Prime Minister James Marape congratulated the 30 Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) students who left for India yesterday (Saturday July 27th) on PNG Government STEM scholarships. This group marks the first of several departures, with another group set to travel to the United States of America (USA) next month and a third group heading to China in September. The 30 students, comprising 14 females and 16 males, excelled in their Grade 12 STEM studies in 2023 at the six National Schools of Excellence: Sogeri, Aiyura, Kerevat, Passam, Wawin, and Port Moresby. They are set to explore fields such as Artificial Intelligence, physiotherapy, biotechnology, mathematics, chemical engineering, and aerospace engineering. Accompanying them to India is Mr. Benny Rayappan, Assistant Secretary of National Schools of Excellence. Spearheaded by Prime Minister James Marape, this transformative STEM initiative has already paved the way for 43 remarkable students from the 2022 program to secure placements in US universities through the PNG Government-funded scholarships. "The departure of the 30 students to India marks a historic day for PNG as some of our top young minds set off on an inspiring journey to India, courtesy of our Government’s STEM scholarships,” Prime Minister Marape said. “We are proud of our Grade 12 STEM students, who represent the cream of our educational system.” “This initiative is a testament to the government's unwavering commitment to advancing education and fostering global opportunities for PNG’s talented youth." Marape expressed gratitude to Education Minister Lucas Dekena, Education Secretary Dr. Uke Kombra, Dr. Clement Waine, and Mr. Benny Rayappan for their efforts in making this a reality. He emphasized that the continuation and expansion of the groundbreaking STEM scholarship program underscore the government’s dedication to fostering education and creating international opportunities for PNG’s talented youth. The government is also exploring more opportunities for PNG students to study overseas in countries such as Hungary, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and Indonesia. “We are exploring scholarship opportunities for STEM Grade 12 school leavers in other countries. Indonesia has extended 2, 000 scholarships to PNG students, with non-STEM Grade 12 school leavers being considered for this program.” “We are committed to matching every scholarship offered by Indonesia, doubling the opportunities for young people,” Marape stated. “I want every child who has completed Grade 12, whether through Flexible Open Distance Education (FODE) or the regular system, to have opportunities for further education.” This initiative highlights the potential of PNG's National Schools of Excellence to produce students of international standards ready for global academic pursuits.

The Minister for Fisheries and Marine Resources, Jelta Wong, proudly announced the appointment of Mr. Noan David Pakop as the first Papua New Guinean to become the Director General of the Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA). This milestone was achieved during the 23rd Forum Fisheries Committee Ministers' meeting in Honiara, Solomon Islands. Mr. Pakop, hailing from Tilienu Island in Manus Province, will be the 10th Director General since the FFA's establishment in 1979. This marks a historic achievement for Papua New Guinea, as it is the first time a national has been appointed to this prestigious position in the 45-year history of the agency. Minister Wong expressed gratitude to Prime Minister James Marape and the Government of Papua New Guinea for their unwavering support in endorsing Mr. Pakop’s candidacy. "This appointment is a testament to the government's commitment to assuming strategic leadership roles in the region," Minister Wong stated. Mr. Pakop's leadership is expected to bolster the Fisheries sector, aligning with the Government's vision for regional strategic leadership. His appointment represents a significant step forward in enhancing Papua New Guinea's influence and presence in regional fisheries management.

Housing challenges for police officers were a significant focus on Day 5 of the Commission of Inquiry into the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC). Police Commissioner David Manning detailed the ongoing struggles with providing adequate housing for officers, which directly impacts their deployment and morale. Manning revealed that a large portion of police infrastructure is in poor condition. "An analysis... identified that 54 per cent of our existing infrastructure at that time across the country were assessed to be in poor to very poor conditions," he stated. Moreover, 23% of the infrastructure was found to be non-operational, highlighting a severe lack of functional police housing and facilities. To address these issues, the RPNGC has initiated an infrastructure development program, endorsed by the National Executive Council (NEC). "We have commenced a significant infrastructure development program," Manning noted. This program aims to rebuild and rehabilitate police housing and stations, starting with key regional centers such as Mt. Hagen city in Western Highlands province and Gordons in Port Moresby city. Manning emphasized that while housing is not a formal condition of employment, it is crucial for operational effectiveness and maintaining morale among officers. "We are very committed and well-invested in building more barracks infrastructure for our people," he said, stressing the importance of strategic housing solutions for effective policing. The program also considers future expansions, aiming to future-proof the police force's infrastructure needs. This long-term planning is essential to ensuring that the RPNGC can continue to provide adequate housing and support for its officers, thereby improving their operational capabilities and overall morale.

Day 5 of the Commission of Inquiry (COI) into the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) on Friday, July 26th highlighted issues in deploying police officers across the country. Police Commissioner David Manning explained that new recruits and cadets are posted based on the needs of divisional commanders, who provide their requirements for additional manpower. "It is often best practice where divisional commanders put in their requirements for additional manpower," Manning said. For cadets who move into leadership roles, the process involves assessments and recommendations to determine their suitability for various positions. These positions range from shift inspectors to police station commanders, with the final decision on postings made before the cadets' passing-out ceremony. Manning acknowledged that housing and supervision capabilities significantly impact where new officers are deployed. "It is dictated on a number of areas as to what specific location is deemed suitable for the deployment of these new probation constables, from issues such as adequate housing to the capacity of their command to exercise proper supervision of them," he explained. He revealed to the inquiry that while the deployment process aims to be systematic and needs-based, practical challenges such as housing availability and supervision capacities often complicate it. This can delay or affect the effectiveness of new officers' integration into their roles. Efforts to address these issues include an infrastructure development program and strategic planning to ensure proper housing and support for officers, aiming to improve overall deployment efficiency and effectiveness across the RPNGC. The COI has been underway in Port Moresby with the top management of the Constabulary facing the Inquiry the first week. The start of the COI comes nearly five months after police stood down from duties as "pay cuts" were experienced for nearly a day. Prime Minister James Marape had announced the COI as part of the Government's response. Police Commissioner Manning has stated firmly that the RPNGC is ready to assist in any way it can with the Inquiry. "Any member of the RPNGC called upon to provide information to investigators or to appear at the COI will do so and will provide full and detailed information as required by law," Manning said. The Commission of Inquiry is investigating the Constabulary's failure to prevent the Black Wednesday rioting and looting, which cost businesses millions of kina in losses. Day 5 of the COI focused on recruitment, training, deployment, infrastructure development, housing policies, and promotions within the RPNGC.

The home of softball in PNG, East New Britain is set to stage the 45th National Softball Championships this September. PNG Baseball Softball Confederation announced the theme, “BRING BACK SOFTBALL”, which aims to resurrect the code of softball in PNG. PNGBSC Interim President Mrs. Jenny Paak said it will be held from the 13th – 16th September, and is anticipated to have well over 20 teams participating. “As we look too rebuilding our code and administratively bring back order to the office,” she said. “The PNGBSC Interim Executives are working towards having a 5-year plan in place to align all affiliated associations in bringing back softball to the standard it needs to be.” “By creating pathways for our players to develop right from Juniors Development to Senior Level.” “Our focus this year is sending our PNG Women’s team to 3 international tournaments as a lead up to the MINI SP GAMES in Palau next year.” “Whilst the PNG Men’s team will attend the MAKASAAR OPEN in Indonesia in October, and both teams will be announced after the tournament and will go straight into camp.” The Port Moresby Men’s Softball Association will be sending 3 teams, Melonas, Meros and Kakanas whilst the Port Moresby Women’s Softball Association will send 2 teams, POM Gold and POM Black. Other centers showing interest include Kavieng, Buluminski, Madang, Popondetta and the host province associations- Rabaul, Gazelle and Kokopo.

The Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) has faced scrutiny during the Commission of Inquiry into its operations, particularly regarding the January 10th events. Day 5 of the inquiry on Friday, July 26th, provided insights into the deployment, housing, and promotion within the force, revealing significant challenges and ongoing reforms. During the session, Police Commissioner David Manning discussed the deployment process for new recruits and cadets, addressing questions put to him by lead Investigator, Pondros Kaluwin. It was explained that after recruits complete their training, divisional commanders submit their manpower requirements, which are reviewed by the training and HR directors before finalizing postings. Cadets, who take on management roles, are assessed and placed in provincial positions based on their suitability. A major issue highlighted was the lack of adequate housing for police officers. Manning detailed the infrastructure development program aimed at addressing this, which has received endorsement from the National Executive Council (NEC). He noted that 54% of existing infrastructure was in poor condition, with 23% non-operational. Efforts are underway to rehabilitate or rebuild these facilities, starting with regional centers like Hagen, Gordons, Lae and Kokopo. Mr. Manning emphasized the importance of barracks for maintaining operational effectiveness and morale. Despite barracks not being a formal employment condition, they are seen as essential for accommodating officers close to their work areas. The inquiry revealed that accommodating officers in barracks also helps in maintaining a rapid response capability, particularly for specialized units like the mobile squads. Promotions within the RPNGC were another focus of the inquiry. Manning explained that promotions are based on examinations and appraisals, with a structured process involving a promotion board chaired by an appointed official, representatives from the commissioner’s office, the police union, and the HR division. He stressed that promotions are made to fill specific vacancies, ensuring a merit-based and transparent system. The inquiry also touched on the integration of specialized personnel, such as lawyers, within the police force. These individuals are either recruited directly or through the cadet program, allowing the RPNGC to benefit from their expertise. Overall, Day 5 of the Commission of Inquiry highlighted significant challenges faced by the RPNGC in terms of deployment, housing, and promotions. However, it also showcased ongoing efforts and reforms aimed at improving the effectiveness and welfare of the police force. The inquiry continues to provide valuable insights and recommendations to strengthen the RPNGC's operations and infrastructure, as it looks into the management and structure of the police force to determine what led to the events of January 10th or Black Wednesday riots, looting and burning down of businesses, particularly in Port Moresby and Lae.

East Sepik Governor Allan Bird pledged a K100, 000 support to Utu Secondary School in New Ireland which is home to the Somare Memorial in the province. The memorial site was set up in front of a building that Sir Michael lived in during the 1950s, when he started his teaching career as a young teacher. The school since then has had special ties with Somare and given this unique connection between the first and second Prime Ministers, Governor Bird as Sir Michael’s immediate predecessor paid tribute to this great historical institution. Governor Bird said the funds pledged will come from taxpayers of his province. Governor Bird was joined by his counterpart, New Ireland Governor Sir Julius Chan, and Opposition MP colleagues, including Deputy Opposition Leader James Nomane in a small ceremony to pay tribute to late Great Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare’s memorial monument in New Ireland Province on Thursday, July 25th. Governor Bird was also joined by his wife, Mrs Joan Bird and several other delegates from East Sepik Province to lay wreaths at the monument, situated in Utu Secondary School. The delegation took a moment to reflect upon the contributions of Sir Michael and remembered the special connection Sir Michael had with Utu Secondary. Meantime, the Opposition clarified that ‘contrary to desperate rumors being peddled by even desperate Government spin-doctors’, Governor Bird was officially invited by Sir J to be this year’s keynote speaker at the New Ireland Day celebration on Friday, July 25th. “The invitation was given weeks prior and was accepted by Governor Bird with great respect and humility to officiate an important event hosted by the country’s ‘last man standing’ and most eminent politician,” the Opposition said in a statement.

The President of the Papua New Guinea Law Society, Mr. Hubert Namani, has condemned the recent killings in the Angoram district of East Sepik province. “These heinous acts of violence are utterly unacceptable and have no place in our society." "The Law Society stands in solidarity with the victims and their families during this distressing time,” Namani stated. He urged law enforcement to respond promptly, emphasizing, “It is imperative that the perpetrators are swiftly apprehended and brought to justice." "The rule of law must prevail.” Namani also highlighted ongoing violence in Enga and East Sepik, raising concerns about public safety. “The increasing frequency of such incidents underscores the urgent need for a robust and effective response from our authorities. The protection of life and the maintenance of peace are fundamental responsibilities of the state,” he said. Namani stressed the importance of justice and collective efforts to ensure safe communities. He also expressed worry over the rise of high-powered weapons in the country, saying, “This proliferation poses a significant threat to public safety and undermines the rule of law." "It is crucial that we work collectively to disarm and prevent further escalation.” The Law Society calls for immediate and decisive action to address these issues and ensure the safety and security of all communities in Papua New Guinea.

Abou MP Sir Puka Temu has called on the Government to consult more with provinces like Central Province before making decisions that affect them. Sir Puka criticized the Government for its negligent attitude towards Central Province. He pointed out a recent issue where funds meant for Gulf Province were misallocated without consulting Gulf Governor Sir Chris Haiveta, who has taken the issue now to court. "Such decisions are against the law. When reallocating funds in the National Budget, there should be consultation and notice given to relevant stakeholders," Sir Puka stated. He supports the Governor's decision to take legal action to protect his province's funds from administrative mishandling. Sir Puka also endorsed Hiri-Koiari MP Keith Iduhu's remarks about K30 million of PNG LNG Infrastructure Development Grants being given to the Enga Provincial Government, ignoring Central Province's entitlement to these funds. "Central Province was not given due regard, and I denounce this misdirection of funds meant for our province," he said. He criticized Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso's announcement of K20 million for relocating illegal settlers to Central Province land without consulting local leaders. "Did they bother to confirm, consult, or seek guidance from our provincial leaders before doing so? The answer is obvious," Sir Puka said. Sir Puka urged the Government to avoid making unilateral decisions that negatively impact Central Province's social wellbeing. He noted that the expansion of Port Moresby has led to a rise in crime affecting Central Province. "Criminals from Port Moresby use Central as a cover for their activities." He called on NCD Governor Powes Parkop to engage in dialogue with Central Governor Rufina Peter to find solutions to address crime in both NCD and Central Province.

Hiri-Koiari MP Keith Iduhu has sharply criticized Prime Minister James Marape for his recent comments about fair resource distribution. Marape had promised that his government was committed to equitable allocation of development funds, but Iduhu argues that this promise has not been met. “Quite the contrary to Mr. Marape’s rhetoric, most members of parliament have not received a single toea of the development allocations so far this year,” said Iduhu. With almost four months left in the year, Iduhu expressed frustration that Hiri-Koiari and other new districts still haven’t received their development and infrastructure budgets. He added, “It appears that our ‘crime’ of being in the Opposition comes with a punishment of starvation of funds. Although we are managing, it's disappointing to see our country being ruled in such a barbaric way.” Iduhu also criticized the redirection of K30 million in PNG LNG Infrastructure Development Grants (IDGs) meant for several provinces to Enga. “IDGs are crucial for host provinces and districts, and to see them given away at the whim of one man is unacceptable,” he said. He questioned how other provinces would react if their funds were diverted without notice. Calling for action, Iduhu urged the Governors of Central, Gulf, Western, and Southern Highlands to challenge these decisions and uphold the integrity of the National Budget 2024.

Gulf Governor Sir Chris Haiveta is outraged with Treasurer Ian Ling-Stuckey and Prime Minister James Marape over the diversion of K20 million development grants meant for his province. Today, (Friday, July 26th) he officially submitted his resignation from the Pangu Pati caucus in protest. Sir Haiveta, while remaining a Pangu member, is stepping outside the party caucus to fight for the return of the funds intended for the Gulf Province from the PNG LNG project. "This money belongs to the people of Gulf, and I will not stand by while it is misappropriated.” He has served court documents to both the Treasurer and the Prime Minister, with the case set to be heard next week. "They have breached the Public Finance Management Act, and they must explain their actions in court," Sir Haiveta declared. He has also requested the Ombudsman Commission to investigate the matter. The dispute centres around a directive issued on July 7, 2024, by Treasurer Ling-Stuckey, authorizing a K60 million development grant to the Enga Provincial Government, which included K20 million originally allocated to Gulf Province. This action, according to Sir Haiveta, violated established budgetary processes and destabilized government operations. Sir Haiveta criticized the Government for its lack of consultation with provincial stakeholders and condemned the illegal allocation of funds. "Our government processes are failing, and this mismanagement is eroding public trust," he asserted. He emphasized the need for the Government to address these financial missteps and urged for better management of available funds. "We must restore integrity and accountability in our governance to rebuild trust and stimulate economic growth.” Sir Haiveta remains committed to serving his province and ensuring the proper allocation and management of national resources. Affected Gulf landowners in project impacted areas turned up today to show support to Haiveta, while expressing their anger as well.

Church structures at 9-Mile Bush Wara's eviction site in Port Moresby have been carefully dismantled and returned to the congregation. Nambawan Super Limited (NSL) site managers confirmed that they consulted with church pastors and allowed time for the structures to be safely removed. Two church structures have already been taken down, and work will continue on the remaining two. Police officers at the site ensured that the materials were carefully reallocated. The eviction exercise was carried out respectfully and safely. Site managers worked closely with the police to allow residents time to dismantle their homes before machines cleared the area. All settlers in portions 2156, 2157, and 2159 have vacated the area. Assistant Commissioner of Police Peter Guinness thanked everyone involved in the eviction, noting that it was executed without any gunshots or confrontations since it began on July 11th. He praised the effort as the first of its kind and commended the well-organized process. ACP Guinness also thanked NSL for their consideration in removing the churches, which were among the last structures to be taken down.