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Joshua ARLO

Joshua ARLO

SENTENCE DECISION RESERVED FOR 4 POLICE OFFICERS SENTENCE DECISION RESERVED FOR 4 POLICE OFFICERS
The National Court in Waigani has reserved its decision on the sentencing of four police officers from NCD, facing charges of attempted murder. The officers, Emmanuel Somom, Philemon Parom, Ade Kawa and Frank Apa appeared in court on Thursday, July 25th, for submissions on their sentences. They had been released earlier on K1, 000 bail, which was extended after Thursday’s adjournment. The State prosecutor and their defence lawyer presented their arguments, with the State asserting that the officers intended to kill the victim, the 20-year-old son of a fellow policeman, during a six-hour ordeal. Justice Panuel Mogish, presiding over the case, questioned the defence’s claims of insufficient evidence, emphasizing the severe injuries sustained by the victim, who was found unconscious in a police vehicle. During the proceedings, Justice Mogish challenged the defence lawyer's argument that the evidence presented by the state was insufficient to support the charges of grievous bodily harm, attempted murder, and deprivation of liberty against each of the accused officers. "How can you interview an unconscious person?" the judge asked, highlighting the impracticality of the defence’s claim. "It all comes down to common sense and logic," he added, emphasizing the expectation of reasonable behaviour from law enforcement officers. "Any reasonable policeman would first take an injured or unconscious victim to the hospital; then, after recovery, you can arrest and charge them," Justice Mogish remarked, highlighting the duty of care expected from law enforcement officers. The State also pointed out that the use of excessive and brutal force was corroborated by several witnesses, including police officers' wives. The incident occurred on February 27th, 2022, when the victim, Samuel Naraboi, was allegedly beaten by the four officers and later found unconscious by his mother. According to the police report, the incident unfolded on the morning of February 27th, 2022. Between 6:30 am and 7:00 am, officers Somom, Parom, Kawa, and Apa were seen at the roundabout between the Games Village Police Barracks, Tokarara, and Waigani Drive. Naraboi and his friend, William Michael, 21, were walking toward the Waigani bus stop when Naraboi approached a betelnut seller to ask if he could spare a betelnut. The seller responded with profanities, escalating the situation. It was then alleged that an off-duty policeman drove up, spoke with the betelnut seller, and subsequently started chasing Naraboi and Michael towards the roundabout. The situation further intensified when bystanders allegedly assisted the unidentified policeman in chasing Naraboi, ultimately leading to Naraboi being punched and falling on the traffic island roundabout. Later that day, Naraboi’s mother discovered him unconscious in a police-marked vehicle. The central issue remains the conduct of the police officers and their adherence to appropriate procedures, particularly the failure to seek immediate medical attention for Naraboi, with Justice Mogish’s remarks highlighting the duty of care owed by police to individuals in their custody. The court has reserved its decision, which will be delivered at a later date.
Published on July 26, 2024
K1.3M SUPPORT FOR ESP POLICE OPS FOLLOWING KILLINGS K1.3M SUPPORT FOR ESP POLICE OPS FOLLOWING KILLINGS
The East Sepik Provincial Government (ESPG) has allocated K1.3 million towards supporting police operations in the province, aimed at facilitating a practical response by the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC). Governor Allan Bird stated this on Thursday, July 25th, when voicing serious concern over recent violence in Angoram District, urging swift police intervention to restore peace and bring the perpetrators to justice. At least 26 people, including children, have been killed in brutal violence in East Sepik province. Women and girls were reportedly among the ones massacred by a 33-member gang comprising locals from three villages, which began on July 17th in a remote area on the Sepik River and continued for several days from village to village. Tamara village near the town of Angoram in East Sepik Province came under attack first, with 32 houses torched, followed by Tambari and Agrumara. Those responsible remain at-large and survivors have sought shelter in Angoram Speaking to the National Broadcasting Corporation provincial radio station NBC Wewak, acting PPC, Inspector James Baugen reportedly said,” Most of those that were killed were breastfeeding babies and young children with their mothers.” “The crime scene is rotting with dead bodies. Some of the bodies were seen floating down the Sepik River and taken by crocodiles,” he reportedly said, adding that the killings were ignited by unresolved ongoing conflict between three villages. Addressing the violence and travesty, Governor Bird said, “On behalf of my family and the Provincial Government, I join all Sepiks in expressing our sadness and deep regret over the killings in Angoram.” “Such senseless violence is unacceptable in our society, and I deplore this tragedy in the strongest terms.” He noted the escalating law-and-order challenges since January, despite ongoing efforts to improve policing in the region. “Our law-and-order situation has been deteriorating since our Provincial Police Commander was sidelined in January this year,” he explained, further stating that despite multiple attempts in the past six months, ESP has not been able to secure a permanent PPC or reinstate the previous one. ESP has an Acting PPC, who took over from the ESP PPC Superintendent Christopher Tamari in June 2023 after a suspension. Tamari was then reinstated in May this year, He clarified that the Provincial Government does not have oversight over police functions as that remains the responsibility of the RPNGC hierarchy. “Police and policing are a national function.” “While provinces allocate money to fund police operations, we have no responsibility over police operations - all we can do is help where we can to support the response.” “The Police do not report to any governor or provincial administrator – they report to the Police Commissioner.” “It is the commissioner’s responsibility to provide an appropriate response that will address our law-and-order situation.” Regarding financial support, Governor Bird confirmed, “ESPG has allocated K1.3 million for police operations, and we intend to disburse these funds in accordance with a practical operation by the RPNGC.” Additionally, Governor Bird has reached out to Minister for Forestry and Angoram MP Salio Waipo to request government assistance, particularly in deploying riot police, with a response still pending. Meantime, Minister Waipo in a statement called for calm and said he is in talks with the country’s police commander David Manning to deploy officers to end the violence. Waipo said police would need to clear and secure the “killing zone” before help could be sent to the villagers. The United Nations Resident Coordinator in Papua New Guinea, Richard Howard, condemned the "brutal killings" in Angoram, calling for "an immediate and thorough investigation to ensure justice." His statement on social media emphasized the severity of the tragedy.
Published on July 26, 2024
NEW ELITE BASKETBALL COMPETITION IN PORT MORESBY NEW ELITE BASKETBALL COMPETITION IN PORT MORESBY
A new elite basketball competition, presented by PNG LNG and Togoba Kofi, is set to kick off at the Sir John Guise Indoor Stadium, bringing a fresh wave of excitement to the Port Moresby sports scene. Competition Director, Mr. Lawrence Lahari in an interview with PNGHAUSBUNG, explains that the tournament, modelled after prestigious leagues like the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup and the PNGFA National Premier League, aims to elevate basketball to new heights in Papua New Guinea (PNG). Unlike a corporate event, this competition is strictly for elite athletes and is currently being trailed exclusively in Port Moresby. The organizers hope to expand its reach in the future, but for now, they are focusing on building a strong foundation in the capital city. Togoba Kofi, one of the major sponsors alongside PNG LNG, plays a crucial role in supporting the competition. Founded by Frederick Koldop, a young entrepreneur from Togoba in the Western Highlands Province, Togoba Kofi began its operations in August 2022. The company is dedicated to revitalizing rundown coffee plantations and factories in the Western Highlands and Jiwaka Provinces, aiming to increase coffee volumes for export. "We encourage smallholder coffee farmers by providing very competitive prices and educating them on growing and maintaining coffee quality," said a representative from Togoba Kofi. The company is also building factories and processing plants to boost both quality and volume, which aligns with its vision of fostering local industry and community development. The collaboration with PNG LNG is a natural fit, as both organizations share a focus on youth engagement. The Port Moresby Elite Basketball (PEB) initiative is committed to promoting and developing basketball in the city, providing young athletes with opportunities to excel in sports and beyond. Since the registration opened on Sunday, 21st July, there has been significant interest in the competition. "We are looking to have six men's and six women's teams from all regions," said Mr. Lahari, the Competition Director. The elite competition is expected to run for 8 to 12 weeks, depending on the final number of teams. Affiliated with the Basketball Federation of Papua New Guinea (BFPNG), this competition is set to become an annual event. Lahari said it is not intended for fundraising but purely for elevating the standard of basketball in the country. The winner of the competition will take home a prize of K30, 000, with additional prizes for the runner-up and third place to be confirmed. The competition is slated to begin in August, with a technical workshop planned for referees and officials. "PEB is set to turn heads. It's time to lift the game professionally, and that's what we plan to do," said Lahari. “The teams must adhere to the PEB competition rules and constitution." "What we will bring is fun, entertaining, high-level basketball for the people of Port Moresby." "It's a great opportunity for youths to aspire to this competition!” The organizing committee, led by Lahari and PEB Technical Advisor Ronnie Mea, is working tirelessly to ensure the success of the event. They express their gratitude to all sponsors and supporters who have made this competition possible, setting the stage for an exciting new chapter in Papua New Guinea's basketball history.
Published on July 24, 2024
DR. YOCKOPUA RECOGNIZED FOR MULITAKA RELIEF EFFORTS DR. YOCKOPUA RECOGNIZED FOR MULITAKA RELIEF EFFORTS
In a heartwarming recognition of his unwavering commitment to community service, Dr. Sam Yockopua, a senior national doctor and a Mulitaka native of the Porgera-Paiela District in Enga Province,was knighted on Monday, July 22nd. The honor was conferred upon him at Government House in Konedobu, Port Moresby, acknowledging his extraordinary volunteer efforts during a time of crisis. Mulitaka recently faced a catastrophic natural disaster that left the community reeling with devastation. The disaster decimated villages, destroyed homes, and tragically claimed 162 lives, plunging the area into a state of despair, and displacing thousands. Amidst this turmoil, Dr. Yockopua emerged as a beacon of hope. He selflessly delivered 23 cartons of medical supplies, weighing 260 kg and valued at nearly K60,000. These supplies included essential items such as antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, painkillers, ointments, povidone-iodine, bandages, and plasters, which were crucial in addressing the immediate medical needs of the affected population. Dr. Yockopua’s dedication and service did not go unnoticed, and on the July 22nd, he was honored with knighthood, being admitted into His Majesty’s Most Venerable Order of St. John by King Charles III. Speaking on this significant occasion, Dr. Yockopua quoted Heather French Henry, stating, “Volunteering is at the core of being human." "No one has made it through life without the help of someone else.” Expressing his gratitude, Dr. Yockopua thanked St John Ambulance (PNG) CEO Matt Cannon, Chief Medical Officer Dr. Mangu Kendino, and everyone at St. John for their support in recognizing his work. “I truly appreciate pushing for this to have my work recognized by the highest of the Order." "This medal and moment are invaluable, priceless, and monumental." Dr. Yockopua's recognition has only strengthened his resolve to continue serving humanity. Reflecting on Muhammad Ali’s words, “Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on earth,” he emphasized that this highest order of recognition motivates him to do even more to donate to serve humanity.
Published on July 23, 2024
8 TO DEBUT IN U19 GARAMUTS ICC EAP QUALIFIER TEAM 8 TO DEBUT IN U19 GARAMUTS ICC EAP QUALIFIER TEAM
Eight players in the U19 Garamuts official team debut in their first international fixture in Samoa in August. They are part of the 18-man squad named by Cricket PNG on July 19 to represent PNG in participating in the ICCU19 Men’s Cricket World Cup East Aisa Pacific Division 2 Qualifier to be staged in Samoa this month, where PNG will play the host nation, Samoa, Vanuatu and Indonesia. The team includes Dauncey Tom, Gaba Frank, Sam Goada Momo, Frank Colin Naime, Vagi Morea, Puka John Raho, Oala Puka, Anthony David, Rarua Dikana Junior, Lekwa Henao Nao, David Taraka, Nou Noel Gini, Igo Pako Morea, Ware Robin. The reserves are Dai Mahuru, Toua Boga Nou, Miria Griffin, Wallace Nou “We believe we have selected a side that will represent us well,” said Domestic Cricket Manager, Lakani Oala. He further stated, “We are looking forward to getting back into the world cup qualifications process, so Samoa is the start of that.” “There are some promising young players who have come through the ranks, and it will be interesting to see what they bring to the table.” The eight players debuting in their first international fixture are from various domestic cricket associations of which several were identified through the CPNG talent ID selections from basic entry level through the BSP School’s Cricket and the Malolo development programs. The U19 Garamuts depart for Brisbane this Saturday, July 27th, where they will be based for a one-week training camp and practice matches before traveling to Samoa on August 3rd
Published on July 22, 2024
KUMUL PETROLEUM PNG LEWAS READY FOR ODI TRI-SERIES KUMUL PETROLEUM PNG LEWAS READY FOR ODI TRI-SERIES
The Kumul Petroleum PNG Lewas are set for another international fixture in the Netherlands and Scotland in August. Cricket PNG, when announcing the named team on July 19th, said the Lewas, captained by Brenda Tau, will attend the ODI TRI SERIES from August 1st to the 18th. The ODI Tri-Series is a cricket tournament featuring three teams that compete in One Day Internationals (ODIs). Each team plays against the other two in a round-robin format, and often, the top two teams advance to a final to determine the champion. The series is usually played to provide competitive cricket and preparation opportunities for the teams involved. Lewas Head Coach, David Drew said, “The team is looking forward to the challenge.” “The Lewas have maintained a rigorous training schedule and have prepared well since returning from Zimbabwe and UAE earlier this year where they competed well on tour and also during the Isuzu T20 Smash held more recently.” “They are looking forward to playing the upcoming matches and testing their skills against quality opposition.” “The team will be led by Brenda Tau and Sibona Jimmy.” “Both players are developing their leadership skills which has been evident on and off the field.” “The entire team is excited to represent their country and families on this tour and make everyone proud.” The team includes BrendaTau (c), Sibona Jimmy, Tanya Ruma, Lakshmi Rajadurai, Pauke Siaka, Isabel Toua, Naoani Vare, Geua Tom, Kevau Frank, Henao Thomas, Vicky Ara’a, Buruka Vicky, Dika Lohia, Mahuta Jayphert. The tournament will see the team play four (4) One Day Internationals and two (2) T20 Internationals against the Netherlands and Scotland. Lewas Captain, Brenda Tau said, “Preparations for the upcoming tournament have been great for the team so far, the coaches have been doing an outstanding job.” “The girls have been putting in the effort and the teamwork has been great!” “There is amazing team energy amongst the girls at each training session so far all good with our preparations and definitely looking forward to the tournament.” The Lewas depart PNG on August 1st.
Published on July 22, 2024
FORESTRY PARTNERS PAY TRIBUTE TO LATE DR. PAGE FORESTRY PARTNERS PAY TRIBUTE TO LATE DR. PAGE
Forestry stakeholders in East New Britain province were part of the funeral program for forestry champion and Tura Dawai Project Team Leader, the late Dr. Tony William Page on Wednesday, July 17, via live stream from Australia. The Gunan Na Niuvia Conference Center in Kokopo city hosted a memorial for the late Dr. Page, a key figure of the Tura Dawai project funded by the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR). Dr. Page, who passed away in June just before his 48th birthday, left behind his wife Anna and three children. Key partners such as PNG University of Natural Resources and Environment, OISCA Rabaul International, Women and Youth in Agriculture, and the ENB Provincial Government praised Dr. Page’s contributions to the forestry sector. Attendees were urged to honour his legacy by continuing to plant trees like teak, eaglewood, and sandalwood, which not only generate income but also provide quality timber for building homes. Florence Paisparea, Coordinator of the Natural Resource Management and Development Unit under the East New Britain Provincial Administration (ENBPA), spoke on behalf of the provincial forestry sector. She acknowledged Dr. Page’s significant contributions to East New Britain over the past decade and praised OISCA Rabaul International for their collaborative efforts with him to expand the forestry sector. Paisparea also highlighted the ongoing support from the ENB Provincial Government towards the project. “We are progressing with both Eaglewood and Teak trees, and after discussions with the late Dr. Page to do further research into eaglewood, a pathologist was being arranged to assist with the program.” “However, amidst these dialogues, the late Dr. Page lost his life.” “I only hope that the project can provide us with someone as compassionate as Dr. Page, to progress the work he has initiated in the province,” Ms. Paisparea said.
Published on July 22, 2024
ENB SMEs GAIN FINANCIAL TRAINING AND MARKETING TIPS ENB SMEs GAIN FINANCIAL TRAINING AND MARKETING TIPS
The National Department of Commerce and Industry, working with the East New Britain (ENB) Provincial Commerce Division, has offered a two-week training program in Kokopo to help small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) find money and learn about market information. Mr. Jerry Marai, the lead trainer, said, “We were tasked by the government to provide the training to 30, 000 SMEs throughout the country for the next 10 years.” “For each year, we have to cover about 500 SMEs and we did that last year by covering seven provinces and training about 560 SMEs.” According to Mr. Marai, the training first started in 2020; however, it came to a halt when COVID-19 plagued the country. For East New Britain, that training commenced Monday, July 15th in Kokopo, focusing on SME market and finance access information, and will continue for two weeks. About 60 businesses in Kokopo signed up, each paying a registration fee of K100. On Monday, July 22nd, the training will move to Rabaul to cater to the SMEs in Rabaul and the Gazelle districts. Marai also shared that the government has put a lot of money into banks to help SMEs. "K100 million is with the Bank of South Pacific, and K17 million is with the National Development Bank.” “These banks will join us to explain how SMEs can get these funds," he said. ENB Provincial Administrator Levi Mano told participants to be independent and careful with their businesses. He said that the ENB Provincial Government has given K2 million each to two local banks, Kada Poroman Microfinance Limited and ENB Savings and Loans Ltd, to support local businesses. “Your money is there for you to use, and this course is relevant because you will learn how to access all of these funds." "Concentrate on what you can do and control, so that you can be successful,” he said. Mano further praised the Ministry of Commerce and Industry for bringing this important training to Kokopo and Rabaul, helping local SMEs get the support they need to succeed.
Published on July 22, 2024
DELAYED LLG ELECTIONS AID ENB READINESS DELAYED LLG ELECTIONS AID ENB READINESS
The East New Britain Provincial Election Manager has welcomed the announcement of the deferral of the 2024 Local Level Government (LLG) Elections, emphasizing that this will allow for better preparation, with an estimated provincial budget of K5 million. This follows a joint statement by the Minister for Provincial and Local Level Government Affairs, Soroi Eoe, and Chief Electoral Commissioner, Simon Sinai. The elections, originally scheduled for July, will now take place in September due to the ongoing National Census. The revised schedule includes the issue of writs on September 26th, with nominations, campaigns, and polling extending into late November and December. Provincial Election Manager, Joap Voivoi confirmed that the delay also addresses logistical and funding challenges. He assured that preparations in the province are on track, with polling and counting officials’ training set for October, following nomination training. Voivoi said the postponement provides extra time for logistics, recruitment, and ward roll data processing. “We will have to re-do our polling schedules due to the changes in the dates of the elections." "The deferral will also give us time to properly prepare our logistics and recruitment of polling and counting officials." "We also have the ward roll enrolment data processing to be completed,” Voivoi said. He further said the province is gearing up for the LLG Elections, ensuring all eligible voters are accurately listed. According to the Department of Provincial and Local Level Government Affairs and the PNG Electoral Commission, key dates to note for the 2024 LLG Elections are as follows: - Issue of Writs:         September 26 - Nominations:          September 26 - November 3 - Campaign Period:     September 26 - November 22 - Polling:               November 23 - December 6 - Counting:             December 7 - December 26 - Return of Writs: December 27
Published on July 21, 2024
COCOA TREE DISTRIBUTION SET TO BOOST INLAND-BAINING FARMERS COCOA TREE DISTRIBUTION SET TO BOOST INLAND-BAINING FARMERS
Farmers in the five wards of Inland Baining in Gazelle District, East New Britain, are set to receive cocoa trees starting on Monday, July 22nd, until Friday, July 27th. This initiative follows a successful three-day training session on cocoa management practices and production. The training, part of the GEF 7 FOLUR (Forest, Land use, and Restoration) project, is a partnership between the PNG Government and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The training, held recently from July 17th to 19th at the Gazelle International Hotel in the city of Kokopo, was conducted in collaboration with the Cocoa Board of PNG. Farmers from the wards of Alakasam, Burit, Hetwara, Malasaet, Kasaska, and Rangulit participated, learning essential skills to enhance their cocoa farming practices. Albina Rarao, Acting Regional Coordinator for the Cocoa Board in the New Britain region, highlighted the urgent need for this initiative. "East New Britain cocoa production has dropped from 20, 000 to the present 6, 000 tons," she said. Currently, East New Britain ranks fourth in cocoa production behind the Autonomous Region of Bougainville (AROB), East Sepik, and Morobe. Papua New Guinea as a whole produces 40, 000 tons of cocoa, equivalent to 1 percent of the world's cocoa production. The distribution of cocoa trees aims to revive cocoa farming in the region. "We will distribute 200 to 300 cocoa trees to each family in the wards. But the distribution will depend on the availability of land and labor," said Gazelle District Rural Development Officer Henry Kahoraso. Rarao emphasized the importance of maintaining high-quality production, stating, “The quality status of cocoa that is produced in PNG is 80 percent. Despite the low production of cocoa in the country, we produce good quality cocoa, but the quality status that we are in can be ruined if we do not process and produce our cocoa well.” Most cocoa farmers in East New Britain prefer planting clones over hybrids due to their higher yield. This distribution and training are steps toward revitalizing the province's cocoa industry and ensuring its long-term sustainability. Gazelle District Rural Development Officer, Henry Kahoraso said that the people in the chosen wards have land that is unoccupied and thus, they will be distributed cocoa to plant. “We will distribute 200 to 300 cocoa trees to each family in the wards. But the distribution will depend on the availability of land and labor.”
Published on July 21, 2024
EDUCATION SECRETARY ON CHALLENGES & SOLUTIONS EDUCATION SECRETARY ON CHALLENGES & SOLUTIONS
Education Secretary Dr. Uke Kombra has challenged all Provincial Education Advisors (PEAs) to increase efforts to ensure all children in their respective provinces receive a high-quality, universal education for 13 years. He stated this during a recent conference, where he raised two issues that the attendees were to consider and devise a plan to overcome. The first is the obstacle of the delay in achieving universal access to education – ensuring a child completes a full 13-years of school. He said this means ensuring all 6-year-olds in every province who are enrolled in school, do not drop out between Prep and Grade 12; and also the extent to which each province is prepared to administer the scheduled exit exams for Grade 8 in 2025 and Grade 10 in 2027. Dr Kombra said the second issue is on the quality of the national education quality, prompting participants to acknowledge how much students struggle in literacy and numerical skills, how much support they receive and accessibility to resources like textbooks, technology, and qualified teachers; and whether they are well-mannered with virtues like respect, humility, honesty, and love. He urged all the PEAs and their planners to consider narrowing the gap in academic achievement between different groups of students, schools, districts and provinces. Dr. Kombra said PEAs and their planners need to identify the issues and find workable solutions. "We have to acknowledge that PNG's greatest asset is its people, not its natural riches, physical location, or both.” “According to compelling research, investing K98 in a child results in a K512 return on a sustainable improvement in livelihoods, including higher life expectancy, fewer health problems, and a decline in teen pregnancy and crime.” He further said there must be collaborative effort to leave no child behind in the quest to provide quality education for all. Dr. Kombra also provided primary objectives for the next five years, such as ensuring all 9-year-olds become proficient readers; reducing the poverty of learning; and raising learning. Other primary goals he raised included focusing on preparing children to be ready to learn by: • Scaling up Early Childhood education – Starting 2025; • Trialing different implementation models for accessible and remote areas; • Development of blended curriculum including Accelerated Christian Education (ACE) from ECE to Lower Primary; • Making Phonics mandatory so that every student reads in 7 months; • (Preparatory – P) Curriculum prepares every child for grade 1; • All students have admission numbers and tracked; and that • All students have a child investment account financial literacy and retention strategy. He said the other focus area is in preparing teachers to be ready to teach, which entails: • Restarting annual ongoing teacher professional development; • Investing in well-designed modules focused on content and pedagogy with coaching and mentorship throughout the year; • Providing necessary teaching and learning resources; • Adapting a phased approach that will gradually reach all provinces across all sub-sectors; • The conversion of 18,000 teachers from elementary teachers to diploma level (DHERST) and Diplomas to Bachelor level; and • Training ECE teachers (DHERST). The third focus Area 3 is to ensure School environments are ready for teachers and children, and this includes: • Investments in infrastructure; • Refurbishing classrooms/new classrooms for 2-1-6-6; • Providing gender separated toilet, teacher housing, SBC Teaching and Learning Materials, textbooks, reading Books, syllabus and Teacher Guides, as well as Financial Literacy for all students, ensuring a 1:1 student textbook ratio in primary schools; • Providing Digital Transformation to enhance teaching and learning, and Internet/Wifi and digital libraries for all schools; eCopy textbooks in secondary schools; and • Providing FODE and School of Excellence infrastructure Another focus area is the Flexible and relevant Education pathways, which should see FODE expansion and excellence to attain 100% retention – universal secondary education; and School of Excellence to promote the gifted students for 21st Century jobs; and technical secondary schools prioritising vocational specialisation. Dr Kombra added the should be on modernising the management of the sector, and this means growing investment in Inspections system for quality assurance; integrating data on teachers, schools, and students under one unified ministry-level database architecture; supporting the introduction of national assessments and aptitude tests, and hearing and sight tests at younger grades; and ensuring all teachers have a National Teacher Smart Identification Card “PNG has the global and local knowledge on what to do and how.” “One of the actions we need to take is to increase spending on cost-effective interventions that have been shown to improve student learning and immediately commence prioritising foundation education."
Published on July 20, 2024
NEW BORDER POLICE COMMAND BOSS IS N’DRANOU NEW BORDER POLICE COMMAND BOSS IS N’DRANOU
The former police commander looking after the New Guinea Island Region Assistant Commissioner of Police, Perou N’dranou is now the commander looking after Border Command. This follows a recent transfer directive, dated July 9th, 2024 for the former commander of Boarder Assistant Commissioner of Police Peter Philip to take up his new post as the Assistant Commissioner of Police Training looking after the National Centre of Excellence Bomana. In a small but significant handover ceremony at the police headquarters at Konedobu in Port Moresby today (Thursday July 18th), ACP Peter Philip handed over the command to ACP N’dranou. ACP Philip said policing in border command is very challenging because of the geographical setting. He said with the limited resources the command had been looked after with what they had on hand. "I want to thank the Stakeholders both government and private sectors who have been very supportive in providing assistance when police need help." "I want to thank the three provincial governments the district members, LLG presidents and everyone in Western, East and West Sepik provinces." "I specifically want to thank OK Tedi Mining, one of the major contributors in policing in Western and West Sepik province." He also thanked the police officers who had served under him for their contribution to the command and called on them to do the same to the new commander. He said the stakeholders must also do the same to make sure policing service reaches all the people in the command. ACP N’dranou while taking up the Boarder Command brief thanked Police Commissioner David originally Maning for trusting him to lead a command with more challenges in policing. ACP N'dranou said he is ready to start work as soon as possible. “I have plans for the command but will carry on with what the former ACP had prepared." "While serving in NGI I had always stressed about the basics of policing which I want the police officers to be at work to attend to all when they come." "I also want to work with stakeholders because policing is not only for the police but for everyone." "I also want the police officers to maintain discipline in the command." ACP N’dranou further thanked the police officers, the people of East and West New Britain, New Ireland and Manus who had worked closely with him while serving as the commander of NGI. He said he is ready for the formal handover of the command to the new NGI Commander ACP Naua Vanuawaru.
Published on July 19, 2024