The Miss Bird of Paradise PNG Pageant has officially welcomed East New Britain Province as the newest addition to its national program following a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) signing ceremony held recently. The Miss Bird of Paradise East New Britain Pageant becomes the fifth provincial pageant to sign on this year, adding momentum to the national vision of representing all 22 provinces at the upcoming Golden Jubilee event. The East New Britain committee is led by Chairperson Joachim Lolok, Deputy Chairperson Elizabeth Wong, Secretary Veronica Lako, and Otto Benjamin Mitil Jnr. Michaelyn Marum, a former contestant in the 2024 Miss Bird of Paradise Pageant as Miss BNN Foundation, joins the team as Treasurer. MBOP PNG National Chairperson Anna Bais congratulated the East New Britain team for their commitment to advancing the pageant's goals and fostering provincial representation. “Bringing together all 22 provinces to crown a national queen has always been part of the MBOP strategy. After two successful years, my committee and I are looking forward to welcoming all provinces in December for a historical pageant that will also commemorate PNG’s Golden Jubilee,” Bais said. The MBOP PNG executive committee has extended its best wishes to the newly established East New Britain team as they prepare to crown the province’s first ever Miss Bird of Paradise representative.

A milestone in education and healthcare has been reached with the official opening of the Balimo College School of Nursing — the first Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (DHERST)-accredited nursing school in Western Province. The initiative, funded by the PNG Sustainable Development Program (SDP) in partnership with Kokoda Track Foundation (KTF) and Divine Word University (DWU), will offer a four-year Bachelor of General Nursing, the first tertiary qualification of its kind in the region. The opening marks a critical step forward in addressing the shortage of health professionals in the province. With 33 pioneering students enrolled in the inaugural cohort, the program aims to strengthen local healthcare services and improve access to tertiary education. Speaking at the event, Dr Brad Shaw, Chair of the Balimo College Governing Council, said: “This is a momentous day. We are incredibly proud to officially open the School of Nursing at Balimo College — Western Province’s first accredited tertiary institution — fully funded by SDP. This milestone marks a major step forward for education and health in our region. Through our partnership with Divine Word University, we are thrilled to be offering a Bachelor of General Nursing right here in Balimo, helping to grow a skilled and qualified local health workforce for the future.” Also present at the launch were key figures including Western Governor Taboi Awe Yoto, Delta Fly MP Agena Gamai, Dr Miriam Bogo of the Western Provincial Health Authority, SDP CEO Ms. Lesieli Taviri, DWU Vice President for Academic Affairs Professor Iwona Kolodziejczyk, and local leaders and members of the college’s governing council. The School of Nursing offers facilities unmatched by any other health training institution in the province, including an IT lab, a simulation lab for clinical training, four lecture halls, dedicated tutorial rooms, dormitories for both female and male students, and a library. Acting Principal Stella Agat expressed her optimism. “With the opening of the Balimo College School of Nursing, I have great hope that we will empower our student nurses with the skills and knowledge to improve health outcomes across Western Province.” The student cohort has already completed its first semester, including a two-week clinical placement at Balimo Hospital. All students have successfully progressed to their next semester subjects. Balimo College’s new nursing school represents a powerful investment in Western Province’s future — building capacity, expanding opportunities for local students, and laying the foundation for a stronger, healthier PNG.

In a powerful display of intellect and youth engagement, nine schools in Port Moresby city converged at APEC Haus for the Emstret Schools Debate preliminary round on Tuesday, July 16, 2025, as part of the second week of the PNG Resources Golden Exhibition. The annual debate, organized by Emstret Holdings and supported by PNG CORE and other resource-sector partners, spotlighted students debating issues critical to Papua New Guinea’s resource future and challenged them to tackle complex motions on governance, sustainability, security, and gender inclusion in the country’s resource industries. Marienville Secondary School, a regular contender, was absent this year after its training camp was cancelled, opening the field to fresh competitors and reshuffled matchups. “The debate, themed around Resources and Energy, aims to foster critical thinking and civic dialogue among young minds on the nation's vital resource and energy sectors,” PNG CORE stated in its media release. Debate Round Results Round 1: Jubilee Catholic Secondary (671 points) lost narrowly to Kopkop College (712 points) in a well-argued opener. Round 2: Port Moresby International School (675) defeated Koiari Park Secondary (615) with a decisive 60-point margin. Round 3: Paradise College (680) edged Tokarara Secondary (661) in a tightly contested exchange. Round 4: Gerehu Secondary (611) overcame De La Salle Secondary (493). Round 5: Port Moresby National High School (School of Excellence) delivered a dominant performance, with both affirmative and opposing teams earning a standout 745 points. Judges evaluated teams on originality, local relevance, structure, and teamwork. Emphasis was placed on strong introductions, logical rebuttals, and PNG-specific examples. One judge told students, “All the examples in the world are right here in front of us. We want them to dig deep into their own communities and experiences.” Officially opening the debate, PNG CORE Senior Vice President Mr. Richard E. Kassman OBE connected the event to national progress. “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,” he said. "To all our student debaters, this is your stage.” Mr. Kassman described the debate as more than a contest—calling public speaking an invaluable skill that elevates debate to a “higher stratosphere,” critical not only for academic performance but also for long-term careers. While many teams showed confidence and knowledge, judges encouraged clearer conclusions and actionable recommendations—elements that will be essential in the upcoming semi-finals. The Top Six Schools Progressing to Semi-Finals (July 23) are, Port Moresby School of Excellence Kopkop College Paradise College Port Moresby International School Jubilee Catholic Secondary Tokarara Secondary School The semi-finals, open to the public, will take place on Wednesday, July 23, again at APEC Haus. The winners from each match-up will proceed to the grand final on Friday, July 25, concluding what has become a powerful platform for youth voice and national reflection.

Cronulla halfback Nicho Hynes has declared fans should brace for an immediate response from Panther's star Nathan Cleary after last week's State of Origin disappointment. In a wide-ranging interview, Hynes opened up on the challenges facing NRL halfbacks as they navigate the pressure to perform amid extensive social media criticism. The Sharks playmaker has developed a close friendship with Cleary throughout the past few years and turned to the Penrith No.7 for advice on how to thrive under pressure last season. Cleary has borne the brunt of the criticism following the Blues' loss to Queensland in last Wednesday's State of Origin decider. The halfback responded by starring for the Panthers in Sunday's win over the Eels. It's a performance, Hynes said, that should have opposition teams concerned. "He’s a four-time premiership winner in a row, he’s tactically probably the best player in our game," Hynes said. "I think [Cam] Munster’s the best football player we’ve had for a long time in the game but Nathan’s tactically so good and Queensland just lifted the other night. "They lifted, the whole state lifted and the whole team did for Munster and it just goes like that sometimes. As a halfback, you do wear a lot of it and that just comes with being the No.7 on a rugby league team, it’s like the quarterback in the NFL. I know he strives for perfection and there are days sometimes it just doesn’t turn out. He’s going to come back better for it. "I’m scared for the competition now, how he’s going to bounce back." Cleary has been handed a rest this week and will sit out Friday's clash with the Rabbitohs, but is set to return in Round 21 with plenty of added motivation. Having borne the brunt of extensive criticism in recent years, Hynes can relate to what Cleary has endured in the past week. The Sharks playmaker experienced a rapid rise to fame in 2022 when he joined the Sharks on a lucrative contract and won the Dally M Medal. With the increased profile, however, came big expectations and the blame for Cronulla's underwhelming finals performances in 2022 and 2023 was placed on Hynes. The halfback was also criticised for his performance in last year's State of Origin opener, despite the fact NSW played 73 minutes with 12 men after Joseph-Aukuso Sua'ali'i was sent off. The Sharks have long bristled at the conversation surrounding Hynes, with few playmakers facing as much external criticism as the 29-year-old. Despite the constant focus on his performances, the playmaker leads the league in line-break assists and has already exceeded his try assist tally from last year. Hynes readily admits the pressure got to him earlier in his career but he has now found a way to turn down the outside noise. "I don’t go on social media anymore," he said. "I’ve got a private Instagram account that I still use to check on my mates and see what they’re doing when they’re travelling. "You need your social media fix and to have some fun, you need to switch off and have a scroll. But the amount of hours I used to spend on my phone to now is crazy. "I don’t need external validation anymore. The only validation I need is people around me that I love and my teammates and coaches. I don’t need to be on there searching for things people are saying about me, negative or positive. "I’m just staying neutral, living my life. I’ve got a good life. I can go to sleep every night happy, whether we win or lose because being a good human comes first and there’s more to life than rugby league." Hynes is preparing to go face to face with one of the league's most promising halfbacks when the Sharks host Sam Walker and the Roosters on Friday night. A highly touted junior who shot to fame with a breakout rookie season, the 23-year-old endured plenty of criticism throughout a challenging 2023. Walker came out the other side with a superb 2024 campaign before it came to a shuddering halt when he tore his ACL on the eve of the finals. A thumb injury delayed his return to the field and he eventually made a successful comeback in last week's win over the Dragons. While he's largely tuned out of the discourse, Hynes still hears plenty of noise regarding his fellow playmakers. While he's largely tuned out of the discourse, Hynes still hears plenty of noise regarding his fellow playmakers. Much of it, he fears, lacks the nuance necessary to properly judge the performances of players as they navigate the ups and downs of a rugby league career. "In our game there is only one winner and at the end of the day in October only one halfback wins it every year," he said. "Nathan Cleary’s been that one. "People coming at me, are they saying every other halfback’s a failure in this competition? There’s only one person who gets to win it, one No.7 wins it every year so all of us other halfbacks are chasing that. "Are they calling Mitchell Moses a failure? I don’t think so because he’s a great player, won an Origin series last year and he hasn’t won a comp yet. "We’re still learning, we’re still trying to strive for that. I’m going to keep fighting to do that and hopefully there’s a new No.7 that wins it this year, hopefully it’s me. At the end of the day I don’t see it as failing, I see it as learning and lessons and I could be better in some areas and I feel like I’m playing some good football this year. "It’s a team sport and our team’s doing the best they can to deliver performances and we haven’t done that for the last couple of weeks. [Last week] is the right step and we’ll continue to work hard this week."

In a partnership aimed at improving financial inclusion for smallholder growers and employees of New Britain Palm Oil Ltd (NBPOL), the NASFUND Contributors Savings & Loans Ltd (NCSL) officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Friday, July 4, 2025, in Kimbe, West New Britain province. The agreement marks a new chapter in accessible financial services for thousands of growers and staff across the region, with the introduction of digital banking solutions, fee-free savings, and affordable loan options. The MoU was signed by NCSL Chief Executive Officer Mr. Frans Kootte and witnessed by NCSL Chief Member Services Officer Mr. Maranuf Tataeng. Representing NBPOL was Mr. Tan Tee Ung, Head of Oil Palm Operations, and Mr. Witfred Tangole, Head of Small Growers. In his remarks during the ceremony, Mr. Kootte emphasized the importance of digital financial inclusion, stating, “We recently introduced an app for smartphones so our members can access financial services directly from their devices, without the need to visit a branch. We've also increased our savings rates to ensure members enjoy better returns on their contributions.” The NBPOL General Manager Mr. Azhaza Aziz, through his representative Mr. Tan Tee Ung, praised the initiative and NCSL’s commitment, saying, “We look forward to the successful rollout of this initiative and the positive impact it will have on the lives of our growers, their families, and the wider community.” The rollout includes future financial literacy awareness programs targeting growers and employees, aimed at equipping them with essential knowledge for better financial decision-making. NCSL, in partnership with Nasfund, currently operates offices in Kimbe town, Bialla, and most recently, at the Hargy Corporate Office to ensure support is within reach for its members. This partnership is expected to not only boost financial access and education but also foster long-term economic empowerment for the rural agricultural workforce of Papua New Guinea.

“I don’t want to die. I want to live for my wife and my two sons. I want to raise them, and I want to give back. And now, because of all of you, I believe I can.” Those were the heartfelt words of Samuel Somne (33), a father, husband and tribesman, following a successful corporate fundraising dinner held on Saturday, July 12 at Airways Hotel, Port Moresby, which gave him a renewed chance at life. Diagnosed with a brain tumour, Samuel knew from the beginning that he was not only fighting for himself, but for his wife Florence and their two young sons. Now, with overwhelming support from his family, friends and fellow tribesmen from Injua Village, Nipa, in the Southern Highlands Province, Samuel is preparing to travel to India on July 25, 2025, for the urgent brain surgery he needs. The fundraiser brought together close friends, colleagues, in-laws and community members who gave generously and stood by him in unity. “I was holding on to this one hope,” Samuel told the crowd. “Seeing all of you here and with some giving from what little they have, that leaves me speechless.” At the heart of it all were his people, including fellow tribesman and master of ceremony for the night, Mr. Luke Mongolap, who spoke proudly of Samuel’s role in their community. “In our village, we do not have many educated men. There is only just a few and Samuel is one of them,” Luke said. “Even if it means spending our last to help him, we will. He is worth it.” The night’s guest speaker, Mr. Wapu Sonk, Managing Director of Kumul Petroleum Holdings Ltd, reminded the guests of the importance of helping people while they are still alive. “We must help people when they are alive, not when they are dead. This is the moment to show we care,” Mr. Sonk said. Samuel’s health issues began in 2021 when he started experiencing seizures in his sleep. By 2023, they worsened, and he began collapsing at work. A scan at Port Moresby General Hospital confirmed the presence of a tumour. He was advised to seek treatment overseas immediately. “Many of you I do not even know personally,” Samuel said. “But you gave. You believed in my life.” As he now prepares to leave the country, Samuel carries not just medical records and hope, but the strength and love of a community that rallied to keep him alive. His story is a reminder to all of us that we must not come together only in death, but when someone is still fighting to live.

The New Guinea Islands (NGI) Region was honored over the weekend at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium in Port Moresby city as thousands gathered to celebrate its historical role in shaping Papua New Guinea’s path to independence and nationhood. Hosted as part of PNG Story Month, the event is one of several regional celebrations leading to the country’s 50th Independence Anniversary on September 16th, 2025. NCD Governor Powes Parkop delivering the keynote address, reflected on how the New Guinea Islands through movements such as the Paliau Movement in Manus, the Mataungan Association in East New Britain, and Bougainville’s independence activism—played a defining role in the national conversation on identity, unity, and self-governance. “These efforts laid the foundation for our nation’s freedom,” Governor Parkop said. “We are the descendants and manifestation of that historic decision to unite over a thousand tribes and 860 languages into one country.” The Governor called on young Papua New Guineans to reflect on the lessons of the last 50 years and take ownership of shaping the future. “We can’t change the last 50 years, but we can shape the next 50,” he said. “That is your challenge and your opportunity.” The crowd, estimated at over 20,000 city residents, enjoyed a full-day program of cultural dances, traditional singings, string-band performances, and SME stalls showcasing food, art, and stories from Manus, Bougainville, New Ireland, and East and West New Britain provinces. In a symbolic conclusion to the event, student representatives from each NGI province at the University of Papua New Guinea presented traditional gifts to Governor Parkop, including shell money, mats, carvings, and island delicacies. Each one is a proud expression of identity and appreciation. Governor Parkop thanked the students, performers, and organizing team for bringing the regional story to life, adding: “Today, we are all New Guinea Islanders—because we are one people, one country, and one future.” As PNG Story Month continues through July, August, and September, the spotlight now shifts to the Highlands Region, which will be celebrated this Saturday, July 19.

A historic Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was signed on Wednesday, 9th July 2025 between Miss Bird of Paradise PNG (MBoP PNG), the West Sepik Provincial Administration, and the Vanimo Green River District Administration, marking the official launch of the Miss Bird of Paradise Sandaun Pageant. The agreement paves the way for a strategic collaboration aimed at elevating cultural identity, empowering young women, and positioning Sandaun Province as a vibrant hub for cultural tourism in celebration of Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence Anniversary Golden Jubilee. The pageant will be coordinated by the Commerce and Tourism Division of the West Sepik Provincial Administration, led by Director Mr. Ian Tonte, in support of Mrs. Chrissilla Kabe Talis, the official MBoP Sandaun Pageant Organizer. Anna Bais, Founder and Chairlady of MBoP PNG, commended the momentum in Sandaun, stating: “The ecosystem of empowerment being built here across designers, artisans, dancers, performers, photographers, and videographers will be showcased to the rest of the country.” Deputy Provincial Administrator Mr. Albert Mutumap, who officiated the signing on behalf of the Acting Provincial Administrator, confirmed the full support of the West Sepik Provincial Administration, describing the initiative as a timely platform for unity, inclusion, and cultural pride. Echoing the enthusiasm, Mr. Kida Ambakua, District Administrator for Vanimo Green River, reaffirmed the district’s commitment, noting the pageant’s potential to promote tourism, inspire youth leadership, and boost regional visibility. The Minister for Tourism, Arts and Culture, the Member for Vanimo Green River Electorate, and Patron of Miss Bird of Paradise, Belden Norman Namah, is a key champion of the program and has expressed unwavering support for the rollout of 22 Provincial Pageants. “Having 22 Provincial Culture and Tourism Ambassadors will be a powerful symbol of national identity and pride. Each young woman represents a story, a people, and a culture worthy of the world’s attention,” he said. The Miss MBoP Sandaun Pageant will be held in Vanimo from 25th to 31st August 2025. The crowned winner will go on to represent Sandaun Province at the National Miss Bird of Paradise PNG Pageant, alongside winners from all 22 provinces, each serving as a Culture and Tourism Ambassador for Papua New Guinea. The Sandaun Pageant is part of the VGRE 50th Anniversary Celebration Plan, which features four signature events: - Miss MBoP Sandaun Pageant – 25 to 31 August - VGRE Pikinini Culture Show- 12 to 14 September - VGRE Musical Festival – 15 September - Sandaun Selkambang Show – 16 September Together, these events create a meaningful platform to honor the nation’s Golden Jubilee by celebrating cultural diversity, empowering communities, and inspiring the next generation of leaders.

Five police officers were seriously injured in a nasty road accident at Barakau village along the Magi Highway in Central Province on Saturday and are now admitted to a hospital in Port Moresby for medical treatment. Central Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Chief Inspector Joseph Salle confirmed the five officers, all members of the Central Highway Patrol Unit, were conducting a routine patrol when the accident occurred at around 2PM. The collision involved a police Toyota Land Cruiser vehicle traveling from Port Moresby city towards Gaire and a 10-cubic dump truck belonging to Kana Construction Company heading in the opposite direction. Both vehicles were damaged in the crash. The driver of the dump truck reportedly fled the scene, while all five officers sustained serious injuries. “The dump truck is higher than the Toyota Land Cruiser, so the impact on the police vehicle was serious and affected the police officers. They were rushed to the hospital by St. John Ambulance. Police units from both NCD and Central Province responded, managing to identify eyewitnesses and take possession of the police officers' property. I want to thank the police units for their quick response,” PPC Salle said. Police traffic officers have launched an investigation and are now searching for the dump truck driver, who remains at large. PPC Salle urged the driver to surrender to the authorities immediately. He also extended gratitude to Commander NCD/Central Benjamin Turi and NCD Met. Supt. for their support in ensuring the injured officers received prompt medical attention. He then further thanked the people of Barakau village and members of the public who assisted during the emergency.

The first week of the PNG Resources Golden Exhibition, themed "Building PNG for 50 Years," wrapped up yesterday, Saturday, July 12, at APEC Haus in Port Moresby after six days of vibrant activity, corporate showcases, and school participation. Held from July 7 to 12, the event brought together leading resource companies and students from across the capital, creating opportunities to explore Papua New Guinea’s industrial development, innovation, and career pathways. While the official theme guiding this year’s exhibition is “Unlocking Opportunity Through Partnership,” this first week placed strong emphasis on building industry-education connections as PNG marks 50 years of independence. During the first week, students from seven Port Moresby schools toured interactive booths, observed historical displays, participated in career‑talks, and engaged with industry experts. They explored energy, mining innovations, STEM exhibits, and networked with company representatives to learn about career pathways in PNG’s resource sector. Participating schools included Don Bosco Technical School, Gordons Secondary School, Tokarara Secondary School, Koiari Park Adventist Secondary school, Port Moresby National High School, Jubilee Catholic Secondary school, and De La Salle Secondary School. Although numerous mining, engineering, safety, and logistics companies were present, these are a couple during Week One. XCMG, one of the world’s largest construction machinery manufacturers, featured prominently. Founded in 1943 in China, the company has established strong operational footprints in Lae, Port Moresby, Mount Hagen, and Tabubil. “Our presence in PNG is focused on helping build a better nation,” said XCMG exhibition spokesperson Celestine Kabilu. “From bridges to roads, we are committed to supporting infrastructure and empowering local capacity through training and partnerships.” Pacific Safety Limited, trading under the brand PNG Embroidery, also attracted attention with its display of industrial safety wear, corporate uniforms, and custom apparel tailored for PNG’s mining and construction industries. The company has grown steadily over the past decade to become a trusted name in the industry. “We are proud to supply garments that protect the hardworking people of PNG’s mining and industrial sectors,” said a PNG Embroidery sales representative. “Safety, durability, and quality define everything we produce.” Santos, one of PNG’s key energy developers, used the exhibition to reflect its long-standing presence in the country. Founded in 1954 in Australia, Santos has expanded its footprint throughout the region, including significant investment in PNG’s oil and gas sector. During Week One, Santos focused on presenting its corporate history and achievements in PNG. The company will use Week Three of the exhibition to unveil its community initiatives, educational support programs, and environmental sustainability efforts. The exhibition continues into Week Two, with a new group of schools scheduled to attend and further corporate presentations planned. Organizers have stated that the goal is to educate, inspire, and connect young Papua New Guineans with the industries shaping the country’s future.

In a powerful show of youth, identity, and national pride, students from the University of Papua New Guinea opened New Guinea Islands Day at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium in Port Moresby city, leading float parades and cultural showcases that launched the region’s contribution to PNG Story Month. Draped in traditional attire from Manus, Bougainville, New Ireland, and East and West New Britain, the students brought colour and purpose to the day’s celebration by setting the stage for a historic and emotional program commemorating 50 years of Papua New Guinea’s independence. NCD Governor Powes Parkop in delivering the keynote speech, praised the energy of the youth and reflected on the rich cultural roots of the New Guinea Islands. “Our people have existed on these islands since time immemorial, from the western part of Manus to Motlock and Buin. We are ancient people with ancient culture, and our story must be told, amplified, and celebrated,” he said. Parkop highlighted the role New Guinea Islands leaders played in the lead-up to independence in 1975, describing their contribution as “defining and critical” to PNG’s national identity. “As we approach our Golden Jubilee in just nine weeks, we must understand and celebrate the road that brought us here so that we can shape the road ahead.” He called on young Papua New Guineans to reflect on what story they will be telling in the next 50 years. “What lessons will you learn from the last 50 years? How will you redefine and recreate our nation for your children, your families, and your future?” The Governor also reminded the nation of the peaceful nature of PNG’s independence—a rarity in the global context. “We did not fight a war for our freedom. We gained it peacefully. That is a powerful legacy we must honor.” The event, running throughout the day, features cultural performances, string band music, local SME stalls, and traditional food, all highlighting the diversity and unity of the New Guinea Islands region. Governor Parkop thanked the UPNG students, cultural groups, and the event team who have worked since May delivering the Pacific, Asian, and Australian stories leading into the PNG Story Month finale. “Today, we are all New Guinea Islanders, because we are one nation, one people, on one journey together.”

Over 100 students from Divine Word University (DWU) took part in a major town clean-up this morning, Saturday, the 12th of July 2025, as part of a community service initiative organised by the DWU Student Representative Council (SRC) through its Pageant and Community Service Committee. SRC President McKoi Malt said the clean-up was part of efforts to promote and support the upcoming DWU Pageant Show, which will be held later this year. Malt told PNG HAUSBUNG that “The clean-up was organised by the SRC Pageant and Community Service Committee, with full support from the SRC executives.” He said students gathered at the Student Services car park around 7:00 AM before being transported to the Water Board area. From there, they were divided into smaller groups and assigned to clean different locations, including the fish market, the main market, and roads leading to Brian Bell, parts of Kalibobo Oval, and areas near the Water Board. Malt said, “The SRC and Student Services provided gloves, rakes, and garbage bags, and arranged two fleets of vehicles for rubbish collection and disposal.” He also mentioned that during the clean-up, students came across officers from the Madang Police and the Community Policing Unit (CPU), who were also cleaning parts of the town. “Although the initiative of the police and CPU was separate, both groups collaborated on the day to clean the area,” Malt said. He confirmed that the activity ran from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM, beginning at the Water Board and ending near the fish market and Memorial Lutheran Church. SRC Vice Female President Tess Duri also spoke about the Cleanathon, explaining that it is an initiative designed to engage students in promoting the values of community engagement, respect, and learning for life. Duri stated, “The Cleanathon is formulated to engage students of Divine Word University to promote and demonstrate the values such as community engagement, respect, and learning for life.” She added, “In this Cleanathon, we also aimed to have students interact with locals and provide students the understanding and need of promoting a clean environment externally, where the students can step out of the boundaries of the university to experience doing something for the community, which is not frequently done.” According to Duri, the Cleanathon is usually organised annually by the SRC to promote volunteering among students and to build character. “It is usual that the SRC of the University conducts a school Cleanathon as an activity that not only promotes a clean environment but to help students to develop the character of active volunteering,” she said. She explained that Madang Town was chosen for the clean-up because it is where many people, including students, access goods and services. Duri said, “In Madang Town, this is where most of the people travel to make incomes and provide basic services, and for the students, this is where we come to shop, to make transactions, and to have access to services.” “We encourage students to participate as this shows our pride in having to share a place of common interest,” she added. She also pointed out that the Cleanathon was the first for the year and was organised as a lead-up to the Pageant Night. “This Cleanathon is the first of the year 2025, and because it encouraged teamwork among the students and demonstrated unity among the student body. "It also helps students to develop civic responsibility." She said the activity fulfilled two of the Pageant’s objectives: “Encouraging Involvement and Cooperation among the students, staff, and DWU community,” and “Providing an opportunity for networking and connections.” Duri described the Cleanathon as a success. “There were more students who showed up than anticipated, meaning there were three rounds of drop-offs by three separate vehicles." "We covered more ground due to the large number, and there was an overwhelming sense of participation and commitment." “Students were excited to do something for the community and picked rubbish, raked and packed them away in garbage bags enthusiastically."