Katrina ANGELI

Bel Isi PNG has expressed the recent number of tragic and brutal sexual assaults and murders of women in Port Moresby as appalling as well as the ongoing level of family violence perpetrated against women in Papua New Guinea. Bel isi has strongly condemn these acts of crime and has called upon the government to lead all sectors of society including private sector, community leaders, law enforcement and individuals to take immediate, decisive action to address the increasingly escalating issue of violence against women and girls. “We urge for the implementation of stronger legal protections, prosecution of perpetrators, more accessible support systems for survivors, and the creation of awareness programs that challenge harmful gender norms and attitudes.” “This appalling epidemic is inflicting devastating harm on women, families, and communities nationwide and has significant impacts to our ability to develop and enjoy a just and safe Papua New Guinea for all.” The escalating prevalence of family and sexual violence, gender-based violence and sorcery accusation-related violence is at crisis point in which cannot be turned away. Furthermore, Bel isi PNG has worked extensively with their private sector subscribers and partners as well as government partners to address family and sexual violence using the workforce as an entry point but is still in need for many more to join in taking up this challenge. “We extend our deepest sympathies to the families who have tragically lost their daughters, sisters, and mothers to these senseless crimes.”

Rugby League superstar, Cameron Smith has backed Papua New Guinea to make a successful transition into the NRL after visiting the country to attend a celebration event acknowledging the NRL’s newest franchise calling PNG home. While in the country, Smith has been meeting with the government and PNG Rugby League officials to offer support and advice on creating a world-leading franchise that can sustain the development of the game for years to come. Smith was impressed with the planning and structures that were being put in place for entry into the National Rugby League in 2028. “To be a successful rugby league club you need to build from the bottom upwards and have the right structures in place at all levels.” “That means creating a pathways system to maximise the potential of your playing depth, as well as creating great relationships with government, sponsors and the community so everyone is aligned with the same goals.” “You have tremendous support for the game in this country starting with your Prime Minister James Marape, who has been a game-changer in terms of working with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to make the dream of joining the NRL a reality.” “The love and passion for the game is obvious. Now with the support of Wapu Sonk, Andrew Hill and Stanley Hondina you have the right people who can put all the building blocks in place for success.” He further expressed that the key to any great club is the people within it and that everyone is focussed on doing things the right way. “If the opportunity arises, I am keen to help in any way I can as I’m really excited for the future of the game here and how it will unite and inspire the people of PNG.” Moreover, NRL Bid Chairman, Wapu Sonk, was grateful to have Smith’s input into planning for 2028 stating that having someone with an experience like Cameron Smith, who has been a major part of some of the most successful teams of all time, offer advice on how to create a successful rugby league club, it is important to listen. “Cameron was a superstar of the game and someone who set new standards for hard work and professionalism.” “We are extremely grateful that he has been able to visit our country and to see first-hand the plans we have in place to make sure that we leave no stone unturned in creating the right environment for success.” “We have had some great conversations about what we need to do over the next three years to make sure that we hit the ground running in 2028, and then to have sustained success over a long period." “We look forward to continuing our conversations with Cameron in the coming months.” Meanwhile, NRL Bid Chief Executive Officer, Andrew Hill, was also delighted that Smith had been able to witness first-hand the excitement that the people of PNG had for what was to come in 2028. “It is a real eye-opener to come to PNG and actually experience the excitement that everyone has for becoming part of the NRL.” “Cam has been there and done it at every level of the game.” “He has led hugely successful teams, played under some of the greatest coaches and understands what it takes to create a successful club environment.” “Most importantly, he knows what sustained excellence looks like.” “All of our planning at the moment, is based on making sure that we put in place the best of everything." He further stated that on and off the field, he wants PNG to be a world leader in standards and to be the preferred destination for players throughout the world. “With the support of people like Cameron Smith we are confident that we are on the right path."

Breast, cervical, rectum, oral and liver cancer, are known as the most common cancers in Papua New Guinea. Clinical Oncology Physician and Acting Chief Oncologist at the National Department of Health, Doctor Manna Kiraks Ario, confirmed this during today's Media Development Initiative’s Civil Society Networking Event. This event was hosted in commemoration of World Cancer Day that took place on the 4th of February this year highlighting some of the cancer challenges and how these can be addressed in terms of awareness. With the theme for this important event, ‘Empowering Voices for Change & Support’, Dr Ario stated the importance of understanding more the cancer care in the country as well as advocacy and change and the preventive strategies that the National Department of Health has in place to strengthen cancer care services in the country. Dr. Ario stated the challenges and barriers that affects the cancer care system in the country with the need to seriously address these issues. Barriers such as lack of cancer care system, treatment, facilities and health workers and specialists, hinder the access to receive treatment for cancer patients. “The cancer care system is poorly coordinated and fragmented which needs to be addressed." "We also have lack of screening facilities in the country as well as diagnosis for cancer patients.” “Treatments for cancer patients are consistent as we do not have enough theatres to carry out cancer treatment due to limited space.” “Shortage of health workers and specialists is also a major barrier in delivering a better cancer care system in the country.” Dr. Ario stated that according to the World Health Organization Global Cancer Observatory, the International Agency for Research of Cancer, has shown estimated figures that over 5, 000 cases show the men’s cancer population whilst over 6, 000 cases show the women’s population who are diagnosed with cancer. In terms of addressing these, Dr Ario urged that raising awareness can bring a lot of change with preventive measures that must be put in place. “One particular awareness we can carry out is breaking the stigma and showing support towards cancer." "Often times patients don’t come quickly because they live in fear of the misconception about cancer.” “We must also advocate for more cancer facilities and for the right authorities to invest more in cancer facilities.” In addition, educating more on cancer awareness in schools and work organizations will help in better understanding the cancer care system and preventing the increase in cancer. “Prevention is the key in addressing cancer awareness; therefore improving literacy will better help the task in carrying out cancer awareness.” Furthermore, with plans to embark on a new cancer facility at the Port Moresby General Hospital and with the newly established Angau Cancer facility in Morobe province, this sets the tone in the right path to improving cancer care in the country. Dr. Ario urged the need to prioritize on the new cancer facility that will become the cancer hub of the country. He added that with an increase in awareness, cancer care can be greatly improved with a more coordinated system for better cancer care.

The National Department of Health and UNAIDS are reassuring the public that HIV testing and treatment services remain available throughout the country. The National Department of Health has secured a 12 month supply of essential HIV commodities, including antiretrovirals (ARV) and HIV test kits. An assessment of ART clinics and HIV testing clinics in late January confirmed there were no disruptions to services. ‘’There is no shortage of HIV drugs and reagents in PNG. The Government of Papua New Guinea finances all ARV drugs and reagents.” said Mr Wai, Deputy Secretary of Public Health. Mr Wai said an estimated 48,000 men, women and children living with HIV are currently receiving ARV treatment. He reiterated the importance of HIV prevention, including practicing safe sex. Dr Nano Gideon, National STI/HIV Program Manager confirmed that ARV drugs are purchased by the National Government through the Health Department and are free of charge in Papua New Guinea. “The commitment of the Government of Papua New Guinea in procuring these essential HIV commodities has ensured the uninterrupted supply of lifesaving services for the more than 48,000 enrolled in HIV treatment,” said UNAIDS Country Director Manoela Manova. The national community-led monitoring (CLM) hotline is available for information and assistance with HIV services: 73096477. Although some personnel including clinicians, trackers and data entry clerks who support HIV services, and are funded through the United States Government, may be unavailable to support services in some clinics in NCD, partners are working closely under the guidance of NDoH to ensure the absence of these essential personnel does not affect access to HIV testing and treatment. Community-led services and community-led monitoring have been affected. These community-led interventions are especially strategic because they focus on the places and populations where the epidemic is growing and they complement inputs from governments and other donors, including the Global Fund and Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. During the US foreign aid review period, we call on partners in PNG, especially the NCDPHA, the development sector and the private sector to band together and ensure these crucial services continue.

The Papua New Guinea Olympic Committee (PNGOC) successfully hosted its Olympic Solidarity Workshop on the 15th of February 2025, at the Grand Papua Hotel in Port Moresby. The workshop immediately followed the PNGOC Special General Meeting which brought together representatives from all Olympic Sports of whom are members of the PNGOC. Olympic Solidarity supports National Olympic Committees in the world through assistance for the National Olympic Committee and athlete development programs. These development programs include athlete and sports development values, capacity building, and administration. The workshop provided vital information on the 2025-2028 quadrennial allocations, ensuring that National Federations gained a clear understanding of the Olympic Solidarity programs and the requirements necessary to access funding. With preparations underway for the Los Angeles 2028 and Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games, the event served as an important strategic forum for national sports administrators to align their objectives with Olympic standards and opportunities. Participants engaged in discussions on global and continental Olympic Solidarity initiatives, exploring various support mechanisms available to enhance athlete development and sports administration. The sessions covered eligibility criteria, application processes, and reporting obligations, equipping National Federations with the knowledge needed to maximize funding opportunities. In addition, the workshop also emphasized long-term planning and goal setting, ensuring that Team PNG remained on track for future Olympic success. President of PNGOC, Mrs. Emma Waiwai, highlighted the significance of the workshop, stating that the Olympic Solidarity programs provide instrumental support to their National Federations, ensuring that their athletes and sports administrators have access to the resources they need to compete at the highest level. “This workshop is a critical step in strengthening our pathways to the Los Angeles 2028 and Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games.” “I commend all National Federations for their engagement, as the knowledge and insights gained will play a significant role in shaping the future for Papua New Guinea's sporting success." Furthermore, the workshop featured presentations on Olympic preparation strategies, funding distribution, and best practices for strengthening national sports programs. As the country continues its journey toward international sporting excellence, the PNGOC acknowledges the support from Olympic Solidarity, and remains committed to supporting National Federations by providing the necessary tools and resources. The insights gained from this workshop will now play a crucial role in shaping the country’s sports development strategy for the coming years.

Prime Minister James Marape, has condemned in the strongest terms the brutal rape and murder of a woman at Watermark Estate in Baruni in Port Moresby, describing the act as inhumane, barbaric, and utterly unacceptable in the society. He expressed deep shock and outraged by this despicable crime and stated that no woman, child or citizen of the country should ever have to endure such horrifying violence. “This is not just an attack on one individual, but it is an attack on our collective sense of humanity and justice.” He assured the nation that the government will spare no effort in ensuring that those responsible for this heinous act are swiftly brought to justice. “I have instructed our law enforcement agencies to leave no stone unturned in their investigations.” “The criminals responsible for this cowardly act must be caught and punished to the fullest extent of the law. Justice must be served, and I urge all citizens with any information to come forward and assist the police.” Meanwhile, he reiterated his government’s unwavering support for the eviction of illegal settlements that have become safe havens for criminals. He commended the National Capital District Commission (NCDC) for its ongoing efforts to dismantle these settlements, emphasising that law and order must be upheld in all communities. “For too long, certain areas have become breeding grounds for criminal elements who terrorise innocent people, businesses, and communities.” “This must stop! I fully support the efforts by the NCD Governor, Powes Parkop as well as the NCDC authorities to remove illegal settlements that harbor criminal activities. We cannot allow law-abiding citizens and businesses to live in fear.” He further stressed that evictions will be carried out in an orderly and lawful manner, with government agencies ensuring that those displaced are given proper support to relocate to designated areas and issued a strong and direct warning to those involved in this crime and all other criminal activities in the country. “To those who commit such horrendous acts, let this be clear, the government will come down hard on you. We will not allow criminals to think they can act with impunity. The rule of law will prevail, and every perpetrator will face the full force of justice.” “My government is strengthening our police force, improving our justice system, and enhancing national security to ensure that such crimes are dealt with swiftly and decisively.” Furthermore, a call has been made to all community leaders, churches, and citizens to work together with the police in addressing law and order issues, emphasizing that security is a shared responsibility. “We must reclaim our communities from the grip of crime. I call on our people to report any suspicious activities and support the police with credible information. Those who protect criminals or refuse to cooperate with law enforcement are complicit in these crimes.” Moreover, the PM Marape reaffirmed his government’s commitment to strengthening law and order, increasing police presence, and ensuring that criminal activities are stamped out. “My government has already begun investing in boosting police resources, increasing manpower, and improving law enforcement capabilities. We will not rest until every Papua New Guinean feels safe in their own country; every woman, every child, and every citizen deserve to live in a society free from fear and violence.” In closing, PM Marape extended his deepest condolences to the family of the victim and assured them that the government stands with them in their time of grief. “My thoughts and prayers are with the victim’s family. No words can undo the pain they are experiencing, but I assure them that justice will be done. This is a defining moment for our nation to unite against crime, to take a stand against violence, and to build a Papua New Guinea where all citizens can live in safety and dignity."

Police Minister and Regional member of Bougainville, Peter Tsiamalili, stated that as the mandated regional member and as a proud uncle of newly crowned Miss PNG, May Torovi Hasola, has expressed disappointment to the derogatory statements that have recently surfaced on social media regarding her origin and that of her parents. Tsiamalili addressed this saying that such behavior is not only hurtful but completely unacceptable and has unequivocally condemned it. “May Torovi Hasola represents more than just herself; she embodies the hopes and dreams of young women across Papua New Guinea, particularly those in Bougainville.” “Her role as Miss PNG is a testament to her dedication, intelligence, and strength, and it serves as an inspiration to many, especially to the girls in Bougainville who have been affected by the challenges of our past civil unrest.” “These young women deserve the opportunity to pursue their dreams with dignity and pride.” He urged all Bougainvilleans to remain calm during this time and expressed that as people continue to share posts via WhatsApp and Facebook, they must also recognize that perpetuating negativity only fuels the fire. He also stated that it is essential that all must take action to stop circulating harmful comments and allow the law to take its course. “Let us rise above this situation and remain the proud, intelligent, and humble people we have always been. Our flag, the UPE, symbolizes self-respect and discipline. We must always adhere to the values that make us stand apart as a region.” “By embodying these principles, we can foster a culture of respect and unity that uplifts us all. I assure you that this matter will be addressed with the full force of our cyber laws. We must not allow negativity and discrimination to overshadow the achievements of our youth.” He added that May's journey is a celebration of resilience and empowerment, and it is essential that the people support her rather than detract from her accomplishments. Furthermore, he called upon all Bougainvilleans to unite in celebrating May's achievements and to foster a culture of respect and encouragement. “Together, we can create an environment where every young person feels valued and supported in their pursuit of excellence. Thank you for your understanding and solidarity.”

The Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (DHERST) has announced the commencement of the Tertiary Education Study Assistance Scheme (TESAS) for the 2025 academic year. A total of 15, 889 awardee students have received the scholarship including; 5,251 first-year students selected via the National Online Selection System (NOSS). 631 non-school leavers meeting TESAS requirements. 10,007 continuing students enrolled in TESAS-eligible programs at registered higher education institutions (HEIs). The 2025 TESAS awards encompass first-year students selected through the National Online Application System (NOAS) and continuing students enrolled in all recognized HEIs, including universities and colleges. DHERST has acknowledged that some HEIs did not submit continuing student reports on time. Consequently, a supplementary TESAS list will be released in late March 2025 after the conclusion of semester one registrations. Institutions failing to submit reports on time are responsible for addressing their students’ concerns regarding TESAS eligibility. DHERST has also instructed that for the first year TESAS students, they have received their TESAS notifications via the NOAS MyStatus portal. Recipients must confirm their acceptance or decline as outlined in their notification. Those eligible for TESAS travel benefits will be notified of their travel arrangements (air, land, or sea) through the same portal. As for continuing students, those not listed on the TESAS award list should consult their respective HEIs for clarification. Self-sponsored students who have been awarded TESAS for 2025 are advised to check their travel itineraries with Air Niugini offices. Travel planners will adhere strictly to destinations provided by HEIs in the prior academic year. Meanwhile, the government through DHERST, has fully settled all outstanding TESAS arrears for the 2024 academic year and for this year, in alignment with the policy priorities of the Marape-Rosso Government, the National Budget 2025 has allocated an additional K10 million to TESAS. Disbursement of TESAS payments for Semester one this year will commence promptly upon the HEI’s full completion of student registrations. Furthermore, DHERST extends its gratitude to the National Government for its continued investment in higher education. "We also commend the dedicated efforts of HEI registrars, student data officers, and the DHERST team in ensuring the successful implementation of TESAS."

Service delivery, specialized staff and management, infrastructure, funding and the capacity to accommodate patients are some of the major challenges that Laloki Psychiatric Hospital in Port Moresby is currently facing. Laloki hospital, which is a designated Level 6 health facility, is barely operating at the standard level due to the many challenges it is facing. In terms of patient care, drug supply is also a major issue under the service delivery as often times, families of patients are advised by the hospital staff to buy the prescribed medication they need, however, are quite costly. Acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Laloki Psychiatric Hospital, Doctor Daoni Esorom, stated that the hospital has been going through a lot of these challenges since the Mental Health Act 2015 was passed in 2015 and certified on the 9th of February 2016. “The hospital has been overlooked in terms of funding and maintenance of the infrastructure and the physical state of the hospital has deteriorated rendering most of the buildings in the hospital to be condemned in which has been declared unfit.” Laloki is the only psychiatric hospital in the country which needs urgent action and a major restructuring of the hospital. According to Dr Daoni, a hospital assessment and survey was done in October last year, where it revealed that Laloki is operating at Level 3; however, is barely operating at that level though it is a designated Level 6 health facility. A total of six areas were assessed and surveyed including Patient Care standards, Leadership and Management standards, Human Resources Management, Management Information Systems, Environment and Mandatory Standards and Performance Improvement. “Out of the survey the total outcome stands at 26% which is a major problem. The total score, which is 26%, is way below 60% whereas 60% is the accepted level of satisfactory National Health Service Standards.” "The hospital needs major restructuring to increase its workforce, major infrastructure improvement and construction of new infrastructure. The urgent actions include, development of a corporate governance framework, development of clinical governance framework, service improvement plan, clinical service plan and a master plan for Laloki.” Meanwhile, Director of Medical Services, Doctor Ludwig Nanawar, stated that drug supplies are a big issue for the patients. Under the National Drug Catalogue, they get most of these specialized drugs from the Area Medical Stores, however, some of the specialized drugs needed are not in the catalogue; therefore, they have to purchase them elsewhere such as pharmacies, and with that is a challenge as it goes back to funding. Funding is an ongoing issue whereas when the hospital is unable to provide the medical drugs, families of patients then purchase the prescribed medication themselves, which is quite expensive and, in most cases, are unable to purchase. “A medical drug that the hospital needs the most is called Benzhexol. This is used to counter the side effects of the medications that we use to treat mental illnesses. However, with the limited supply here, we give written prescriptions for families to buy if they can afford and if not, we just observe them and according to how they react, we give them if we need to with the limited supply we have.” Despite the challenges, Dr Ludwig said that the recovery rate is high as long as the patients take the right amount of dose as instructed by the specialized doctor and taken on time as well. The hospital currently has a total of 54 patients including seven females.

Prime Minister (PM) James Marape has announced a government allocation of K30 million to the University of Goroka (UOG) to rebuild and modernize critical infrastructure that was severely damaged by a devastating earthquake in 2022. The funding is part of the Government’s ongoing commitment to improve educational facilities across the country and ensure that Papua New Guinea’s future educators are trained in a safe and conducive learning environment. Speaking at the recent UOG graduation ceremony this week, PM Marape highlighted the importance of the university as a national institution responsible for training teachers, while emphasizing the urgency of restoring its damaged infrastructure. “Today, the government has passed over K30 million for the University of Goroka to repair and complete infrastructure projects that were damaged or delayed due to the earthquake that struck the institution.” The earthquake, which hit parts of the Eastern Highlands Province in 2022, caused significant damage to UOG’s buildings, including student dormitories, lecture halls, and administration offices. Among the projects disrupted by the disaster is the construction of a seven-storey building and a modern auditorium, both of which are critical for accommodating the growing student population. “These funds will help the university complete the seven-storey building and the auditorium currently under construction. We have committed to ensuring these buildings are completed and opened before mid-September this year as part of the nation’s 50th Independence Anniversary celebrations.” PM Marape also revealed that K10 million had already been issued to UOG to begin immediate repairs and restoration work after the earthquake, but a full engineering report indicated that the cost of rebuilding would exceed that initial allocation. “I have asked for a full engineering report on the damage caused by the earthquake. The university has already received K10 million to start restoration work, but it will require much more to fully restore and modernize the campus.” “UOG is an important institution for the country because it trains our future teachers. We must ensure that the learning environment for students is safe, modern, and conducive to quality education.” He further stressed that improving UOG’s facilities is part of the government’s broader vision to enhance the country’s education system, ensuring that future teachers are well-prepared to educate the next generation of Papua New Guineans. “We are not just rebuilding infrastructure; we are investing in the future of our nation’s educators. These students will one day go out and teach the next generation of Papua New Guineans. It is our responsibility to provide them with a world-class learning environment.” In addition to the K30 million allocated for UOG, PM Marape also announced a K3 million allocation for the National Sports Institute (NSI) in Goroka, where the graduation ceremony was held. The funds will be used to give the institute a facelift, including upgrading sports facilities and improving infrastructure for students and athletes. “The National Sports Institute is a vital institution for sports development in Papua New Guinea. We have passed K3 million to give NSI a much-needed facelift. This is part of our ongoing efforts to improve institutions that are important for nation-building.” He concluded by reaffirming the Government’s commitment to supporting educational institutions across the country, ensuring that teachers and students have access to safe, modern, and well-equipped facilities.

The Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (DHERST), has confirmed that the Tertiary Education Study Assistance Scheme (TESAS) list for this year 2025, will be made known to the students via the DHERST website. Currently, the internal quality checks need to be done before awarding to the students who are eligible to be under TESAS. According to DHERST, the first-year students who have been selected through the National Online Selections System (NOSS), have already been informed of their statuses whilst the continuing student list should be made available when the TESAS Committee meets. Students’ confidentiality must be maintained; therefore, an official list/announcement will be made through the DHERST Website. An official media statement will be released later during the remainder of the week for further updates.

PNGFM Limited farewelled a total of seven (7) enthusiastic and vibrant youths under the 2024 Urban Youth Employment Project II (UYEP) in which six of them successfully completed their internship program at PNGFM. The youths were farewelled on Friday the 10th of January after completing a 65-day internship program in which they got to experience for the first time working in an organization. With no work experience, the youths were privileged enough to work in the different departments of PNGFM including Sales, IT and Engineering, PNG HAUSBUNG (news department), Total Events Company (TEC), Finance and Admin department. Spokesperson and UYEP youth, Clive Maion, shared sentiments as one of the youths and trainees who was privileged enough to work at PNGFM. “As an unemployed youth, I heard about this project initiative to help youths like me have a purpose in life and with that I decided to apply by filling out a form provided for us by UYEP to have us registered. From there, we were then shortlisted for an interview before carrying out the different training courses.” “The first training was a 5-day course called Champions for Change followed by the second course called Basic Life Training Skills which was carried out for ten days. After successfully completing that part of the training course, we then did a 30-days Civil Works which is just general works carried out in NCD where we did projects like building footpaths, stonewalls and doing cementing.” After successfully completing all three of these training courses, the youths were then eligible for a 65-day internship program where over 300 youths were categorized in different groups and from there, the seven youths from the UYEP intakes of 2024 were selected to work at PNGFM. According to Maion, little did he know how PNGFM operates apart from the obvious which is talking and interacting on air. For each of the interns, they took turns working in each department for two weeks before rotating to the next, from which they gained some fair knowledge. “Working for the first time in an organization was scary, but when we joined PNGFM, we felt like we were one of them (the employees). They treated us equally; taught us well and with that, I have learnt a lot personally as PNGFM made our internship run smoothly since we started in October.” “Now when I decide to apply for a job later, I now have the confidence and a fair knowledge as to working at an organization. This is also good for my reference as it will now add a bonus to my CV and be able to move onto the next chapter.” In addition to this, Maion personally expressed joy working specifically in the Sales, IT and Engineering and in the PNG HAUSBUNG department. His biggest highlight in Sales was learning about how paid advertisements are run on air, which the company earns and makes money from. “As for PNG HAUSBUNG, I got to go out with other reporters from the newsroom to collect stories, do interviews and from there, I had the opportunity to write my own stories which were published on the PNG HAUSBUNG website. “I was privileged enough to go through an opportunity like this, and with that I am grateful to UYEP for this great initiative in giving youths like us a second chance in life and to PNGFM for the great experience in working in an organization.”