Buk bilong Pikinini (BbP) recently marked National Disability Day, celebrated every year on the 29th of March. BbP held awareness events at all its Library Learning Centres (LLCs) with the theme: "United in Action to rescue and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals for, with, and by persons with disabilities". BbP stated that all of its LLC’s are inclusive and welcomes the enrolment of children with different abilities, into its Early Childhood Education and After School programs. “The importance of being welcoming, inclusive and tolerant is practised every day to reduce the stigma around disability and provide all children with an opportunity to become literate and educated.” “BbP has children attending with disabilities such as hearing impairment, speech impairment, physical disabilities, intellectual disabilities and special needs.” BbP has had an Inclusive Education program since 2008, has published two books, created numerous educational materials, and will release a Children's Sign Language Dictionary later this year. At BbP's LLC at Evedahana Primary School, three children - Linda Sam (with a physical disability caused by TB on the spine), William Tata (blind), and Samantha Elvis (cerebral palsy) - are fully participating and enjoying the Early Childhood Education program. The celebration today included a presentation to parents about inclusive education and awareness of various disabilities. BbP's Inclusive Education team read and signed the published book "I am Noah and this is my story," written by Noah Agino, who is hearing impaired and has worked with BbP since 2008. The children and their parents also enjoyed learning to count in sign language. (Sign language is one of four officially recognized languages in PNG.) BbP’s published books and popular School Library Kits can be purchased via BbP’s web shop https://bukbilongpikinini.charity or by contacting the organisation directly. The Sir Brian Bell Foundation sponsors BbP's Inclusive Education program.

Well-travelled hooker Danny Levi’s early-season renaissance has been a microcosm of Canberra’s gritty, expectations-defying start to 2024. Unfancied by many pundits heading into the season despite back-to-back finals appearances, the Raiders followed up a Round 1 upset in Newcastle and a convincing home win over Wests Tigers with arguably their best performance so far in a gutsy 18-10 loss to the Warriors. While their unorthodox attacking threats propelled victories by 16 and 20-point margins, it’s a renewed defensive steel – particularly apparent against the Warriors – that the Raiders are building their campaign around. So far it’s a notable contrast for a team that failed to win a game by more than 12 points and finished with a minus-137 points differential in 2023, despite winning more than half of their games. “It’s something you can’t fault the boys on, the effort areas – they are always putting in on that side of things,” Levi said after the Round 3 defeat in front of a packed house in Christchurch. “There’s obviously a lot of things we need to fix up – a few too many errors [against the Warriors] – but it’s still early rounds and plenty of time to fix it up. “What it comes down to is just working hard for each other – and we’ve got such a good group of boys here, they want to work hard for each other.” Along with the injection of 19-year-old five-eighth Ethan Strange, rugged British forward Morgan Smithies and ex-Penrith back-rower Zac Hosking, Levi’s form has been one of the more eye-catching features of the Raiders’ buoyant beginning to the year. The 27-year-old made just four top-grade appearances in a wretched first season in Canberra, twice suffering a broken jaw, but has beaten a hot field of contenders to regain the lime green No.9 jersey. “I was fortunate enough that ‘Sticky’ (coach Ricky Stuart) put trust in me to have the nine at the moment, so it’s my job to hold it – but there’s plenty of competition and all the nines at the club are doing really well.” In Round 4 Levi is eyeing off four consecutive NRL run-on outings for the first time since his sole season with Manly in 2020. He’s held off the challenge of Zac Woolford – who started in 36 of his 38 games for the Raiders in 2022-23 – with livewire Tom Starling retaining the interchange dummy-half duties. Levi scored memorable tries against both the Knights and Tigers in the opening fortnight, while he contributed 29 tackles against the Warriors. “I’m on the field, so that’s a good thing,” Levi said. Last year…I’ve put that behind me – two broken jaws is never good, but I’m just trying to stay healthy, stay on the field as much as I can and try and win games. Danny Levi After playing his first five years at Newcastle, one-season stays at Manly and Brisbane followed. Levi ventured to Huddersfield to reinvigorate his career in 2022, before Canberra came calling. Now in his 10th season in the professional ranks, the stint in England is belatedly proving a springboard to what Levi – who is signed until the end of 2025 – hopes will be a lengthy partnership with Stuart and a tight-knit Raiders squad. “That was my goal when I went over to Super League, I always made it clear that I wanted to be back in the NRL," he said. “Going over there I knew I had to perform and be a standout. I think I managed to achieve that and I was lucky enough to be given a shot here. “It’s awesome here, the camaraderie and Sticky’s got a massive culture of bringing the boys together. It’s an unreal bunch of boys and I’d like to stay as long as possible.” Source: NRL. com

Buk bilong Pikinini (BbP) proudly marked World Water Day on March 22nd across all its library learning centres under the theme "Water for Peace.” Students were engaged in a series of fun activities which included arts and craft, water balloon relays, water saving relays, cooking and cleaning activities, fishing in pools and of course hand washing. BbP stated that through these fun yet informative activities, students delved deep into the intricate workings of the water cycle, its significance within the ecosystem, filtration processes, human consumption patterns, and its direct impact on health. “We emphasized the critical need for water conservation, highlighting the necessity of preserving this precious resource for future generations.” BbP also acknowledged their donors who generously supported them on the day. “Colgate Palmolive donated Protex soap bars for our students in Port Moresby and Lae library learning centres to do handwashing activities as clean water is used for hand hygiene, which is important in prevention of illnesses such as intestinal worms, TB, cold and flu, etc.” “The Colgate Palmolive education teams also visited our Lae, Unitech and Port Moresby 6 Mile library learning centres (LLCs) to do hand washing demonstrations of "scrub and rub" to our students.” “We also had visits from CPL and Lae Biscuit companies to our Lae, Unitech LLC.” “CPL talked to the parents and children about vitamins and issued deworming tablets and Pain & Fever oral suspension, and gave BbP parents a 15% discount on the purchase of vitamins.” “Lae Biscuit Company, who visited the Lae Unitech LLC, showcased their new products of Toti Biscuit and Kimchii and chicken noodles.” BbP expressed their heartfelt gratitude to all those who contributed to making World Water Day a resounding success, reiterating the importance of collective efforts in promoting education, health, and environmental awareness among young learners.

Air Niugini’s inaugural Safety Day was hailed a success with full participation from employees to raise awareness on the importance of safety and also to recognize the unsung safety heroes, who are the employees responsible for the safe dispatch of flights and the safety of passengers who fly with Air Niugini. The event, held last Friday outside the airline's headquarters at 7mile in Port Moresby, focused on general aviation safety and security awareness for employees both at work and at home. It also enabled employees to break down silos by facilitating genuine interactions about safety. To mark the day, twelve sections representing different departments at Air Niugini set up booths and had the opportunity to educate and inform their colleagues about the various safety processes, procedures, and equipment used at their workplace Each department contributes significantly to Air Niugini’s safety-first approach and is committed to excellence in aviation safe Air Niugini’s Acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mr. Gary Seddon officially launched the event and highlighted safety as an uncompromised priority for Air Niugini. “Aviation safety and security is paramount in everything we do, our dedicated Air Niugini men and women are our priority, our valued passengers are our priority, our aircraft are our priority, safety is everything and what we do is important.” “We are very proud of what we achieve each day at Air Niugini, creating a culture that encourages an open responsible compliant approach to safety; a first for Air Niugini.” The inaugural Air Niugini Safety Day also honored the airline's unsung safety heroes, including employees who contribute to safety through their actions and ideas. Those acknowledged came from Ground Operations, Engineering, and Flight. Also during the day’s event, employees raised safety concerns with the Acting CEO and management on mental health issues and the need for appropriate tools, because it is an important aspect of safety as well. Apart from Air Niugini employees, the event also included the participation of PNG Fire Service and St John Ambulance PNG, who educated Air Niugini employees on best practice emergency responses and preparedness. The PNG Fire Services conducted rescue, emergency, and fire drills, showing employees how to use a fire extinguisher, which was an eye-opener for some who had never used one before. St John Ambulance covered critical first aid procedures, emergency medical response tactics, and life-saving skills to prepare attendees for a wide range of health-related emergencies. In addition, the Air Niugini in-house clinic provided complimentary basic health checks, as part of the company’s commitment to promoting health and safety. The Safety, Quality, Risk and Audit Department's Chief, Ms. Pamela Waringe in her closing remarks said the Safety Day signifies the collective efforts of the various departments in a collaborative approach to awareness of safety. “Safety is not merely a checklist or a set of procedures—it’s a mindset, a culture, and a way of life. It’s the collective heartbeat that ensures our passengers, crew, and aircraft soar through the skies with confidence,” she said. “Let us carry the spirit of Safety Day beyond these walls; let it permeate our operations, our interactions, and our dreams of safer skies as we expand. Together, we’ll continue to uphold the highest standards, because safety isn’t just our job—it’s our legacy.” The Air Niugini Safety Day was organized by the airline’s Safety, Quality, Risk and Audit Department and was live streamed, giving the airline’s staff in the outer- ports the opportunity also to see the Safety Day activities. The Air Niugini Safety Day is now planned to be held annually.

Catherine, Princess of Wales, revealed Friday she has been diagnosed with cancer and is in the “early stages” of treatment. The princess, known as Kate, described her diagnosis as a “huge shock” in a video statementreleased on social media. The news comes two months after she had temporarily stepped away from public life following what Kensington Palace said at the time was surgery for a non-cancerous abdominal condition. “In January, I underwent major abdominal surgery in London and at the time, it was thought that my condition was non-cancerous,” said Catherine, 42, who is married to the heir to the British throne, Prince William. “The surgery was successful. However, tests after the operation found cancer had been present. My medical team therefore advised that I should undergo a course of preventative chemotherapy and I am now in the early stages of that treatment.” Kate continued that “William and I have been doing everything we can to process and manage this privately for the sake of our young family.” The princess added, “As you can imagine, this has taken time. It has taken me time to recover from major surgery in order to start my treatment. But, most importantly, it has taken us time to explain everything to George, Charlotte and Louis in a way that is appropriate for them, and to reassure them that I am going to be ok.” Kate said that she had told them she is “well and getting stronger every day by focusing on the things that will help me heal; in my mind, body and spirits.” She praised Prince William for being by her side as “a great source of comfort and reassurance” as well as the support she has received from the public. “We hope that you will understand that, as a family, we now need some time, space and privacy while I complete my treatment. My work has always brought me a deep sense of joy and I look forward to being back when I am able, but for now I must focus on making a full recovery,” the princess said. She ended her heartfelt message by saying that she was also keeping “all those whose lives have been affected by cancer” in her thoughts. “For everyone facing this disease, in whatever form, please do not lose faith or hope. You are not alone,” Kate concluded in the video statement, which was filmed by BBC Studios at Windsor on Wednesday. CNN understands the Prince and Princess of Wales wanted to wait for their young children to be out of school for the Easter holidays before making the announcement. Prince William has been balancing supporting his wife and children while dcontinuing his public-facing duties and will continue to do so, a royal source told CNN. The princess started preventative chemotherapy in late February, the source said, adding that Kate had been expected to return to official duties after Easter, however she will now postpone further work until she has been cleared to do so by her medical team. Kensington Palace is not expected to reveal any further medical details such as the type of cancer or what stage it is. Preventative chemotherapy is often used after surgery as an “adjuvant” therapy, to weaken the chances of cancer returning, Dr. Karen Knudsen, chief executive officer of the American Cancer Society, told CNN. The news is a devastating blow for the British monarchy and comes as King Charles III is currently undergoing treatment for an unspecified cancer, which was announced by Buckingham Palace in early February. King Charles said he was “so proud” of Catherine, his daughter-in-law, for “her courage in speaking as she did” in sharing her cancer diagnosis, a Buckingham Palace spokesperson said late Friday. Charles said he “remained in the closest contact” with Kate since they received treatment at the same London hospital, and that he and Queen Camilla will “continue to offer their love and support to the whole family through this difficult time.”

Students of La Salle Technical Secondary School in NCD are now equipped to be digitally inclusive, thanks to the BSP Financial Group Limited Corporate team who recently came to the school’s assistance. Students used refurbished computers donated about ten years ago in a computer lab that needed a facelift and had been looking for help for the previous three years. Through its annual Community Project Initiatives, BSP had its Corporate Banking team refurbish the school's computer lab countertops while also assisting the school in purchasing (6) new computer sets equipped with UPS and basic software such as Microsoft Office Suite and Antivirus. BSP Corporate GM Peter Beswick, his team, and their families spent two weekends assisting with lab renovations prior to the project's handover on Friday, March 8, 2024. "While we stand as a corporate organization, each of our staff is a part of a community that is why these community projects are conducted across all our branches in PNG, including the pacific markets where we operate in." The principal of La Salle Technical Secondary School, Br Antony Pancras, stated that the school offers TVET courses, one of which is IT, and that this project will benefit the IT students. "They now have the advantage of using the new PCs with updated software, compared to the refurbished ones they were using were very slow." In expressing gratitude on behalf of his staff and students, he stated that BSP has previously supported the Lasallian Family. While serving as Principal of De La Salle Secondary School in Bomana two years ago, BSP also delivered the e-library, which benefited both the students and the school greatly. "BSP's support is greatly appreciated by the school community and the Lasallian family in PNG as a whole, as BSP is not only assisting just students, but shaping PNG's future leaders."

The Australian High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea (PNG), John Feakes, recently opened a Community Government Hall in Ioro 2, Panguna District, one of many Australian funded community projects in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville (AROB). The structure is one of nine community halls and ten community government offices built by Australia in Bougainville's 19 districts. During the ceremony, High Commissioner Feakes expressed his hope that the hall would provide more opportunities for community engagement. "These buildings provide meeting spaces for community governments and wards, furthering their efforts to meet their community's development needs." The K30 million community government infrastructure initiative complements Australia's localization policy, which prioritizes contracting with local Bougainville-based service providers. Over 200 people in Bougainville have found work and improved their skills in the construction industry as a result of the projects. The facilities are designed specifically for community meetings and include kitchenettes and storage rooms, a disability access ramp, chairs and storage racks, ceiling fans, and a 9, 000-litre water tank. Theonila Roka-Matbob, Minister for Community Government and District Affairs in the Autonomous Bougainville Government, stated that the Community Government facilities are intended to support community governments and wards. "They provide a functional space for the elected women and men to work together to perform their leadership and administrative duties and for community meetings and local activities."

Central Province will be paving the way this year in hosting the first of its kind Central Music festival in Kwikila, Rigo District, scheduled from May 24th – 26th, with the theme ‘Uniting Central Province in Music’. This move has received financial support of K500, 000 from the Central Provincial Government. President of the Central Music Association (CMA) Mr. Allen Kedea stated that this occasion was significant as this was the first time the government and the music industry have proactively taken steps to work together to build the music industry, not only in Central, but also in Papua New Guinea (PNG). “We are looking to promote our artists and our place, Central Province, PNG music and to also help to push PNG music to international platforms.” He continued to thank the Governor of Central and inaugural Patron of CMA Ms. Rufina Peter on behalf of the Central Music Association for her support in the industry and also in the launching of the province’s association. “We are grateful for the support given to us by our governor and patron.” “Central Music Association is the first music association to be registered with the National Cultural Commission and working with the government automatically gives us recognition.” “We will not be just an association but an organization of movement for quality of music, for rights and for acknowledgment.” Governor Peter further confirmed the Central Provincial Government’s support in the building up of the music industry and commended the efforts, the vision and the leadership of the association. “The launching of the association and the music festival is a crucial milestone and is a testimony to the hard-work and sacrifice that music artists have made and continue to make in order to protect their unique music and to be appropriately rewarded for their craft – a course common for all local musicians in the country.” “I will do my best to support the course of CMA and work with the Minister for Tourism Arts and Culture and the National Cultural Commission to advance the issues faced by local music artists in Central and PNG.” She also added that there will be a workshop and a conference for all artists and musicians in the days leading up to the festival. "The workshop will cover developing issues such as song composition, upskilling quality, Internet technology processes, and management concerning social media, YouTube, copyright, capacity building and any challenges faced by musicians and artists." “Central Province has so much talent in this industry and this festival will expose and showcase the province’s true potential in music.” The Music Festival will feature music legends from the province and also the upcoming stars.

The Ela Motors branch in Port Moresby funded the refurbishment of the ablution block at St. Theresa Elementary and Primary School in Badili, which was opened recently. The company donated K119, 495 through its Corporate Social Responsibility Assistance Program, which supported the maintenance and refurbishment of the school’s ablution block. The refurbished school facility was a much-needed improvement for the school, which had been operating without proper toilet facilities for many years. The refurbished ablution block was officially opened on March 8th and features modern facilities, including new toilets and sinks. Mr. Eymard Joseph, Ela Motors' Chief Operating Officer (COO) - Corporate, and Mr. Ashley Huston, COO - Retail, were present at the opening ceremony, as was National Facilities Development Manager, Adam Boland. Mr. Eymard Joseph emphasized the company's commitment to the communities in which it does business in. "On behalf of the management and staff of Ela Motors, we are privileged to be part of the development of this school," he said. The event was a celebration of the school's commitment to providing high-quality education, and the improved facilities and resources will undoubtedly benefit the students. In appreciation of the support, the school presented the Ela Motors team with bilums, fresh garden produce and a pig. In addition, the school will receive a donation of 20 computers later as part of its mission to provide high-quality education to local children.

The Papua New Guinea (PNG) Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) recently awarded Ms. Marissa Siwa with its Award for Academic Excellence at the Divine Word University’s graduation ceremony on Friday 8th March in Madang. The Tourism and Hospitality graduate achieved the highest cumulative GPA among her cohorts, earning her this distinguished accolade from TPA. The TPA award is a prestigious recognition given to graduating Tourism and Hospitality Department students who excel academically. Marissa's outstanding performance earned her a commemorative plaque, a mobile phone, and a K2, 000 cash prize. During the graduation ceremony, Ingrid Kuman, Acting Chief Executive Officer at TPA, presented the award to Marissa Siwa and praised her dedication and hard work, as evidenced by her outstanding academic achievements. "The prize provided to the student is in recognition of their hard work and academic commitment to the THM program and is a testament to their perseverance to achieve their goal." Marissa Siwa's exemplary performance serves as an inspiration to aspiring students in the field of tourism and hospitality, reaffirming the importance of academic excellence and dedication in shaping future leaders in PNG’s tourism sector.  

Theodist Limited proudly renewed its commitment to Cheshire Disability Services with a K25, 000 annual donation. Mr. Kevin Anderson, National Sales and Marketing Manager for Theodist, delivered a presentation at the Port Moresby branch yesterday. "Theodist has a longstanding partnership with Cheshire disAbility Services, rooted in a shared commitment to social responsibility and community engagement," Mr. Anderson said. "Beyond financial support, Theodist actively participates in initiatives aimed at making a tangible difference in the lives of people with special needs." Anderson emphasized that Theodists' commitment to social responsibility goes beyond mere words, constituting a fundamental value that drives their behaviour. "We greatly admire the work Cheshire Disability Services does. Their programs empower individuals and foster a more inclusive society, and their dedication to improving lives aligns perfectly with Theodist's values." Cheshire Disability Services aims to improve the lives of people with special needs through a variety of programs, including community-based rehabilitation, inclusive education, residential care and protection, and livelihood empowerment. Mr. Benson Hahambu General Manager for Cheshire disAbility Services expressed gratitude towards Theodist for their consistent support. "On behalf of the patron for Cheshire disAbility Services, His Excellency the Governor General, the board, the management staff, and all the beneficiaries of Cheshire disAbility Services, we’d like to say thank you to Theodist once more for coming on board and supporting us.” "The donation will assist us in subsidizing our operational costs for this year, as we try to make realities reach persons with disabilities by going out and providing interventions." Additionally, Cheshire disAbility Services announced two upcoming fundraising events: the Cheshire Golf Fundraising on August 9th and the Governor General Red Feather Fundraising on August 22nd. These events aim to garner support for the organization's initiatives, ensuring the sustainability of their impactful programs. Theodist looks forward to continuing its partnership with Cheshire disAbility Services, working hand in hand to create a more inclusive society and brighter future for all.

The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (PNGTPA) strongly condemns the recent attack on tourists at Roku Beach, Central Province, including the brutal killings in the Upper Highlands region, and the kidnapping of a helicopter crew in the Hela Province. These heinous acts not only devastated communities and local service providers but also had significant repercussions on the tourism sector in PNG. The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the PNGTPA, Mr. Eric Uvovo spoke on the effects of negative publicity on tourism in the country. “PNG has faced a torrent of negative publicity, not only from these incidents, but also from the ‘Black Wednesday’ civil unrest that caused an inferno of international media coverage casting a shadow over the entire country, and painting an inaccurate picture of Papua New Guinea as an unsafe destination for travelers.” Since the January 2024 riots, the PNGTPA research team has been monitoring travel advisories and media coverage from key source markets, and reports indicate that PNG has since been flagged as an extremely high security-risk destination, particularly for Americans, Australians, and Chinese visitors. In fact, the tourism industry is already being impacted by the growing public awareness of the country's law and order issues, said the CEO. This was evident when two major cruise lines that were scheduled to visit the country this year had to cancel their PNG cruise itineraries due to the January civil riots and looting. “In light of the serious law-and-order issues traumatizing our country’s economy, we seek immediate intervention by the PNG Government to curb the surge in violent crimes. Normalcy must be restored to encourage consumer confidence in PNG as a tourist destination. Papua New Guineans must also be responsible law-abiding citizens, demonstrating respect, duty-of-care and national pride – all this contributes to a safer society – not just for tourists, but for everyone residing in Papua New Guinea.” “In the meantime, the PNGTPA commends the government for continuing to have our country's borders open, we also commend our tourism industry who have shown an incredible amount of resilience during these difficult times," said the CEO. "For those still planning to visit our beautiful country, we recommend booking your trip with a reputable tour operator in the country." “If international visitors require additional information on tour operators, please contact our marketing and promotions division for confirmation." “PNGTPA acknowledges the urgent need for collaborative action to address this issue and restore confidence in tourism for Papua New Guinea.” “We are committed to working closely with relevant authorities, including law enforcement agencies, provincial governments, local communities, and tourism stakeholders, to implement effective strategies aimed at improving safety and security for visitors.” “PNGTPA will also be setting up a 24-hour emergency helpline for tourists, which will be available in the coming weeks.” Mr. Uvovo also urged the media to contact the PNGTPA and the tourism industry to learn about PNG's beautiful and awe-inspiring destinations, as well as to proactively share positive tourist stories and experiences, both local and international, in order to counter negative perceptions and highlight the country's rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. The PNGTPA remains steadfast in its efforts to promote PNG as a safe and appealing tourist destination. “We encourage all stakeholders to join us in our efforts to address the challenges confronting the tourism industry and restore trust in tourism for the benefit of our communities and economy.”