A total of 38,716 Grade 12 students from 238 secondary schools nationwide, including six National Schools of Excellence (NSoEs), will sit for the Written Expression National Examination on Monday, August 4, 2025. Secretary for Education, Dr. Uke Kombra, confirmed that all exam booklets have been delivered to provincial schools and were distributed to students on Monday, July 28. “The Grade 12 Written Expression Exam (WEX) is the first National Examination for Grade 12 students this year,” Dr. Kombra stated. “It holds the same level of importance as the upper secondary certificate exams scheduled for October.” To maintain the integrity and fairness of the examination, the Department of Education has implemented strict security protocols for the handling and distribution of the exam papers. “The exam must reflect each student’s individual effort,” Dr. Kombra said. “We urge all students to do their best and demonstrate what they have learned. Teachers and schools also have a responsibility to uphold the integrity of the examination process.” Marking of the Written Expression Exam will take place in Port Moresby from August 17 to 23. Dr. Kombra also issued a firm warning against malpractice during the exam period. “Any form of cheating will carry serious consequences, including non-certification for students, termination of teachers involved, and suspension of schools for a minimum of three years,” he said. “We have taken strong steps to eliminate cheating. As a result, exam results now reflect genuine student effort and provide a stronger benchmark for education.” In closing, Dr. Kombra extended his best wishes to all Grade 12 students as they prepare to sit for their first national examination of 2025.

Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited (KPHL) has officially signed a partnership with the National Department of Education (NDoE) today 31ST July 2025 to support Papua New Guinea’s brightest Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) students through overseas scholarships starting in 2025. Under this partnership, starting August 2025, KPHL will sponsor the top 30 STEM students annually from national schools of excellence—representing the top 1%—to pursue undergraduate studies in world-renowned universities abroad. The total investment is equivalent to approximately USD 50 million, that is K150 million Kina. KPHL Managing Director Wapu Sonk described the initiative as a long-term investment in the nation’s human capital. “This is how we transfer the wealth generated from our petroleum and energy resources into tangible human development,” Sonk said. “We believe education is the bridge between potential and progress.” Currently, Papua New Guinea has 280 STEM students studying overseas, including 107 in the United States, 50 in China, 30 in India, and 5 in Fiji. According to Education Secretary Dr. Uke Kombra, 2026 will see the inclusion of new destinations across Melanesia, particularly for petroleum chemical and medical studies. Dr. Kombra praised the partnership, calling it a milestone in public-private collaboration. “Through KPHL’s strategic support, we are creating a pathway to global competitiveness and excellence,” he said. The Memorandum of Understanding was officially signed in Port Moresby today, with both parties calling on other corporate entities to join in supporting PNG’s future generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators.

Port Moresby is set to welcome a groundbreaking development that promises to transform the city’s commercial and residential landscape over the next decade and that is the New Chinatown Project. Led by Boasen International Holdings Ltd, it was publicly presented during a vibrant SME partnership event between Chinatown and POM City Market, held at Five Mile on Saturday 26 of July 2025. In an exclusive interview, Steven Jiang, Director of Sales for Boasen International, outlined the ambitious three-phase plan that will see the rise of Port Moresby’s largest commercial complex, integrating shopping, residential, and business spaces into one cohesive development. “New Chinatown is not just a market or a shopping area it’s a new landmark,” Jiang said. “It’s a complete lifestyle and investment destination where people can live, work, and shop in one place.” According to Jiang, the project will unfold in three key phases, with each phase expected to take two years and the entire project projected to be completed within ten years. Phase One – Commercial Complex: Currently under construction, this phase will feature 396 retail shop spaces, making it the largest shopping mall in the Port Moresby area. Boasen is actively in discussions with global retail giants such as Huawei and Nike to establish their presence within the complex. Phase Two – Residential Apartments: With demand already surging, over 600 fully furnished residential units are being developed. These include 2-bedroom, 3-bedroom, and 4-bedroom apartments, complete with beds, TVs, air conditioners, and designated parking. The goal is to offer comfortable, high-standard living for families of all sizes. Phase Three – Office Complex and European Mall: The final phase will introduce an office tower and a “European Mall”, designed to house big Western brands, adding a new dimension to Port Moresby’s urban identity. “This will be the first project of its kind in the city,” Jiang said. “You won’t have to travel far because everything you need will be just downstairs.” The entire development is backed by Chinese developer and investor Rugui Lin, who owns and leads Boasen International Holdings Ltd. Lin is the key financier and visionary behind the New Chinatown concept, which aims to combine international standards with local potential. Saturday’s launch event, held in collaboration with POM City Market, featured over 100 small and medium-sized enterprises displaying their products and services. The event highlighted Chinatown’s vision not only as a modern infrastructure project but as a hub for local economic empowerment. “We want Chinatown to be a place where Papua New Guinean SMEs grow alongside international investors,” Jiang added. Boasen International is encouraging early investors and interested buyers to come forward, with more updates expected as construction continues.

The 2025 Inter-Schools Debate Grand Final between Kopkop College and Port Moresby National School of Excellence (POMNATS), held at APEC Haus during the final day of the PNG Resources Golden Exhibition, showcased the intellectual strength of Papua New Guinea’s youth as they explored one of the country's most pressing policy questions: “Should Papua New Guinea adopt the Resource Nationalism approach to maximize its economic and social benefits?” At the end of a well-contested and engaging debate, POMNATS emerged as the winning team, impressing the judges with their clarity of argument, strong delivery, and deep connection to the nation’s current economic realities. Both schools demonstrated critical thinking, confidence, and strong public speaking skills as they unpacked the complexities of resource governance in Papua New Guinea. Kopkop College, representing the affirmative side, began with a compelling introduction grounded in national history and economic sovereignty. Their first speaker presented arguments that included historical events such as the Bougainville crisis and referenced international models like Norway’s Petroleum Fund, advocating for increased state control over PNG’s natural resources. However, the team experienced a loss of momentum during the second speech. Second speaker appeared confident but at times disconnected from the audience. While incorporating locally relevant examples, the structure and transitions in his argument lacked fluency and impact. Time constraints also hindered delivery. Their third speaker, Dreonera Tebegetu, regained composure for the team, delivering with authority and passion. Her examples were sharp and mostly delivered without notes. However, toward the latter part of her speech, cohesion with the central argument began to weaken, affecting the overall persuasiveness of her conclusion. In contrast, POMNATS, who opposed the motion, maintained consistency throughout the period. Their second speaker, Dago Morea, stood out for his calm and measured approach. He opened with a thought-provoking quote that immediately resonated with the audience and followed up with concrete, real-world examples. His delivery was articulate and engaging, using language that connected naturally with the audience. POMNATS presented a structured argument against resource nationalism, highlighting potential economic instability, the importance of foreign investment, and the dangers of centralized resource control in a context of ongoing governance challenges. Their rebuttals were measured and evidence based. The judges commended both teams for their research, composure, and ability to critically examine such a nationally significant issue. Ultimately, Port Moresby National School of Excellence was awarded the award, praised for their coherence, depth of analysis, and practical perspective on the issue. As applause filled the room and awards were presented, the event served as a timely reminder that Papua New Guinea’s emerging generation is ready to lead critical conversations that shape the nation’s future.

With the hopes of a nation behind them, Wan Squad Dance Crew officially departed on Friday for Phoenix, Arizona, where they will represent Papua New Guinea at the 2025 Hip Hop International (HHI) World Championship, aiming to defend the prestigious World Title they won last year. Backed by a K150,000 sponsorship from Pacific Industries Limited through its high-energy MTN Dew brand, Wan Squad’s participation is more than just another competition, it’s a milestone in the growth of PNG’s dance culture. During a farewell gathering in Port Moresby, Wan Squad Manager and Creative Director Pyan Ng delivered a powerful message reflecting on the crew’s journey and the growing impact of breakdancing in the country. “First, I want to thank our families, friends, and the community,” Ng said. “Your support has carried us this far and will carry us forward as we fly the flag once more on the world stage.” Ng spoke passionately about the evolution of breakdancing in Papua New Guinea, recalling the crew’s early performances and the transformative experience of competing internationally. “Our first international competition opened our eyes to a much bigger world, and we brought that energy home. That inspiration led to the creation of the National Dance Championships, which have now become a powerful platform for workshops, standards, and community engagement." These national championships have provided emerging dancers with structured training opportunities and national recognition, helping to shape a new generation of talent across PNG. “We’re not just dancing, we’re building something for the next generation,” Ng added. “It’s about creating pathways so that other young people in PNG can take this further than we ever imagined.” In addition to thanking local supporters, Ng acknowledged the global dance community for their encouragement over the past seven years, saying it played a key role in Wan Squad’s growth and confidence on the international stage. The team’s departure was also recognized by Pacific Industries Ltd, which has partnered with Wan Squad for the fourth consecutive year. Sharani Chue, Director of Marketing at Pacific Industries, praised the dancers' discipline and energy. “Wan Squad’s journey is one of discipline, passion, and unstoppable drive – exactly what MTN Dew stands for. We are proud to stand behind them as they represent not only themselves, but every young dreamer in Papua New Guinea who dares to chase excellence.” Pyan Ng closed his speech with words that captured the spirit of their journey. “This continued support from MTN Dew and Pacific Industries means everything to us. It not only makes this journey possible but shows us that our country believes in us. We’re proud to carry the flag and determined to give it our all on the world stage.” Wan Squad will compete against the world’s best crews in Phoenix, but they go with more than just skill they carry the dreams of a nation ready to dance its way into global history once again.

The final day of the PNG Resources Golden Exhibition at APEC Haus in Port Moresby will end with the grand final of the Inter School Debate that is set for Friday 25th of July 2025 at 10:30am, with Kopkop College and the Port Moresby National School of Excellence (POMNATS) set to debate on the topic-  Should Papua New Guinea adopt a “Resource Nationalism” approach to maximize its economic and social benefits? The semi-final rounds for the PNG Resources Golden Expo Inter School Debate concluded on Wednesday 23rd July, with Port Moresby School of Excellence (POMNATS) and Kopkop College emerging victorious and advancing to the grand final. The fiercely contested rounds saw six prominent secondary schools in NCD compete in a display of sharp intellect and spirited debate. These schools include Paradise College, Port Moresby School of Excellence, Tokarara Secondary School, Port Moresby International School (POMIS), Kopkop College, and Jubilee Catholic Secondary School. In Round 1, Kopkop College narrowly edged out Port Moresby School of Excellence to secure the top spot. Round 2 saw Paradise College defeat POMIS, claiming third place, while Tokarara Secondary School took fifth place against Jubilee Catholic Secondary School. PNG Resources Golden Exhibition Project Manager Ruth Waram commenting on the event said: "This PNG CORE event facilitated by Em Stret Holdings encourages collaborative learning and academic growth among participating schools and students." "We are proud of all the schools for their impressive performances. The close scores highlight the high level of education and student engagement in our region.” “The Expo has provided a great platform for the students to engage and learn about the PNG resources industry, and debate on topics that are related to the industry.” Ms Waram thanked all the participating schools and their teachers for the time, especially those who participated in the semifinals on a public holiday. The grand final is expected to be an exciting event. The Expo and the debate are open to the public. Entry is free. "We look forward to seeing you all at APEC Haus on the last day of the Expo to witness what will be an exciting debate." The PNG Resources Golden Expo Debate continues to inspire and cultivate the next generation of leaders and thinkers within the community. The organisers extend their gratitude to all participating schools, teachers, and supporters who have made this event a vibrant platform for academic excellence.

Pacific Industries Limited (PIL), through its MTN Dew brand, has reaffirmed its support for Papua New Guinea’s Wan Squad Dance Crew as they prepare to defend their title at the 2025 Hip Hop International (HHI) World Championship in Phoenix, Arizona, USA, from July 26 to August 2. Now in its fourth year of partnership, PIL has pledged K150,000 to assist with Wan Squad’s international campaign, covering costs including travel, accommodation, and registration. The sponsorship underscores PIL’s ongoing commitment to youth development, creative expression, and cultural representation. Wan Squad made national history in 2024 by becoming the first team from Papua New Guinea to win a world title in the Adult Division at the HHI competition—an achievement that brought international recognition to PNG’s hip hop scene. Speaking at a presentation held on Thursday, 17 July 2025, at the Wan Squad Dance Studio, PIL’s Director of Marketing, Sharani Chue, said the company is proud to continue backing the team. “Supporting Wan Squad again this year reflects our long-standing commitment to empowering youth and showcasing PNG excellence,” Ms Chue said. “Their passion and perseverance align perfectly with the MTN Dew spirit—fearless, bold, and driven.” The mock cheque presentation ceremony marked more than a sponsorship—it celebrated shared values of resilience, creativity, and national pride. Wan Squad is set to leave for the United States in the coming days, carrying the hopes of many young Papua New Guineans inspired by their journey. Their presence on the global stage is not only a testament to their talent but also a representation of the vibrant culture and potential of PNG’s youth. PIL and MTN Dew extended their best wishes to the crew and encouraged continued public support as Wan Squad steps forward to once again raise the national flag on the world stage.

In an effort to make financial wellbeing more accessible, Nasfund Contributors Savings and Loan Society (NCSL) is strengthening its commitment to financial literacy by taking its services directly into the workplace. Through recent engagement sessions held with employees at Paradise Foods Ltd and British American Tobacco PNG (BAT), NCSL delivered practical information on savings, revised interest rates, and the benefits of its financial products. These outreach activities are part of a broader initiative by NCSL to bridge financial knowledge gaps, especially for workers who may face challenges accessing in-branch services due to time constraints. “Our members are busy,” said Lawes Omeri, NCSL Business Relations Manager. “That’s why we bring the conversation to them and whether it’s explaining our savings products or helping someone financially plan for the future, our goal is to make financial wellbeing easier and more achievable.” Each session was interactive, offering employees the opportunity to ask questions, receive tailored advice, and better understand how savings can serve as a financial cushion in uncertain times. BAT HR and Payroll representative, Henry Midave, acknowledged the value of this approach: “It’s not every day that service providers come to us." "The NCSL team made the effort to speak directly with our staff, helping them understand how to save money and prepare for rainy days. That kind of support makes a real difference.” The sessions emphasized that financial literacy is not merely about managing money, but about building resilience and planning. With updated interest rates now in effect, members were encouraged to reassess their financial goals and explore options that align with their needs. NCSL’s workplace outreach reflects a community-focused strategy, placing member empowerment at the centre of its operations. By continuing to meet members where they are, NCSL aims to foster informed financial decision-making and long-term financial security.

More than 300 youths gathered yesterday, Saturday 19th July 2025 at the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) for a full-day Youth Skills Day Workshop. The event was organized by UNICEF, UNFPA, and UNDP in partnership with UPNG, Digikesen, and the European Union, aims to equip Papua New Guinean youth with essential digital skills, career guidance in technology, and real pathways to entrepreneurship, mentorship, and training opportunities. During the final panel of the day two local entrepreneur whose voices resonated throughout the event is Klenneth Pombo, content creator (PNG for REALZ), and Wesley Roy, CEO of Brave Group International. Their speeches emphasized the value of authenticity, consistency, and purposeful use of digital tools, inspiring the next generation of entrepreneurs to take ownership of their future. Klenneth Pombo, a leading content creator who built his brand PNG for REALZ from the ground up, encouraged participants to focus on being true to themselves and telling their own stories. He shared that success in content creation is not about appearance or popularity, but about consistently showing up and sharing real experiences. “Whatever that is — just be yourself. People can tell when you are being authentic, and they respond to that. Whether it’s through your storytelling, your truth, or your voice — that’s what builds connection,” he said. Pombo reminded youth that while digital tools like ChatGPT and smartphones can help with content planning, but it is consistency that builds momentum. “It’s easier now to grow a following — but only if you’re consistent. Just start, use what you have, and keep going.” Wesley Roy, a prominent entrepreneur and founder of multiple companies under the Brave Group umbrella, told participants that the most powerful skill they can develop is discipline through consistency. “Before you achieve anything in school, business, or content you need to be consistent. Make a plan, stick to it, and especially do it on the days when you don’t feel like it,” he said. Speaking on the rise of artificial intelligence and online platforms, Roy urged young people to view AI as a tool but not a replacement for hard work. “AI, social media, Google, etc. they are tools. They can help, but they will not do the work for you. You still must push yourself.” Roy added that self-awareness and personal responsibility are just as important as technology skills. “You need to know your strengths and weaknesses. Learn how to use the tools, but don’t let them use you.” The Youth Skills Day Workshop offered more than practical training — it gave young people across Port Moresby and nearby communities the opportunity to hear honest, grounded advice from local leaders. Both speakers showed that success in the digital age is not about shortcuts or luck. Instead, it is about understanding yourself, showing up every day, and using the tools available with purpose.

Cricket PNG’s national teams, the PNG Barramundis and PNG Lewas, made a landmark appearance at the PNG Resources Golden Exhibition on Saturday 19th July 2025, becoming the first sporting teams to visit the country’s premier mining and petroleum industry showcase that is currently hosted by the PNG Chamber of Resources and Energy (PNG CORE). The exhibition provided a unique platform for the players to engage directly with industry leaders and learn about the nation's key resource sectors and their broader impact on community development and sport sponsorship. For PNG Lewas Captain Brenda Tau, the experience was both exciting and enlightening. “Well, firstly, thank you to PNG CORE for giving us this opportunity to actually come to the Golden Resources Exhibition. It’s really good to be here. It’s actually my first time, including my team,” she said. Tau said the exhibition gave her team valuable insight into how the country’s resource sector supports national development, including sports. “You get to learn a lot about the resources and what they give back to our country, our people, and even to sporting teams. It’s just really good to be here to learn all about that,” she added. PNG Barramundis Captain Assadollah Vala said one of the highlights for him was learning about gold extraction and the science behind resource processing. “Obviously, I think the extraction—the work they were speaking about, how they go underground and extract all those golds and silvers, the process they go about, the amount of time they put in to get the gold out of the ground—it was something new that I learned today,” Vala said. The curator of the PNG Resources Golden Exhibition, Ms. Ruth Waram, expressed gratitude to Cricket PNG for making the visit possible. “On behalf of the PNG Chamber of Resources and Energy and the PNG Resources Golden Expo team, we sincerely thank Cricket PNG for bringing our two champion teams, the Barras and the Lewas, to the expo today. We’re really privileged to have them. They’re the first sporting teams to visit, apart from the general public and schools,” Waram said.

Students from Port Moresby National School of Excellence (POMSOE) had a strong showing at the PNG Schools Resource Debate, they’re heading into the semi-finals ranked No. 1 out of the top six teams, scoring an impressive 745 points in the preliminary rounds. They now advance with confidence, strategy and a whole lot of teamwork. But this wasn’t just about winning. For these students, debating is about finding their voice, learning real-world issues and showing Papua New Guinea, that young people have something powerful to say. According to Mrs. Masere, the Head of the English Department, the debate is about much more than public speaking. It’s a full-team showcase. “We’re preparing them for the outside world,” she said. "We have three different streams; science, humanities and STEM and the English department connects them. These debates are how we market our students.” Mrs Masere added that her selection wasn’t just based on grades, but on how well students could connect with an audience. “I picked students who don’t rely too much on notes. They speak naturally and engage the room. The other students were researchers which they gathered the facts and gave the content to the final speakers,” said Mrs. Masere. On the day of the debate, POMNSOE’s original opponent didn’t turn up. With only minutes to spare, the school formed an opposition team from within their own student group. Despite the surprise, both sides were ready to speak about what they had originally researched to argue for. “We were prepared to be the affirmative,” said Angelina Ageva, the first speaker of the opposing team. “But when we had no opponent, we flipped sides and debated our own team. It was a fun challenge.” The affirmative (government) team included, Tiriman Masi, - First speaker, who is from mainstream Science, Dago Morea, 2nd speaker from the humanities stream, Raychamal Urai, 3rd speaker from STEM stream. The newly formed opposition team featured Caleb Orape, 3rd speaker, from STEM science, Ephraim Anaibere, 2nd speaker, and finally Angelina Ageva from the science stream as the 1st speaker. In response to why debate is important, Caleb said, “Many young Papua New Guineans don’t know how to express themselves. That can lead to frustration. Debate helps us speak up peacefully.” Ephraim agreed. “We’re not just learning how to talk, we’re learning how our country works.” Angelina added, “It’s not about showing off who’s smart. It’s about being heard and being ready to lead.” Mrs Masere said the school was proud to represent all National Schools of Excellence, especially with this year marking POMSOE’s 30th anniversary. “Some top schools weren’t here, so we stood in for them too,” she said. “Our hope is that the students are seen, not just by judges, but by recruiters, policymakers and future employers.” The team is now preparing to face Kopkop College in the semi-finals on Wednesday, July 23. The motion will be: “Establishing a stand-alone sovereign wealth fund would enhance transparency, peaceful stability and intergenerational equity compared to relying on state-owned enterprises.” The grand final is set for Friday, July 25 during the Golden Resource Exhibition. As the top seed, all eyes are now on POMSOE.

After a fierce preliminary round at APEC Haus, six schools have advanced to the semi-finals of the Emstret Schools Debate, held during the second week of the PNG Resources Golden Exhibition. The event, themed around resource and energy governance, saw nine Port Moresby secondary schools compete, with six now moving forward to the semi-finals on Wednesday, July 23: Port Moresby School of Excellence Kopkop College Paradise College Port Moresby International School Jubilee Catholic Secondary School Tokarara Secondary School Semi-Final Matchups and Motions Match 1 Affirmative: Port Moresby School of Excellence Opposition: Kopkop College Motion: “Establishing a stand‑alone sovereign wealth fund would enhance transparency, peaceful stability, and intergenerational equity compared to relying on state‑owned enterprises.” Match 2 Affirmative: Paradise College Opposition: Port Moresby International School Motion: “In light of ongoing rural crime and land disputes, which security reform—expedited judicial processes, community policing, or economic alternatives—would most effectively boost investor confidence?” Match 3 Jubilee Catholic Secondary School vs Tokarara Secondary School Motion: “Should mining companies be mandated to allocate a fixed percentage of their annual profits to community development and environmental restoration?” Judges will assess teams on argument structure, relevance of PNG-based examples, team coordination, creativity, rebuttal strength, and clarity of conclusions. Preliminary rounds praised confident presentation but flagged a need for deeper policy-oriented recommendations. According to PNG CORE’s statement, the event is more than a contest of rhetoric—it is a platform for building future resource policymakers who recognize that governance must be reflective of people, community, and long-term vision. The release highlighted how the debate “serves as more than just a contest of words” to inspire engagement with Papua New Guinea’s economic backbone. The debate was officially launched by Mr. Richard E. Kassman OBE, Senior Vice President of PNG CORE, who linked the event to the nation’s 50-year celebration of its resource sector. “When you walk through PNG CORE’s Golden Resources Exhibition, you will indeed join us in commemorating the 50 years of operations for the Resource sector. And there is much to celebrate and be proud of.” Mr. Kassman also emphasized the importance of public speaking, saying students were “elevating debating to a higher stratosphere,” skillsets critical not only for academic success but for long-term career development. Winners of the semi-final matches will compete in the grand final on Friday, July 25, to be crowned champions of the 2025 PNG Golden Resource Exhibition debate series. Organizers confirm that the coming week will feature additional schools and enhanced industry engagement, offering students more opportunities to engage with Papua New Guinea’s resource and energy sectors.