Over 280 new police recruits passed out of the National Center of Excellence at Bomana outside Port Moresby city this afternoon, with a significant increase of female officers graduating.The official ceremony took place in front family and friends, the police hierarchy, and the prime minister. This lot is the 2025 intake who underwent rigorous police training with a total of 284 recruits graduating as probationary constables. The group included 41 women and 243 men, all representing the provinces across the country. The intake also recorded one of the highest numbers of female recruits since the college’s elevation to National Centre of Excellence status. The ceremony marked the completion of six months of intensive training and comes as the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) continues its efforts to strengthen its workforce and enhance policing capacity nationwide.

Female doctors, nurses and staff of the National Capital District Provincial Health Authority (NCDPHA) celebrated National Women’s Day on March 24, 2026, at the APEC Haus, joined by reigning Miss PNG Iampela Popena, under the theme “Justice, Action for All Women and Girls.”The event brought together health professionals and stakeholders to reflect on women’s rights, leadership and empowerment within Papua New Guinea’s health sector. Proceedings began with a panel discussion focused on strengthening legal protections for women and girls, led by representatives from NCDPHA, the Department of Health and the Department of Personnel Management. Speakers highlighted the need for stronger policy implementation and institutional support to address gender-based challenges faced by women across sectors. Female doctors from various medical fields also shared experiences on leadership, career growth and economic empowerment, encouraging more women to take up leadership roles within the health workforce. The highlight of the event was addressed by Miss PNG Iampela Popena, who connected with the audience through a light-hearted opening before delivering a message centred on resilience and empowerment. “Good afternoon, everyone, you all look beautiful and stunning in your purple. I apologies, I didn’t have a purple dress,” she said, drawing laughter from the room. In her address, Popena spoke about the strength of Papua New Guinean women across generations, from young girls to professionals working in corporate and male-dominated fields. “We celebrate and commemorate the growth, the resilience and the strength of a powerful Papua New Guinean woman.” “From a young girl to mothers and women working in corporate spaces and even male-dominated fields like STEM.” She also acknowledged the ongoing challenges faced by women, including gender-based violence, while urging unity and collective action. “Being a woman is our strength so let us work side by side to move forward in this country.” Popena encouraged young women to draw inspiration from those before them, while also taking on mentorship roles for future generations. She further highlighted the role of the Miss PNG platform in promoting leadership and advocacy, including recent efforts to expand participation across all provinces.The event concluded with a vote of thanks from NCDPHA Deputy Director of Public Health Rose Morre, who acknowledged Popena’s presence and contributions. In addition, a presentation of gifts was also given to Miss PNG on behalf of the organization, followed by a cake-cutting ceremony and group photo session. The program also included a farewell segment recognizing retiring NCDPHA staff who have served in Port Moresby hospitals and clinics over the years. The celebration not only honored women in the health sector but also reinforced ongoing calls for stronger protection, recognition and empowerment of women and girls across Papua New Guinea.

The extremely significant point of giving landowners their titles in order to empower then to participate in developments was raised by a stern female advocate of native lands yesterday during the 7th Pacific Urban Forum in Port Moresby city. Papua Native Landowners Association President Ms. Lucielle Paru raised this during Plenary One of the 7th Pacific Urban Forum (PUF7) at APEC Haus, where land ownership, urbanization, and government policy took centre stage, drawing responses from the PNG National Housing Corporation and pacific regional leaders. The discussion unfolded during the Question-and-Answer session of the plenary titled- “The State of Urbanization in the Blue Pacific,” where Ms. Paru raised concerns about Papua New Guinea’s approach to land and housing. Inquiring with the National Housing Corporation Managing Director Able Tol, Ms. Paru questioned how informal settlements and urban expansion could be effectively managed when customary landowners are not fully empowered to plan, develop, or control their own land. She stressed that without legal recognition of native land titles, urban development in PNG risks continuing a pattern of land alienation rather than inclusive growth. “Give the landowners their titles and we shall direct your path,” she said, reinforcing calls for landowners to be placed at the centre of development decisions. Ms. Paru extended her concerns to regional and international stakeholders, questioning why urban development policies often overlook customary land systems and whether there is genuine commitment to integrating native land rights into planning frameworks. She also raised concerns about compulsory land acquisition by the State, asking what safeguards exist to ensure transparency, consent, and protection for landowners. In response, National Housing Corporation Managing Director Able Tol acknowledged the concerns and outlined government efforts to protect customary land. He highlighted policies aimed at registering land and increasing landowner participation in development. Mr. Tol said the government is working to ensure customary land rights are protected, noting that the vast majority of land in PNG remains under customary ownership, while State land is limited. He also pointed to partnership models where landowners retain ownership while working with developers, describing these as pathways for inclusive development. “We are trying our best to make sure customary landowners’ rights are protected, and to create avenues where they can participate in development,” he said. His response focused on policy measures and ongoing initiatives, while broader questions around landowner control and legal empowerment remained central to the discussion. The issue resonated across the regional panel, with representatives from countries including Tuvalu and Fiji acknowledging similar challenges. Tuvalu’s Minister Ampelosa Manoa Tehulu supported the call for stronger recognition of landowners, emphasizing that people must remain at the centre of development. “I totally agree… people are more important than anything else,” he said, adding that development decisions must not come at the cost of identity and land ownership. Regional representatives also stressed the importance of governance systems that respect customary ownership, with examples from Fiji highlighting consent-based land negotiations as part of development planning. The broader discussion highlighted a shared pacific reality as rapid urbanization is placing pressure on land systems, but solutions must be grounded in cultural identity and land ownership structures. As the Pacific Urban Forum continues, the exchange underscored a key tension in Papua New Guinea’s development path: balancing urban growth with the rights of customary landowners.

Tourism Minister Belden Namah has commended the Miss Bird of Paradise (MBOP) pageant for its growing role in promoting Papua New Guinea’s tourism and cultural identity, while also praising reigning titleholder Iampela Popena for her representation on the regional stage. Speaking during an appreciation dinner hosted for the Tourism Ambassador and Miss Bird of Paradise, Namah highlighted the importance of the pageant as a national platform that extends beyond beauty, contributing to cultural promotion and national development. He emphasized that MBOP plays a significant role in showcasing Papua New Guinea’s diverse cultures to both regional and international audiences, aligning closely with the country’s tourism agenda. “Tourism is an inclusive business. This is where we create opportunities for everybody,” he said. Namah called for stronger government backing for tourism initiatives, including greater support for the MBOP pageant with it last year participation that shows such platforms contribute meaningfully to national branding and economic opportunities. “It shows passion that these young ladies have for their county” then he further encouraged wider participation at all levels, suggesting that involvement should begin from ward level and progress through local-level governments, districts, and provinces. This, he said, would provide more young women with opportunities to represent their communities and contribute to nation-building.  “I believe this saying we have many good provinces, but there are too many birds of paradise out there” Namah said. The minister also highlighted the importance of structured development at community levels, noting that strengthening systems at the grassroots would ultimately influence national progress. In closing, Namah pledged his support as Minister for Tourism to ensure the Miss Bird of Paradise organization is actively involved in upcoming tourism events, reinforcing its role as a key partner in promoting Papua New Guinea. The event, hosted in partnership with the PNG Tourism Promotion Authority, brought together stakeholders, sponsors, and representatives from across the country to celebrate the achievements of the national pageant and its ambassadors. Namah also extended his appreciation to former Miss Bird of Paradise titleholders Tyla Singirok and May Hasola, recognizing their contributions in representing Papua New Guinea internationally. He further acknowledged the MBOP team, led by Chairlady Ms Anna Bais, for their role in promoting culture, leadership, and national identity. The appreciation dinner underscored the increasing recognition of MBOP as a platform for cultural diplomacy, leadership development, and tourism promotion, positioning it as an important contributor to the country’s tourism sector moving forward.

The Papua New Guinea Nursing Association (PNGNA) has partnered with Southern Cross Assurance to deliver nationwide insurance coverage for nurses, in a move aimed at strengthening healthcare support for frontline workers across the country. PNGNA President Frederick Kebai, and Southern Cross executives, described the agreement as a long-term partnership focused on improving the welfare of nurses. The announcement was made during a press conference in Port Moresby at Grand Papua Hotel on Saturday, March 21, where PNGNA executives and Southern Cross Assurance representatives outlined the structure and benefits of the new arrangement. Mr. Kebai said the partnership reflects the association’s long-standing commitment to improving the welfare of its more than 4,000 members nationwide. Established in 1972, the association has continued to advocate for better working conditions, professional development, and welfare support for nurses. He explained that under the new arrangement, medical insurance coverage will now be managed by Southern Cross Assurance, while life insurance will remain with the existing provider, ensuring a more specialized and focused approach to member benefits. “All I want, and all we want, is that the policies are working and members are happy with the service they are receiving.” “Nurses are from the womb to the tomb, we look after patients, but when we are sick, we are lost, we are confused.” “Where do we go or who is going to look after us… the only thing that we want to align ourselves with the insurance company is for nurses to be well looked after.” Meanwhile, PNGNA General Secretary Mulina Kwalimu, said that the partnership aligns with national policies and reflects a broader vision of collaboration between public institutions and private sector partners to improve service delivery and living standards. On the other hand, Southern Cross Assurance Chief Executive Officer Srirangan E.K, said the agreement goes beyond a commercial transaction, describing it as a responsibility to support one of the country’s most critical sectors. “It is not simply a commercial transaction; it is a kind of partnership. We are looking forward to serve you.” “We will try to earn it every day in terms of responsiveness and the way we handle this medical service,” he said, adding that the company is developing systems, including digital platforms, to improve service delivery. As part of the partnership, Southern Cross Assurance is also investing in new healthcare infrastructure, including a medical facility expected to be operational later this year. The facility will include consultation rooms, diagnostic services, and laboratory capabilities aimed at improving access to quality care for members. Also present was Southern Cross Chairman Roxon Undi, who highlighted the scale of the commitment, noting that the company is positioning itself to support nurses nationwide while contributing to broader healthcare development in Papua New Guinea. “We understand the enormity of the task ahead, but we will put all our resources together to make sure that this partnership becomes truthful and we serve the purpose, which is the hardworking nurses around the country.” He added that the company plans to expand its medical services, including establishing diagnostic and treatment facilities to better serve insured members. Furthermore, the partnership signals a significant shift in how healthcare support is delivered to nurses in PNG, with both PNGNA and Southern Cross Assurance committing to strengthen coverage, improve services, and build long-term systems that prioritize the welfare of the country’s frontline health workers.

The Mother’s Day Charity Music Festival is set to be a landmark fundraising event dedicated to supporting cervical cancer care across Papua New Guinea. Ticket sales officially launched earlier this week through an exclusive partnership with Fone Haus and have been available to the public since March 19, 2026. Foster Noonan, National Operations Manager of Fone Haus Limited, expressed the company's commitment to the cause, stating that they are “really proud of Fone Haus for supporting the We Are One Foundation with this charity music festival.” Organized by the We Are One Foundation; the festival is scheduled for 10 May 2026 at the Sir Hubert Murray Stadium.  All proceeds generated from the event will directly benefit the Cervical Cancer Unit at Port Moresby General Hospital. Attendees can choose from several pricing tiers, including K80 for general admission, K160 for grandstand seating, and a K250 family package, while children under the age of six are granted free entry. To ensure a comfortable experience, families are encouraged to bring their own picnic mats, chairs, and blankets for the day's festivities. The event boasts an impressive lineup of local and international talent, featuring performances by Justin Wellington, Mal Maninga Kuri, Nathan Nakikus, Philip Roy Chan, Jay Rex, Stagaja Band, Chris Cobb, Isaiah Manoi, Mereani Masani, Estapacifica, Irau Jessie, and Aalliyah Nali. Reflecting on the deeper purpose of the gathering, WAO Director Kavitha Bluett said, “The Mother’s Day Charity Music Festival is not just about music and celebration.” “It is about coming together as a community to support the health and wellbeing of our mothers.” “Every ticket purchased contributes towards strengthening the Cervical Cancer Unit and helping save lives.” Furthermore, organizers continue to call upon families, businesses, and local communities to attend and stand behind this vital health initiative.

Papua New Guinea’s fight against cybercrime has received a major boost, with the National Information and Communications Technology Authority (NICTA) formally handing over equipment's to strengthening its partnership with the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary’s Cybercrime Unit, to create a safe digital space for all.Speaking during the handover, NICTA Chief Executive Officer Mr. Lume Polume led the event alongside Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) Cybercrime Unit Acting Police Commissioner Mr. Hodges Ete, acknowledging the initiative first was driven last year by the Former Acting Police Minister Peter Tsiamalili Jr to strengthen enforcement against growing digital threats. The partnership, announced today 20th March, includes the donation of 6 laptops, 6 mobile phones, and a vehicle, along with technical and legal support to assist police investigations while reinforcing the respective mandates of both institutions. The move aims to improve enforcement capacity and ensure cybercrime cases progress to prosecution. “Cyber related issues keep coming on board every now and then. There’s a lot been happening out there, and we’ve got to step in to put an end to it. We’ve got to step up enforcement on that, so that we create a safe space for everyone, a safe digital space,” Mr. Polume said. The cybercrime matters fall within the jurisdiction of law enforcement under the Cybercrime Code Act 2016 and the Criminal Code Act, NICTA’s role as the ICT regulator is to support and facilitate enforcement through the provision of technical expertise, ICT tools, and regulatory coordination. Under the jurisdiction NICTA agreement is now to provide technical experts and legal team that will work closely with investigators on cybercrime cases, helping to strengthen evidence and support prosecutions. “The idea is that we want the case now to advance prosecution. We want to get the case to the point that we prosecute in that way we can be able to discourage those that come up with all those malicious content and defamation,” he added. RPNGC ACP Cybercrime Director Hodges Ete, welcomed the partnership describing cybercrime as a growing and complex threat affecting individuals, businesses, and government institutions across the country. “Cybercrime is a growing and complex threat to the community. It affects individuals, families, businesses and government institutions, from online fraud and identity theft to harassment and financial scams, the impact is so broad,” said ACP Ete. As noted, one of the biggest challenges that has been the increasing number of complaints and the difficulty in handling sophisticated, often cross-border cybercrime cases. Long queues at the Cyber Crime Unit reflect the growing demand for support, particularly in cases involving online harassment and exploitation. The new collaboration is expected to address these challenges by improving mobility, boosting investigative capacity, and providing specialized expertise in emerging areas such as online child exploitation and digital fraud. ACP Eta said that such support will significantly enhance their ability to respond to cybercrime reports and better serve the public. The partnership also includes a long-term focus on capacity building, with plans to upskill investigators and strengthen the overall capability of the Cyber Crime Unit. Officials from both NICTA and the police emphasized that the initiative signals a stronger, more coordinated approach to tackling cybercrime in Papua New Guinea. With enforcement efforts now set to intensify, authorities say the focus will shift toward ensuring cases are successfully prosecuted, sending a clear message to offenders that cybercrime will not go unpunished.

Twelve of the country’s top local and international artists will perform free at the Mother’s Day Charity Music Festival on 10 May 2026 at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium, Port Moresby city.The festival will feature performances by Justin Wellington, Mal Maninga Kuri, Nathan Nakikus, Philip Roy Chan, Jay Rex, Stagaja Band, Chris Cobb, Isaiah Manoi, Mereani Masani, Estapacifica, Irau Jessie, and Aalliyah Nali. Each artist will perform three to four of their hit songs, giving their time without fees. Proceeds from the event will support the Cervical Cancer Unit at Port Moresby General Hospital. Douglas Avusi, Project Coordinator of the We Are One Foundation (WAO), said the festival is a family-focused event aimed at raising funds for women’s health. He emphasized that the event will be alcohol-free and family friendly. “There will be no tolerance for alcohol or substances. The focus is on enjoying music while supporting the cause,” Avusi said. Security will be provided by NCDC and the Police to ensure a safe environment and prevent any unwanted incidents. Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) will also be present, offering a variety of food and beverage stalls. Public members who wish to participate as vendors may rent booths for K350. Event guidelines include strictly no alcohol inside the stadium and bag checks at the entrance to maintain a safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees. WAO encourages families, businesses, and communities to purchase tickets and take part in the festival. The event promises live music, food stalls, and activities for children, while uniting the community in support of women’s health.

When the final names were called at Amini Park, Abigail Leka’s journey quietly reached a turning point, not loud, not sudden, but earned.From 44 hopefuls across the country to 22 shortlisted, and now among the final 14, Abigail has secured her place in Papua New Guinea’s U19 Siales squad for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup East Asia Pacific Qualifier set for April 24th to 29th in Port Moresby city. Her path back into cricket was not immediate. She first entered the game at 11, playing alongside older women at Kempa Cricket Club, before stepping away for a period. It was only last year that she returned, and from that moment, her progression was steady and deliberate. She had believed early that she could make the cut, saying simply, “I’m really confident that I’ll make the team… just to perform and do my best.” That belief translated into performance, and performance into selection. Her rise also reflects the quiet reality of cricket in Papua New Guinea, a sport still growing and still searching for its spotlight. Abigail understands that space, seeing both its limitations and its opportunities, as she once noted that the game is “not really that popular here in Papua New Guinea.” Now balancing school as a Grade 11 student with national duties, she is already navigating the demands that come with wearing the country’s colours, working closely with coaches and school to manage both. Behind her selection stands a unique dynamic. Her father, Hudson Leka, serves as Chairman of the Cricket PNG Selectors Panel, a position that placed her journey under even closer scrutiny. As a father, his pride was unmistakable, describing the moment as “a moment of pure joy” seeing his daughter named in the final squad. Yet professionally, the standard was higher. He viewed her like any other player, guided strictly by performance, consistency, and commitment. In fact, the expectation was heavier, ensuring no perception of bias. In the end, her numbers, work ethic and awareness on the field spoke louder than any connection. She earned her place, not through name, but through output. Now, the focus shifts forward. In April, against Indonesia, Japan and Vanuatu, Abigail Leka will step onto the field as part of a team chasing World Cup qualification on home soil. For her, this is more than selection. It is proof that stepping away does not mean the story ends, sometimes it simply means the real chapter is waiting to begin.

Even with financial struggles, Valeska Matbob proved that success can be achieved with patience, faith, and hard work.The Bachelor of Business Accounting Bronze Medal recipient Valeska Matbob was part of the 793 graduates from the 44th graduation ceremony at Divine Word University held on Friday, 6 March. Her quiet determination earned her an impressive Grade Point Average of 4.5, representing something deeper than just academic performance but the culmination of a journey shaped by hardship, patience, and resilience. At 25, Valeska traces her roots to Madang, Simbu, Oro Province and Germany and credits her upbringing to the strength of her family, particularly her mother. Raised by a single parent, she grew up in a home where faith, resilience, and perseverance were constant lessons. Her mother’s words stayed with her through every stage of her life. She often reminded Valeska that patience would one day bring its reward. “They can all have their laugh now, but when your time comes, you will laugh the longest and the loudest,” her mother’s words. It was a simple message, but one that would guide her through some of the most difficult years of her life. After completing Grade 10 in 2017, Valeska’s path to higher education was suddenly interrupted as financial challenges and family responsibilities forced her to step away from school. While many of her peers moved forward with their education, she spent the next two years in 2018 and 2019 out of the classroom. Those years were not easy. She took on small part time jobs in local shops around Madang Province, doing whatever work she could find to help support herself and her family. The experience tested her determination, but it also strengthened her resolve. Rather than abandoning her dreams, Valeska chose patience. Reflecting on those years, she said the struggles became lessons that kept her focused on her goals. “During those times I learned to be patient, and that patience kept me focused on my goals and eventually saw me through my studies,” she said. When she eventually returned to continue her education, she approached her studies with renewed purpose, making it all the way to Divine Word University. There she enrolled in the Bachelor of Business Accounting program where university life proved demanding with academic pressures, deadlines, and the intensity of coursework requiring discipline and commitment. Through it all, Valeska learned one of the most valuable lessons of her university years was the importance of living a balanced life. Even in the busiest moments of academic life, she discovered that maintaining balance between studies, personal wellbeing, and faith was essential to sustaining success. Her dedication steadily translated into academic excellence. Semester after semester, her results reflected not only intelligence but also the discipline forged during the years she had spent outside the classroom. By the time she reached the end of her program, her hard work had produced an outstanding 4.5 GPA, placing her among the top performing students among the 44th DWU graduating class. Yet even on graduation day, the recognition came as a surprise as she missed the rehearsal the day before and had no idea she would be receiving the Bronze Medal. It was only after she took her seat inside the graduation hall and began flipping through the ceremony program that she discovered her name listed among the award recipients. The realization filled her with pride and gratitude as the medal represented more than academic success as it symbolized the long journey from uncertainty to achievement. Behind that achievement stood the support of many people who believed in her along the way. Her parents, her uncles particularly her father’s younger brothers and several mentors and supporters outside her family all played a role in helping her reach this milestone. Their encouragement, along with her strong faith, helped sustain her during difficult moments. Today, Valeska has already begun the next stage of her professional journey. She is currently working with one of the Big Four accounting firms where she hopes to continue developing her skills while building a meaningful career. But her ambitions extend far beyond personal success. Valeska hopes to use her knowledge to serve communities, particularly those in rural areas. She believes financial literacy and business knowledge can help ordinary people improve their livelihoods. Her long-term goal is rooted in service. “I would certainly like to help local communities and the rural population through financial literacy programs and entrepreneurship education,” she said. The story of Valeska Matbob is a reminder that success is rarely immediate. Sometimes the journey includes pauses, setbacks, and years of quiet perseverance. Yet with patience, faith, and determination, those difficult seasons can become the very foundation of future triumph. For Valeska, the applause that echoed through the graduation hall that morning was not just for a medal or a degree. It was for a journey defined by resilience and proof that patience, in time, can turn hardship into achievement.

Central Governor Rufina Peter has proposed expanded rural economic programs as a pathway for displaced Goilala families to return home, arguing that sustainable development in their districts must come before any lasting relocation solution in the city.Her remarks follow the recent eviction of Goilala settlers from the 2 Mile area in Port Moresby. The affected families are currently staying in parts of the capital while awaiting further clarity on relocation arrangements. Speaking at Kassman, Governor Peter acknowledged that eviction decisions within the National Capital District fall outside her jurisdiction. However, she said the Central Provincial Government has a responsibility to strengthen economic opportunities in rural areas under its mandate. “I would like to say, there is hope. There are opportunities back home,” she said. The Governor pointed to existing partnerships between the provincial government, private sector operators, and air transport service providers aimed at supporting agricultural trade in remote parts of Central Province. She cited a recent freight subsidy initiative in Ononge, Goilala District, where local farmers were supported to transport fresh produce to market, generating significant cash flow within a short period. “That’s the possibility that’s out there,” she said, referring to the economic potential of structured rural support programs. Governor Peter said discussions are underway to scale up similar initiatives, linking road rehabilitation, freight access, and private sector investment to stimulate agriculture and small-scale trade. “We were discussing implementation, and within March we should be starting. That’s how serious we are,” she said. She emphasized that while she cannot intervene in city-level decisions affecting settlers in NCD, her focus remains on creating viable conditions in Central Province, so families have the option of returning to their villages with sustainable livelihoods. “For you now, there is hope in the village. I am speaking especially to the youths. If you want to go back, there is opportunity,” she said. The Governor also highlighted the importance of maintaining the Mona corridor and provincial road networks, stressing that infrastructure reliability is central to rural development. In Parliament, she said she supports the national Connect PNG initiative but has consistently called for stronger support toward maintaining existing provincial infrastructure before expanding connectivity. “If we maintain our provincial roads, we reduce the pressures that push our people into the city,” she said. While no formal relocation framework has been announced, the Governor’s proposal shifts the focus toward long-term rural investment as a development-based response to urban displacement.

The Kokoda Track Foundation (KTF) has graduated 12 young leaders from its 2025 Archer Leadership Program and announced a new cohort of 12 participants for 2026, reinforcing its long-term investment in leadership development across Papua New Guinea.A Kokoda Track Foundation Archer event held in Port Moresby city this week that brought together government officials, corporate partners and development agencies, celebrated the outgoing cohort and formally welcome the new Archer leaders. Now in its 16th year, the Archer Leadership Program has built an alumni network of 140 young professionals working across sectors including education, law, health, business and community development. KTF Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr Genevieve Nelson said the program extends beyond financial support. “The Archer program is not just a scholarship program; it is a holistic program filled with mentoring, community development projects, work experience and a life changing exchange program,” she said. The 2025 cohort completed a year-long leadership journey that included professional mentoring, adaptive leadership workshops, work placements and an exchange program to Australia. Dr. Nelson emphasized that leadership development requires sustained commitment. “Leadership development does not happen in 12 months, it happens over time in community and with accountability,” she said. During the event, KTF also highlighted its broader impact in 2025, including support for more than 3,000 students through second-chance high school education programs and measurable literacy and numeracy improvements for 43,000 early childhood and primary students. Last year, the foundation installed 20,000 solar lighting systems, bringing its nationwide solar lighting total to 50,000. Dr Nelson acknowledged the role of partners supporting the initiative. “You are not simply supporting a scholarship. You are backing a disciplined, long-term investment in PNG’s leadership capacity,” she told supporters. The Archer Leadership Program is supported by partners including Kina Bank, the Australian Government and the Fred P. Archer Trust, with additional funding this year from the Canadian Government through the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives. The newly selected 2026 cohort will begin their leadership journey later this year.