby at Wards Road, Hohola, or contact us via email at POMSM_FO@hilton.com or by phone at +675-7901-8000.

Friends of POMGen is no stranger when it comes to supporting patient needs at Port Moresby General Hospital. While it is commonly assumed that Friends of POMGen only takes care of the Labor Ward, in actuality, Friends of POMGen helps patients throughout the entire hospital. Speaking to the Operations and Communications Lead, Grace Roland expounded on its operations further stating that Friends of POMGen ‘provide a solution to patient care’. “While the hospital is focused on making sure patients receive medication and treatment, we are here to make sure the patients are as comfortable as possible.” “If a ward has patients that require certain care, or cannot afford basic supplies while admitted at the hospital, Friends of POMGen conducts these appeals to assist these patients.” She added that while appeals are usually done when patients have specific need, donations can be given any time. Items that can be donated include; Infant & adult clothes, food, infant formulas and toiletries. Roland states that Friends of POMGen wants to encourage more people to donate, which in turn benefits those in need. She also stressed the importance acting upon one’s conviction for the betterment of PNG and not just shifting the blame to those in power. “People like to blame the government for unfavorable circumstances but what are you as a Papua New Guinean - as an individual doing about this?” “If you’re so concerned about the country, what actions have you taken to help?” Recently, Friends of POMGen have sent an appeal on November 5th asking for donations of: Infant formulas Toilet rolls Baby soaps Baby wipes Bath soaps Colgate+ toothbrush Biscuits Juice boxes Tinned food New baby & adult clothes For more information you can call or message: 73946322.

The usual practice of Grades 8s not going back to school after sitting for their exams ceased with the students returning to classes. Under instructions from First Assistance Secretary Peter Kants, all Grade 8 students were to return to class as well as teachers, to continue teaching due to preparations of discontinuing Grade 8 National Examinations. Speaking to PNG Hausbung, New Erima High School’s Principal Mr. Yalo Kipungi, confirmed the preparations for the implementation of the education policy of 1+6+6 in which students will spend a year in early childhood education development, six years in primary school and six more years in secondary school, is progressing. “We are shortly coming into the period where Grade 8 exams will be discontinued, and students will simply proceed into Grade 9 in the education.” Currently, there is the 3+6+4 program in which children attend elementary school for three years, primary school for six years, and secondary school for four years, with exams in grades eight, ten, and twelve. When asked about the distribution of the Government Tuition Fee Subsidy (GTFS), Mr. Kipungi responded unsurprisingly that New Erima, like many other schools in the country, constantly faces delays when it comes to receiving funds and consequently many schools find it difficult to continue operating during the academic year. He further said that the responsible authorities should look into this matter and ensure that GTFS funds are distributed in a timely manner to all schools in the country going forward, as many schools rely on these fundings to function right throughout the year.