Prime Minister James Marape has praised the increase in funding for the Higher Education Loan Programme (HELP) in the 2025 National Budget, which has risen from K52 million in 2024 to K53.08 million for 2025. The program aims to make higher education more accessible for Papua New Guinean students by addressing financial challenges, and since its launch in 2020, it has supported over 35,615 students with K177 million in funding. “HELP has played a transformative role in broadening access to higher education,” said Prime Minister Marape. “These funds have enabled many students to continue their studies and contribute to nation-building.” The program's funding has grown steadily since its introduction. Here's a year-by-year breakdown. 2020: 5,204 students received K28,588,354 2021: 6,743 students received K27,688,365 2022: 9,840 students received K47,093,604 2023: 13,828 students received K74,001,613 2024 (projected): 14,000 students to receive K52 million 2025 (planned): 14,500 students expected to receive K53.08 million The additional K1.08 million allocation for 2025 reflects the increasing demand for financial assistance among tertiary students. HELP has significantly boosted enrollment at tertiary institutions and empowered students to achieve academic and professional goals. “HELP is more than just a loan; it is a beacon of hope,” said PM Marape. “This funding increase shows our commitment to ensuring that no student is left behind because of financial challenges. Education unlocks the potential of our youth, and through HELP, we are creating brighter futures.” With the new budget, an additional 500 students are expected to benefit in 2025, compared to 2024. The program aligns with the government’s broader strategy to build a smarter, innovative, and self-reliant nation. “Education is the foundation of a better Papua New Guinea, by increasing HELP funding, we empower our youth to dream big and achieve great things.” The government’s commitment to education through the 2025 budget underscores its dedication to building a brighter and fairer future for Papua New Guinea, ensuring every student can reach their full potential.

The Boroko Police Operation Centre was reopened on Thursday December 5th after four years of being relocated to Konedobu while leaving the old center for renovation works. Acting Assistant Commissioner of Police and Commander of the National Capital District and Central Province, Benjamin Turi, officiated the opening, emphasizing the importance of the facility in supporting police operations. The Centre, located at Boroko Police Station, will now be utilized by police communication officers to receive and disseminate information crucial for policing in the National Capital District (NCD) and Central Province. Commander Turi urged officers from the Centre to take their responsibilities seriously, as the facility serves as the nerve center for coordinating police responses and public assistance. He acknowledged the challenges of staff shortages and assured that management is looking into recruiting more personnel to support operations. "This Centre is vital for effective communication between victims and police units," Turi stated. Detective Superintendent Conrad Jensen, representing the Papua New Guinea-Australian Policing Partnership (PNG-APP), expressed satisfaction with the reopening. He noted that the improved setup would facilitate better interaction and communication among officers, enhancing policing efforts in the region. National Capital District Metropolitan Superintendent Silva Sika also commended PNG-APP for their assistance in completing the project. Sika stressed the importance of maintaining the Centre's operations and ensuring that all public calls are attended to promptly. He assured that the Centre would be closely monitored to guarantee efficiency in addressing crime reports and dispatching police units.

Arrested on Tuesday and detained by Gerehu Police for the possession of illegal firecrackers and offensive weapon is a 38-Year-old man from the Worsera Gawi District in East Sepik. The Commander of National Capital District and Central Provincial acting Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Benjamin Turi has confirmed that the man is now detained and is to be questioned on how he got all these contrabands, where he got them from and who may have helped him to transport these items into Port Moresby. Mr. Turi said the 38-year-old man was caught by police during Tuesday’s motor patrol at Gerehu Waikele Market area when they spotted him. When caught, the police searched and found in his possession the firecrackers and other offensive weapons. Lately, there have been reports of noise pollution in the city caused by firecrackers, which disturb public peace due to the high distribution of these harmful products. This raises the question of how does the city have such a high quantity of firecrackers when they are not sold in shops or retail outlets? Commander Turi said the man who has been caught will be questioned accordingly to further the investigation into this illegal trade. He also appreciated the efforts of the Motor Patrol Police Officers for capturing the illegal trader. "I want to thank the police officers from Gerehu who apprehend the man, which is a good start. We will continue to arrest people who sell or distribute firecrackers. The item is dangerous when used, so we will monitor people who are using this.” ACP Turi urged those selling firecrackers in the city to stop, warning that they will be arrested and charged if caught. He also called on police officers in other centers to monitor individuals involved in this trade.

In mid-November, a group of youths from the Gaibodubu Street of the Tokarara suburb in Port Moresby city launched the Neighborhood Watch initiative to keep an eye on things this festive season. The initiative aims to reduce crime and protect their neighborhood during the festive season, a time when crime rates tend to rise. The Neighborhood Watch Boys have organized themselves into two shifts, with one group watching over the community during daytime and the second shift patrolling throughout the night hours. Their focus areas include Tokarara Market, the main bus stop at Tokarara, and Tokarara Secondary School. The initiative has gained strong support from the local community, with residents contributing small funds to provide coffee and food to sustain the boys during their operations. The police have also shown their support, adding to the initiative's effectiveness. Over the past two weeks, the Neighborhood Watch Boys have already had a noticeable impact. Crimes, such as theft, have significantly decreased in the area, and they successfully intervened in a recent incident by recovering a stolen phone, further demonstrating their commitment to community safety. And now the bus stop and surrounding areas now feel significantly safer, thanks to their efforts. During the interview with PNG HAUSBUNG, the Neighborhood Boys made a call-out to young men across the city, urging them to take up similar initiatives in their own suburbs to protect their communities and residential areas. One of the boys stated, "We are calling on others to join us in this effort to reduce crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone." The Neighborhood Watch Boys plan to continue their operations throughout the festive season and into January 2025, emphasizing their unwavering dedication to the safety and well-being of Tokarara residents.

Five of the seven armed men who robbed three expatriates near the ExxonMobil Headquarters at Seven Mile on Saturday 30th November, have been caught by 6 Mile police officers. The robbery happened around 11:05 am when the expatriates were stopped by seven men armed with homemade guns. The men stole valuable items, including an iPhone, a drone, wallets, visa cards, and bank cards. The victims reported the robbery to the 6 Mile Police Station, and officers quickly began working on the case. The police officers tracked down and arrested five of the suspects the next day on Sunday afternoon. The five are now locked up at the 6 Mile Police Station and are being questioned. Inspector Bruce Amos, the Police Station Commander (PSC) at 6 Mile Police Station, praised his team for their quick response. “I want to thank my officers for doing a great job catching the five suspects,” he said. “I also want to thank the other police teams who supported us during the operation.” Inspector Amos confirmed that the two remaining suspects are known to police and are called on to turn themselves in. “These two men are known to us. It’s better they surrender now because we will not stop until we catch them,” he stated. He also reminded the public of the importance of working with the police. “We need the community’s help to keep our city safe. If anyone has information, please come forward,” he added. The police are continuing their work to find the remaining suspects and recover the stolen items.

The Buk bilong Pikinini (BbP) Tatana Library Learning Center (LLC) in Port Moresby city, supported by CPL Foundation Inc, celebrated its 10th graduation ceremony at the Tatana United Church Hall just recently. The milestone event honored 56 children, a significant increase from last year’s 27, who have completed the early childhood learning program. The BbP program helps children under the age of five prepare for elementary school by teaching them essential skills for future learning. The graduation marked an important step in these children’s educational journey and was attended by proud parents, teachers, and community leaders. CPL Foundation has supported BbP for over a decade, recently renewing its sponsorship for another five years (2023-2027). This commitment, worth K500,000, covers the yearly operational costs of the Tatana LLC, ensuring the center continues to provide quality early childhood education. Speaking at the event, CPL Foundation Manager Deborah Alois congratulated the young graduates and their families. She highlighted CPL’s dedication to empowering communities through education, health, and entrepreneurship. “The CPL Foundation is proud to be part of this journey. We are committed to supporting the BbP Tatana Library Learning Center as it inspires young minds and uplifts our communities,” Ms. Alois said. The event was filled with joy and celebration, with CPL Foundation staff joining the festivities by serving refreshments to the graduates. This personal gesture reflected CPL’s commitment to being actively involved in the communities they support. The BbP Tatana LLC has grown over the years, and this year’s graduation showed the positive impact of the program in preparing more children for school. Parents expressed gratitude for the support and resources provided by the library and CPL Foundation. CPL Foundation continues to lead in corporate social responsibility, making a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families across Papua New Guinea. The success of the Tatana Library Learning Center is a testament to the power of partnerships in creating brighter futures.

Prime Minister James Marape is asking the Kokoda Track landowners to reopen the track, saying that keeping it closed is hurting the people who depend on trekking to earn money and also stopping tourism income from coming into the country. The Prime Minister said this when responding to questions from Oro Governor Gary Juffa in the recent parliament sitting. Governor Juffa asked him about the Government’s plan to pay the K50 million promised to the landowners. This promise was made by the Government in 2011 to pay for the use of the land the Kokoda Track is on. PM Marape said he understands this is a long-standing problem and confirmed that he received a petition from the landowners in September this year, just before they decided to close the track. “Kokoda Track is the most visited tourist spot in our country,” said PM Marape. “We don’t have many tourist attractions, but Kokoda Track is special. It brings visitors from around the world. We must honor the promise made to pay K50 million to the landowners of Kodu.” He added that the Government will work to find the money to pay what is owed. In the meantime, he asked the landowners to reopen the track. The Prime Minister explained how the closure of the Kokoda Track is affecting local people. He said that many villagers rely on trekkers for income. For example, carriers, who help carry bags, earn K300 to K400 per trip. Villagers living near the track also sell food and crafts to trekkers and offer places to rest and eat. “I am asking the landowners to lift the ban because it helps no one. Instead, it stops people from earning money and hurts our tourism industry,” PM Marape said. Governor Juffa explained more about the issue in Parliament. He said that in 2013 and 2014, the Government paid K5 million each year to the landowners as part of the K50 million promise. However, no payments have been made since then. This led the landowners to close the Kokoda Track on 16 September this year in protest. Governor Juffa said the closure has caused problems for both the people living near the track and the tourism industry in Papua New Guinea. Tourism brings in money that helps many businesses and families, but with the track closed, this income has stopped. PM Marape reassured that the Government is committed to finding a solution and making sure the K50 million is paid. He said reopening the track will help everyone while the Government works to fulfill its promise.

City Pharmacy Medical and Lab Supplies (MedLab) have official launch their new website on Wednesday 27th of November, marking a milestone for the company with a mission to improve the access of world-class medical equipment, products, and services to the people of Papua New Guinea (PNG). With a friendly user design, the website offers seamless navigation for healthcare professionals and customers alike. Which also provides feedback, and inquiries forms for streamlined communication. The comprehensive listings web-designs highlights a wide range of medical and laboratory equipment including all the detailed descriptions and specifications. While pricing will remain exclusive to registered users initially, an e-commerce feature is in development to enable online purchases and payment solutions soon. Pradeep Panda, Head of Pharmacy, highlighted the transformative steps his team has taken to revolutionize healthcare accessibility with a cutting-edge online platform designed to streamline services for professionals across the nation. “We have a highly capable in-house technical team, and while launching this brand was a significant step forward, we wanted to enhance convenience for healthcare professionals nationwide. It allows customers to seamlessly get quotations and place orders without needing to send emails or visit a physical pharmacy—everything can be done effortlessly online; additionally, we will provide full back up service for the equipment in terms of installation, training and after sales service.” “The platform not only strengthens our digital presence but also enhances how we connect with our clients and stakeholders” Mr. Panda Added. Offering 24/7 access to information while fostering stronger relationships with clients and partners in the healthcare sector, the CP MedLab plans to prepare the roll out of an e-commerce platform, complete with payment gateway integration, providing customers with the convenience of online ordering and exclusive access to member-only pricing and special offers. The launch of the new CP MedLab website marks a significant step forward in transforming healthcare accessibility across Papua New Guinea. By combining innovative digital solutions with a commitment to exceptional customer support, CP MedLab is poised to enhance its service delivery to healthcare professionals and stakeholders nationwide. With plans to introduce an e-commerce platform and payment integration, the company continues to strengthen its mission of providing world-class medical products and services with unmatched convenience and reliability.

In an interview with Shonaye Leslie, the Black and Beautiful Miss Hannah’s Beauty 2024 shares her inspiration and motivation for taking part in this year’s Miss Bird of Paradise Pageant. Inspired by the intellectual women’s community in Papua New Guinea and motivated by her family, friends, and social group, Shonaye takes pride in participating in this year's pageant. Shonaye Leslie comes from mixed parentage of Buka and Gulf Province and is the eldest of 8 siblings in an extended family with a strong Catholic background. She attended the all-girls Catholic school, Marianville Secondary School at Bomana, before being selected to study Biochemistry at the Port Moresby National High School. Graduating with a bachelor's degree in medical laboratory science from the University of Papua New Guinea, Shonaye worked with the Port Moresby General Hospital for a year and volunteered with Special Olympics PNG. She said, “Being the oldest of 8 siblings has given me a sense of responsibility and accountability so that the things I do are reflected in a way that is positive and encourages success in education, passion, and self-development for pure fulfillment in life. So, what drives me is my family because I want to be an image of goodness, grace, and intelligence.” Inspired by her community to pursue this path towards the 2024 Miss Bird of Paradise Pageant, Shonaye clarified her inspiration, “My biggest inspiration is my community, and when I speak about my community, I do not only talk about my family, friends, where I live, and where I come from. This community includes my social life, work, school, and the women before me who have taken part in the Miss Bird of Paradise Pageant. The community of intellectual people that empowers change, growth, and fairness—these are the communities that inspired me to challenge my limits.” Shonaye expressed her strong passion for minority groups. When asked about the causes or social issues she is most passionate about and how she plans to use this platform to advocate for them, she answered, “The most obvious will be the minority groups. I want to help bring them health and education so that they can live a more fulfilling life.” “I work in the health service and have noticed that our country lacks health and education. It is something we all need to work together to improve and not only rely on the government,” Shonaye added. Women’s empowerment and equal rights are causes she shows dedicated support for, and she believes everyone has equal rights and equitable access to every fundamental service in Papua New Guinea. “Like health and education, these are the fundamental things that improve the lives of basic and average Papua New Guineans,” said Shonaye. Shonaye Leslie embodies a commitment to service, advocacy, and self-improvement. Through her participation in the Miss Bird of Paradise Pageant, she aims to inspire others to strive for positive change. Her story is a testament to the power of community, education, and perseverance. As she continues this journey, Shonaye hopes to leave a legacy of compassion, grace, and empowerment for future generations.

The Papua New Guinea (PNG) Immigration and Citizenship Service Authority (ICSA) and the PNG Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) have signed a milestone Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to enhance cooperation and data sharing, aimed at boosting the tourism sector and strengthening immigration services. The agreement signed on Wednesday 27th November 2024 establishes a formal collaboration between the two agencies, which share related responsibilities. ICSA facilitates the movement of people, while TPA promotes tourism activities that contribute directly to the local economy. Acting Chief Migration Officer, Mr. Wellington Navasivu emphasized the significance of the partnership, stating that the MOU provides a framework for working together effectively to facilitate the movement of tourists entering and leaving Papua New Guinea. “Unlike the past, when the two agencies worked in isolation and faced various challenges, this partnership ensures better coordination and service delivery,” said Mr. Navasivu. He highlighted that ICSA, as an implementing agency, has already removed visa fees for tourists, resulting in a growing number of international visitors to Papua New Guinea. This increase has had a positive impact on the local economy. Mr. Navasivu also commended TPA’s leadership, particularly CEO Eric Mossman Uvovo, and expressed gratitude to the staff of both agencies who contributed to the successful completion of the MOU. Mr. Uvovo described the partnership as pivotal in positioning Papua New Guinea as a premier global tourist destination. He stated that aligning efforts with ICSA would provide a seamless travel experience for international visitors while strengthening Papua New Guinea’s appeal as a destination for tourism and investment. “This collaboration will bring immense benefits to the tourism industry, reinforcing our shared commitment to making Papua New Guinea an attractive and competitive destination,” said Mr. Uvovo. The implementation of the MOU will take effect immediately, marking a significant step forward in enhancing the country’s tourism potential and immigration services.

Hon. Jason Peter, Minister for Community Development, Youth & Religion, led the review of the National Strategy to Prevent and Respond to Gender-Based Violence (GBV) with the aim of putting a stop to this pervasive issue affecting the nation. “Our response to GBV must be comprehensive and immediate. This is a national issue that requires united action. We must act now for the sake of our women, our communities, and our nation’s future," the Minister said, addressing the urgency of GBV. Since the National Strategy to Prevent and Respond to GBV (2016–2026) was introduced, efforts to address GBV have had less notable progress, with persistent challenges remaining. The Minister called for greater involvement from the government and stakeholders, emphasizing the need for collaboration at all levels to create meaningful and impactful change. The development of the National Standard Operating Procedures for Safe Houses and Referral Pathways ensures survivors receives effective support. Minister Peter highlighted ongoing partnerships with civil society, development agencies, and international allies. Present at the event was Ambassador Jongho Choi of the Republic of Korea, who shared insights into his country’s success in advancing gender equality and expressed hope for similar transformative progress in PNG through partnerships like the one with UNFPA. Minister Peter expressed gratitude for partnerships with the Republic of Korea through the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), stating, “We are working closely with our partners, including the Republic of Korea, to ensure that we can bring real change for the survivors of GBV.” The $5 million KOICA investment has been instrumental in implementing GBV initiatives, ensuring survivors have access to sexual and reproductive health services. Present also during the conference was Ms. Saira Shameem of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), who elaborated on the COICA-PAPUMA project, which strengthens survivor support systems in six provinces: Southern Highlands, Eastern Highlands, Western Highlands, Enga, Morobe, and East New Britain. The strategy now focuses on engaging men and boys in reducing GBV. Ms. Vinzealhar Nen, a member of the review team, emphasized the importance of challenging harmful behaviors and promoting gender equality. “The strategy acknowledges the role of men and boys in reducing GBV. It is crucial that we engage them in these efforts,” she noted. The government's commitment extends to the provincial level, where 17 provinces have developed GBV action plans. Provinces such as East Sepik and Southern Highlands have allocated K500,000 and K200,000 respectively for GBV initiatives over the next four years. Meanwhile, the funding for GBV initiatives has increased to K11.7 million in 2024, and the National GBV Secretariat has mapped out 50 safe houses across 19 provinces to improve operational efficiency and support systems. Looking ahead, K7 million has been committed for 2025 to support over 20 organizations addressing GBV. Grant applications will open next month, and a comprehensive review of the National GBV Strategy is underway. The revised version is set to launch in 2025.

During the Review of the National Gender Base Violence Press Conference at Parliament Haus on 26th November, NCD Governor Powes Parkop pointed out the low prosecution rate in which makes Papua New Guinea ranked 158th from 189 countries in the world in regarding Gender Inequality. Each year more than 1.5 million Women and Girls in Papua New Guinea experience gender base violence which is an estimate of 67% of all the women and girls in the country. The National Strategy to Prevent and Respond to Gender Base Violence Aims to strengthen the institutional and the work on the GBV to achieve Zero tolerance towards GBV as per the 2050 Vision. The National Strategy to Prevent and Respond to GBV was launched in 2016 to prioritize and coordinate efforts to address GBV across the country. And during the Review of the NSPRGBV (2016 – 2025) Press Conference held yesterday 26th of November at Parliament Haus State Function Room Powes Parkop, Governor of the National Capital District (NCD) and Chairman of the Permanent Parliamentary Committee on Gender Equality and Women's Empowerment calls for more decisive action to address the growing GBV crisis in Papua New Guinea. Parkop pointed out the low prosecution rates, which stand at a concerning 2%, and Papua New Guinea ranking 158th out of 189 countries on gender inequality. The PNG Government 2050 Vision on the Zero Tolerance of Gender Base Violence is far from achieving, with the recent statistics stands as 41% of men have admit to having raped someone and 80% of Women being affected with intimate partner violence (IPV) which is the highest in the world. Parkop said, “Despite years of effort, significant gaps remain. GBV continues to rise, and we must take stronger action now,” And when asked, why haven’t the statistics improved since the launch of National Strategy to Prevent and Respond to Gender Base Violence in 2016? Parkop answered, “There are number of factors that resulted to the lack of improvement but from these factors the main one will be the response by the government regarding funding and active awareness on Gender Base Violence.” This year is the 8th year after the launch of the NSPRGBV in 2016, The review helps the Government, and the people of country become aware of this concerning matter as the year progresses on. Governor Parkop emphasizes the critical importance of addressing Gender Base Violence for the nation’s development. “We cannot progress as a nation without addressing it, GBV hinders gender equality, limits women’s participation in governance, and affects our economy. This is an issue we cannot afford to ignore any longer.”