António Guterres the first sitting UN Secretary-General to visit Papua New Guinea (PNG), addressed the parliament this morning, marking the nation’s 50th anniversary of independence. In his speech to Parliament, Guterres praised the country’s rich cultural diversity and commitment to democracy. Guterres highlighted Papua New Guinea’s leadership in peacebuilding, especially the success of the Bougainville Peace Agreement, which celebrated its 21st anniversary. He applauded the nation’s ongoing efforts to maintain peace, including the upcoming autonomous elections in Bougainville, and reaffirmed the UN’s support for peace initiatives. Turning to climate change, Guterres commended Papua New Guinea for its bold stance on climate action. As one of the Pacific nations most impacted by climate change, the country’s advocacy for climate finance and environmental protection was highlighted. “Time and again, we have seen climate leadership flow not from countries with the most wealth and power, but from those who know the stakes firsthand.” “The Pacific Islands are ground zero for the impacts of climate change, and Papua New Guinea is home to two out of the three Pacific citizens.” “You are also home to 7% of the world's biodiversity, and some of the largest coral reefs and rainforests of the planet.” “We must be ever vigilant in safeguarding these crucial ecosystems, and you have made the case that national protection deserves global support.” Guterres also addressed the global financial system, calling for reforms to ensure fair representation for developing countries like Papua New Guinea. He emphasized the importance of climate finance, especially for countries most affected by climate change, and criticized the inadequate funding for the Loss and Damage Fund. Gender equality was another key focus of Guterres’ speech. He acknowledged Papua New Guinea’s efforts to combat gender-based violence, including the creation of the Parliamentary Committee on Gender Equality. The UN is partnering with the nation through the Spotlight Initiative to end violence against women and girls. As the country celebrates 50 years of independence, Guterres noted that Papua New Guinea’s progress mirrors the resilience of its people and their dedication to democracy. “In just 50 years, Papua New Guinea has undertaken a doubting task, to forge a single nation from profound diversity.” “It is a path that demands courage and vision to walk, and the United Nations is proud to accompany you and to be in total solidarity with you on every step.”

Kicks 4 Kokoda (K4K) recently held its first-ever football tournament in Kiorota, Oro Province, marking a significant milestone for the program. The event was met with overwhelming support from the local community, who came together to celebrate the power of sport and unity. The tournament had great competition, with Team Respect emerging as the champions, Team Openness as runners-up, Team Excellence in third place, and Team Honesty in fourth. Both final matches were decided by penalty shootouts, keeping the crowd on the edge of their seats. The event also highlighted the values of K4K, that is ‘Respect, Openness, Excellence, and Honesty’ with individual, and Values Awards presented to participants who best demonstrated these principles. The tournament was a success, thanks to the leadership of SKILLZ Coaches, who ensured a well-organized, high-energy event. K4K is delivered by the Kokoda Track Foundation (KTF) in partnership with the Australian Government through the Team Up program, creating opportunities for young people to thrive, on and off the field.

Under the initiative Operation Rausim Moratau, Team JP has successfully delivered essential building materials to all 21 wards of the Morobe Local Level Government (LLG) – supporting local communities in rebuilding homes and infrastructure that have been damaged, ensuring a stronger future for the people of Huon Gulf, Morobe Province. The loading operation began at 5:32 PM and was completed by 4:00 AM, marking a significant achievement in providing much-needed materials for community restoration. Delivered Materials: - Roofing Iron: 10,584 sheets (504 sheets per ward) - Gutters (Gatha): 3,528 units (168 units per ward) - Ridge Caps: 1,764 units (84 units per ward) - Silicon Glue: 882 tubes (42 per ward) - Silicon Guns: 42 units - Zoom Paint 20L Containers: 152 Additionally, cargo for church representatives and an electrical contractor was included, reflecting the broader focus on improving community infrastructure and supporting essential services. Despite rough seas and strong winds, the team managed to safely transport the materials, navigating through Bao Island and other drop-off points. The delivery to Sapa, the third drop-off point, was delayed due to adverse weather conditions, but contingency plans have been put in place to manage any further delays if the conditions persist. Jason Peter, Member for Huon Gulf and Minister for Community Development, Youths, and Religion, expressed his continued commitment to the initiative. "Operation Rausim Moratau is not just about delivering materials; it is about rebuilding hope, restoring homes, and ensuring our communities stand strong together.”

Students sitting for STEM Exams all over the country began today September 1st, 2025, and Port Moresby School of Excellence is no different. A total of 69 students all hunched over their papers this morning, working hard on their exam. This was confirmed by the current Principal Mr. Teddy Feria, who stated that students have been prepared thoroughly by the school throughout the year. "This exam is a theory exam." "Although it does not have practical, the students have practical activities in their respective subjects." He added that for STEM students, they usually receive scholarship opportunities with support from the government. "The top students, continue their studies abroad." In 2024, approximately more than 50 students received scholarships to study abroad. “This year, we’ve sent 150 students to study in countries like the USA, China, India, and Malaysia. Australia will also be included, but those students will leave next year.” “Additionally, 10 STEM students were selected for the prestigious Australian Scholarship Award, while the rest are sponsored under the department’s initiative.” “This is the first time we are sending scholars to Malaysia, which is a new addition to the list of countries.” Exams will end on Friday 5th of September 2025.

The Papua New Guinea Oscar Selection Committee, operating under the PNG Academy Awards Secretariat of the National Culture Commission (NCC), recently announced that Papa Buka has been officially chosen to represent Papua New Guinea in the International Feature Film category at the 98th Academy Awards (Oscars). This marks a historic achievement as the country’s first-ever submission to the Oscars, coinciding with Papua New Guinea's 50th anniversary of independence. Directed by internationally acclaimed Indian filmmaker Dr. Biju, and produced by Papua New Guinea's own Mrs. Noelene Taula Wunum, alongside Indian producers Mr. Akshay Kumar Parija, Mr. Pa Ranjith, and Mr. Prakash Bare. Papa Buka is a pioneering feature film that beautifully showcases the cultural richness, storytelling traditions, and cinematic vision of Papua New Guinea. The film was selected by the Papua New Guinea Oscar Selection Committee, an official body under NCC, which carefully evaluates and nominates films to represent the nation on the global stage. Its mandate is to review eligible films each year and select one film to represent the country in the International Feature Film category of the Academy Awards. The Committee's decision follows a rigorous evaluation process of submissions, with Papa Buka emerging as the film that best represents the identity and creativity of the nation on the global stage. Dr. Don Niles, Chairman of the PNG Oscar Selection Committee expressed his delight towards the achievement. "This is a historic moment for Papua New Guinea cinema. Papa Buka embodies our stories, our traditions, and our artistic voice, and we are proud to present it to the world through the Academy Awards platform.”

The National Cultural Commission (NCC) celebrated four significant achievements this week, marking a transformative moment in preserving and promoting Papua New Guinea's cultural heritage. The event, hosted at the newly opened NCC Gift Shop, saw the launch of the NCC's online gift shop, the unveiling of a cultural registration database, and the announcement of Papa Buka being selected for the Oscars, as well as the introduction of a forward-thinking vision for the future of the National Cultural Commission. Present at the event was the Member for Vanimo Green River Electorate and Minister for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Belden Norman Namah, who provided the keynote address, Francis Kikin Sune, Member for Kerowagi Open, Steven Enomb Kilanda, Executive Director of the National Cultural Commission, alongside stakeholders and development partners. Hosted by MC Eugene Avediba, the ceremony also marked the celebration of the country's cultural richness as it enters its 50th year of independence. During his address, Minister Namah expressed deep pride in the ongoing work of the NCC, particularly under the leadership of CEO Steven Enomb Kilanda. He emphasized the importance of inclusivity in tourism, highlighting how anyone, regardless of their education level, can participate in the cultural and tourism sectors. The four major announcements at the event were as follows: 1. Opening of the NCC Gift Shop The newly launched NCC Gift Shop is a physical and online platform that showcases the authentic cultural artifacts of Papua New Guinea. Minister Namah proudly highlighted that the shop is now live and accessible globally, allowing people from across the world, including Japan where the World Expo is being held, to purchase items representing the rich heritage of the country. The shop supports local artisans, providing them with a unique opportunity to sell their work internationally. 2. Launch of the NCC Online Gift Shop (E-Commerce Platform) The e-commerce platform is a game-changer for PNG’s cultural industry, enabling global access to Papua New Guinea’s unique cultural products. This platform also fosters cultural preservation and economic growth by allowing local artisans to expand their reach and sell products to international markets. The online store is designed to boost both cultural exchange and economic opportunities for PNG's creative sectors. 3. Launch of the Cultural Registration Database A groundbreaking initiative, the cultural registration database will document and preserve the diverse cultural heritage of Papua New Guinea. This database will serve as a valuable resource for future generations, promoting cross-cultural understanding while safeguarding the traditions and customs that define PNG’s unique identity. 4. Announcement of Papa Buka for the Oscars Perhaps the most exciting announcement was the news that Papa Buka, a feature film produced by Papua New Guinea's local filmmakers, has been selected to represent the country at the Oscars. Minister Nama expressed his pride in the project, praising the efforts of the team behind the film and the significance of this global recognition. The minister assured that the government would support Papa Buka in its pursuit of Oscar glory, with funding being allocated for its continued promotion and participation in the prestigious competition. As the event concluded, Minister Nama shared his vision for the future of cultural institutions in Papua New Guinea, stating that the NCC, along with other cultural bodies, would undergo a transformation. He revealed plans to rename the NCC to the "PNG National Cultural Authority" in a bid to empower the agency to generate its own revenue and become more self-sustaining. In line with this, other agencies under the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, such as the Tourism Promotion Authority and the National Museum and Art Gallery, will also be restructured into "authorities" to foster financial independence and more robust support for the country’s tourism and cultural sectors. The event was a major step forward in ensuring that Papua New Guinea's cultural legacy is preserved, promoted, and shared with the world. As the country prepares for its 50th anniversary celebrations, the initiatives launched at this event mark an important milestone in the nation's journey toward cultural and economic empowerment. The Papa Buka Oscar announcement, in particular, stands as evidence to the growing influence of Papua New Guinea’s creative industry on the global stage.

The National Agriculture Research Institute (NARI) recently welcomed Australian volunteers Jenny and Stephen Clark to its headquarters at Bubia, Morobe Province. The Clarks joined NARI this month and will stay on for 12 months as part of the Australian Volunteers Program – an Australian Government funded initiative. Both have a Bachelor of Agricultural Science degree from the University of Melbourne, Australia. Jenny, with her teaching background and experience in curriculum development through previous assignments with the Australian Volunteers Program in Tanzania, is set to guide NARI in developing its Training of Trainer programs and revising its training policies and guidelines. She will also help develop and guide basic in-house training. Stephen, with expertise in agronomy, experimental design, and scientific writing for the farming community, brings experience from his time as a research scientist with the Western Australia Department of Agriculture and his volunteer work in Tanzania with ECHO-East Africa. At NARI, he will mentor and provide hands-on training to NARI scientists in scientific writing, helping them improve research designs, data analysis, and presentation to ensure their findings meet international publication standards and contribute to high-quality, impactful research. Ms. Lina Asiri, the Acting Human Resource Manager at NARI, views the partnership with the Australian Volunteers Program as a valuable opportunity to enhance capacity building, equipping NARI’s research teams with long-term skills in research methodology, scientific writing, and the publication process. This initiative aims to promote sustainable, high-quality research that supports NARI’s strategic objectives. Director General Dr. Nelson Simbiken warmly welcomed Jenny and Stephen to NARI Headquarters, where he highlighted NARI’s mission to support farmers in transitioning from subsistence to commercial farming, as outlined in the Strategic Results Framework 2022-2031 and the Strategic Implementation Plan 2022-2027. He also expressed gratitude for the continued support from Australia and other development partners in advancing agricultural research in Papua New Guinea.

The Department for Community Development and Religion (DFCDR) has strengthened its commitment to fight against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) by signing a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with South Pacific (SP) Brewery and the Somare Institute of Leadership and Governance (SILAG). The agreement will focus on developing targeted leadership training for public servants in middle management and above, equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to address GBV more effectively within government systems and communities. Secretary for DFCDR, Mr. Jerry Ubase, said the agreement will directly support provincial GBV Secretariats and Committees across all 22 provinces and extend into government agencies. “This MoU represents our shared commitment to bring visibility to the fight against violence in PNG.” “Addressing GBV is everyone’s concern, and this partnership will strengthen strategic interventions and support local action.” He also called on GBV experts and civil society organizations to partner with the Department, emphasizing that collaboration is important to create changes that will last. Meanwhile, SP Brewery Managing Director Mr. Ed Weggemans said the private sector is committed to playing its part. “Investing in GBV training for the public service will not only strengthen the work of the National GBV Secretariat and government policy but also contribute to effective prevention programs in our communities.” Moreover, SILAG Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Michael Barobe, expressed gratitude for being recognized as a key partner in this initiative. He highlighted that the partnership will enable SILAG to deliver specialized leadership training to better equip public servants to tackle GBV effectively. The partnership reflects the Department’s continued leadership in coordinating national efforts to reduce GBV and promote safer, more resilient communities as Papua New Guinea approaches its 50th Independence anniversary.

The Physiotherapy Department at Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH), alongside the University of Papua New Guinea's School of Medicine and Health Sciences and the University of Otago’s Department of Anatomy, successfully hosted its inaugural Pain & Clinical Anatomy Workshop from August 4th to 6th. Led by Dr. Jerin Mathew, neuroscientist and clinical anatomy lecturer from the University of Otago, the workshop focused on advanced pain science, anatomical precision, and multidisciplinary approaches to pain management. This initiative is part of the department’s broader strategy to establish a Pain Management Clinic by 2028, in collaboration with the Anaesthetic Department and other clinical disciplines. Participants explored both pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments, emphasizing the critical role of clinical anatomy in diagnosis and treatment planning. The workshop also highlighted opportunities for integrating research into clinical practice, aiming to enhance patient outcomes and promote evidence-based care in Papua New Guinea. This workshop marks a crucial step in strengthening professional capacity and fostering future clinical and research collaboration in pain management.

East New Britain Governor Michael Marum recently reaffirmed his government’s commitment to sports development by presenting over K500,000 in funding to various sporting associations across the province. The ceremony, which took place in Kokopo, Kerevat, and Rabaul, marked another step in the ongoing efforts to support sports programs at the grassroots level. The funds, allocated to a range of local sporting bodies, include the ENB Netball Association, ENB Athletics Association, Kokopo City Touch Association, Kokopo City Volleyball Association, Kokopo City Rugby Union Association, and Kokopo District Dart Association. Other associations from the districts of Gazelle, Rabaul, and Pomio also benefited from the program. In his address, Governor Michael Marum commended the sporting associations for their adherence to the proper accountability processes set by the Provincial Government, ensuring responsible use of public funds. “By following these accountability processes, you are showing responsibility in the use of public funds.” “This is the standard we expect, and it gives us confidence to continue supporting sports development in our province.” The funding, which ranges from K10,000 to K20,000 per association, is based on the size of membership and compliance with the required procedures. Since the program's inception in 2023, more than K250,000 has been allocated to sporting associations across East New Britain, with an additional K250,000 provided annually to support the Agmark Gurias Rugby League team. Representatives from various associations expressed their gratitude, highlighting the positive impact the funding will have on their sports programs. Loa Oala from Kokopo Basketball, Chris Kataka from Gazelle Soccer, Himson Penias from Rabaul Rugby League, and Dickson Kondaul from Rabaul Softball all praised the initiative, noting that the financial support will help develop their competitions and support local players. Community Development Advisor Peter Tutuai and Provincial Youth Representative Pastor Nelson Ainui were also present at the event, emphasizing the importance of maintaining accountability to ensure continued government backing for youth and sports programs. Governor Marum also encouraged associations that have not yet received their allocations to fast-track their compliance with the required processes. He urged all groups to use the funds judiciously, stressing that sports are not just about competition, but also about fostering discipline, leadership, and unity among young people. In closing, the Governor repeated his government’s dedication to nurturing sports talent in the province, stating that with the right discipline and management, the province could continue to produce athletes who will represent Papua New Guinea with pride on national and international stages. “I want to especially encourage our young people to get involved in sports.” “Sports can open doors for education, careers, and leadership.” “More importantly, it keeps you healthy, disciplined, and focused on positive pathways for your future.”

As the nation marks another National Repentance Day, Rev. Dr. Jack Urame, Head Bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Papua New Guinea (ELCPNG), has issued a powerful call for genuine change in the way the country lives, highlighting the disconnect between the Christian values upon which the nation was built and the moral challenges it faces today. In a recent Facebook post from the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Papua New Guinea, Rev. Dr. Urame, urged people to reflect not just on their personal lives but on people across the country. “The reality we see in our country makes me wonder if we truly have repented or changed our moral behaviour and truly live as Christians.” He emphasized that the country is experiencing moral decline at an alarming rate, with the negative outcomes of the nation’s moral behaviour becoming increasingly undeniable. “Violence in various forms is on the rise, tearing apart communities and families.” “Social instability, fueled by the abuse of drugs and alcohol, is further worsening these challenges.” “The theft of national resources and widespread corruption within high offices are draining the nation's wealth and undermining its progress.” “Dishonesty and greed are eroding the core values of respect, love, care, and justice, while the disruptive behavior of young people is undermining peace and harmony in many areas.” “Additionally, ethnic and tribal conflicts continue to spread, both in rural regions and urban centers, contributing to a growing sense of division.” “These issues, along with many others, are causing great suffering across the country.” According to Rev. Dr. Urame, true change must begin within ourselves. “When genuine repentance happens within us, change will also happen in our communities and country.” He called for a national reset, encouraging leaders to initiate a culture change in the areas of governance, resource management, and personal responsibility. "We must change the culture of greed and corruption, develop honesty, and be of service to others," he said. "We must change from the culture of stealing public money and focus on using resources for the development of our country." He also stressed the importance of fostering a culture of respect, honesty, and hard work. "We must change the culture of bribery, cheating, and dishonest business practices and live a noble life." He concluded saying that repentance is not a one-time act but a way of life.

Prime Minister (PM) James Marape on Repentance Day today (August 26th, 2025), called for respect towards laws emphasizing that this act was the best contribution each Papua New Guinean can make for the country. He delivered his address at Sir John Guise Stadium, Port Moresby during the Repentance Day service which began at 5am this morning. He emphasized that the ten commandments basically call for respect towards God as well as towards our fellow men. “Respecting law is the best contribution each of us can give to the country.” “Number one law to respect is our 10 commandments that basically talks about respecting God and respecting fellow humankind.” “Number two law is our nation's constitution and all the enabling legislations that run with it.” He stated that both these laws teach respect in three aspects: Respect for God, respect for one another and respect for the laws that govern us. Additionally, Marape implied that disrespecting the law causes issues for the country and go against God. He urged people to repent and come back to God. “Many people still remain poor and in poverty in what is a land of abundance. We have come the last 49 years speaking in the face of 50th – corruption still remains abound.” “Violence still remains abound. Disrespect for law and order still remains abound. Do we continue like this or we must stop at one point in time?” “Today, right in the face of our 50th, I ask all of us to pause and take a look inward and then we look outward and let us come back to God.” "How do we reset? The clock we’re resetting is not just a matter of time—it’s a reset of individual character, and the sum of these resets leads to the transformation of our national character.” Every child, whether you are listening from the farthest reaches of our 21 provinces or from the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, from east to west, north to south, no matter where you are—big or small—the reset starts with you. It begins in your mind, in your heart.” “Together, the sum of our individual resets will bring about the national reset we seek.”