Katrina ANGELI

Utu Secondary School in New Ireland province, has suspended five grade nine students including four females and one male following a widespread circulation of a video on Facebook depicting these students, smoking marijuana and posting it online. The school administration was promptly alerted to the matter and conducted a thorough investigation. The school board in a recent statement, stated that the investigation identified these students as being responsible for their actions, including the creation of the video. These students were then immediately suspended and the School Disciplinary Committee convened on Friday May 16th to address the issue. The Disciplinary Committee unanimously recommended the expulsion of all five students based on the evidence provided. As of Tuesday 20th May, the School Board of Governors met to specifically consider this serious matter and went ahead to vote to uphold the recommendation of the School Disciplinary Committee resulting in the expulsion of the five students, making it effective. In addition, the board stated that drugs and alcohol have no place within its institution and students found to be involved in the use, possession or distribution of illegal substances will face the strictest disciplinary measures, including termination. The school notes with concern that the majority of serious disciplinary cases this year have involved female students. In light of this trend, Utu Secondary is kindly appealing to parents to prioritize the proper upbringing of their daughters, emphasizing the importance of ladylike conduct, decency, and respect both within and outside the school environment. Moreover, the school also reiterates the importance of respecting the school uniform and encourages all students to wear it with pride. As New Ireland’s premier secondary institution, the board stated that the school’s reputation and standing must be upheld by every member of the community including, students, teachers, the Board of Governors, the administration and parents and citizens. The school also understands that this incident may cause concern within the community and has appealed for the continued support and pride that the people of New Ireland have historically shown towards the institution. "This isolated incident should not diminish the significant contributions Utu Secondary has made and will continue to make in shaping the future leaders of the province and the nation," the school stated. Finally, Utu Secondary school remains firmly committed to providing a safe, disciplined, and conducive learning environment. The board has stated that they will continue to serve as a vital steppingstone, empowering current and future generations of students to achieve their dreams and aspirations and to be New Ireland’s leaders of tomorrow.

The Papua New Guinea Olympic Committee (PNGOC) is proud to announce the appointment of Mrs. Iammo Gapi Launa, OBE, MBE, BEM, OLY as the Chef de Mission for Team PNG to the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games (YOG) in Senegal. A celebrated sporting icon, first PNG female Olympian, and long-time sports administrator and advocate for youth and women in sports, Mrs. Launa brings a wealth of experience, leadership, and passion to her new role. Her appointment marks a significant milestone for Team PNG as it prepares for its first Youth Olympic Games in the African continent. PNGOC President Emma Waiwai, said that PNGOC is honored to have Mrs. Launa lead their young athletes to Dakar. “She has been a pioneer and role model in Papua New Guinea’s sporting history, and her appointment reflects her enduring commitment to sports development at all levels.” “Dakar 2026 is a key lead up event to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games, our home Games, and we are confident that under her leadership, our athletes will be well prepared for the journey ahead.” Mrs. Launa made history as Papua New Guinea’s first female Olympian, representing the country in athletics at the 1984 and 1988 Olympic Games. Her ongoing involvement in sports administration, combined with her extensive knowledge of the Olympic Movements and values makes her ideally suited to guide and inspire the next generation of PNG athletes. As Chef de Mission, Mrs. Launa will be responsible for overseeing the preparation, management, and welfare of Team PNG’s delegation to Dakar, ensuring that athletes and officials are well-supported throughout the journey. In accepting the role, Mrs. Launa expressed her gratitude and commitment, stating that it is a privilege to once again serve Papua New Guinea in this capacity. “I look forward to supporting and mentoring our youth as they take on this exciting challenge and represent our country with pride on the world stage.” The Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, scheduled for October 31st to November 14th, 2026, with 38 sports on the program, will host thousands of young athletes from around the globe. Moreover, Team PNG’s participation reflects PNGOC’s continued investment in youth sports and its strategic focus on athlete development for future Olympic success. The PNGOC will begin its formal preparations and athlete selection pathway in the coming months, working closely with National Federations, coaches, and stakeholders to identify and nurture top-performing youth athletes.

Kina Bank was delighted to collaborate with RISE on "I Build My Pathway" Careers and Entrepreneurship workshop on Saturday 10th May 2025 to teach young girls entrepreneurial skills and offer them valuable opportunities to learn and serve. As part of its sponsorship, Kina Bank presented a business loan (with no interest) to schoolgirls from Tokarara Secondary School in NCD. Envelopes containing cash were given to five groups of girls to start their own business project. RISE Founder and Director, Michelle Pillay expressed her gratitude to Kina Bank for the support. “The inclusion of Kina Bank in the entrepreneurship project, particularly through the presentation of the business loan concept, offered a critical, real-world dimension to our students’ learning.” “This opportunity not only enhanced their understanding of financial literacy and business fundamentals but also encouraged innovative thinking and leadership.” “The mentees were inspired by the idea that a major national institution believes in their ideas and is willing to support them.” “As the lender for our young women’s business projects, Kina Bank is not only helping to launch entrepreneurial ventures but is also actively shaping the next generation of PNG’s business and community leaders,” she said. Kina Bank Executive General Manager Business - Retail Banking and Guest Speaker Rayeleene Elston shared her inspiring personal journey to motivate both mentees and mentors. She urged the girls to step out of their comfort zones and break the cycle of generational hardships, stating, "No matter what you go through in life, choose to be different. Choose your path and make the decision to be somebody." Kina Bank Chairman Ian Clough also applauded the partnership between the bank and the RISE Program saying, “It was great to see our team involved in this fantastic program which is helping to further empower and engage women in PNG.” Kina Bank is also pleased to have two staff members, Grace Eli - Senior Legal Officer and Margarette Maggio - Asset Recoveries Officer, serving as mentors in the program, providing their expertise and guidance to these young girls. The RISE Program is a youth empowerment initiative aimed at fostering personal growth, education, and employment opportunities through structured mentoring. The program aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly focusing on quality education and gender equality.

Three Chinese nationals residing in Madang have been arrested and charged by Madang police in relation to the incident that occurred on May 9th at the Yaho Supermarket, where a 45-year-old mother and her daughter were physically assaulted after being accused of theft. Madang Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Chief Inspector, Robert Baim confirmed that the Yaho Supermarket Manager, the Supreme Investment Cooperative Service Manager, and one other Chinese national were arrested and charged yesterday (Monday, the 19th) with two charges each of grievous bodily harm and deprivation of liberty concerning the mother and daughter. He said the three were allowed on K12, 000 police bail and will appear in court when their court documents are ready. He mentioned that this now brings the total number of arrests to six, of which the other three are Papua New Guineans. He stated that the investigation into the incident of May 9th is still ongoing, and more arrests are expected to take place. PPC Baim also stated that according to the police investigation, on May 9th the victim, 45-year-old mother Josephine Kadiknam and her daughter were doing their shopping at Yaho Supermarket in Madang town when they were confronted by the shop employees, and security guards from Pacific Cooperative Services. It was alleged that the guards and the shop employees claimed that the mother and daughter had stolen items from the shop. The guards and the employees then escorted the mother and daughter to the shop's storage area and started assaulting them. After assaulting them, they took the mother to the police station and detained her while allowing the daughter to go home. He then added that after the mother was detained, the police officers requested that both parties come forward and provide their statements. During the investigation at that time, a video of the assault of the mother and daughter went viral on social media that stirred up public condemnation of the actions of the shop employees doing the beating. “I then instructed my officers to quickly obtain statements from the mother, the child, and the guards, and to have those responsible for committing any offenses related to that matter arrested and charged.” “On the next day, the two shop employees were apprehended by my officers, who were alleged to be involved in assaulting the mother and daughter.” “The following day, another individual was picked up and charged, and yesterday, three Chinese men were charged, bringing the total to six people charged in connection with the Yaho incident in Madang.” Furthermore, PPC Baim stated that the investigation continues, and thanked the public and his police officers for working together to assist in investigating the matter.

The East New Britain Provincial Government (ENBPG) recently launched a major initiative to distribute approximately one million cocoa hybrids and clones this year as part of the Cocoa Rehabilitation Program. This large-scale effort is being carried out in partnership with the PNG Cocoa Board and Agmark Group Limited. As part of the rollout, payments for the initial 700, 000 cocoa seedlings, covering the districts of Pomio, Rabaul, and Gazelle, have been made to the PNG Cocoa Board and Agmark Group Limited. The PNG Cocoa Board received a total of K350, 000 to support seedling distribution, while Agmark Group was granted a total of K282, 622 to supply equipment for nurseries and cocoa fermentaries. Meanwhile, payments for the remaining 300, 000 seedlings for the Kokopo district are currently being finalized under similar distribution arrangements. The presentation of cheques to the two organizations took place at the ENB Provincial Administrator’s Office in Kokopo earlier this month. Provincial Administrator Mr. Levi Mano, while presenting the cheques, stated that the provincial government is now partnering with experts who can support agricultural extension work in the province. Mr. Mano confirmed there are currently nineteen certified cocoa nurseries in operation engaged through Service Level Agreements (SLA). These nurseries are part of a proposed forty that will supply cocoa seedlings to more than 2, 333 cocoa farmers across the province. “If we wish to produce quality cocoa, the Cocoa Board and Agmark are the right partners for us to carry on this initiative.” “Therefore, we are calling on all farmers to access materials provided by these two organizations.” He emphasized that people often talk about grand initiatives but overlook practical, impactful efforts that can support communities and bring money back into local economies. Meanwhile, Advisor of the Division of Agriculture and Livestock (DAL), Mr. Dominic Huranaka, said that the province currently produces 6, 000 metric tonnes of cocoa annually. The provincial government aims to increase production to 10, 000 metric tonnes by the year, 2027. Mr. Huranaka stated that once the Kokopo district component is in place and other service providers such as Farmset Limited will be engaged. He also confirmed that a few cocoa nurseries have already begun distributing seedlings in the province. “We now have a set of guidelines for farmers who wish to participate in the program. You must have your field ready, with proper lining and marking, and our officers will need to physically inspect the site.” “We have previously supplied cocoa seedlings without seeing the expected return on investment.” Additionally, Mr. Huranaka said that some farmers collect seedlings only to store them improperly, leading to damage and also noted that some farmers are simply negligent. On the other hand, PNG Cocoa Board Chief Executive Officer, Jessie Anjen, has commended the initiative of the ENB Provincial Government to partner with service providers who have the capacity to supply and meet the demands of the population. He added that the Cocoa Board has seen a rise in farmers cultivating open-pollinated seeds. “This can really affect the production and quality of our cocoa in the province as well as the country.” “The best approach is to source seedlings from certified budwood gardens, which are then distributed to cocoa nurseries province wide.” Moreover, he added that the Provincial Cocoa Rehabilitation Program aligns with the Cocoa Board’s annual targets and that this partnership is a great way to alleviate poverty in communities.

The Olympic Values Education Programme (OVEP) is a fun and engaging way to teach young people about the Olympic values of Excellence, Respect, and Friendship. The program uses sport and physical activity to promote positive life skills, healthy living, and strong values that can help shape individuals and build better communities. It encourages young people to carry these values not only in sports but also in their daily lives. The Papua New Guinea Olympic Committee (PNGOC) is rolling out the OVEP program to inspire and educate children and communities across the country. Through this initiative, PNGOC aims to instill the values of honesty, excellence, respect, and openness (known as the PNGOC HERO values) in the hearts of the next generation. This year, the OVEP activities also form part of the lead-up to Olympic Day which will be on June 23rd, a day celebrated globally to promote participation in sport, unity, and living a healthy, active life. On the 10th of this month (May), the PNGOC team visited Gabagaba Village in Central Province to launch the OVEP campaign. It was a lively and meaningful event that brought together children, youth, and community members. The highlight of the day was a series of inspirational talks by Team PNG HERO athletes, who shared powerful messages based on the PNGOC HERO values including Honesty, Excellence, Respect, and Openness. Their stories encouraged the children and villagers to live by these values, whether in sport, school, or everyday life. In addition, the program in Gabagaba included fun sporting activities that allowed the children to practice the HERO values through teamwork, fair play, and participation. There were also creative art sessions where children and villagers wrote heartfelt well wishes to Team PNG athletes who will be representing the country at the 2025 Pacific Mini Games in Palau next month. The day was filled with laughter, learning, and community spirit, as everyone came together to celebrate the power of sport and values-based education. Following the successful launch in Gabagaba, the OVEP campaign will continue in Gaire, Barakau, Tubusereia, Papa Village, the Lealea, as part of the countdown to Olympic Day. Furthermore, through these village visits, PNGOC hopes to keep spreading awareness, pride, and positivity, while supporting Team PNG and encouraging everyone to embrace the Olympic spirit.

Prime Minister James Marape congratulated the European Union (EU) on the occasion of Europe Day, recognizing the EU’s long-standing and expanding partnership with Papua New Guinea during a formal reception that was held last Friday the 9th of May at the APEC Haus, Port Moresby city. Speaking before a distinguished audience of diplomats, ministers, and development partners, PM Marape underscored the EU’s critical role in PNG’s development needs. “On behalf of my government and the people of Papua New Guinea, I congratulate the European Union on your Europe Day and acknowledge the deep and significant partnership we continue to share.” “Your programmes across the country, especially in provinces like East Sepik that are directly improving the lives of our people.” He also highlighted the extensive support PNG receives from the EU in sectors including education, energy, gender equality, agriculture, climate resilience, and public financial management. “The European Union has been a steadfast partner. Your investment in education, energy access, agriculture, and governance are transforming communities. From climate change resilience programmes to supporting us during COVID-19, you have stood by us in good times and in moments of hardship.” He also emphasized the EU’s financial contributions at the provincial level with millions of kina being invested by the EU in provinces such as East Sepik. These funds he stated, are building infrastructure, boosting agriculture, and enhancing public services in our rural areas. He reiterated PNG’s commitment to shared values such as democracy, equality, and inclusive development. “Papua New Guinea is a robust democracy with a free-market economy. We believe that everyone deserves equal opportunity for progress and prosperity, no matter where they live.” In addition, whilst referring to the broader geopolitical context, PM Marape added that PNG is positioned as a critical link between the Pacific and Southeast Asia, calling for stronger global cooperation. “We are a proud member of the Pacific family, with deep ties to ASEAN and Asia. As the world shifts towards a more multipolar future, we welcome the EU’s continued presence in our region.” “Our foreign policy remains clear; friends to all, enemies to none.” Meanwhile, PM Marape also announced during the event that PNG is expanding its diplomatic footprint in Europe. He was pleased to confirm that their nominee for Consul in Switzerland has been accepted, and plans are underway to open an embassy in France. “These efforts mark our growing engagement with Europe.” Moreover, in reflecting on the EU’s origin, PM Marape paid tribute to French Foreign Minister Robert Schuman, whose 1950 vision laid the foundation for the European Union. “Schuman’s vision reminds us that even one person’s idea, grounded in peace and partnership, can shape global history. That same spirit of unity is what we celebrate today.” The Prime Minister concluded by thanking the EU for ‘finding a home in the Pacific.’ “Though 12, 000 kilometers may separate us, in every sense you are close to us. The EU has a home here in Papua New Guinea, and we thank you for being part of our journey toward peace, development, and shared prosperity.”

Prime Minister and a former Education Minister James Marape, recently conveyed the nation’s heartfelt appreciation to Mr. Fred Stolz, the founding principal of Balob Teachers College in Lae, Morobe province, and also congratulated the institution on reaching its remarkable 60th anniversary milestone. Mr. Stolz, an Australian educator who first came to Papua New Guinea in 1965, returned to Lae last Thursday for the anniversary celebrations, where he delivered an emotional speech that deeply moved the audience. In his address, he reflected on the college’s early beginnings, its pioneering role in teacher training, and its evolution into one of Papua New Guinea’s most important educational institutions. “On behalf of the people and Government of Papua New Guinea, I sincerely thank Mr. Fred Stolz for his visionary leadership and service to our country.” “His dedication to education laid the foundation for thousands of Papua New Guinean teachers who have gone on to serve in every province of our nation. Mr. Stolz is a true friend of PNG, and his legacy will live on in the generations of students shaped by Balob.” Prime Minister Marape was invited to attend the momentous occasion but, due to prior national commitments, was unable to be present in person. He conveyed his warm congratulations and gratitude through this official message and extended his best wishes to all attendees of the historic celebration. The Prime Minister was officially represented by Minister for Education Lukas Dekena. Also in attendance were Deputy Prime Minister and member for Lae, John Rosso as well as Morobe Governor Luther Wenge. PM Marape also commended the Lutheran Church and the Government of Germany, who were instrumental in establishing the college through significant financial and staffing support. He highlighted the college’s inclusive growth over the decades, noting its transformation into a vibrant, multi-denominational institution serving all parts of the country. “Balob Teachers College represents the very best of partnership in development.” “It began with a bold vision, backed by international support and driven by dedicated educators. Today, it stands as a national pillar of teacher training and a testament to what we can achieve when we invest in education.” The Prime Minister congratulated Balob’s leadership, staff, students, and alumni for their enduring contribution to nation-building, and for upholding the college’s motto to serve with distinction. “As Papua New Guinea marks fifty years of Independence this year, institutions like Balob remind us of the strong foundations upon which our country has grown.” “I encourage all educational institutions to emulate Balob’s spirit of service, excellence, and unity.” In addition, Mr. Stolz concluded his anniversary remarks by saying that coming to Papua New Guinea in 1965 was the best decision of his life; a decision, he said, that changed him for the better and deepened his respect for the resilience and warmth of the PNG people. “Mr. Stolz’s words touched us all. His humility, wisdom, and enduring love for our people are gifts that we cherish.” “We are proud to honor him today and celebrate the institution he helped to build.” Furthermore, Balob Teachers College has trained over 10, 000 teachers in the past six decades and continues to grow in strength and impact, now offering a three-year diploma programme to students from all regions of PNG.

Member for Kokopo, Mr. Ereman Tobaining Jnr, has expressed serious concerns over the increasing number of secondary school students in East New Britain Province who have been arriving late for classes due to transportation problems. Mr. Tobaining stated that most secondary schools in the province lack proper coordination of school trucks and other vehicles needed to transport students to and from schools. “Principals and teachers must be fair to their students.” “The trucks that the school has are not your private vehicles to carry your families around or to only take teachers shopping. Be considerate and pick up students in the morning and coordinate drop-offs in the afternoon.” “If you drive around town, you will witness many students wandering after 9AM in which most of them are still waiting for transport to get to school.” He stated that some of the affected schools include Warangoi Secondary, George Brown Secondary, and Bitapaka Secondary among others. In addition, he also highlighted the dangerous practice of students hanging onto the back of public vehicles where it is risky and questioned as to where all the school trucks and vehicles are. He emphasized that certain schools had been given vehicles, yet these schools are not sufficiently assisting their students with transportation. Mr. Tobaining has raised this matter several times during assembly sittings and called on local Members of Parliament, the Education Division, and school boards to address this issue urgently. Meanwhile, East New Britain Provincial Member and Chairman of the Provincial Assembly, Michael Marum, echoed similar sentiments, pointing out that many institutions were not utilizing the trucks as intended. Governor Marum said that over the past two years, the provincial government had distributed trucks and vehicles to schools to support their operations, including the transportation of students. He added that the provincial government would initiate a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with schools to establish a proper body to manage the vehicles in each secondary school. “I suggest that they can open bank accounts and perhaps operate the trucks as Public Motor Vehicles (PMVs), generating revenue for school operations.”

The East New Britain Provincial Government (ENBPG) has now officially established the ENB Provincial Project Implementation Management Unit (ENBP-PIMU). The decision to set up the PIMU was one of three decisions that was endorsed during a recent provincial assembly sitting that was held last month (April) in Kokopo city. The ENBP-PIMU will serve as the Implementing Agent for the ENBPG and the provincial administration with its official office located within the Division of Infrastructure Development. PIMU will be responsible for designing new roads, bridges, wharves, and institutional houses, as well as scoping works for civil and building projects. The unit will as well manage and supervise civil and building projects from the initial stages to completion. Former Chairman of Human Resources Management in the ENB Provincial Assembly, Mr. Robert Mati, while reading the submission, stated that the Gazelle Restoration Authority (GRA) was previously the implementing agent of the ENBPG. Mr. Mati explained that the Act establishing the GRA has now become obsolete, as the Authority has completed its mandate of restoring basic government services and infrastructure within the Gazelle Peninsula. “In 2010, the ENBPG decided to retain GRA as its implementing agent, and between 2010 and 2021, GRA implemented over K41 million worth of projects.” He further noted that since 2021, there has been minimal implementation of major projects in the province, highlighting the need to establish a unit specifically tasked with the design, scoping, implementation, and supervision of government projects. In 2024, the Provincial Executive Council (PEC) agreed and endorsed the Special Projects Authority (SPA) as the implementing agent. However, that decision has now been revoked as it conflicts with the District Development Authority (DDA) Act. Mr. Mati emphasized that the purpose of the PIMU is strictly to implement projects, while decisions and procurement responsibilities will remain with the respective DDAs and the provincial government headquarters, adhering to standard administrative and legislative requirements. According to the submission, the unit will be staffed by five personnel: a project manager, two contract officers (civil and building), and two administration officers. The unit will be fully funded by the ENBPG through its internal revenue, with an annual allocation of K500, 000 to cover the wages of the five PIMU officers. In addition, project supervision and management across the province will be carried out by the PIMU in collaboration with officers from the Division of Infrastructure Development and the respective districts. Meanwhile, Minister for Health and Member for Pomio district, Elias Kapavore, commended the establishment of the unit stating that it will significantly uplift the standard of project implementation in the province. He remarked that while many projects are being implemented, there has been a lack of proper management and supervision. “I commend the provincial administration and the team for advancing these initiatives. This will enhance the alignment of projects so that we all achieve a common goal for our province.”

The East New Britain Provincial Government held its final sitting of the current ENB Provincial Assembly last month, April, at the Gazelle International Hotel in Kokopo, East New Britain. The sitting formally endorsed three government business papers and marked the official farewell of the eighteen Local Level Government Presidents serving as members of the East New Britain Provincial Assembly. The government business papers passed during the assembly include: • The establishment of the ENBP Implementation and Management Unit (ENB – PIMU), • Status progress report on the NGI Referral Hospital • Status of ENB Early Childhood Education (ECE) formerly Bismarck as an agency of ENB Provincial government and request for registration with DHERST. ENB Provincial Member and Chairman of the Provincial Assembly, Michael Marum, in his address, commended the eighteen LLG Presidents for their support since he assumed office in 2022. Governor Marum said the LLG presidents had been active members of the assembly and had played an integral role in the numerous Provincial Executive Council decisions. He acknowledged that their journey had been marked by a fair share of debates and differences. “What unites us is our shared commitment to the advancement of East New Britain.” He also stated that the provincial government has made progress in various sectors in infrastructure, education, agriculture and tourism and added that law and order remain a top priority. “We have instituted targeted interventions in high-risk areas, reinforced community policing initiatives, and broadened our youth engagement programs to mitigate crime and foster social responsibility.” “These initiatives are supported by both national and local partners, underscoring our collective commitment to restoring peace and ensuring safety throughout the province.” In attendance at the assembly were member for Rabaul district, Doctor Allan Marat as well as member for Kokopo district Ereman Tobaining Jnr, and member for Pomio district and Minister for Health, Elias Kapavore. Member for Gazelle and Minister for Fisheries and Marine Resources, Mr. Jelta Wong, was absent due to work commitments. Meanwhile, Pomio MP Elias Kapavore, expressed similar sentiments in commending the LLG Presidents for their active role in the Provincial Assembly. “Some of you will return, while others will move on. We extend our best wishes to each of you in defending your respective LLG seats.” Furthermore, the next sitting is scheduled for September this year, during which newly elected Provincial Assembly members will be sworn in. The number of LLG Presidents represented in the Provincial Assembly will increase from eighteen to twenty-three, following the creation of five new LLGs that will be contested in the upcoming election.

The Laila Foundation, in partnership with Pacific International Hospital (PIH), successfully concluded a four-day cataract outreach from April 26th to the 29th at Lorengau General Hospital (LGH), delivering sight-restoring cataract surgeries to underserved communities across the Manus province. A total of 130 patients were on the list after being screened by the devoted Sister Loras at the LGH eye clinic, resulting in 111 successful surgeries, including 92 cataract operations and nine pterygium excisions with conjunctival grafts. These procedures have had a profound impact, restoring vision and independence to patients who had been living with preventable blindness. Many were blind in both eyes and were dependent on guardians and saw that the day after surgery, were happy at regaining their sight resulting in better quality in life. This marks the eighth outreach initiative led by the Laila Foundation and PIH with its Provincial Health Authority (PHA) partners for Manus since the year 2019. With over 550 cataract surgeries performed to date, the program stands as the most consistent and impactful eye care initiative in the province’s recent history. Chief Executive Officer of Lorengau General Hospital, Mr. Francis Possy remarked that Laila Foundation and PIH continues to return year after year to provide the vital cataract outreach program to provide access to eye specialists for patients who are screened for cataracts by Sr Loras at the Eye clinic. “Their work is transforming lives in communities where access to eye care is extremely limited.” Patients travelled from across the island; some up to two days by boat or four hours overland in order to receive the care that they need. Many also expressed hope that future programs could either reach more remote regions or that the administration provide transportation support to Lorengau General hospital. In addition, Manus Provincial Administrator, Mr. Mame, reassured that they are committed to working with the PHA and NGO health partners such as Laila Foundation to improve access to specialist care in Manus. “Logistics will be a priority in future outreach efforts, so no one is left behind.” Meanwhile, Director and Consultant ophthalmologist at PIH, Doctor Amyna Sultan, OBE, said that the Laila Foundation and PIH remain dedicated to their mission of restoring sight and transforming lives. “We look forward to working with the Provincial Health Authorities and other partners to expand their reach across Manus Province and with other PHA’s across Papua New Guinea where specialist eye doctors are not available.” “This year we have plans for returning to Wewak in East Sepik, Kimbe in West new Britain, Kapuna in Gulf and Tari in Hela province. Also adding to our visits will be Pimaga in Southern Highlands and Vanimo in West Sepik province.”