With music, movement and messages of unity, the India Day 2025 celebration in Port Moresby became more than just a cultural festival, it signaled a growing role for diplomacy driven by people, not just politics. Held in tandem with International Yoga Day, the gathering served as a soft-power showcase of India-PNG relations, while also wrapping up the “Asia and Pacific Story” series of a months-long prelude to Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence anniversary in September. National Capital District Governor Powes Parkop, who has long championed regional integration, used the occasion to highlight the importance of strengthening ties not only between India and PNG, but also across the broader Indo-Pacific. “Indian culture is rooted in peace. Let us come together to build a just, fair and peaceful world,” he said, adding that “culture and partnership must go hand in hand” in this time of global crises. While public attention was drawn to the Indian dance troupes, yoga demonstrations and food stalls, a deeper message underpinned the day’s events: development through cooperation. Parkop acknowledged the Indian diaspora’s contribution to PNG’s growth particularly in health, education and business while citing leaders such as Nasfund CEO Rajeev Sharma and Omprakash Seshadri as examples of “shared progress.” “We cannot look at culture in isolation from development,” he told the crowd. “This is a time to invest in people-to-people links that can drive both peace and prosperity.” The celebration drew attendance from across the region, including West New Britain Governor Sasindran Muthuvel and Indian High Commission Charge Affairs Mukesh Kumar. Both reaffirmed the values of democracy, mutual respect, and service that underpin the bilateral relationship. Sharma, speaking from the stage, called PNG his “second motherland” a sentiment met with applause from both Indian nationals and locals. Parkop’s remarks also extended to the wider region, as he acknowledged the presence and partnership of Pacific neighbors, Australia and New Zealand, and the work of the Amazing Port Moresby team in hosting the event. Looking ahead, the city prepares for the next major cultural milestone event the Meganesia Concert on June 28 at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium, featuring local legends like Anslom and Airileke Ingram of Yothu Yindi, with support from the Australian High Commission and the NCDC. As PNG counts down to its golden jubilee, events like India Day are not just markers of heritage they’re catalysts for diplomacy.

At a recent press briefing in Port Moresby, Dr Harsha Baranage, Secretary of the Sri Lanka PNG Friendship Foundation, offered a rare behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to restore eyesight to a blind patient—and why this type of surgery is one of the most complex in modern medicine. Corneas, the transparent outer layer of the eye, must be harvested from donors in Sri Lanka within four hours of death, then preserved using special storage fluids and chemicals, and kept at low temperatures—ideally −80°C—before being flown into Papua New Guinea. “The eye must arrive viable, intact, and matched to a recipient already screened,” Dr Baranage explained. “That requires military-level timing and trust across every checkpoint.” Once the eye reaches PNG, surgical teams at the Centre for Eye Health step in. The transplant, done under general anesthesia, requires both precision and post-operative monitoring. The outcome? A patient who may have lived in darkness for years walks away with vision—and dignity. “Our greatest reward is seeing that first moment a patient realizes they can see again,” said Dr Baranage. “It is an emotional, life-affirming experience.” In addition to transplants, the Foundation has supported cataract surgeries and rural outreach clinics, making medical care accessible in hard-to-reach areas.

Most Papua New Guineans have never heard of the Sri Lanka Papua New Guinea Friendship Foundation (SLPNGFF), Yet, for over three decades, this community-led initiative has been quietly restoring sight to citizens suffering from corneal blindness—completely free of charge. The Foundation works closely with Sri Lanka’s Eye Donation Society, where corneas are donated voluntarily through a deeply rooted cultural practice of dana—a Buddhist principle of selfless giving. The tissues are harvested within hours of death, preserved in cold storage, and transported to Papua New Guinea in medically sealed conditions. Once in Port Moresby, the Centre for Eye Health takes over. Patients selected are those with severe or visible eye damage, often living in silence due to the stigma of blindness. “People with damaged corneas live not just in darkness, but in shame. Restoring their vision means restoring their place in society,” said Dr Harsha Baranage, Board Certified Consultant Physician and Secretary of the Foundation. Over 50 successful transplants have been carried out since the first in 1990. The program has also delivered community outreach in rural PNG, including 68 cataract surgeries in Western Province last year. “This is about giving people back their confidence, not just their eyesight,” added Dr Baranage.

Sri Lankan music will take centre stage in Port Moresby city in July, but the concert goes far beyond entertainment. The Sri Lanka Papua New Guinea Friendship Foundation (SLPNGFF) has announced a major Musical Extravaganza featuring Sri Lankan pop star Yohani, Infinity Band, and PNG’s own Rhee Gial, with all proceeds going directly to fund corneal transplant surgeries for visually impaired citizens. Set for Saturday, 5th July 2025, the event is more than a cultural showcase, it’s an act of cross-border compassion. “This is a night for vision! literally and metaphorically,” said Anthony Amerasinghe, President of SLPNGFF. “Every ticket will help someone regain their sight.” According to the Foundation, the funds raised will cover transportation of donor corneas from Sri Lanka, freight, customs clearance, surgical consumables, and aftercare. These are critical costs not covered under free donation schemes. The concert is also a celebration of unity between Sri Lanka and PNG, whose long-standing friendship has been rooted in humanitarian collaboration, not just cultural ties. “It’s not just about music but it is about what music can do,” Mr. Amerasinghe said.

The Papua New Guinea Olympic Committee (PNGOC) has concluded its 2025 Annual General Assembly (AGA), held on Sunday, June 22, at the Gateway Hotel in Port Moresby city. The meeting brought together representatives from national sporting federations and key stakeholders to review the organization’s 2024 activities. During the assembly, members approved both the 2024 Annual Report and the audited financial statements. PNGOC Secretary-General Desmond Kaviagu reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to transparency and accountability, saying that the assembly aligned with constitutional obligations and reflected good governance practices. “The AGA ensures we remain answerable to our members and partners for how funds are raised and used.” The year 2024 marked the conclusion of the PNGOC’s four-year Strategic Plan (2021–2024) and coincided with the Paris Olympic Games. PNGOC President Emma Waiwai OL, described the period as one defined by ‘progress, resilience, and unity.’ She highlighted the achievements of Team PNG athletes, including weightlifter Morea Baru’s fifth-place Olympic finish and taekwondo athlete Gibson Mara’s historic first-round win. The PNGOC reported continued adherence to governance standards, with nine internal committees each meeting at least twice during the year. The Executive Board also conducted nine meetings. In addition, the organization participated in the International Olympic Committee’s Olympic Solidarity audit in 2024. Commercial partnerships remained central to the PNGOC’s funding. Fourteen sponsors supported various events and initiatives throughout the year. Notable contributions included Trukai Industries continued backing of the Fun Run and fundraising auctions, South Pacific Brewery’s sponsorship of the SP Sports Awards, and Vodafone PNG’s support of the Sports Hall of Fame Ceremony. The 2024 event honoured swimmer and Olympian Ryan Pini and athletics figure Subul Babo. DFK Mayberry, PNGOC’s appointed auditors, were also present at the AGA and have been confirmed for the 2025 financial year. Looking ahead, PNGOC has outlined a new Strategic Plan covering 2025 to 2032. The roadmap aims to strengthen commercial initiatives, elevate Olympic sports visibility, enhance athlete development, and deepen community impact through sport-for-development programs.

With only two rounds left in the 2025 Port Moresby Corporate Volleyball Competition (POMCVC), the pressure is mounting for teams across all nine divisions to secure a spot in the Top 8 before the finals. The competition has reached a critical point. For some teams, Round 14 is their last chance to make a comeback. For others, it’s about staying consistent and locking in a stronger finals seeding. In the Men’s Premier Division, seventh-placed Brian Bell faces fourth-placed NWTL1 in a key matchup that could decide their finals fate. CPL1, currently sitting third, goes up against Koroboro, who are looking to shake up the table from tenth place. The Women’s Premier Division features standout matchups, including NCDC (2nd) versus BSP (3rd), a clash that could mirror a future finals encounter. Meanwhile, CPL1 (5th) will take on PNGFM (13th), who have stunned three teams in a row and now sit on the edge of a possible Top 8 miracle. League leaders Kina Bank will also be tested by fourth-ranked Parliament. In Division 1, the top two men’s teams, Pacific Industries and Govt House, will battle it out for bragging rights and first place. At the other end, Hilton Hotel and CPL2 meet in a bottom-table clash that still carries pride and mathematical finals implications. The race is also heating up in the lower divisions, with teams like KPMG and NSL in Men’s Division 3 fighting head-to-head for the final qualifying spot. In Women’s Division 3, BPNG1 vs DOWH is another direct Top 8 battle, where a win could change everything. Every match this weekend matters. With just two rounds to go, teams must bring their best to keep the dream alive. The countdown is on. Two rounds remain. Everything is at stake.

The PNG Lewas capped off their PacificAus Sports Cricket Invitational campaign with a commanding 94-run victory over Samoa Women in the final match of the tournament at Amini Park on Saturday afternoon. Batting first, the Lewas posted an imposing 138 for 6 in 20 overs, led by an anchor innings from Naoani Vare, who scored 30 off 43 balls. She was well supported by Melanie Ani (19), Henao Thomas (20) and a quick-fire 18 from Holland Doriga. Contributions from across the top and middle order helped PNG build pressure, while 18 extras added to Samoa’s difficulties. In response, Samoa’s innings collapsed under the weight of disciplined bowling, with the side dismissed for just 44 runs in 11 overs. PNG’s bowlers struck relentlessly, with early wickets triggering a domino effect that the Samoan batters could not recover from. The win sealed a perfect finish for the Lewas in front of their home crowd, during what has been a historic week coinciding with PNG’s 50th Anniversary of Independence. With three wins from three matches, PNG ends their campaign undefeated —showcasing their growing strength in the region. The match followed the earlier clash between Australia Indigenous Women and Vanuatu, closing a successful tournament that highlighted the rise of Pacific women’s cricket and the power of sport in uniting communities.

The final day of the inaugural PacificAus Women’s Cricket Invitational opened with a commanding performance by the Australian Indigenous Women’s team, who defeated Vanuatu Women by six wickets in the first of two matches at 10 AM today at the Amini Park, Port Moresby. After winning the toss and choosing to bowl, Australia’s attack tore through Vanuatu’s batting order, dismissing them for just 60 runs in 16.1 overs. Ella Hayward starred with a brilliant spell of 4 wickets for 10 runs, backed up by Maddison Spence, who claimed 3 for 10. The disciplined bowling effort saw Vanuatu lose wickets in clusters, with only Rachel Andrew (10) and Susan Stephen (10) reaching double figures. In reply, the Australians made light work of the chase, reaching 62/2 in just 11 overs. Despite the early loss of Valenta Langiatu and Nasimana Navaika, steady scoring by the middle order ensured there were no late stumbles. Captain Christina Coulson contributed both with the ball—taking the final wicket—and as a steadying presence in the field. “It’s not often we come together to play, as the girls come from all parts of Australia.” “It was awesome playing with the younger players." "It doesn’t matter who we come up against, we always have to put in our best.” The win marked the end of a flawless campaign for the Australian side, who finished the tournament undefeated. Meanwhile, Head Coach Alex Stewart, in his first coaching role, added that it has been fantastic, especially taking on teams like PNG, Samoa and Vanuatu. “It’s been a really good experience for the girls to grow.” Vanuatu Coach Joshua Rasu also acknowledged the value of the experience despite the loss. “The lessons we’ve learned have really shown us where we are. It gives us a clear picture of how to train better and come back stronger.” This game led into the second final-day match, wrapping up a week-long celebration of women’s cricket in the Pacific, highlighting regional unity, cultural exchange and the rising strength of women’s sport.

More than 1,600 explosive remnants of war have been identified across East New Britain province as part of Operation Render Safe 2025 which is a month-long multinational planning mission led by the Australian Defence Force (ADF) in partnership with the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF). The mission, which focused on communities in the Rabaul, Kokopo, and Gazelle districts, involved close collaboration with local residents to pinpoint areas contaminated with unexploded ordnance (UXO). Historical records, satellite imagery, and community insights played a key role in locating hazardous remnants from past conflicts. ADF Contingent Commander Major Joseph Gurung, said that their team supports communities across the province. “With our international partners, we worked together to improve safety for local people.” The operation brought together personnel from Australia, Papua New Guinea, the United States, Japan, the United Kingdom, France, New Zealand, and Canada. The mission aimed to assess and plan for the safe removal of UXO, with a clearance and disposal operation scheduled for 2026. Australian Army combat engineer Sapper Jack Furnyvall, said the mission was grounded in community trust. “Everyone’s warm and welcoming." "They know we’re here to help make things safer for them and their families that makes a difference.” Meanwhile, Ordinary Seaman, Ronald Baloiloi of the PNGDF shared his knowledge of wartime history and local terrain with foreign teams. “Being able to share my country’s history with our partners meant a lot.” The PNGDF led community engagement efforts, while Japan contributed medical and logistics support, particularly in remote areas. Personnel from France, Canada, and New Zealand enhanced survey capabilities, working in tandem with ADF and PNGDF counterparts under challenging field conditions. Meanwhile, the Australian High Commission in Port Moresby confirmed that the data collected during this mission will inform future disposal efforts, ensuring they are precise and effective in mitigating risk to communities. Operation Render Safe reflects the shared commitment of participating nations to building safer, more resilient communities in Papua New Guinea and the broader Pacific.

Buk Bilong Pikinini (BbP) recently received a significant financial boost aimed at supporting early childhood education, with a K70,000 donation presented by Mr. George Constantinou, Group Chairman and Governing Director of The Constantinou Group. The presentation took place at BbP’s Pari Library Learning Centre (LLC) in Port Moresby. Mr. Constantinou, representing both The Constantinou Group and The Sir Theo Foundation, said the support reflects the organizations' commitment to education and their long-standing partnership with BbP. He affirmed their ongoing dedication to literacy development in Papua New Guinea. “We are pleased to support BbP it is a program that is very dear to our hearts.” The Constantinou Group has supported BbP since 2008 and currently sponsors two Library Learning Centers at Nine Mile and Six Mile. The Sir Theo Foundation, which backs the Three Mile Centre, will now extend its support to the Pari Centre, increasing access to books and literacy programs for children in the Motu Koita village community. Parent representative, Jenny Tama, whose grandson attends the Pari LLC, expressed appreciation on behalf of local families. “We have already seen how the learning center is helping our children." "Thank you for supporting their future.” The Pari Library Learning Centre was established with the support of the Motu Koita Assembly (MKA) and the National Capital District Commission (NCDC), with infrastructure made possible through the leadership of Deputy NCD Governor and MKA Chairman, Dadi Toka Jnr. This collaboration highlights the combined efforts of community leaders, corporate sponsors, and philanthropic foundations in promoting literacy and education nationwide. Furthermore, BbP acknowledged the continued support of all partners and reaffirmed its mission to empower Papua New Guinean children through access to quality early childhood education.

The Wardstrip Demonstration Primary School in Port Moresby city marked a significant milestone event yesterday with the official opening of two new ablution blocks, vital infrastructure developments fully funded by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The ribbon-cutting ceremony was officiated by National Capital District Governor, Powes Parkop, alongside students, school staff, city officials, church representatives, parents, and members of the media. Representing the Church, Mr. Andrew Kau delivered a sincere message about the Church’s humanitarian mission and its commitment to uplifting communities. “The Church aims to bring service to all the children of the Lord,” Mr. Kau said. “If we take care of this generation, they will take care of us in the future.” He underscored the Church’s principles of service, compassion, and love, rooted in the Christian commandments to love God and love one’s neighbor. “Living the second commandment—loving our neighbor—is the key to becoming a true disciple of Jesus Christ,” Mr. Kau added. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints formally established its presence in Papua New Guinea in 1980, resuming missionary work in Port Moresby. Since then, it has expanded rapidly and now operates over 80 humanitarian projects nationwide. In the past five years, the Church has contributed nearly USD $20 million toward sustainable community development. “The Church provides aid to all of God’s children—regardless of race, gender, nationality, or religious affiliation,” said Mr. Kau. “We are willing to align with government priorities and ask: What can the Church do to help?” Designed with inclusivity and modern hygiene standards in mind, the new ablution blocks feature separate toilets for boys and girls, a toilet facility specifically for students with disabilities, and storage areas for maintenance supplies—ensuring accessibility and dignity for all students. The ceremony was attended by City Manager Mr. Ravu Frank, Acting FAS Mr. Michael Merritt, project coordinators Elder and Sister Dandoi, and Mr. Marcel Gimacati, the Church’s Cultural Alliance and World Resources Manager. The school’s headmaster, staff, parents, and invited guests were also present. In his keynote address, Governor Powes Parkop praised the partnership between the Church and government, highlighting the impact on Papua New Guinea’s future. “This partnership brings hope and tangible improvements to the lives of our children,” said Governor Parkop. “As we approach the 50th anniversary of our nation’s independence, such collaborations exemplify the unity and dedication required to build a stronger Papua New Guinea.” Board Chairman of Wardstrip Demonstration Primary School, Pastor Jack Edward, welcomed the infrastructure upgrade. “Our school has not seen a major infrastructure improvement for over six years,” Pastor Edward said. “This ablution block is a much-needed enhancement that will improve the health and wellbeing of our students and teachers.” The event concluded with a tour of the new ablution facilities, which are expected to significantly improve hygiene, sanitation, and accessibility, supporting a healthier learning environment for the children of Wardstrip. This project sets a strong example for school infrastructure development across Papua New Guinea.

In a vibrant show of community partnership and youth empowerment, NCSL Savings and Loan Society donated 100 Trukai Fun Run T-shirts to Badili Vocational School in Port Moresby city on Friday, June 13, 2025, reinforcing its commitment to education, wellness, and financial literacy among Papua New Guinea’s future workforce. The event brought smiles and excitement to the school grounds as students received the bright yellow shirts that symbolize national unity and support for Team PNG ahead of the 2025 Pacific Mini Games in Palau. But the gesture went far beyond fun to run gear. “This is a blessing for our school,” said Ms. Nancy Tetu, the school's manageress, gratefully accepting the donation. “We are deeply thankful to NCSL for thinking of our students and including us in this national movement.” The T-shirt handover also created an important platform for financial awareness. Representatives from NCSL took time to speak with students about the importance of saving early, budgeting smartly, and understanding personal finance—essential life skills for young people preparing to enter the workforce from vocational pathways. Adding to the memorable occasion, NCSL staff were invited by the school to take part in its World Environment Day commemoration. In a symbolic act reflecting shared values of growth, sustainability, and future-building, the team planted a tree on campus alongside students and staff. “This tree represents not just the environment, but the future—just like these students,” an NCSL team member shared. “Our support today is an investment in both.” The Trukai Fun Run, now in its 25th year, is one of Papua New Guinea’s biggest charity events, aimed at raising funds to support Team PNG’s participation in international competitions. NCSL’s participation, through the Fun Run T-shirt auction and donations to schools, reflects a growing trend of businesses giving back through sport, education, and awareness. As the country gears up for the national Fun Run on June 22, initiatives like this shine a spotlight on how corporate support can reach far beyond the track—planting seeds of knowledge, pride, and hope in the communities that need them most.