Brand Force PNG Limited donated 71 cartons of Poise Pads for the Maternity Ward at Port Moresby General Hospital worth over K5, 000. Brand Force Marketing Manager Meta – Lynne Murphy expressed their appreciation and willingness to work with Friends of POMGEN. She also added that this donation was an initiative of Kimberly Clark in conjunction with Brand Force. The Poise Pads will be used as bladder in-continence pads for females at the Maternity ward. Friends Of POMGEN Operations Lead Grace Roland who was present to receive the donation thanked Brand Force for their thoughtful donation and their interest to partner with FOPG. She further added that “Sanitary pads are some of the most essential needs of Maternity care and even needed in other wards so this donation is a huge help and boost.”

Air Niugini has supported the attendance of the head of PNG Defence Force Air Transport Wing Lieutenant Colonel, Nancy Wii at a Women in Aviation rally in Hamilton, New Zealand as this event’s guest speaker. The national airline provided Port Moresby/Brisbane return tickets for Lt. Col Wii. Lt. Col Wii climbed the ranks of the PNGDF and was promoted to Commanding Officer in February 2022 and is the first female PNGDF commanding officer, heading the force’s Air Transport Wing, as well as being a pilot. Air Niugini’s Acting Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Gary Seddon in presenting the tickets said that as the national airline, Air Niugini is pleased to support the Lt. Col’s opportunity to represent Papua New Guinea, the PNGDF and PNG women pilots at this event. “Lt. Col Wii’s story is one that should be widely told, as a shining example of how PNG women can reach and break a glass ceiling in not only aviation, but also leadership in the defence force.” Lt. Col Wii also acknowledged Air Niugini for the support in ensuring she attended the women aviators’ event where she was invited to share her personal experience of becoming PNG’s first female commercial pilot at 21 and to where she is now as the first female PNG Defence Force Commanding Officer. The story of a female to command an element in the PNGDF is certainly not an everyday story and is something to be proud of. Lt. Col Wii did all her primary to secondary education in PNG before taking up her pilot training with a school in New Zealand, all sponsored by her parents. Over 100 women pilots, engineers and aviation professionals converged in Hamilton for the Women in Aviation rally from June 2 to 6, hosted by Pacific Aerospace for New Zealand Association of Women Aviators (NZAWA).

Recent articles in the local media on paracetamol shortage and health issues in the country shows that there are many things that have gone wrong in the health sector in the country. National Doctors Association President Dr. James Naipao highlighted some of the issues that the country is facing the business of health and health delivery in the country. “PNG needs another 15, 000 Cadre of health workers before the end of the current National Health Plan expires in 2030 to bring it to 25, 000 health workers.” “When the country definitely knows that human resource is a shortage, why going about building new health facilities, unless, concurrent planning has gone with it.” “New health facilities, shifting of health workers, and staff shortage will still exist in other existing health facilities.” “Only Central Province, NCD and Jiwaka Province needs a new level 5 hospital, respectively.” Dr. Naipao said that existing health facilities need maintenance and they need to fix the gaps that exist in these health facilities accordingly to the National Health Services Standard (NHSS) at which a health facility is built on whether it is from level 1 to 6. When each facility in the country has not fulfilled the requirements in the NHSS, why building a new one to escalate the existing gaps to widen itself more when it is important and necessary for these old facilities with gaps be resourced and maintained. He also said that the health sector needs another 15, 000 health workers into the health workforce by 2030 needs the support of the training institutions. Another issue is the population growth is now consuming the existing resources. The Paracetamol shortage will continue to happen because of population growth and urban pull factor is widening. The Government of PNG needs to address this population growth and urban migration factor that needs wide ranging stakeholders’ collaboration to address this as soon as possible. 6. Communicable vs non-communicable diseases (NCD). Dr. Naipao added that communicable and non-communicable diseases are escalating in NCD however, the country is addressing this in a 'snail walk and run'. “20 years from now, cancer will eat this country and heart, kidney, sugar, obesity, liver diseases will worsen.” “More patients will receive stenting and dialysis.” He reminded people to discipline his or her mind, emotion, ears, eyes, nose, hands and legs so to help control and reduce the burden of non-communicable diseases in the country and communicable diseases like sexually transmitted diseases that the country is facing at this time. Dr. Naipao further added that for the National Health Services Standard which is a Bible necessary for level 1 to level 6 in the country to be assessed and performance assessed on what is stipulated in the NHSS, the Provincial Health Authority Act and District Development Authority Act, respective needs a revisit to bridge the gap and remove the barrier that exist now with the current two acts. Otherwise, the theme, 'health is everyone's business will not be reached. The 'Panadol Shortage Cry' has just opened the can and all the problems are now creeping and crawling out into the view.

Bank of South Pacific (BSP) is supporting 5 female Maths and Science student who are studying at St. Peter Channel Catholic College in Kokopo for a degree in secondary education under the Female Scholarship Scheme. me comes under the Boosting Education Standards Together(BEST) PNG project being led by National Department of Education(NDoE) and non-profit organization Save the Children. The aim of the project is to increase the number of female teachers specializing in teaching maths and science subjects. Speaking during the awards presentation, Kokopo Branch Manager Kalat Tiriman said that as a bank, they believe in supporting the academic growth in the country and the bank is delighted to partner with Save The Children to help students to achieve their goals. “At BSP, our commitments extend beyond banking.” “It includes supporting educational opportunities, health and sports.” “Our partnership will see BSP facilitating scholarships for 5 female students to attend St Peter’s Channel Catholic College in Kokopo over a 4-year period.” This partnership is one of the many that aligns well with our commitment in giving back to the communities. “We believe that supporting the continued academic growth and educating our people, especially children of today, we are securing a better future for the communities we operate in.” Parents are foremost the first teachers in every home. Teachers too play an equally important and influential role in shaping our children’s mindsets and what they grow up to be. Being able to support upcoming teachers with the tools early on in their training is a key factor in supporting quality education for our children. Save the Children’s Country Director Fiu Williame-Igara said parents are the first educators, but teachers’ roles are equally important. “Providing support to our upcoming teachers is an important aspect of making sure our children also get quality education.” “We are delighted BSP is sponsoring these female students and committed to support quality education and a better future for children.” The support by BSP covers tuition fees, school facility fees, textbooks, boarding and annual home travel tickets. It will cover the full degree for 4 years from 2023-2026 on the criteria that the students meet the requirement for each semester. There are 55 female students being supported under the BESTPNG Female Scholarship Scheme by the Global Partnership for Education (GPE), Newcrest Mining and the Bank of South Pacific who are studying at the Pacific Adventist University, University of Goroka and St. Peter Channel Catholic College.

Over 300 youths have been given a second chance to redirect their lives to positive living and to contribute meaningfully to Port Moresby’s Expansion. The National Capital District Commission is implementing the second phase of the Urban Youth Employment Project currently in the Motu Koitabu area and the Northwest electorate with the other areas in tow to benefit from the Project. This project aims to enhance and maintain a quality standard of living and to promote a peaceful and harmonious co-existence in the community. NCDC is targeting youths who are out of the formal education system and especially those that reside in urban settlements. Championed by NCD Governor Powes Parkop, he is encouraging an approach to help youths become employable through whatever skills they have. The registration and orientation of the 310 youths from Ward Seven (7) in the Northwest electorate began Wednesday 31 May 2023. The UYEP II Project aims to improve the capacity of participating young men and women in project areas, to engage in productive income generating activities. The Project is inclusive of all youths, including those living with disability, and has a gender target of 50 percent females

Monday 12th June 2023 will be a National Public Holiday throughout the country to celebrate the birthday of the Late Queen Elizabeth II. “Many members have enquired with the Employers’ Federation of Papua New Guinea if the Queen’s Birthday Public Holiday will be replaced a King’s Birthday, or an additional Public Holiday will be declared for King Charles’ Reign as the current head of the British Monarchy.” Employers’ Federation of Papua New Guinea Executive Director, Ms Florence Willie clarified that the Queen’s Birthday Public Holiday remains as there was no gazettal notice published by the government to declare a day for the King’s Birthday. In Circular No. 10/23, Ms Willie said that employers must take note that they will be required to pay the appropriate rates for their employees who will be working on the public holiday. She added that for anyone with questions regarding the public holidays, can contact the Federation office for assistance. Meanwhile, at the time of this publication, the Governor General’s office had yet to respond to queries for further clarification.

Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister, James Marape has extended an invitation to the France President H.E. Emmanuel Macron to visit Papua New Guinea. The invitation was extended during a meeting between PM Marape and Mr. Walid Fouque, Special Advisor for Asia and the Pacific to President Macron in Port Moresby recently. PM Marape and President Macron previously met in Gabon, Central Africa, in March of this year on the sidelines of the One Forest Summit. While discussing the potential visit, PM Marape stated that here is a possibility that President Macron may visit PNG, however, this is subject to continued dialogue between France and PNG. Reflecting on his meeting with Mr. Fouque, PM Marape described it as “highly productive” and highlighted the ongoing efforts to strengthen bilateral relations between France and PNG. "Under my leadership, France and PNG have been enhancing our bilateral relationship, just as we have been doing with other nations." “The commitment of President Macron is evident through his decision to send his Special Advisor to engage with me and discuss matters of mutual interest between our countries." He further encouraged more French companies to follow the example set by TotalEnergies at Papua LNG and invest in PNG, particularly in downstream processing of natural resources such as forests. Recognising the evolving geopolitical landscape in the region, PM Marape emphasised the significance of PNG as "neutral ground" and urged France to consider the country's strategic position amidst the increasing regional dynamics. The visit of President Macron to PNG would further solidify the growing cooperation and shared goals between the two nations, especially in the realms of forest conservation, French investments in PNG like TotalEnergies, mobilising resources to support small Pacific Island countries and communities and other relevant matters.

The Operation Open Heart Foundation has received transportation assistance from Ela Motors for its 2nd open heart program for this year. Operation Open Heart Foundation Chairlady Ms. Katherine Johnston greatly thanked the Ela Motors for their continued support towards the Operation Open Heart (OOH) Program over the last 23 years. “The foundation in partnership with Port Moresby General Hospital and Kumul Petroleum Holdings Ltd will continue to provide the open-heart program.” Ms. Johnston said the operation open-heart has become a successful program because of the partners like Ela Motors and other partners who continue to contribute their resources and finances towards saving lives of children with congenital heart defects throughout the country. Ela Motors Marketing Manager Benjamin Niligur said Ela Motors through its corporate social responsibility program is happy to assist the open-heart program once again, in making available a brand-new Toyota Hi Ace Bus to transport the counterpart Open Heart International voluntary heart specialists from 8th-13thJune, 2023. “Ela Motors saw the importance of this program, and has been supporting since year 2000.” “With this transportation assistance, Ela Motors hopes that it can go a long way in saving lives.” Niligur said on behalf of Ela Motors, Niligur and his team delivered the bus to POMGEN Last Friday. The bus was received by members of OOH& PMGH Intervention Cardiologist Dr. Wesong Boko, Cardiothoracic Surgeon Dr. Elizabeth Alok and Cardiac Anaesthetic Dr. Arvin Karu. The key was handed to Ricky Ilo the driver assigned to drive the bus. Niligur said Ela Motors hopes to continue this vital assistance in many more years to come.

Improvements to school infrastructures to enable better delivery of teaching and learning will contribute to quality education for students like for young Silas Kelre, who wants to grow up to become a lawyer one day. Young Silas comes from the Galowe area in central inland Pomio district of East New Britain province and attends the Palmalmal Secondary School, which is one of the schools in the province that has reaped the benefits of infrastructure development. The facilities Silas uses were made available through a K3.5million Australian Government grant in 2017. With this funding, Palmalmal Secondary School constructed eight new classrooms, two science laboratories and an ablution block for day students. New scientific equipment and learning resources were also purchased. “The science labs have a lot of equipment for us to use and do experiments during our science classes. I’m learning a lot and with this new building, a lot is done every day making us learn more,” said Silas. For Silas and the 903 other students at the school and 31 teachers, the new facilities have transformed their experiences at school and helped meet the standard set by the National Department of Education. Since the new facilities were opened in 2019, students’ academic performance has improved. Palmalmal Secondary School Deputy Principal, Ludwick Kampukia, who pushed for the infrastructure improvements, was a former student himself and is determined to see his students excel. “Our history students performed very well in 2022, taking out the number one spot in the province rating.” “Our Economics students came in second place and our Business Studies students are also doing very well.” “That is through the conducive learning environment and the impacts of the new facilities.” “Most of the buildings are old, built in 1975 when the school was established.” “Having the science lab and eight classrooms in one building is a facelift in terms of infrastructure.” “It also changed the mindset of kids in terms of discipline, giving a new environment that is welcoming to students.  

78,966 grade 10 students from 452 high and secondary schools nationwide will be sitting for this year’s Grade 10 Written Expression Examination come Thursday, June 1st. Schools in all provinces have received their exam papers according to the nomination data that was received by the Measurement Services Division in Port Moresby. Secretary for Education, Dr. Uke Kombra is encouraging all students, teachers and provinces to give their best and to ensure that the exams are done fairly and to the best of their abilities. “I call on all the citizens of Papua New Guinea to support and abide by the fair administration of exams.” Dr Kombra has appealed to all schools to fix their Registration Documents with the School Registration Committee of the department. No proper Registration means the school won’t be allowed to sit the objective examinations. Dr. Kombra also warned all schools against any mal-practices relating to the national examinations. Students and schools have been warned of the serious consequences which include non-certification for students, termination from teaching for teachers and banning of the schools involving themselves for a minimum period of 3 years. “We have eliminated cheating in examinations.” “Hence, results are based on hard work, and offer better education benchmarks.” “I wish all the grade 10 students 'best of luck' in their first National Examination for 2023 this Thursday.”  

Students from the School of the Holy Bible College at the Debeini's Living Waters Church in Gerehu, have been urged to be agents of change in their communities. Guest speaker and Senior Pastor of the Christian Outreach Centre Victory Church in Hohola, Edward Wange told the students to make a difference in their communities. Pastor Wenge in his message at the 23rd graduation of the Holy Spirit School on Sunday May 28th, told the students to build good relationships in the community driven by love. "Today, as you graduate from here and go to your domain, you will be an open book for a new chapter of your life." "Never forget that people are watching you.” “They know your story from the first book you wrote, but this time you are going to write a new book and the people who see the content of the book, will tell your story." "Don't operate by results.” “The miracle you see comes today and goes tomorrow. Build your relationship with God and with people so you can see the next miracle in your life." "Love is about laying down your lives to serve others." A total of 36 students graduated in their respective levels of Spiritual Studies. Nineteen Year 1 students received their certificates in Spiritual Studies, 6 Year 2 students received Advance Certificate in Spiritual Studies and 11 Year 3 students received their Advanced Diploma in Spiritual studies. Founding Principal of the School, Senior Pastor Peter Solomon encouraged the students to stand firm in serving God because it can be a lonely life. "Get established on the word of God, build your ministry on the word of God and you will be able to stand up through the storms of life." "Don't look to men, but to God alone. How successful you are in ministry depends on your personal walk with God." "What we have taught you, take it home with you and exercise it." "This is a practical school for practical people, so you can go out and practice what we have taught you." "In all you do, let God be the centre of your life," Pastor Solomon said. Head boy Rodney Mait spoke on behalf of the students and acknowledged the administration of the school, the staff and the students. "We are celebrating our graduation today as well as embarking on the new chapter of our lives." "We have been called to be servants in this harvest field, and this is a new challenge, but we have faith that God will provide, guide, and equip us for the work ahead," Mr. Mait said. The graduation coincided with the celebration and church service at the Debeini's Living Waters Ministry.  

Residents here in Port Moresby can now return empty PET plastic bottles to exchange for cash. This is the result of a partnership between Coca Cola Europacific Partners PNG, Coca Cola Papua New Guinea and Branis Recycling Limited. CCEP PNG Commercial Director, Mr. Tim Solly said that as a beverage manufacturer in PNG, they believe that it is their responsibility to have a long term commitment to the sustainability of their packaging. “Packaging waste is undoubtedly a major challenge and it’s also a solvable one, if we take action.” “Our plastic bottles have an ongoing intrinsic value and we need to treat them this way.” “We have partnered with Branis Recycling limited to collect PET plastic beverage bottles to prevent the going to landfill, waterways or the environment.” “Members of the public are paid an incentive of K1 per kilo.” “The collected beverage bottles are pre-processed using a shredder and then sent offshore for further recycling due to the absence of a PET resin recycling facility in the country.” It began as a pilot project in August 2022 and so far, 40 tonnes of PET plastic beverage bottles have already been collected and shipped offshore for recycling. People can bring their empty PET plastic bottles to Branis collection centres at Ahuia St, Gordons; Spondias St, Hohola; Movivina St, Gerehu; Gordons and Badili and they will be paid in return for the bottles. Coca Cola has purchased two PET shredders, which will pre-process the material and turn it into flake making it easier and more cost effective to ship the material offshore. Previously, PET plastic beverage bottles have been baled before they were shipped. Solly said that CCEP PNG and Coca Cola Papua New Guinea are aiming to expand PET collection across the country with plans to begin in Lae, Morobe Province. Coca Cola ASEAN & South Pacific Vice President of Public Affairs, Communications and Sustainability, Mr. Russel Mahoney said that the company is very proud to launch the PET Collection in Papua New Guinea with the partnership of CCEP PNG and Branis Recycling. “Like most people, we don’t want to see our bottles end up as litter.” “We are committed to doing more and being part of the solution.” “Our ultimate goal is to help collect and recycle the equivalent of one bottle for every bottle we bring to the market by 2030.” “However, we can’t achieve our goals alone.” “Addressing plastic waste and recycling challenges requires collaboration between industry, the public sector and civil society and we look forward to working with these groups in Papua New Guinea to significantly increase the amount of PET plastic beverage bottles collected.” In addition, CCEP’s sustainability targets include goals on decarbonizing the business, sustainable sourcing of ingredients, water security, building a resilient and low carbon supply chain.