As Papua New Guinea prepares for the 2027 national elections, concerns are mounting over the role of artificial intelligence in shaping public opinion.At a panel discussion during the PNG Media Summit 2026 in Port Moresby city today, specialists warned that AI-generated misinformation and deep fakes could pose serious risks to both electoral integrity and public trust. Moderated by veteran journalist Scott Waide, a panel of specialists, including Steven Matainaho, Secretary for the PNG Department of Information and Communications Technology; Michael Hseah, Non-Resident Fellow at Stanford University’s Center for International Security and Cooperation; and Craig McCosker, Product Strategy Manager at the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, spoke on both the dangers and potential benefits of AI for media and governance. Waide opened the discussion by noting growing fears that AI-generated content could flood digital platforms during the election cycle, potentially influencing voter perception. Hseah assured that this is not a challenge unique to Papua New Guinea or the Pacific, but a global concern affecting democracies worldwide. He also stressed how AI could be used to enhance quality journalism, enabling a single well-researched story to be adapted on multiple channels. “AI can take one well-researched story, verified and edited carefully, and share it across radio, TV, print, online, and multiple languages; thus, making the work of one journalist reach as many people as a thousand.” Yet the same technology could also be exploited to generate large volumes of misleading content in minutes. The panel also discussed the production of AI-driven propaganda videos globally, including very viral material from conflict zones such as Iran. Hseah described this shift as part of “a thousand industrial revolutions,” where the cost of producing content “made by the mind” has fallen nearly to zero. “We cannot pretend we live in the old world anymore.” Matainaho stressed the need for strong governance around AI and data. He called for regulations to ensure data protection, accountability, and cultural context are considered in AI distribution. “When you input information into platforms like ChatGPT, whose data are you pushing in, where is it being processed, and how is it being used?” He emphasized that pacific nations often rely on AI models developed overseas, which may poorly represent local cultures and knowledge. Closing the session, the panel agreed that AI is both a powerful tool and a serious threat. McCosker added that media organizations must leverage AI’s speed and creativity to counter misinformation and understand colloquial speech while maintaining honesty in their journalism work. Hseah concluded with a cautionary note: “The deeper question is not just what this technology does, but what values go into how we use it.”

School of Business and Public Policy (SBPP) graduate respondent Rachael Onopia, spoke on behalf of the graduating class during the University of Papua New Guinea’s 71st Graduation Ceremony today at Sir John Guise Indoor Stadium, Port Moresby.Speaking before distinguished guests, university leaders, faculty members, proud families, and fellow graduates, Onopia reflected on the challenges and triumphs experienced throughout their academic journey. “Today marks not just the end of a chapter, but also the beginning of a new journey.” She noted that despite the many challenges, graduates persevered through resilience and determination. “There were days where we felt overwhelmed, days where we felt lost, and days where we even felt like giving up. But alongside those struggles were moments of growth, resilience, and quiet victories.” She thanked lecturers for their patience, mentorship, and commitment to challenging students beyond the classroom, while also recognizing administrative staff and university management for maintaining a supportive learning environment. Addressing the rapidly evolving modern world, Onopia highlighted the growing influence of artificial intelligence and digitalization, encouraging graduates to view these developments as opportunities rather than threats. “These are no longer just trends; they are shaping the future of work and life itself. I encourage each and every one of us not to fear these changes, but to see the opportunities they present.” She reminded graduates that beyond earning qualifications, they now carry the responsibility to lead with integrity, make meaningful contributions, and drive positive change within their communities and beyond. Concluding her speech, Ms. Onopia urged her fellow graduates to remain proud of their journey and optimistic about the future. “Let us remember where we started, appreciate how far we’ve come, and remain hopeful for what lies ahead. Congratulations to you all. The future is ours to shape.”

The PNG Media Summit 2026 officially opened in Port Moresby today at the Crown Hotel, bringing together journalists, editors, media leaders, government representatives, students, and pacific delegates to discuss the future of journalism in Papua New Guinea (PNG) and the region.Hosted by the Media Council of Papua New Guinea (MCPNG) and organized by Women in Media PNG, this year’s summit builds on the success of its inaugural event and expands its reach regionally, coinciding with preparations for the 2027 National General Elections and upcoming World Press Freedom Day celebrations. Opening the summit, President of the Papua New Guinea Media Council, Neville Choi spoke on key topics for the media industry, including strengthening mainstream media as trusted and verified sources of information amid the growing spread of misinformation and AI-generated content online.  A major focus of this year’s discussions is newsroom preparedness for the 2027 elections, emphasizing fact-checking, verification, investigative reporting, and newsroom training in artificial intelligence detection tools. “In preparation for the elections, and to ensure the mainstream media is ready for them, we in the media have prioritized focus on factchecking and verification, investigative reporting, and building the capacities of our mainstream media newsrooms in understanding AI, the tools available to detect AI content, and to include this in every day newsroom processes,” he said. Additionally, a special session featuring PNG social media content creators is also scheduled, to bridge conversations between traditional media and digital content creators. This year’s summit also marks PNG’s role in leading regional World Press Freedom Day celebrations throughout the Pacific, with visiting journalists from several pacific island nations participating both in person and online. The summit continues throughout the day.

Papua New Guinea Law Society President Hubert Namani has called on the country’s newest law graduates to become courageous defenders of justice, democracy, and ethical leadership as they enter the legal profession in Papua New Guinea’s post-independence era.Speaking as guest speaker at the University of Papua New Guinea’s 71st Graduation Ceremony for the School of Law at the Sir John Guise Indoor Stadium in Port Moresby city today, Namani described the occasion as more than a graduation ceremony, calling it a “defining moment” for graduates, their families, communities, and the nation.  “You are the first generation of lawyers graduating in the post-50-year era of our independence. This is not merely a milestone; it is a responsibility.” An alumnus of UPNG’s graduating class of 2001, Namani reflected on his own journey from sitting in the graduates’ seats 25 years ago to now leading the national legal body. “The law is not just a career. It is a calling. Today, you are stepping into that calling.” Namani reminded graduates that lawyers occupy a critical frontline role in protecting Papua New Guinea’s institutions. “Democracy does not survive on speeches alone, nor on constitutions sitting on shelves.” “It survives when courts remain independent, when elections are credible, when the law is applied fairly, and when leaders are held accountable.” He challenged graduates to refuse the normalization of corruption, abuse of power, and lawlessness, stressing that lawyers must stand firm even when doing so is unpopular or personally costly. “Your name is your reputation. Your reputation is your currency. Once lost, it will be very difficult to recover.” Namani also encouraged graduates to think beyond personal ambition and financial success, instead measuring success by service to communities, justice, and legacy. “The future of Papua New Guinea will not be shaped by politics alone. It will be shaped by whether lawyers uphold the law or compromise it.” He further encouraged graduates to uphold traditions that visibly demonstrate the legal profession’s commitment to accountability and justice, including the annual Rule of Law March, an initiative he introduced during his presidency. “This is more than an event. It is a statement of unity, purpose, and conviction.” Concluding his address, Namani reminded graduates that lasting national change begins with individual action. “We often wait for change. We look to leaders, to institutions, and to government.” “But the truth is, you are the change you have been waiting for.”

Director: Lauren MontgomeryCast: Eric Nam, Dave Bautista, Jessica Matten, Roman Zaragoza, Dionne Quan, Steven Yeun Rating: PG | Genre(s): Animation, Family, Drama | Run Time: 1hr 30mins REALISTIC THEMES IN A FICTIONAL WORLD “Mature characters dealing with complex world issues.” After discovering a way to restore airbending to the world, Aang, Katara, Sokka, Toph, Zuko alongside an ancient airbender named Tagah, travel to a hidden location to recover a staff belonging to a previous avatar. However, a group of notorious non-benders called the Denied are also after the staff, determined to reclaim equality in a world dominated by benders. Themes of class discrimination and trauma drives the plot. In the film, the Denied are looked down upon for having no bending abilities. Tagah, on the other hand, represents unhealed trauma that manifests in acts of revenge. Meanwhile, Aang shoulders implicit hate from society for abandoning the world during his hundred-year absence while dealing with the mental weight of the near-extinction of airbenders. These experiences fuel the story as each character journey towards the staff to fulfill their goals – equality and justice. The film’s scripting keeps notable traits of its characters from the series. Despite being aged up, characteristics that make Aang, Katara, Sokka Toph and Zuko unique are kept which bring back nostalgia and reminds the audiences that some things don’t change even as we get older. Aang still wrestles with the weight of his mistakes; Katara is hopeful; Sokka is still comical; Toph continues to be stubborn and sassy while Zuko remains loyal to Aang and his vision for peace. All these traits keep the essence of the original series alive while also giving space for originality. The animated film remains true to the franchise’s signature anime-inspired 2D style while elevating it for a cinematic experience. Much like the original Avatar: The Last Airbender, the characters retain their expressive designs and clean linework, but the animation now includes dynamic camera movement. This adds depth and scale, especially during action sequences, without losing the warmth and charm of the hand-drawn aesthetic. The film’s decision to recast its core characters with new voice actors is immediately noticeable, especially for longtime fans of Avatar: The Last Airbender. Rather than trying to imitate the original performances, the new cast brings a slightly more grounded, mature tone suitable for the characters’ older ages in this story. It’s a risky balance – one that doesn’t replicate the original but support’s the film’s aim to present a more evolved story on Team Avatar. Final Verdict: Not the best nostalgic masterpiece, but decent nonetheless. Longtime fans of the original series may have mixed reactions to seeing beloved characters voiced by new actors. Rating: Rating: ★★★★☆ (8/10) For nostalgia’s sake and for Team Avatar.

Aisop Mol, Graduate Respondent for the School of Humanities and Social Sciences (SHSS) at the University of Papua New Guinea, delivered a message of humility, gratitude and responsibility during the institution’s 71st graduation ceremony held at Sir John Guise Indoor Stadium, Port Moresby.Speaking on behalf of the graduating class, he emphasized the growth and diversity of SHSS, describing it as one of the most vital academic hubs in the country. The school currently offers more than 17 programs spanning disciplines such as anthropology, sociology, journalism, political science, psychology, and social work. He noted that its breadth reflects the cultural and intellectual diversity of Papua New Guinea and the wider Pacific. He also pointed to the school’s legacy of producing national leaders, referencing figures such as the late Sir Rabbie Namaliu and former Prime Minister Peter O'Neill as examples of SHSS graduates who have shaped the nation. “This school is not only an academic institution, but a training ground for national leadership.” The 71st graduation marked a milestone for the school, with 294 students graduating: an increase from 271 the previous year. Notably, the school achieved a perfect gender balance, with 147 female and 147 male graduates. Mol called this a significant step toward inclusive education and social progress. “This balance is not just a number; it is a sign of society moving forward.” In his address, Mol paid tribute to lecturers and staff for instilling critical thinking, discipline and curiosity, and thanked families for their sacrifices. He also acknowledged sponsors for investing in the development of future professionals and leaders. Mol also spoke candidly about the challenges graduates will face in a rapidly changing world marked by economic pressures, political shifts and technological disruption. He emphasized that success in the workplace requires more than academic achievement. “Getting a job is only the beginning.” “Staying in the job requires discipline and humility. Growing in the job demands adaptability, integrity and courage.” He urged graduates to embrace empathy, communication and collaboration, qualities he described as core strengths of social scientists. Closing his speech, Mol challenged his peers to carry forward both their qualifications and their values. “Let us leave this hall not only with degrees in our hands, but with gratitude in our hearts and purpose in our steps.” “What we do tomorrow will prove who we truly are.”

The nominees for the Yumi FM PNG Musik Awards have been revealed across multiple categories, including Male and Female Artist of the Year, Best New Artist of the Year, Song of the Year, Album of the Year, International Artist of the Year, Duo/Group of the Year, and Producer of the Year.This year’s list showcases some of the most dynamic and influential talent from Papua New Guinea. The nominees are as follows: Female Artist of the Year Asi Vaname Taita Maraga Roxsy Rox Male Artist of the Year Kronos Sail Kay Tarvin Toune Best New Artist of the Year Nineden Naxii jay Kayster Song of the Year Daddy Raus Lakemanda Landslide Breathe Album of the Year JNR – Vigi-Varavara EP Narox Band – Narox EP Anslom – One Love Album International Artist of the Year Tarvin Toune ft Benz Bluntz & 4Blordz – Panu Daniel Bilip – Mama Blo Pikinini Mavn LKLD – Go Bek Duo/Group of the Year Jnr Vigi Saii Kay & Sean Rii Jokema Nineden Producer of the Year Bata Dee Markii Wemi The awards ceremony will take place on Saturday, 23rd May 2025, hosted by Yumi FM and proudly supported by Nau FM, Legend FM, PNG HAUSBUNG, Magic Factory, and The Total Event Company (TEC).

Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science, Technology, Sports Kinoka Feo, delivered his address yesterday (27/04/26) at the University of Papua New Guinea’s School of Natural and Physical Sciences (SNPS) graduation ceremony at the Sir John Guise Indoor Stadium, emphasizing the critical role of education and mindset in Papua New Guinea’s future development. Opening with gratitude, Minister Feo first acknowledged God, crediting Him for the success of the graduates. He also paid tribute to key figures including the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor, all university deans, staff, parents, sponsors, and supporters who contributed to the students’ achievements. “Congratulations to the graduating class of 2026.” “It is no small feat to complete your program. Your commitment, patience, and dedication have placed you among the top 2% of students who make it through.” Stressing the broader challenges of the national education system, Minister Feo revealed alarming attrition rates, with only around 1,000 students completing Grade 12 out of 437,000 who enroll in Grade 1 annually. “We lose 92 to 93% of our students before they finish school.” He outlined the government’s strategy to address these issues, including a K17 billion investment to expand access to primary, secondary, and tertiary education, and an overall K29 billion commitment to improve infrastructure, increase teacher employment, and enhance the Higher Education Loan Program to cover full tuition fees through undergraduate, master’s, and PhD programs. Minister Feo emphasized the importance of research in universities, announcing that the cabinet had approved K35 million to support research initiatives nationwide. Turning to graduates, he stressed the importance of mindset in achieving national prosperity. “Our country is rich in resources, but our biggest challenge is not lack of wealth—it is a mindset problem.” “Too many people lack vision, purpose, and resilience. Papua New Guinea’s future depends on cultivating determination, focus, and hard work.” He concluded with a message of perseverance. “History teaches us that greatness is not built on success alone. It is built on failure, persistence, and resilience. No matter how small you start, commit yourself to making a difference.”

Director: Tyree DillihayCast: Caleb McLaughlin, Gabrielle Union, Aaron Pierre, Nicola Coughlan, David Harbour, Nick Cole Rating: PG | Genre(s): Animation, Family, Drama | Run Time: 1hr 40mins UNIQUE ANIMATION – SAME OLD PLOT INFLUENCED BY POP CULTURE “Classic underdog story with a regurgitated plot.” Will Harris (Caleb McLaughlin), dreams of becoming a roarball player in spite of his small stature and hapless situation. A viral moment soon leads him to signing with his dream team, the Thorns. But his struggles are far from over as he faces constant antagonism from opposing player, Mane Attraction (Aaron Pierre), and roarball star, Jett Fillmore (Gabrielle Union). Sony’s latest animation heavily draws from U.S Gen Z pop culture. The term G.O.A.T or Greatest Of All Time, usually refers to someone who excels in their field of work or does something outstanding. In this film, the character Will is a literal goat who achieves his biggest goal in becoming an athlete – a feat that is unheard of in his universe, as the sport, roarball (i.e. basketball) is mostly played by bigger animals. He becomes the first small animal to play roarball, thus making him the G.O.A.T. The animation uses a highly stylized kinetic 2D-3D hybrid animation-style similar to the Spider-Verse franchise. It utilizes 3D models combined with 2D comic/cartoon-like shading, texture and outline – a style known as the 2.5D look. This results in an animation that looks graphic, slightly ‘drawn’ but more expressive and exaggerated. While Goat’s visuals are stunning, the storyline is overused. Classic underdog plot of a character making it to the top despite setbacks which usually includes bullying and an absent/dead parent. Final Verdict: The only thing new about Goat is the fresh animation style and motion-skill, as well as the original twist on the sport of basketball. But if you want a storyline that is unique, Goat may not be the film for you, though it is great for family entertainment. Rating: ★★★★☆ (8/10) For you who don’t get tired of the same plotline.

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of National St John Ambulance Service PNG, Kai Tane, has highlighted key achievements and future priorities during the presentation of the 2025 service report.Speaking at the headquarters along Taurama Road in Port Moresby, Tane revealed that in 2025, the ambulance service received 88,731 emergency calls through its national operations centre, dispatching teams to more than 38,000 incidents nationwide. He said lifesaving first aid advice was also provided over the phone while ambulances were en route, underscoring the critical role the service plays in emergency response across Papua New Guinea. The organization also trained 11,670 people in first aid through schools, workplaces and community programs, while 35 clinicians received specialized resuscitation training to strengthen the broader health system. Tane described these efforts as essential in building nationwide capacity to respond to emergencies. Looking ahead, Tane announced plans to expand services into Unggai-Bena District in Eastern Highlands Province, with one ambulance already operational and a second unit set for deployment. He said the expansion would improve response times, create jobs and extend life-saving services to previously underserved communities. He also called for continued government and partner support, noting that increasing demand, an ageing fleet and limited rural coverage remain ongoing challenges. "Every kina invested into this service is a kina invested in the health and safety of our communities." Tane further urged Parliament to pass an updated St John Bill to modernize legislation dating back to 1976 and strengthen the legal foundation of the service. "PNG deserves a world-class ambulance service, and every person in this country deserves to know that if they call 111, someone's coming."Tane concluded by acknowledging frontline staff and volunteers, saying their dedication ensures Papua New Guineans can rely on timely emergency care whenever they call.

A Palm Sunday sermon at Tokarara Christian Fellowship (TCF) in Tokarara, Port Moresby, offered a unique perspective on the biblical account of Jesus Christ’s entry into Jerusalem, with Pastor Julian Kivori encouraging believers to reflect on lessons drawn from the humble donkey in the Gospel story. Speaking to the congregation, Pastor Kivori revisited the events leading up to Palm Sunday by drawing from multiple Gospel accounts, including the Gospel of Matthew. He noted that it was only after the resurrection that the disciples fully understood the significance of these events, recognizing Jesus as the Messiah. Pastor Kivori invited the congregation to imagine themselves as first-century news reporters covering a major religious event, questioning who they would interview among the crowd—disciples, religious leaders, or even Jesus himself. However, he shifted the focus to an often-overlooked figure in the story: the donkey. Drawing from Matthew 21 and Gospel of Luke, he highlighted how Jesus instructed His disciples to bring both a donkey and its colt, emphasizing that one was experienced while the other had never been ridden. This, he explained, illustrates that both experienced and inexperienced individuals have a place in God’s ministry. “This shows that whether you are new in faith or have been serving for years, everyone has a role to play.” He further connected the event to the prophecy in Book of Zechariah, which foretold a king arriving humbly on a donkey. Pastor Kivori explained that while horses symbolized power and war, the donkey represented humility. The sermon also emphasized unity and teamwork, drawing parallels between the two animals and the importance of working together in ministry. Referencing Psalm 133, Pastor Kivori stressed that God values harmony among His people. “Ministry is not about standing alone but about working together—experienced and inexperienced—just like the donkey and its colt.” Pastor Kivori encouraged believers to remain grounded in Christ, citing Gospel of John, where Jesus describes Himself as the vine and His followers as branches. He reminded the congregation that true purpose and fruitfulness come from staying connected to Christ. He concluded by pointing to the example of John the Baptist, who declared that Christ must increase while he decreases, reinforcing the message that Christ should remain the centre of all service and ministry.

Two young women have been recognized as winners of the British High Commission’s ‘Diplomat for a Day’ Essay Competition, following a competitive selection process that attracted more than 80 entries.The winners, Shonaye Leslie and Toa' Lea Saguba, impressed judges with essays focused on addressing digital violence against women and girls, including cyberbullying and online harassment. Their submissions explored both the challenges faced in digital spaces and practical solutions to create safer online environments. The competition targeted young women aged between 18 and 25, encouraging them to use their voices to advocate for gender equality and raise awareness about the growing issue of online abuse. Participants highlighted the lack of local data on digital violence in Papua New Guinea, drawing on global trends to contextualize the issue nationally. As part of their prize, the winners took part in a two-day immersive experience, shadowing diplomats and engaging with representatives from various international missions and organizations, including UN agencies and foreign high commissions. The experience provided insight into diplomacy and its role in shaping policies and driving social change. The winners also shared key solutions in their essays, including promoting digital safety education, encouraging respectful online behavior, and fostering collaboration between communities, organizations, and institutions to address online violence. Both women expressed hope that their work would empower others to speak out, report abuse, and use digital platforms responsibly. They emphasized the importance of awareness, open dialogue, and collective action in building safer and more inclusive online spaces for women and girls. British High Commissioner-designate H. E. Paul Eastwood commended the participants and encouraged young women to be visible and vocal leaders. "Their thoughtful essays and advocacy were truly inspiring." "We hope they will carry the lessons from this experience forward into their future careers and daily lives." He added that this year's theme was both timely and critical. "Ensuring that women and girls can participate safely and confidently in the digital space is crucial to fostering a more inclusive and equitable future." The two women will further represent Papua New Guinea at the Women Deliver 2026 Conference in Melbourne Australia, where they will join young women leaders from across the region to champion discussions on gender equality and women's rights.