Santos Cup 2024 referee Jacintha Jack is a woman on a mission. The young Simbu lass started her refereeing career back in 2017 in Lae and has never looked back since. Jacintha initially started off as a player in Madang, eventually moving to Lae to pursue her passion for the game. While playing in the local Lae league, she got interested in refereeing. The interest stemmed from her wanting to understand the game more, particularly the rules. She found herself observing the touch judges and referees officiating during matches. It was not long after that Jacintha picked up a flag as a touch judge for the local competitions, earning a little income in the process. With the knowledge and experience piling on over the years, an opportunity came about to attend a referee course run by PNGRFL. They were particularly interested in training female referees so naturally; she was recommended to attend the course. Jacintha jumped at the opportunity, signed on, and that was the beginning of greater things to come. Jacintha encourages more women to take up the role of officiating. She says she has received much encouragement, particularly from menfolk. They have praised her for doing a good job in a space that is male dominated, hence motivating her even more to pursue this career path. She decided to quit playing in 2017 to focus more on the refereeing. “I quit playing all together after receiving positive feedback.” "I saw my future career was in refereeing and not in playing, so, I joined refereeing and here I am now.” For Jacintha, officiating is more than a paid job, it is a passion she is committed to perfecting. While in the role, she wants to inspire other women to take up refereeing as a career path, as she says playing rugby league may not be for everyone, and refereeing can certainly provide involvement in the game, though in a different capacity. “We need more women putting their hands up to become referees.” “The Santos Cup is going to grow bigger, and we will need all the support we can get. This is where women will play an important role in growing the game.” “People are talking about gender equality, women being able to do what men do.” “A lot of women are scared of taking up refereeing. Once I took on refereeing, I saw that I got support and recognition from everyone, even from the men.” “I was told that I was good at refereeing, so this encouraged me, boosted my morale and kept me going.” As Jacintha settles into her role as a referee in the first ever national women’s competition, she is excited about what the future may hold for women in rugby league. She is also focused on her task at hand. “My aim is to perform consistently and develop my skills further, to go wherever the game may take me, just as my male counterparts before me have gone and even beyond that.”

The Student Representative Council (SRC) of the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) is expected to present a petition to the government on issues affecting the country on Friday 30th August. The SRC, upon consultation with the University Administration, came to this resolution of submitting the petition to the government. The submission of the petition was initially planned for Tuesday 27th of August, however with due respect to Prime Minister (PM) James Marape attending the Pacific Islands Forum in the Kingdom of Tonga, it was postponed to this Friday. The University Administration has also been tasked to facilitate communication with the PM’s Office and other Ministries mentioned in the petition who will be asked to come together with the Prime Minister. The SRC stated that issues affecting the country are a concern of every citizen and the students have equal right to petition the government to hear their voices. “We represent the bulk of the population who cannot speak for themselves and we as an independent body are calling out to the government to address the issues.” “We stand to raise our voices for the good of this country and our future.” The University Administration has given the approval for this event and will ensure all crowd control strategies are engaged. Given the SRCs stance on the issues and the need to safeguard student interest, the administration has also been asked to convey correspondence and confirm attendance between the Office of the Prime Minister and other parties that the petition addresses. “The safety of the student body and the continuation of the academic year is our priority and we the SRC will give our best effort to see to this.” “We are committed to addressing student issues as peacefully and as effectively as possible.” “We cannot continue to burn this country down and we ask all students to cooperate with the approach we are taking to address national issues without violence.” “We urge all the student body of UPNG and other Institutions to cooperate with us.” “Let us all work together peacefully and uphold our nation in good spirits in these trying times of uncertainty.”

NCDC Director for Sustainability and Lifestyle, James Ume today (Aug 27th, 2024) clarified misconceptions circulating on social media regarding actions taken by the police to clear street vendors in the city. In a press conference at CBC (Catholic Bishops Conference), Ume clarified that this was not part of the preparations for the Papal visit. "This is actually an operation spearheaded by the police and has nothing to with the Pope's visit." "It has to do with law enforcement and vendors selling at the right locations." "This operation has been going on for some time and it just so happens to be taking place in the lead up to the Papal visit." He added that there has also been an increase of individuals taking their business to the traffic light area which is illegal. "We have seen an influx of sellers doing business near the traffic which has breached police compliance." He encouraged individuals to sell their betelnut at markets and other designated spots. "We are not discriminating against our street sellers, this is to do with compliance; when you break the law, that's when law enforcement comes in." “Operation Harim Tok is a police operation carried out specifically to remove illegal vendors and reduce petty crime in NCD.”

Residents in Western Highlands Province have already prepared to host 2024 National Repentance Day on Monday 26th August 2024, under the theme: ‘There is Hope in God’ (Jeremiah 29:11). Religious programs and prayers have since started as early as Friday 23rd August, with Christians gathering and creating awareness of this special day at Queen’s Park, Mt Hagen. Established in August 2011 by former Prime Minister Peter O’Neill, Repentance Day has since been observed by Christian Churches in the country for the first seven years (2011-2018). Last year it was held in Sir John Guise Stadium, Port Moresby. This year, curricular instruction released from the Office of the Secretary on July 10th, 2024, confirmed the public holiday on for Monday. This annual event brings together Papua New Guinea’s national leaders, public servants, and citizens for divine guidance and forgiveness. Provinces and Districts throughout Papua New Guinea are encouraged to hold their own Repentance Day observances. This collective effort will amplify the national call for divine intervention and renewal.

This time last week, one of Papua New Guinea’s oldest and most celebrated events the, Mt. Hagen Cultural Show was held at Queen’s Park, Mt Hagen making its 57th anniversary with a wonderful display of local culture and traditions. The event caught the eye of international tourists and brought people together from all across the Highlands Region. Governor of Western Highlands Province Wai Rapa, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Hagen City, Jim Benner, Hagen City Mayor Jacob Michaels, Geno Reuben (Festival and Events Manager NCC) representing the Executive Director of National Cultural Commission Steven Enomb Kilanda, and other notable figures were present at the occasion. The colorful celebration of PNG's rich cultural legacy that was this year's show demonstrated the city's dedication to upholding both its customs and a hospitable, clean environment. The governor of the Western Highlands Province, Wai Rapa, officially launched the two-day festival and thanked the sponsors, tour companies, and event organizers. "After 48 years of independence, a large portion of our culture is in danger of disappearing." "Culture is important; hence we are committed to developing and maintaining our culture as the province's governing body.” “The Western Highlands are abundant in natural resources, culture, and agriculture; therefore, it is everyone's duty to preserve and spread these customs throughout the world.” He also encouraged the residents of Western Highlands to take pride in their cultural history and to keep the town a safe and enjoyable venue for future events. Meanwhile, Geno Reuben commended the organizers and the people of Western Highlands for their commitment to the performance. She emphasized the authenticity of the traditional costumes and acts featured at the event. "We aim to promote the true essence of PNG’s culture, not just through traditional dress but also through the languages spoken, the songs sung, and the instruments used." She also requested the Western Highlands Provincial Government to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the NCC to strengthen cultural activities in the province. The Mt. Hagen Cultural Show continues to be a significant occasion for celebrating and preserving PNG's cultural heritage, attracting crowds from around the world.

Sisters of the Rosary in Wewak, East Sepik were blessed to receive assistance of K30, 000 from Digicel PNG Foundation supporting their Integral Human Development and Life Skills' Program. Through their Community Grants Program, Digicel PNG Foundation funded The Rosary Sister’s trainings for the youth – a program that equips them with certain life-skills that will help create a sustainable pathway for them into resiliency. The training began with a workshop on the 'Dignity of a Human Person' and 'Self Image'. Sister Loretta from the Rosary Sisters stated a total of 130 individuals participated and the numbers are growing. "We still have more to continue and this training will go on until March 2025." The workshop has been teaching tie-dyeing, sewing, baking and cooking skills along with financial literacy. The training has seen great participation from men and women from the surrounding communities. One of the participants from the Siau Community in Meni, Paul Kundia stated that the training helped him gain a sense of identity. “I didn’t know about my value as a person and after attending this training, I learnt about self-image and my purpose - I now have a job to do.” “I am sewing, and learning all these skills and I am happy because this will assist me in making a living for my tomorrow and sustain myself.” He expressed his gratitude towards Digicel for assisting him and other participants.

Buk bilong Pikinini (BbP) launched a reader entitled ‘When I Grow Up I want to be a Warehouse Manager’ with role model Nash Mali, Lae Warehouse Manager and mini professional Colette Sikalu. The reader was launched with events in both Lae and Port Moresby. BbP students invited the Sir Brian Bell Support Squad Team Members from several divisions to a special reading of the book today at the UPNG Library Learning Centre today. Brian Bell Group Warehouse Manager Nash Mali read the new book aloud to students accompanied by 5-year-old mini-professional Solcomp John. Following the reading. students attended special activities in a specially made warehouse to learn about supply chains, incoming and outgoing inventory at the warehouse, and stock take with mini clipboards of an incoming shipments. The students thoroughly enjoyed this experience learning about the role of a Warehouse Manager and watched a real forklift in action brought in from the Brian Bell team. Each student got an opportunity to sit in the forklift. Sir Brian Bell Foundation CEO & BbP Chairperson, Bronwyn Wright was pleased to be able to participate in supporting BbP. “The Sir Brian Bell Foundation and the Brian Bell Group are humbled yet again to be part of Buk bilong Pikinini’s ‘When I Grow Up’ book series as we showcase the important work and leadership our warehouse managers provide to ensure the Brian Bell businesses across the country thrive every day.” “Today’s launch is even more special as it provides us with a time to reflect on what our Brian Bell family lost at the hands of the unfortunate events of January 10th, but also what we have overcome and now what we are doing to Build Back Better for PNG.” BbP is grateful to the Sir Brian Bell Foundation for providing sponsorship for the whole ‘When I Grow Up I want to be’ reader series so the students can explore the many possible careers and opportunities in store for their futures. The six new titles that were published during Book Week 2024 and include: - When I Grow Up, I Want to be a Warehouse Manager with role model Nash Mali from Brian Bell Group, - When I Grow Up, I Want to be a Veterinarian with role model Dr. Tania Areori from NAQIA, - When I Grow Up, I Want to be a Tugboat Captain' with role model Michelle Boyama from Pacific Towing, - When I Grow Up, I Want to be a Hotelier with role model Dorothy Morea from Grand Papua Hotel, - When I Grow Up, I Want to be a Botanist with role model Dr Jane Mogina from Total Energies, and - When I Grow Up, I Want to be an Accountant with role model Netanya Stanley from Nasfund. Anne-Sophie Hermann, BbP Vice-Chair and Founder expressed her gratitude towards BbP’s sponsors. “We are grateful to the Sir Brian Bell Foundation for their amazing support to create a Warehouse Manager reader but also for sponsorship for the series as a whole.” “We seek to inspire the children and students to think about what they want to be in the future and are grateful to have such amazing role models for locally available jobs assisting us.” The WIGU series, now comprising 25 books, offers children a glimpse into a wide variety of careers they can aspire to pursue. Each book in the series helps students grasp various vocations, themes, and subjects by providing abundant visual cues and learning activities. These books, popular among instructors and students alike, depict vocations that are both necessary and accessible in Papua New Guinea. Many youngsters benefit from these books because they allow them to learn about vocations that they would not otherwise have access to. The series inspires young people to dream big and appreciate the value of education in reaching their goals. Aside from being a good reading tool, the WIGU series includes lessons on financial literacy, PNG culture, history, community-focused jobs, health awareness, agriculture, and wildlife conservation, which broadens pupils' overall understanding.

Buk bilong Pikinini (BbP) launched a reader entitled ‘When I Grow Up I want to be a hotelier’ with role model Dorothy Morea and mini professional Zaia Hane Solien. Children from Buk bilong Pikinini’s Vabukori village Library Learning Centre travelled to the Grand Papua Hotel to launch the reader with their role model. They got a tour of the hotel to see what is available to the guests and also learn what happens behind the scenes. After the reading launch, the children engaged in fun table setting activity to learn some new skills. “When I Grow Up, I want to be a Hotelier” is a level 3 Buk bilong Pikinini Reader, which showcases hotel professionals and their different roles, which all contribute to make the stay a memorable for the guests. The reader also discusses tourism, PNG culture and what tourists might like to see when visiting the country. Steamships Managing Director, Chris Daniells expressed delight at being able to support BBP. “Steamships Limited and the Grand Papua Hotel are proud to support Buk Bilong Pikinini's When I Grow Up reader series, which not only fosters a love for reading but also showcases the employment opportunities within the hospitality industry in Papua New Guinea.” “Literacy is the foundation of endless opportunities, empowering the next generation to reach their full potential. “ Said Anne-Sophie Hermann, BbP Vice-Chair and Founder expressed her gratitude towards Steamships and Grand Papua Hotel for their support. “We are grateful to Steamships and the Grand Papua Hotel for their amazing support to create this exciting reader for the children. “We are looking forward to seeing many more children gaining an interest in pursuing a hotel career and proudly showcasing the best PNG has to offer.” The WIGU series, now comprising 25 books, offers children a glimpse into a wide variety of careers they can aspire to pursue. Each book in the series helps students understand different professions, themes, and subjects, with ample visual clues and activities designed to aid in the learning process. These books, favoured by teachers and students alike, portray careers that are both essential and accessible within Papua New Guinea (PNG). For many children, these books provide a valuable opportunity to learn about professions that they might not otherwise encounter. The series encourages young minds to dream big and recognize the importance of education in achieving their goals. Beyond being an excellent reading tool, the WIGU series also incorporates lessons in financial literacy, PNG culture, history, community-focused jobs, health awareness, agriculture, and wildlife conservation, enriching students' overall knowledge. The ‘When I Grow Up’ series of readers is sponsored by the Sir Brian Bell Foundation and has received editing and design support from Wild Dog Books. Photography is by Roan Paul Photography and Richard Bridger of Buk bilong Pikinini. All written and compiled by BbP Founder Anne-Sophie Hermann. The readers are available for purchase from Theodist and directly from Buk bilong Pikinini.

It was another year that Theodist Limited was excited to announce the renewal of their K50,000 annual sponsorship for Buk Bilong Pikinini (BbP), marking a decade of unwavering partnership. This renewal highlighted Theodist’s long-standing commitment to advancing literacy and education throughout Papua New Guinea. This renewal emphasized Theodist's long-standing commitment to promoting literacy and education in Papua New Guinea. The announcement, delivered in Theodist's Port Moresby showroom, was a key feature of the National Book Week campaign, which began earlier this month. To commemorate this achievement, the children of Buk Bilong Pikinini were treated to a special visit of our Print Shop, where they got the rare opportunity to watch the printing process in detail. The program included a hands-on exercise in which the children could design and print their own brochures, giving them a glimpse into the dynamic world of graphic design and printing. Ryan Pini, Theodist Ltd.'s Corporate Development Manager, attended the occasion and expressed his satisfaction at being able to assist BBP. “This sponsorship represents more than just a financial contribution; it is a testament to our ongoing dedication to fostering the educational development of young minds in Papua New Guinea.” “Theodist’s commitment to literacy goes beyond financial contributions.” The collaboration with BbP resulted in the debut of the entertaining children's book series "When I Grow Up, I Want to Be a Graphic Designer," which provides an inspiring peek into the world of graphic design and printing. This series intends to stimulate child imaginations and inspire future careers in the creative business. Anne-Sophie Hermann, the founder and chairperson of Buk Bilong Pikinini, expressed her genuine appreciation for Theodist's ongoing assistance. "Theodist's steadfast commitment has been instrumental in allowing Buk Bilong Pikinini to expand our Library Learning Centres nationwide and deliver exceptional services." "We are deeply thankful for their dedication to literacy and education." Since 2014, Theodist has been a proud Gold Sponsor of Buk Bilong Pikinini, highlighting their continued commitment to improving access to education and literacy in Papua New Guinea. Theodist also runs a little BbP library at the Port Moresby shop and a BbP bookshop within it, with all earnings benefiting BbP's purpose. We also have a book collecting bucket in-store where you can donate pre-loved books to be revived for BBP. Our decade-long engagement with BbP demonstrates our commitment to collaborative efforts to advance community advancement. Theodist's dedication to supporting impactful programs remains strong, and they hope to continue this cooperation for years to come, working together to empower PNG's future leaders and produce long-term advantages for education and literacy.

This is not the first time that Port Moresby Nature Park conducted educational programs for schools in NCD, and the Culture Connects Program is one of many examples. The 3-week program which began on August 12th, International Youth Day, was created to educate children on traditional practices which are not easily taught and practiced due to many children growing up in urban areas. Port Moresby Nature Park Education Manager, Shirley Mogi, describes the program as ‘taking a walk back in time’. “It was designed to reintroduce kids to certain cultural practices that help to conserve or sustain the natural environment.” “We are taking a closer look into the cultural practices carried out by our ancestors.” She explained that when Papua New Guineans discontinue their cultural practices, it results in having a lack of respect towards nature. “Our ancestors had rich knowledge about nature; they read the tides, could understand the times and seasons – nature provided their needs and thus, they developed respect towards their environment.” “Presently, however we just wipe out whatever resources we can lay our hands on, not caring about the consequences.” Roughly six (6) schools have already participated in the program and about 1, 700 students were educated. Despite having to postpone some trips due to bad weather, student numbers have skyrocketed. Mogi explained that every three years, topics taught in Culture Connects are revised and new topics are introduced. “This year's topics include, sacred sites, traditional medicine, taboos & customs and traditional tools – these are the stalls the children visit to learn more.” “Last year was our final year learning about traditional patterns and designs, traditional weaving, traditional money and traditional music.” Mogi encouraged more individuals, groups and organizations to participate in Culture Connects. “We do not only reach out to schools, we communicate with church groups, youth groups and community groups as well.” She also expressed her gratitude towards NCD Transport for helping to transport children and Sir Brian Bell Foundation for subsidizing students' fees. Culture Connects will end on August 30th, 2024.

In an effort to maintain the practice of bilum weaving, the Western Highlands Provincial Administration pledged K20,000 to the Friendly Home Bilum Festival. The festival took place in the Wamp Nga Secondary School in Mount Hagen, Western Highlands Province, on August 17, 2024. Present at the event were Mr. Richard Lazarus, Executive Manager of Commerce and Tourism Western Highlands Province, who was representing Western Highlands Governor Wai Rapa; Mr. Eddie Paraka, Marketing Manager of Digicel Mt. Hage; Mrs. Geno Alova Reuben, Events and Festival Manager NCC, who was representing Mr. Steven Enomb Kilanda, Executive Director of the National Cultural Commission (NCC); Mr. James Kewa, Director of Friendly Home Lodge; Mrs. Julie Kewa, Director of the Friendly Home Bilum Festival, and other dignitaries. Lazarus thanked the Kewas for hosting the festival and bringing people together to celebrate the art of culture and bilum weaving. "The Governor’s office was pleased seeing people take this initiative to create events such as this to keep our culture alive." Reuben, meanwhile, claimed that women are encouraged by participating in the bilum festival. "This festival gives them the chance to share their stories, show off their talents, and assume leadership roles in order to instruct the young girls." "It underscores the resilience and inventiveness of women, contributing to their acknowledgement and appreciation across all facets of our cultural existence." "We think that by supporting this event, we're promoting gender equality and empowerment in addition to preserving our heritage." "When you see a bilum, you are witnessing a woman's labor and intricate work." A K5, 000 check was presented by the National Cultural Commission to support, improve, and guarantee the festival's future success. The Friendly Home Bilum Festival is a unique occasion that showcases women's abilities in bilum weaving and empowers them. Women can showcase their works, pick up new skills, and get guidance on making their art into a business during the event. The festival supports women's economic independence, skill recognition, and the preservation of traditional weaving methods.

Coca-Cola Europacific Partners (CCEP) hosted a Family Fun Day across Port Moresby, Lae, Kokopo, and Mt. Hagen recently, recognizing the efforts of its staff, The event brought together colleagues and their families for a day filled with engaging activities, delicious food, and live entertainment, reinforcing the strong community spirit within the company. Tim Solly, Sales and Commercials Director of CCEP PNG, in thanking the staff and their families at the event, stated that CCEP believes that their strength comes from the connections built, not just at work but also within our extended families. “This Family Fun Day is a testament to our commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive environment for everyone.” Vanessa Potul, Regional Activation Manager, Southern Region, shared her experience. “It was a fantastic day! The activities were fun for all ages, and it was great to see everyone relax and enjoy themselves outside of the work environment. It truly felt like a big family gathering.” In Kokopo, Jack Kekep, Regional Sales Manager - NGI, added that the event allowed employees to connect with colleagues’ families in a meaningful way. “It’s initiatives like these that make CCEP more than just a workplace—it’s a community.” As CCEP continues to make, move, and sell the world’s most loved brands, events like the Family Fun Day remind us that it all starts with the people who bring our values to life every day.