Katrina ANGELI

The Minister for Education, Lucas Dekena has condemned the inappropriate and culturally insensitive activities recently displayed by students of Gerehu Secondary School during their Mufti Day program held on Friday July 4th in Port Moresby city. The program, organized by the Student Representative Council (SRC) and supported by the school administration, was held under the theme, ‘PNG@50: Honouring Our Pacific Heritage, inspiring Modern Careers, and Celebrating Sports Outfits Innovation.’ "While we recognize that schools often host programs to help students showcase various professions and aspects of our culture, there must be clear limits," said the minister. "Activities must always respect the norms, values and expectations of our communities. What happened at Gerehu Secondary School went well beyond what is acceptable." Images circulating on social media show conduct that is not only inappropriate but also reflects very poorly on the school, its administration, and the education system as a whole. School principals should be very sensitive to any activity that students are going to take part in, activities that will promote negative perceptions, or incite trouble. Even if teachers believe these activities are part of educational programs, principals and administrators must ensure that students do not cross boundaries that could incite unethical conduct or damage the reputation of the school. The principal and school administration have already provided a full explanation on what has transpired. Their performance will be reviewed, and appropriate disciplinary action will be taken where necessary. "Going forward, I urge all school principals and administrators to exercise greater care and sensitivity when it comes to activities as such." He said any activities that might promote negative perceptions or offend cultural, and community standards must not be allowed in our schools. "Our schools must always uphold the highest moral and ethical standards. This is essential to protect the image of our institutions and to safeguard the future of our young people."

Today the 11th of July 2025 is the day Janet Philemon will close her office door at the Papua New Guinea Red Cross for the last time. It will mark the end of a 32-year journey through some of the toughest times in PNG Red Cross Society’s history, during which she helped change the way the organization provides humanitarian services in the country. Now at 77, Janet’s retirement comes at the invitation of her grandchildren in Australia, who convinced her it was time to step down from active service after more than three decades of dedication to providing Humanitarian services in Papua New Guinea. Born in Aberayron, Wales, in 1947, Janet arrived in PNG as a young woman in January 1968 and became a citizen in 1985. Her journey with PNG Red Cross began in 1993 when the Morobe branch faced closure following integrity issues. The then-Chairman invited her to help rebuild the branch. Janet found the organization's humanitarian principles aligned perfectly with her values. This would be the beginning of her journey with PNG Red Cross Society. “I have always been involved in some way in community activities.” “When my children were small, it was their schools and then their sporting clubs. I moved into Red Cross after they went to boarding school, and I was looking for something that I wanted to do for myself.” “Red Cross was a good fit as the principles matched with my beliefs, and it gave me the opportunity to work with communities.” Janet has always stepped up when the Red Cross needed her the most. In 1996, she became Secretary General at a time when the organization was struggling to rebuild trust and fix its finances. Over the next five years, she helped it grow from just six staff and a K300, 000 budget to a team of 18 managing over K3 million a year. By the time she stepped down in 2001, the Red Cross had over three million kina in the bank and had bought a warehouse in Lae outright. Her disaster response expertise spans PNG's most significant natural disasters. During the 1993 Finisterre earthquake, she led the Morobe Branch response, managing care for 8, 000 people across multiple centres for two months. The 1994 Rabaul volcanic eruptions saw her coordinating support for 12 ,000 evacuees arriving in Lae. Her leadership during the devastating 1998 Aitape tsunami response interrupted her Master of Business Administration studies, a sacrifice she made without hesitation. Janet shares that her disaster response emphasized listening over assuming things. “I have always respected the culture... ask what community members think and listen carefully.” Janet Philemon believed that good leadership starts with honesty and doing things the right way. When she became National Chairman in 2015, the PNG Red Cross was in a difficult place and had lost the trust of many. She brought in clear rules, financial training, and better planning, which helped rebuild confidence from donors and the public. Janet spent most of her 32 years as a volunteer at the Council and branch level. “I think of volunteering as my hobby,” she said, adding that it's important to find balance in life. “You can’t be a good volunteer if your family doesn’t support you, so it’s important they understand why you’re doing it.” Her governance expertise earned recognition beyond PNG's borders. She represented the society at International Red Cross Movement meetings from Geneva to Turkey, Manila to Samoa, sharing PNG's experiences while learning from global best practices. Janet Philemon had both hands-on experience and formal education. In 2004, she earned a Graduate Diploma in Community Development (Emergency Management) from Southern Cross University. She developed training materials that became standard programs for PNG Red Cross, including fraud prevention training, compliance audits for branches, and participatory evaluation processes. Her methodology for strategic planning review was commended by the International Federation as a model for other national societies in the region. Throughout her career, Philemon held numerous leadership positions as staff and a volunteer. She served four years as National Chair (2015-2019), multiple terms as National Treasurer, and returned as Caretaker Secretary General in 2024 at the request of the National Council. Her community service extended beyond Red Cross to school boards, swimming clubs, hospital boards, and the Madang Country Women's Association. Philemon's career required significant personal sacrifices, including suspended education and family time. Her advice to volunteers reflects hard earned wisdom. "Do not make commitments unless you are able (or have the time) to carry them out. Balance your life, do not neglect your family life or work." Despite these challenges, she found satisfaction in her work. Her work with PNG Red Cross added meaning to her life. "I have had so many interesting experiences I do not know where to start," she reflected. "If I feel I can make a difference, that is a great experience." As Janet steps down from her role, she leaves behind a stronger National Society with communities that are better prepared for disasters. The changes she made have lasted through many leadership changes. Her training programs are still in use across the country, and the way she handled disaster response remains the guide others follow today. Governor General and Patron Sir Bob Dadae described Janet Philemon as “the walking dictionary of Red Cross in PNG,” saying her “name is woven into the very fabric” of the organization. He added that she served not for praise, but because of her strong belief in the power of compassion. PNG Red Cross Deputy Chairman John Hosea also praised her work, saying, “Janet has transformed the organization and inspired a new generation of leaders. She always took a hands-on approach, and her work has touched many people across Papua New Guinea, including women and children.” Her departure marks the end of an era for PNG's humanitarian sector. For 32 years, she provided leadership and governance in the national society during its most difficult times. The strong foundations she helped build will continue to make a difference long after she settles into life in Australia. At 77, Janet Philemon has earned her rest, but her three decades of service have created a lasting impact on the lives of many Papua New Guineans. Even after decades of service, she refuses to call it an end, "Never say never," she insists, her commitment to the PNG Red Cross is for life.

Staff of the Kina Bank recently donated food items and toiletries to the Maternity Ward at the Port Moresby General Hospital. The staff were from the bank’s International Operations Department and donated the supplies as part of their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative. The items included baby formula milk, milo, sugar, biscuits, noodles, tinned food, juice boxes, adult diapers, toilet rolls, laundry soaps and bath soaps, which were all purchased by the staff themselves. Treasury Risk Analyst Mr. Joan Topu said that many of the female staff have given birth at the hospital’s maternity ward and have seen firsthand the challenges faced by other women there. “Some arrive at the hospital with nothing and have no visitors so after considering these challenges, we decided to support the ward with these basic supplies.” Meanwhile, Kina Bank Manager International Operations Peter Ikupu said that it is the first CSR activity for the team this year and were honored to support the maternity wing through their donation. “It is our hope that this donation will support the women, and their babies receive the best possible care.” “We extend our heartfelt gratitude also to the dedicated healthcare professionals for their service and care.” Moreover, Friends of POMGen Operations and Communications Manager Grace Roland Minga who received the donation, stated that the donation is timely as they are running out of stock to assist the women. “This will support mothers and their babies who lack any other assistance. Thank you, Kina Bank.” The annual donations from Kina Bank staff are a key aspect of their CSR activities and with that, this initiative reflects the staff's commitment to giving back to the communities where the bank operates.

Hudson Young has welcomed the chance to play against Raiders team-mate Josh Papalii for the first time as Westpac NSW Blues players brace for the Queensland veteran's “last ride”. Papalii will play his first Origin since 2022 - and almost certainly his last - after coming out of representative retirement for Wednesday's series decider and Young is among the Blues players who know the impact he can have on team-mates. “I have looked up to Josh for a long time now and played with him for many years so to get a game against him is going to be pretty cool,” Young said. “Being able to run out next to big Papa each week fills me with confidence, so he is obviously going to be a good asset to their team.” [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="400"] Josh Papalii's Origin return for Queensland has Blues players on alert. ©Queensland Rugby League[/caption] Brian To’o, Jarome Luai, Stephen Crichton and Spencer Leniu all played alongside Papalii in the Toa Samoa team that created history by becoming the first Pacific nation to qualify for a World Cup final in 2022. While he doesn’t get the same accolades as Jason Taumalolo for his decision to play for Tonga, Papalii inspired the likes of To’o to play for Samoa at international level. “He is a very big inspiration for us Samoan boys,” To’o said. “He has been a beacon for us to achieve great things. “His leadership is pretty much showcased by the way he goes about his business, and it inspires us just to be great as well. “Papa has that effect on people. He has obviously been that mentor to all of us Samoan boys and I am glad he us back in the team. “I know he is going to definitely add value to their team, and I am looking forward to the challenge.” Papalii’s resurgence of form this season has coincided with Canberra being on track for their first minor premiership since 1990 and Luai said the Blues were wary of him having the same influence on the Maroons. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="1224"] Josh Papalii celebrated as he sets Raiders record[/caption] “Papa is playing some good football, the Raiders are at the top of the ladder and [Queensland coach] Billy Slater would know what he can get out of Josh,” Luai said. “With Samoa, we were a young side and it is probably a bit like some of these Maroons guys now, with the new blood coming in. "To have an experienced guy like him, who has done it all in the game and who has played at high level for so long, he can just speak of his experiences. “I probably shouldn’t say this, but I am happy for him. He is a pretty close mate of mine. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="840"] Josh Papalii and Jarome Luai are good mates after playing together for Samao but will be fierce rivals in the Origin decider.[/caption] “I am not going to wish him good luck, but this is a bit of a last ride for him so I’m sure he’ll get up for it, the boys will get up for it for him and we have got a big job to do.” The Raiders record holder for the most premiership games with the club will depart Canberra at the end of the season and has been heavily linked with a move to Super League. Young said he was surprised to get the chance to play against Papalii for the first and only time, particularly after the birth of his fourth child, Jeremiah, on the day that the Origin teams were selected. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="840"] Blues forward Hudson Young knows the influence his Raiders team-mate Josh Papalii can have on the Maroons in Origin III.[/caption] “He has obviously deserved this opportunity, and I think they have been into him for a couple of years now to come back, so he obviously sees something within their team so good on him. “I didn’t think that he would do it with him having a new-born baby, but it shows how committed he is to his footy – and he shows that with the Raiders. “If you ask me, I think he is in nearly career best form, so I am surprised that he is going to go to over there [to Super League], but I’m not surprised in a certain way. “I think he doesn’t ever want to play against the Raiders, that is the mentality that Josh has. He is a Raider and that is why we all love him down there.” Source: NRL.com

The Papua New Guinea Law Society expressed how deeply appalled and horrified they were by the recent videos circulating on social media, showing women in Hela Province being tied, tortured, and executed at point-blank range, allegedly on accusations of sorcery. The Society expressed that these are not just crimes; they are acts of cold-blooded murder that strike at the heart of our shared humanity and the rule of law. “We raise our strongest possible condemnation of these barbaric and inhumane acts.” “It is unfathomable that in 2025, women in our country are still being targeted, tortured, and killed on the basis of superstition, fear, and lawlessness, and that such acts are being filmed and circulated with impunity.” The Society further expressed that what is more disturbing is the deafening silence from our elected leaders, including the Prime Minister, the Minister for Internal Security, the Governor for Hela Province, and Members of Parliament. The Society strongly stated that the silence of these leaders is unacceptable. These acts must not be ignored, normalized, or allowed to continue under a cloud of indifference. The Law Society demands immediate action: · A full-scale criminal investigation into the recent killings; · Arrest and prosecution of all perpetrators; · Protection and medical care for survivors; · A clear and public statement of condemnation from the Government and all Members of Parliament. “There is no place in our society for mob justice, gender-based violence, or sorcery-related killings.” The Constitution guarantees the right to life, protection from inhuman treatment, and equal protection under the law for all citizens, women included. “We call on all leaders, churches, civil society, and citizens to denounce these atrocities and work together to restore dignity, peace, and justice in our communities.” Enough is enough!

Prime Minister (PM) James Marape has welcomed the approval of a ground-breaking US$63.4 million (PGK K261.80 million) grant by the Green Climate Fund (GCF) for Papua New Guinea, the country’s first-ever single-nation GCF project. This marks a major milestone in international recognition of PNG’s leadership in global climate action. The GCF Board, meeting in Port Moresby this week for its historic 42nd Board session, the first ever held in the Pacific, endorsed the REDD+ programme which will be managed by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) on behalf of PNG. The project aims to protect PNG’s vast rainforest ecosystems, promote sustainable livelihoods for customary landowners, and combat climate change by reducing deforestation and forest degradation. “This approval is a landmark for Papua New Guinea.” “When I opened the GCF Board meeting on Monday, I called for the Board to recognize the urgency of climate action. This funding shows that GCF is responding to our call and acknowledges PNG’s global role as custodian of an environmental treasure for all of humanity.” “I look forward to building this partnership with the Green Climate Fund to protect our biodiversity and uplift the lives of our people.” Meanwhile, GCF Executive Director, Mafalda Duarte praised PNG’s leadership in climate conservation. “The approval of this US$63.4 million REDD+ programme shows GCF’s commitment to supporting Papua New Guinea and the Pacific region.” “PNG holds the world’s third largest tropical rainforests, covering 78% of its land area, and is one of the few countries globally that is carbon negative, its forests absorb more carbon than the country emits.” “This funding will preserve these vital carbon sinks and support sustainable livelihoods for local communities.” Prime Minister Marape also noted the importance of this investment in the context of PNG’s 50th Independence Anniversary. “As we mark fifty years as an independent nation, this grant signals a new chapter of climate leadership by Papua New Guinea on the world stage.” In addition to the REDD+ project, the GCF Board also approved the ‘SOURCE Pacific Drinking Water Project’ worth US$9 million, which will benefit the Marshall Islands, Tonga, Vanuatu, and Papua New Guinea. PNG is expected to receive approximately half of the total project funding. Furthermore, the Marape Government reaffirmed its commitment to delivering climate justice and sustainable development for future generations by strengthening global partnerships and safeguarding the nation’s natural wealth.

Prime Minister (PM) James Marape has welcomed Papua New Guinea’s historic direct export of live fish to Hong Kong as a major breakthrough in the country’s push to expand agricultural and fisheries exports into Asia-Pacific markets. The milestone flight by Air Niugini, which transported four tonnes of live fish from Port Moresby to Hong Kong on the 25 of June 2025, marks the first time PNG has completed a direct air cargo shipment of this nature. The Prime Minister described the achievement as a powerful demonstration of the country’s growing capacity to trade high-value fresh products internationally. “This is a moment of national pride and a clear sign of what our country is capable of achieving when government policy, industry innovation, and strategic diplomacy align.” “I commend Air Niugini, our exporters, and all partners involved in this successful delivery. These are the kinds of ventures that reflect our long-term economic vision.” Transforming Trade Through Policy and Partnership, PM Marape noted that the direct live fish export, which required strict regulation of oxygen, temperature, and water quality, was made possible by targeted policy reforms and deliberate engagement with overseas markets. “This is precisely why we signed the Phytosanitary Agreement with the Government of China and why we amended outdated legislation like the pre-Independence NAQIA Act, replacing it with the modern Biosecurity and Inspection Authority Act (BIA Act).” “These reforms have created a stronger regulatory foundation to support safe, standards-based exports of food and fisheries products.” He also commended the leadership of Fisheries Minister Jelta Wong for working closely with industry and government partners to drive the export agenda forward in the fisheries sector. The Prime Minister also acknowledged Air Niugini and other local companies leading the way in fresh and frozen food exports. He noted that Papua New Guinea is already exporting seafood products, including fish, crabs, and salted seafood to Singapore, a trade pipeline he is actively strengthening through bilateral talks. “I recently met with the Prime Minister of Singapore during the Pacific Islands Forum in Samoa, and we discussed expanding PNG’s food exports into the Singaporean market.” “This builds on my earlier visits and signals growing trust in the quality and reliability of Papua New Guinea’s produce.” Moreover, the Future Lies in Renewable Sectors While reaffirming the government’s continued support for the oil, gas, and mining sectors, PM Marape stressed that PNG’s long-term economic resilience lies in the renewable resource sectors, especially agriculture, fisheries, and sustainable forestry. “Since 2019, our government has been focused on turning these sectors into the backbone of our economy.” “The more we grow and catch from our land and sea, the more value we can export, the more foreign currency we earn, and the more jobs and income we create here at home.” To support this goal, the government has introduced freight subsidies, price support mechanisms, state equity participation for agribusinesses, and small-to-medium enterprise (SME) lending facilities in partnership with commercial banks. “I urge all districts and provinces to incubate and support local entrepreneurs, especially our farmers and fishers, to produce more for export.” “We are living in an unprecedented time. In 2025, domestic and international markets are linked like never before, and we must seize this opportunity to grow our economy from within.” With a Nation Ready to Lead in Asia-Pacific Trade, PM Marape said that with PNG’s growing connectivity to major markets, including China, Singapore, and the broader Asian region, the country is well-positioned to lead in sustainable food and fisheries exports. “This is what the Marape-Rosso Government has been working toward: building the infrastructure, passing the laws, creating the trade relationships, and empowering our people to take their place in the global economy.” “We are not just exporting products, we are exporting the hard work of our people, the quality of our resources, and the story of a resilient, resourceful, and forward-looking Papua New Guinea.” Furthermore, he also confirmed that the Government is working closely with the Bank of Papua New Guinea to enable convertibility between the Papua New Guinea kina and the Chinese yuan. This will make trade transactions with China more efficient and affordable for exporters and importers, and is part of the Government’s broader strategy to facilitate seamless economic exchange across the Asia-Pacific region.

The PNG Resources Golden Expo, hosted by the PNG Chamber of Resources & Energy (PNG CORE), at APEC Haus is free and open to the public from 9AM to 4PM, starting with the opening which will be made by the Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso on the 7th of July 2025. This event aims to invite Papua New Guineans to explore, learn, and celebrate the vital role of the minerals and energy sector in PNG’s development. This national exhibition will showcase how resource projects and the Papua New Guineans working there have helped shape PNG’s economic, social and infrastructure development since independence. Through historical displays, storytelling, and interactive experiences, visitors will trace the journey of the sector from early exploration to present times and looking forward to the future. Thirty companies and regulatory bodies will be exhibiting their history and sharing their story of how each contributed in their own way to building PNG over the last fifty years. A historical business exhibition of this scale has never been done before. The Expo will highlight the contributions of landmark projects such as Panguna, Ok Tedi, Misima Porgera, Kutubu, Lihir, Hidden Valley, Simberi, Kainantu PNG LNG, and others, while also sharing the personal stories of the people and communities behind them. PNG CORE President Anthony Smaré said that this exhibition honors the pioneers, workers, landowners, community leaders, public servants and companies who have built PNG through the development of PNG’s resource sector. “It’s a chance to reflect on how far we’ve come and to inspire future generations to step up to take the industry and PNG further into the future.” The PNG Resources Golden Expo is free and open to the public for three weeks in which families, schools, and community groups are invited to attend. With daily activities such as school visits, inter school debates and engaging displays, the Expo offers a unique opportunity for all Papua New Guineans to connect with the industry that has helped build the nation. This month-long celebration begins with the PNG Resources Golden Exhibition from July 7 to July 31 at APEC Haus. Key events include the Supplier Development Forum (July 10), Resources Career Fair (July 17–18), Charity Golf Day (July 25), CANCONEX (July 28– 30), and the PNG Resources Summit (July 31). Moreover, the exhibition invites visitors to reflect on how mining and energy projects will continue to shape the country’s future for the next decade and beyond. It offers a window into the past and a door to the future, inspiring communities to envision a prosperous path forward. “We encourage everyone to come and be part of this national celebration.” “This is your story, your history, and your future, join us in celebrating the sector that continues to shape Papua New Guinea.”

The restoration of Rabaul town in East New Britain province, has received a major boost with the presentation of a K756, 000 cheque to a local civil contractor for the removal of silt from the town’s streets. Marbil Enterprises Limited received the payment from Rabaul District Administrator Mr. Freddie Lemeki, and Advisor for Transport and Infrastructure Development Mr. John Vule, during a brief ceremony in Rabaul that was held on the 3rd of July 2025. The payment is part of a K1.3 million desilting program awarded to Marbil Enterprises, with subcontracting support from Brista Limited and local participants. The restoration work primarily aims to reopen the main streets that were covered by volcanic ash during past volcanic eruptions. Streets scheduled for clearing include Central Park, St. George Street, Kumerere Street, Kusuarina Street, and Mango Avenue. Rabaul District Administrator Mr. Lemeki, speaking on behalf of the ENB Provincial Procurement Committee (ENB PPC) Chairman and Provincial Administrator Mr. Levi Mano, said the four districts along with various local-level governments (LLGs), are working together as a team to redevelop infrastructure across the province. “This event marks the awarding of the contract to Marbil Enterprises for the clearing of Mango Avenue and other streets in Rabaul.” “I commend the ENB PPC for finally approving this contract. We will now see work begin on the ground.” The funding is part of a K10 million commitment that was made by Prime Minister James Marape during his visit to Rabaul last year. Portions of the funding have already been allocated to other projects, with the desilting of Rabaul town streets being one of several initiatives under the Prime Minister’s redevelopment pledge. Meanwhile, Advisor for the Division of Transport and Infrastructure Development, Mr. John Vule said the contract forms part of the broader Rabaul Redevelopment Program. He noted that the Rabaul District Technical Services team will lead the program, while his division will provide oversight and support. “This payment represents a sixty percent commitment.” “The remaining balance will be paid once the project reaches its full operational scale.”

A dynamic poultry project driven by the Kairak Centre for Sustainable Rural Development (KCfSRD) is setting new benchmarks for sustainable agriculture and community empowerment in East New Britain Province. The initiative, supported by the National Government, as well as the World Bank, and the Cocoa Board PNG Agriculture Commercialization and Diversification Project (PACD), has already engaged more than 1, 000 farming households in the Gazelle district under a transformative poultry value chain model. Led by KCfSRD which is the outreach arm of the University of Natural Resources and Environment (UNRE), the project supplies broiler chickens to registered farmers, who rear the birds for up to six weeks before returning them to UNRE’s certified abattoir for processing. In its first production cycle alone, over 50, 000 chickens were distributed and processed. Kairak Centre Manager Mr. Hosea Turbarat, said that the project is more than just poultry; it has improved livelihoods, created jobs, and empowered local farmers to participate in a structured, value-driven agri-business model. Processed products such as drumsticks, wings, chicken breasts, and whole chickens are now being distributed across Kokopo and throughout the province. The UNRE abattoir, which has undergone significant upgrades including, installation of a standby generator and advanced processing equipment, ensures food safety and product quality with full National Agriculture and Quarantine Inspection Authority (NAQIA) certification. In addition, KCfSRD’s marketing efforts have secured commercial interest from retailers like links, supermarkets, institutions, and resource-sector clients. The team is actively working to meet demand and quality standards, especially in response to increased consumption of locally raised poultry following the government’s ban on frozen chicken imports. KCfSRD is leading two integrated projects under PACD which are North Baining Poultry, Piggery Commercialization and Galip Diversification, and Ataliklikun Commercial Small Livestock and Galip Diversification. Partners include the Baining and Vudal Vunapalading Cooperatives and Frangipani Foods Limited. Meanwhile, whilst piggery and galip nut activities are gaining momentum, the poultry rollout remains the most advanced and impactful. Farmers are not only producers, but they are also stakeholders and through dedicated training in broiler management, direct payments into individual accounts, and reinvestment mechanisms for future production, the model promotes self-sustaining SMEs. “The long-term goal is sustainability. With infrastructure funded by PACD and a secure market, farmers are positioned to take full ownership of their operations.” Furthermore, KCfSRD’s success story highlights how well-planned agricultural partnerships can strengthen food security, empower rural communities, and stimulate local economies. The project long term goal now is exploring export opportunities as it continues to solidify its footprint in Papua New Guinea’s food industry.

Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (DHERST), Mr. Kinoka Feo, in a recent statement, clarified the important matters concerning the funding status under the Tertiary Education Study Assistance Scheme (TESAS) and the Higher Education Loan Program (HELP) for Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). He stated that his ministry is aware of recent posts circulating on social media regarding the de-registration of Divine Word University (DWU) students, which have generated public concern. “I wish to clarify that the de-registration process is not related to TESAS or HELP payments. Therefore, DWU students who are recipients of TESAS and HELP are not affected.” In light of this, he further provided the following updates: 1. 2025 Semester 1 TESAS Payments The Government has placed a high priority on the disbursement of TESAS payments for Semester 1 across all Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). Therefore, over 90% of TESAS funds have been disbursed to the respective institutions, with the remaining payments currently being processed. 2. 2025 Semester 1 HELP Payments The processing of successful applications under the Higher Education Loan Program (HELP) has been completed. Disbursement of HELP funds to all Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) is in progress. 3. 2025 Semester 2 TESAS and HELP Semester 2 of the 2025 Academic Year has commenced across all Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). Upon completion of student registration, all institutions are required to submit their registration lists along with acquittals for semester one. These are requirements for the release of the TESAS funding to the institutions. Institutions will be informed of the semester two HELP cycle. “The Marape-Rosso Government remains firmly committed to the development of our nation's human capital and the strengthening of our human resource base.” “This commitment is reflected in our continued support for the TESAS and HELP programs which play a vital role in alleviating the financial burden on parents and sponsors and in expanding access to quality higher education.” “I encourage all students, parents, and Higher Education Institutions (HEls) to continue working in close partnership with my Ministry. I remain fully committed to ensuring that students are supported throughout their academic journey and are able to complete their studies successfully.” Furthermore, he said that as the country looks ahead in celebrating Papua New Guinea’s Golden Jubilee, his ministry remains committed in developing a highly skilled and competent workforce that will contribute to a sustainable, resilient and prosperous Papua New Guinea.

An impromptu pep talk from Broncos and now Maroons teammate Pat Carrigan last year helped set in motion Queensland rookie Gehamat Shibasaki’s remarkable rise to a dream Origin debut. Content with his life where he was balancing work and playing in the Hostplus Cup with the Townsville Blackhawks, a pointed kick to the ego that only a friend could deliver helped “light the fire” for Shibasaki to make his way back into the NRL, and now, Billy Slater’s Game Three team. “My focus was just working, playing Queensland Cup, it was good … up at the Blackhawks, they really helped me out, settling me in and giving me another shot and keeping that drive going,” Shibasaki said. “I was pretty happy with just working and playing footy … that sort of lifestyle. I was just pretty content with that. “But then some of the boys; Patty and that came to Townsville to play the Cowboys and I had a yarn to them and that just lit the fire again and I was just ‘oh I need to get back into it’. “I gave Wynnum [Manly – Broncos affiliate club] a call, which gave me the opportunity to get a pre-season (with Brisbane) and went from there. “It was sort of just a little ‘wake up to yourself' sort of thing … Me and Patty are really close, so he can tell me those sort of things, and he's like, ‘just come back for another one, just come for a train and trial, come live with me if you want’, and stuff like that. “So it ended up working alright, because (then) I was living down in Goldie and I was jumping in the car with him every day anyway (for) the pre-season, so now he's asking for fuel money. “I was pretty happy with just working and playing footy up there at the Blackhawks, the pressure of being in the NRL; I didn't really feel like going through that again. “I just felt like doing that sort of stuff (was too much) but … it was like that until the boys came up north and then that's when it made me think, ‘oh far out, I can really back myself here and go again’.” Described as a rugby league journeyman, Shibasaki – who represented the Queensland Under 20 side on multiple occasion in his younger days – has followed a path less travelled during his career, taking in time playing Japanese rugby as well as featuring in games for Newcastle, the Cowboys and one with the Rabbitohs last year when contracted to the Blackhawks. Now in his second stint with the Broncos, the club where he made his NRL debut in 2018, he is currently still only on a development contract after being upgraded from his train and replace deal he signed in pre-season. A lot of credit for his remarkable resurgence has to go to Brisbane coach Michael Maguire, who instilled belief in him during the early stages of his return. “Madge was over the moon for my selection,” Shibasaki said of the former Blues coach. “He sees the hard work that I put in and all the stuff that we've done over the pre-season and not even just on the field, off the field growing as well, trying to be a leader, so he was over the moon for me.” While reaping the rewards now, initially it was a humbling pre-season experience for Shibasaki - who has Torres Strait Islands and Japanese heritage - who struggled early, but one that he said set him up to succeed and is now helping him live out his rugby league fairytale. “First day, I got sent from the field because I was unfit … I got sent because I couldn't finish the session … and then that made the pre-season from November to Chrissy even longer,” Shibasaki said. “(So) I trained through the Chrissy break, and then that first session back, I had a conversation with Madge and he just said, ‘keep working hard, you’ve come back fit’, so that made me more confident in my own ability. “I just knew that the footy was coming around and I was pretty confident and fit at that point. I just knew from then, after Christmas, I just knew that if I keep staying in it and my attitude towards training was good, something will come out of it. “I was really just happy to get a contract really, but for him to say you are playing Round 1, that was pretty good.” With players of the talent of Selwyn Cobbo and Deine Mariner waiting in the wings at the Broncos, Shibasaki said his spot in the team was not guaranteed and they were pushing him to be the best he could be. “We've got some outstanding players in the background, so we're all fighting each other for a spot, so (that’s) me continuously working hard and my attitude of training and in the game as well,” Shibasaki said. “(I am) just focusing on my own role and what's important at that current moment; that's all I can control. “I can't control anyone else's decision, so that's another big thing I learnt in the pre-season; doing things that I can control and that's preparing me best for whenever we play.” Embracing that competitive environment also has the centre confident he is ready for Origin now to face off against either Latrell Mitchell or Stephen Crichton. “I'm prepared, I've worked hard through the pre-season and I'm prepared,” Shibasaki said “To come back to the NRL; Madge just said to me ‘if you prep well, if an opportunity arises, then you'll be ready’. “I feel like I'm prepared … from my pre-season, I did a lot of hard work, so I feel like I'm ready.” Source: NRL.com