The Member for Kandrian Gloucester District in West New Britain province and Minister for Rural and Economic Development Joseph Lelang, has reaffirmed his strong commitment to improving education infrastructure and teacher welfare in the district through a series of targeted development investments at Pomugu Primary School. The Minister made these remarks following ongoing engagements with school administration and community leaders, where he highlighted the importance of ensuring that schools are not only adequately resourced but also supported through proper teacher accommodation and learning facilities. Minister Lelang confirmed a K500, 000 commitment towards the construction of a double classroom facility for Pomugu Primary School. He stated that the investment is part of a broader effort to expand learning spaces and ensure that children in rural communities have access to quality education in a conducive environment. “This double classroom will provide more space for students and ensure that every child who wants to learn has the opportunity to do so in a proper classroom setting,” the Minister said. In addition, Minister Lelang announced a further K400,000 commitment specifically allocated towards the construction of teachers’ housing at the school. He emphasized that one of the major challenges affecting rural education delivery is the lack of suitable accommodation for teachers. “Teachers do not come to these remote areas because of housing issues,” he stated. “By building proper houses for our teachers, we are ensuring they can live comfortably and focus on delivering quality education to our children.” The Minister noted that strengthening teacher welfare is directly linked to improving education outcomes, as stable accommodation encourages retention of qualified teachers in rural schools. He further highlighted that similar infrastructure developments have already been undertaken across the district, including the construction of double-storey classroom buildings and quad duplex staff housing in other educational institutions, as part of the district’s long-term education infrastructure program. During the engagement, Pomugu Primary School Principal Mr. George Ukelio, expressed appreciation for the Minister’s continued support, particularly acknowledging the recent funding commitment which he said would significantly improve learning conditions and teacher welfare at the school. Mr. Ukelio outlined several ongoing challenges faced by the school, including the need for a dedicated library facility to support literacy development, improvements to the water supply system affected by seasonal flooding, and the construction of a perimeter fence to enhance safety and prevent animal intrusion into the school grounds. He also noted increasing student enrolment, which will require further infrastructure expansion in the future. Despite these challenges, Mr. Ukelio reaffirmed the school’s gratitude for the support provided by the Member for Kandrian Gloucester District, describing it as vital to the continued improvement of education services in the area. Minister Lelang reiterated that his administration remains committed to addressing infrastructure gaps in education, particularly in rural communities, and ensuring that both students and teachers are supported through sustainable development initiatives. The Minister assured stakeholders that education remains a top priority under his leadership, with continued investment aimed at expanding classroom capacity, improving teacher housing, and strengthening basic school infrastructure across the district.

The people of Kandrian Gloucester witnessed another significant milestone in education development with the official opening of the new Science Laboratory Building at Kandrian Secondary School by local member and Minister for Rural and Economic Development, Joseph Lelang. The occasion was attended by Kandrian Secondary School Principal Mr. Henry Seleu, Kandrian Coastal Local Level Government (LLG) President Mr. Peter Letong, Kandrian Gloucester District Education Advisor Mr. Condrad Boko, school board members, teachers, students, parents, and members of the surrounding communities. Speaking during the ceremony, Minister Lelang reflected on the long journey that led to Kandrian Secondary School achieving full secondary school status. He explained that the science laboratory was constructed years before the official establishment of the secondary school because the institution lacked the necessary facilities required by the Education Department. “A school cannot become a proper secondary school without the required facilities,” Minister Lelang stated. “That is why we invested early to ensure Kandrian would meet all the requirements and give our children the education opportunities they deserve.” The Minister acknowledged the perseverance and commitment of the builders, school administration, and board members who worked closely with his office over the years to ensure the project became a reality. A total of K500, 000 was initially allocated towards the construction of the Science Laboratory Building. He emphasized the importance of practical learning in science education, saying students must not only study theory in classrooms but also conduct experiments and practical activities that strengthen their understanding of science and technology. During the event, the Minister also commended Kandrian Secondary School for introducing the STEM education system. He described STEM as a modern and effective learning approach that is already being implemented successfully in many schools throughout the country. “The STEM system has the potential to prepare our students for overseas studies and equip them with skills that are relevant for the future.” Minister Lelang reaffirmed his long-standing commitment to investing in human resource development since first being elected in 2012. According to the Minister, investing in people remains the most important investment any government can make. “You can invest in many things, but if you invest in human beings, there will always be change.” The Minister highlighted the success of the Kandrian District Scholarship Scheme (KDSS), an initiative established in 2013 that continues to support students from the district in pursuing tertiary education across Papua New Guinea. Under the scholarship scheme, all students from the district who secure placements in recognized institutions after Grade 12 receive full tuition sponsorship through the Kandrian Gloucester District Development Authority. This year alone, more than 280 students are being sponsored at a total cost of K3.2 million. Minister Lelang noted that this reflects an increase of K1.1 million compared to the previous year, which he described as a positive sign that more students are striving to perform academically and qualify for the scholarship program. Since 2013, the Kandrian Gloucester District Development Authority (KGDDA) has invested more than K30 million into human resource development, with an estimated 5, 000 to 6, 000 students benefiting from the scholarship scheme and now contributing to the country’s workforce. The Minister further announced additional commitments towards education infrastructure at Kandrian Secondary School, including K100, 000 for the purchase of science laboratory equipment for the newly opened facility. In support of the school’s ongoing double-storey computer laboratory and library project, Minister Lelang also committed roofing irons, nails, and roofing caps, together with an additional K400, 000 for the purchase of computers, books, tables, chairs, shelves, and other furnishings needed to fully equip the building upon completion. “Constructing buildings is one challenge, but furnishing and equipping them is another major cost altogether.” Minister Lelang further revealed that efforts are underway to elevate Gloucester High School to secondary school status in order to ease the growing enrolment pressure on Kandrian Secondary School. He assured the public that the necessary infrastructure support would be provided to achieve this goal. He also announced that discussions are progressing with the Anglican Church to establish an additional Technical High School in the district to provide students with more educational pathways beyond mainstream academic learning. Touching on broader development plans, the Minister outlined major infrastructure projects proposed under the National Government’s Connect PNG Program, including three major road links currently being pursued for approval. “With these developments coming into the district, our students and workforce must be prepared to adapt and contribute meaningfully to future opportunities.” Minister Lelang also referenced the recent launch of the MV Hiruoi vessel, stating that improved transport and service delivery would further accelerate development throughout the district and create additional opportunities for educated local citizens. The Minister also commended Kandrian Secondary School for its plans to introduce the Flexible Open and Distance Education (FODE) system within the district. He said the initiative would greatly assist parents by allowing students to upgrade their education locally rather than travelling outside the district. Meanwhile, Kandrian Coastal LLG President Mr. Peter Letong praised the Minister and the school administration for the continuous development taking place within the school. He assured the school community that the people within the Kandrian Coastal LLG would continue supporting all education projects and developments. District Education Advisor Mr. Condrad Boko also acknowledged the Minister’s support in improving water access at the school through assistance provided by New Britain Construction Limited. The project included connecting fresh water to school dormitories and ablution blocks, resulting in functional flushing toilets, showers, and running water systems now available for students and staff. Mr. Boko explained that water had been one of the school’s biggest challenges for many years, but through the intervention of contractors engaged by the Minister, the school now has access to solar-powered freshwatersystems. Also speaking was Kandrian Secondary School Principal Mr. Henry Seleu, who thanked Minister Lelang for his consistent support towards education in the district and acknowledged the many developments taking place under the KGDDA. Mr. Seleu said the opening of both the Science Laboratory Building and the school water system demonstrated the Minister’s genuine commitment towards improving the quality of education and student welfare in Kandrian Gloucester District. The ceremony concluded with the official opening of the science laboratory building and the commissioning of the new water system by Minister Lelang, marking another important step forward in strengthening education infrastructure and human resource development within the district.

The Chairman of Teaching Service Commission (TSC) Maini Mike Ugaia, has issued an urgent nationwide call for teachers who missed out on leave fare entitlements for the 2025 and 2026 school years to submit their claims immediately. Affected teachers must provide all necessary supporting documents to their respective Provincial TSC Advisors and Provincial Education Advisors (PEAs) before the end of May. According to the Commission, verified claims will be consolidated and submitted to the National Treasury for budget clearance and payment processing. Mr. Ugaia said the directive has the backing of Prime Minister James Marape, who is pushing for the swift resolution of outstanding teacher entitlements to maintain stability in the education sector. He clarified that teachers leave fares are managed at provincial level. “While the TSC protects and safeguards the overall interests of teachers, teacher leave fares are currently administered and managed at the provincial level.” “All corresponding funds are dispatched straight to provincial government grants rather than being held by the central Commission.” Mr. Ugaia said the decentralized system had left some teachers with part payments or without travel funds entirely, prompting the national government to intervene through the Treasury Department. “To ensure no teacher is left behind, provincial education divisions must act swiftly to gather these outstanding claims and transmit the verified data up to the national headquarters.” Furthermore, the TSC has urged provincial education authorities to act quickly to gather and submit all outstanding claims to ensure teachers receive their entitlements without further delay.

The Governments of Papua New Guinea and China have signed a Framework Agreement on Enhanced Economic Partnership aimed at strengthening bilateral trade and investment relations between the two countries. The agreement was signed on May 21, 2026, in Suzhou, China, during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Ministers Responsible for Trade Meeting. China’s Minister of Commerce, Wang Wentao and Papua New Guinea’s Minister for International Trade and Investment, Richard Maru, signed the agreement on behalf of their respective governments. In a joint statement, both countries acknowledged the continued growth of bilateral economic and trade relations under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, featuring mutual respect and common development. The two governments reaffirmed their commitment to deepening economic and trade cooperation through broader exchanges and collaboration in areas of mutual interest for the benefit of both nations and their people. Both sides also acknowledged the completion of the Joint Feasibility Study on a proposed Free Trade Agreement between China and Papua New Guinea. The study will serve as an important reference point for future trade negotiations and practical cooperation initiatives. Under the agreement, Papua New Guinea and China will begin exploring new opportunities to strengthen trade and economic relations, with plans to launch further negotiations under the enhanced partnership framework as soon as possible. The two countries agreed that any future trade arrangement should be mutually beneficial while taking into account the different levels of development between the two nations. China also recognized Papua New Guinea’s development needs, particularly in trade capacity, as identified in the Joint Feasibility Study. Both countries are committed to working towards practical and fair outcomes in future negotiations and cooperation programs. The agreement further outlines plans to align development strategies and expand cooperation in a wide range of sectors while promoting trade and investment liberalization and facilitation. Both governments are also committed to strengthening coordination and collaboration through international platforms including the United Nations and the APEC.

The prime minister has responded to the Opposition Leader’s latest round of criticism on his government’s performance by saying the Opposition must come up with better alternatives policies instead of relying on constant criticism and political attacks. Prime Minister James Marape came out firing in an official statement released today, challenging the Opposition Leader James Nomane, and saying the Pangu-led Marape-Rosso Government remains focused on practical policies that are directly helping Papua New Guineans during one of the most difficult global economic periods in recent history. The Opposition Leader in a statement released earlier today, criticized the government saying it is not focused on the actual needs of the people, citing the extremely poor situation faced by the country’s health system, evident in places like the Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH) maternity ward as one of many examples, where often pregnant mothers have had to be attended to on the hospital floor. “Port Moresby General Hospital is the flagship of our national health system, and today we learn of more than 30 pregnant mothers are forced to receive maternity care on cold floors since February this year. Not in beds. Not in wards. On the floor,” said Nonane. Meanwhile, the prime minister attributed the current poor progress of things to global issues that are affecting the economic progress of the country, leading to certain areas in the receiving end of the service delivery mechanism, being badly affected. He said Papua New Guinea, like many countries, is facing the effects of global instability, including ongoing conflict and uncertainty in the Middle East, which has caused major increases in international fuel prices. “The world is going through a very difficult economic period. Global fuel prices increased sharply because of international conflict that no country, including Papua New Guinea (PNG), anticipated,” Prime Minister Marape said. “As a responsible Government, we made the decision to absorb the shock through direct fuel subsidies to protect our households, SMEs, transport operators, businesses, and ordinary citizens.” On the health front, Prime Minister Marape said significant progress has also been made in healthcare, particularly in specialist medical services with PNG now witnessing major advancements in heart treatment, kidney care, and cancer treatment facilities. “For the first time in our country’s history, we are carrying out kidney transplant procedures and increasingly advanced heart surgery treatments locally,” he said. “These are major improvements in our healthcare system that directly benefit our people.” But the Opposition Leader does not see it the same way, saying in his statement that the Marape Government has failed the health budget. Although some progress has been made, more areas need attention. “The crisis at PMGH is not a funding mystery — it is government’s failure to deliver,” stated Nomane, alleging that budget warrants are being selectively released. “Capital infrastructure allocations are not reaching hospitals. Procurement bottlenecks mean essential beds, equipment, and consumables sit undelivered while women give birth on concrete floors. Millions are spent on crony consultants and administrative overheads while understaffed midwives run wards without adequate tools. The quality of spending, not merely the quantity, is the real scandal.” In the meantime, Marape challenging the Opposition to present serious alternative policies instead of relying on political rhetoric. “Our policies are delivering practical support through school fee assistance, household relief, fuel subsidies, healthcare improvements, roads, and economic support,” he said. “The Opposition continues to criticize, but has failed to present practical alternative solutions for the country. They should be offering credible alternatives instead of simply trying to mislead the public.” As a response to this, Nomane said the Opposition suggests direct facility funding to bypass the bottlenecks of central procurement, and place health budgets under accountable hospital management boards. In addition, a Maternal Health Infrastructure Audit, followed by emergency capital deployment to the ten most under-resourced facilities, must be conducted. “Tying the health budget warrants to verified delivery outcomes is the way forward to end the practice of funds sitting in Treasury while patients sit on floors,” the Opposition Leader stressed.

Papua New Guinea athlete Tony Mitu Jnr will become the second athlete to represent the country internationally in the sport of Wushu. Tony departed the country on Thursday alongside team leader Iammo Launa, to compete at the Oceania Wushu Invitational Championships in Brisbane, where he will contest the men’s 70kg Sanda division. The championships, hosted by Kung Fu Wushu Australia, run from May 21 to 25, and are supported by the Oceania Kung Fu Wushu Federation and the International Wushu Federation. For the Bougainville-born athlete, the tournament is significant as it will be both his first international trip and his first appearance representing PNG on the international stage. Coach Andrew Molen praised Tony’s commitment and discipline during preparations. “In fact, he turned up at training on his birthday two weeks ago and said, ‘bihain ok yumi hamamas’ (we will celebrate later).” “It takes a lot of discipline and focus, and I’m pleased with his dedication and his trust in me to prepare him,” Molen said. Molen also noted that Tony worked hard to manage his weight in order to qualify for the 70kg category. Tony’s martial arts background is in the Shotokan Karate, where he trains under Julius Piku Sensei at the East Gate Karate Academy. He has competed nationally in sport karate point-style competitions and has experience sparring under full-contact rules. He was previously part of Team PNG’s karate train-on squad for the 2023 Pacific Games but missed selection after the team was dropped for failing to meet certain requirements. Since then, he has been identified by the Kung Fu Wushu Association of PNG as a promising athlete for Sanda competition. Molen acknowledged Julius Piku Sensei for supporting Tony’s transition into Wushu competition. “Tony remains a karate student regardless of which combat sport he competes in. His participation brings much pride to his club and his teacher.” Meanwhile, President of the association, Geoff Hui, said the organization was proud to have PNG represented at the regional championships. “We are looking forward to seeing Tony compete, and at the same time we aim to strengthen our connection with the Wushu community in Australia and Oceania.” The association has been working closely with regional and global counterparts to promote the sport in the region, with PNG being one of the Oceania countries targeted for Wushu development. Team leader Iammo Launa said the sport could develop further in the country with continued support from international partners and stakeholders. He said the championships would not only provide exposure for athletes but also create opportunities for discussions among sports administrators to strengthen the development of Wushu across the region. The association also acknowledged the support of High-Performance Sport PNG for assisting Tony with training facilities, recovery, and physiotherapy sessions ahead of the tournament.

In a significant boost for grassroots economic development, the Koiari Local Level Government Special Purpose Authority (KLLGSPA) has pledged its support to empower local women's groups operating within the small and medium enterprise (SME) sector. KLLGSPA Chairman Paul Noe and Program Manager Charlie Ealu formalized this backing to help women across the region gain the financial independence needed to support their families. The commitment was put into action this week with a K20,000 funding presentation divided equally between two women's associations in the Koiari LLG constituency. Reflecting on the purpose of the K10,000 checks given to each group, the leadership noted that the event was to provide funding support to women’s group in the Sogeri plateau. "Last year, when we launched the Maninumu women’s group, we made some commitment to support the group. We are here today to deliver to our commitment to support the association to help our mothers find economic independence through our development package fund. Also on that note, KSPA is also honoured to assist the Sogeri Floriculture Association." Mr. Ealu also underlined that the authority intends to scale up this financial assistance in the coming years. Beyond enterprise funding, Chairman Noe reiterated that the authority's broader mandate involves driving progress across all key sectors in the Koiari LLG constituency, reaffirming their dedication to delivering essential services in education, health, religion, and social development. Welcoming the initiative, Koiari LLG President Willie Wavi thanked the KSPA for its active community engagement and pledged that the local government will continue working alongside the authority to bring meaningful development to the people of Koiari.

The Teaching Service Commission (TSC) has recently announced the immediate restoration of 8, 000 teachers whose salaries were affected by an auto suspension on Pay 10 which occurred on Wednesday, May 13th, 2026. Acting Chairman Maini Mike Ugaia, emphasized that urgent action is required from provincial authorities to ensure a smooth resumption of payments. The auto suspension was initially set for Pay 7 but was postponed after preliminary data indicated that 29,000 teachers nationwide would be impacted. TSC management intervened to reduce disruption, ultimately narrowing the number of affected teachers to 8, 000. Provincial TSC Advisors and Provincial Education Advisors have been directed to collect Resumption of Duty Summary Sheets from affected teachers and forward them to TSC Headquarters without delay. Teachers in provinces severely impacted by Cyclone Maila are exempted, with salaries maintained to support ongoing recovery efforts. According to TSC’s media statement, the Commission also called on provincial officers to submit verified lists of schools physically affected by the cyclone to ensure eligible teachers continue receiving uninterrupted pay. “The Commission reiterates its commitment to teacher welfare and urges swift compliance from all provincial authorities to minimize further financial distress for teachers.” The Teaching Service Commission is the statutory authority and employer of all teachers in Papua New Guinea, dedicated to maintaining professional standards and the welfare of the teaching service.

PNG Power Limited has announced a scheduled 24-hour shutdown of its Easipay system as part of a major upgrade aimed at improving service reliability and customer experience nationwide. The maintenance exercise will begin at 11:00PM on Saturday, May 30, 2026, and is expected to conclude at 11:00PM on Sunday, May 31, 2026. During the maintenance period, all Easipay services will be temporarily unavailable, meaning customers will not be able to purchase electricity tokens. PNG Power said the upgrade is part of the company’s ongoing efforts to modernize the Easipay platform to support faster transactions, stronger system resilience, and more stable long-term service delivery. PNG Power Chief Commercial Officer Lasith Bandara said the increasing demand on the Easipay platform made the upgrade necessary. “The Easipay platform has grown significantly in usage, and this upgrade is critical to ensuring it remains stable, secure, and responsive,” Bandara said. “Our technical teams will be working around the clock during the maintenance window to implement enhancements that will improve performance and reduce future disruptions.” “We appreciate our customers’ patience as we carry out this essential work.” Customers are being urged to purchase sufficient Easipay credit before the scheduled shutdown to avoid interruptions to their electricity supply during the maintenance period. PNG Power said customers requiring assistance or further information can contact the National Call Centre on 116, email callcentre@pngpower.com.pg, or reach the utility provider via WhatsApp on 7000 1009.

Coca-Cola Europacific Partners Papua New Guinea (CCEP PNG) has been confirmed as the Platinum Sponsor and Exclusive Non-Alcoholic Beverage Partner of the 70th Goroka Show, with the announcement made during the Sponsors Dinner held in Goroka on 1st May 2026.The iconic cultural event will run from 18–20 September 2026 at the National Sports Institute in Goroka, bringing together tribes, communities and international visitors to showcase traditional sing-sings, cultural attire and Papua New Guinea’s rich and diverse heritage. CCEP PNG Country Manager Tim Solly said the partnership reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to supporting cultural celebrations across the country, noting that these events highlight what makes Papua New Guinea unique and bring communities together across generations. Regional Sales Manager Highlands Guthridge Songan also acknowledged the Goroka Show Committee for its dedication in sustaining the event for 70 years, saying CCEP PNG is proud to support its continued success and cultural significance.

Prime Minister (PM) James Marape has welcomed major progress in strategic cooperation between Papua New Guinea (PNG) and France following high-level discussions, where the redevelopment of the Rabaul Port was one of the agendas.The discussions were held on Tuesday, 19th May, in Paris with officials from Agence Française de Développement (AFD), French Government representatives, and European development partners. The discussions focused on several key areas of cooperation, including: redevelopment of the Port of Rabaul, renewable energy partnerships, climate and biodiversity conservation, green finance, and future economic cooperation between Papua New Guinea and France. Prime Minister Marape thanked France, AFD, the European Union and the European Investment Bank for their growing partnership with Papua New Guinea. “We came here not to ask for anything, but to say thank you for your partnership with Papua New Guinea,” Prime Minister Marape said. “We appreciate the work France and AFD are doing in our country, particularly in helping us build infrastructure, protect biodiversity, transition towards clean energy, and create a better future for our people and our planet.” Prime Minister Marape said one of the major outcomes of the meeting was confirmation that financing negotiations for the redevelopment of the Rabaul Port in East New Britain province, were now nearing completion. The Prime Minister said the project had recently received National Executive Council (NEC) approval and was expected to move towards signing in the coming weeks.

Over 20 Internal Revenue Commission (IRC) officers in the Highlands Region of Papua New Guinea were recently taken through two major training programs to assist them perform better in their duties. The IRC, under its reform and decentralization agenda, successfully conducted two major compliance and audit training programs for officers from the Highlands Region under the Regional Operations Division (ROD). The training sessions were facilitated by the Debt Strategy Policy Division (DSPD) led by Ms. Lorraine Yainter and Ms. Joanne Pokiton, followed by the Audit Strategy and Planning Division led by Acting Assistant Commissioner Mr. Casper Marru and team. The week-long training focused on debt management, audit strategies, compliance planning, SOPs, risk management, amended tax legislations, and the practical use of compliance tools to strengthen revenue collection and taxpayer compliance across the region. “A total of 23 officers attended the training, including Provincial Managers, Senior Compliance Officers, and newly recruited Compliance Officers,” stated the Acting Commissioner of IRC, Mr. Sam Loi The Director Highlands Region Mr. Collin Kuti thanked the facilitators for imparting valuable knowledge and skills to officers and requested more specialized trainings in the future to further strengthen regional capacity. The IRC will continue rolling out staff capacity building program, decentralization of operations, and improving tax compliance administration throughout Papua New Guinea.