Two Papua New Guinean developing artists are calling for greater investment in the country's music industry after taking part in the Musik Blok program in Goroka, Eastern Highlands Province describing the experience as life-changing and a major step towards building professional careers in music.
Philip Kasibuda Kurina known by his artist name, Kazibuda and Brendan Lahui were among the first participants selected for the pilot music school, founded by PNG artist Ngaiire, which aims to mentor and develop aspiring musicians, songwriters and creatives.
Lahui said he discovered the opportunity through TikTok and admitted he initially expected only a few lessons before returning home, instead, he found a well-structured program that exceeded his expectations.
"I thought we would just go there, learn a few things and come back, but it was much more than I expected,” he said. "The program had structured daily sessions and gave us valuable knowledge about the music industry."
Kazibuda added that the program covered every stage of music production, from song writing and recording to understanding how a song becomes a finished track and the participants also received mentorship from experienced industry professionals and learned valuable life skills beyond music.
"We learned how to create music from the beginning, how to write songs and also how to navigate the music journey. It wasn't just about music; it was also about life and reality.”
One of the biggest lessons, the pair said, was understanding intellectual property rights and how artists can earn royalties from their work.
He explained that many local artists are unaware of these opportunities because of the limited professional development available within PNG's music industry.
"We learned about intellectual property and royalties, which many artists in PNG don't really know about.”
Inspired by the experience, both artists hope to give back to the next generation by creating opportunities for young musicians and encouraging more creative spaces across the country.
Lahui said the program had changed how he viewed his future as an artist.
"I've always wanted to make music, but work and financial challenges made it difficult, this program gave me the break I've been looking for.”
The artists also believe technology, including artificial intelligence, will continue to shape the music industry but say authentic human creativity will always remain important.
Lahui emphasized that AI follows algorithms, while musicians bring emotion, originality, and authenticity to their work.
"We can't stop technology, but human creativity steps outside the box in ways AI cannot.”
Both individuals are now urging the Government, private sector and industry stakeholders to invest more in initiatives such as Musik Blok to help develop PNG's growing creative sector.
Kazibuda stressed that the country has enormous untapped musical talent but lacks the support systems needed for artists to succeed.
"I would appreciate it if the Government, businesses and individuals worked together to support more initiatives like this and create more opportunities for young creatives.”
Lahui echoed the call, saying Musik Blok had given him a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and hoped the program would continue to expand so more aspiring musicians could benefit in the future.
