While writers around the world marked International Writer’s Day on March 3rd, the same may not be said for PNG but with individuals such as young playwright and theatre artist, Andrew Kuliniasi, the art of writing is worth celebrating. Kuliniasi who has written approximately four plays and one published play, has made quite a name for himself in the creative sector. Recounting his journey as a writer, Kuliniasi stated that he became one, specifically a playwright, out of necessity. “I became a ‘playwright’ because I felt like I didn’t have a voice; I became a ‘writer’ to amplify other's voices.” “Especially in a country like Papua New Guinea, we have to be able to tell and preserve our own stories.” “Being a writer to me, is being able to preserve stories – not just traditional stories passed down from my grandparents to me, but also stories of how we remember people.” He explained that despite his stories being fictional, most stories are written out of the necessity to preserve attitudes, beliefs and memories. “It’s to capture the essence of humanity.” Kuliniasi who is also an avid performer in plays, added that as a theatre artist, being a writer is almost compulsory. When asked about his favorite writer/author/playwright, Kuliniasi is a fan of American Playwright, August Wilson’s work, particularly his play, ‘Fences’. He noted similarities between Wilson’s works and PNG writers such as the Late John Kasaipwalova and the Late Norah Vagi Brash. “Wilson writes in the character’s voice, which includes purposeful mistakes in speech and writing, in the same way John Kasaipwalova and Norah Vagi Brash demonstrates in their works, these purposeful errors were done knowing that only Papua New Guineans will understand what they are trying to communicate.” Furthermore, the youngster strongly recommends the use of culturally influenced writing in order to communicate effectively with a local audience. “As a writer, it's difficult to navigate with a population that’s illiterate, people might not understand your writing.” “Hence, it is crucial to write in a way that is understandable to everyone, for instance, being able to use Tok Pisin that leaves an impression on a person’s mind.” He also advises aspiring writers to know the end of their story before they start writing. “If you don’t know how your story ends, you don’t know how to begin.” “Writing is procedural, and you need to know how it ends to get to the end.” Kuliniasi admits that being a writer in PNG is indeed difficult but encourages aspiring writers to not give up. “It’s not popular – but just because it’s not popular doesn’t mean it’s not good.” “Your work deserves to be recognized and read.” “Your belief and perseverance are what keeps this industry going.”

United States Ambassador Ann Marie Yastishock, recently visited Hela Province at the invitation of Prime Minister James Marape. This visit was part of the Ambassador’s continued efforts to understand the people and culture of Papua New Guinea and get to know the communities of PNG personally. Ambassador Yastishock who met with representatives of the Hela Provincial government during her visit, heard about the difficulties the province was facing, and spoke with American businesses operating in the area. To talk more about their work in the province and the relationship with the United States, Ambassador Yastishock met with Provincial Administrator Marago Dagoba and his leadership team. During her visitation, she also met with Dr. James Kintwa, the Provincial Health Director, and his staff at Tari Hospital. Hospital employees gave Ambassador Yastishock a vivid illustration of how the tribal conflict puts a strain on their limited resources and expressed their excitement for the Healthy Islands Concept, which aims to identify connections between a person's behaviour, their living conditions, and poor health outcomes. “I am impressed with the efforts the Hela Provincial Government is making given the province’s constrained resources.” “I learned a lot on my first visit to Hela and hope to visit again in the future.” In addition, Ambassador Yastishock visited ExxonMobil employees and toured PNG LNG's Hides Gas Conditioning Plant in addition to meeting with provincial leadership. She also made visits to a few neighbourhood organizations, some of which receive funding from ExxonMobil. U.S. companies such as ExxonMobil are already present and making an impact around PNG and in Hela province. ExxonMobil is the largest foreign contributor to PNG LNG which is the largest foreign investment in Papua New Guinea. Meanwhile, during her visit as well to the Hela’s Education Office, Ambassador Yastishock learned about the province’s investments in TVET and Flexible Open Distance Education (FODE). She spoke specifically on the U.S. companies looking to work in PNG, including Brittanica and PowerSchool, and how the province might collaborate with these companies to enhance education services throughout Hela.

A significant contribution to improving Morobe’s literacy rates as Buk Bilong Pikinini (BBP) recently opened its newest Library Learning Centre (LLC) in St Steven Elementary School, 3 Mile in Lae. This new learning center, which is generously sponsored by Lae Biscuit Company through their charitable organization The Chow Foundation, intends to offer literacy and early childhood education programs to the kids of 3 Mile Lae and the surrounding areas. The founder and vice-chair of BBP, Ms. Anne-Sophie Hermann, spoke at the event and thanked The Chow Foundation and Lae Biscuit Company for their kind sponsorship. “This partnership is a beautiful example of how the private sector support can make a significant difference in the lives of children in Papua New Guinea.” She graciously thanked the The Chow Foundation and Lae Biscuit Company, as well as Mr. Keith Tangui, Provincial Education Advisor for the Morobe Provincial Administration- Division of Education, The Catholic Diocese of Lae and the St Steven Parish, Fr Christababu Chamallamudi, Parish Priest and Catholic Education Advisor, Fr John Nake as well as the St Steven Elementary School and Teacher In Charge, Mr. Bernard Pamba, and the parents, guardians and community members of 3 Mile Lae. “We are incredibly grateful for this commitment to supporting education and literacy in our communities.” “The Buk bilong Pikinini program covers various topics in Literacy, Numeracy, Inclusive Education, Digital Learning and now also Nutritional Literacy.” John Chow, Chief Executive Officer of The Chow Foundation and Managing Director of the Lae Biscuit Company remarked that education is a collective responsibility. “We celebrate the power of partnerships. This centre is not just a building—it represents hope, opportunity, and progress.” “It is a testament to what can be achieved when the government, the private sector, community organizations, and families work together towards a common goal.” “It is the key to a brighter future, and we are proud to support this initiative that will empower young minds.” “Through the Chow Foundation, we are dedicated to giving back to our communities and ensuring that every child has access to quality learning resources." Mr. Keith Tangui also expressed similar sentiments on meaningful partnerships to create better education opportunities for PNG’s future generation. He also stressed to the community the importance of maintaining the facilities provided in this partnership to ensure more opportunities like this arise. The opening of the St. Steven Library Learning Centre marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to improve education and access to learning resources in Papua New Guinea.

Cardiac healthcare has reached a milestone in Papua New Guinea, with the introduction of the Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) at the Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH) -a minimally invasive procedure that replaces a natural aortic valve with an artificial valve - a recommended procedure for patients who are unable to undergo open heart surgery. This was communicated during a recent press conference at the PMGH. Dr. Wesong Boko, an Interventional Cardiologist explained the criteria behind selecting patients for TAVI. “Individuals who show medium to high risk during open heart surgery; patients who are symptomatic and elderly patients with additional underlying conditions are recommended to undergo TAVI as post-recovery could add more complications to their present medical status.” He further explained that TAVI is a quick procedure that encourages a fast recovery and reduces hospital stay compared to open heart surgery. Additionally, it is a low-risk operation for high-risk patients. CEO of PMGH, Dr. Paki Molumi, acknowledged the significance of this milestone. “The first TAVI procedure performed in the catheterization laboratory, contributes to the achievements of the country as we head towards marking the 50th Independence Anniversary.” The first patient to undergo TAVI occurred on Sunday March 2nd, 2025; a 53-year-old male whose heart condition had been gradually deteriorating over the years and had been rejected twice from the Open-Heart Surgery program due to his age. PMGH's cardiology team, in collaboration with Dr. Gurbhej Singh, Certified Proctor for Valve Interventions, and Mr. Alok Chand, clinical specialist at Meril Life Sciences Pvt. Limited in India performed this surgery. Patients who are qualified for TAVI can now seek treatment within the country rather than travelling overseas. To perform TAVI, a doctor inserts a catheter into a blood vessel and guides the catheter to the location of the aortic valve in the heart using X-ray or other imaging tools as guide. The doctor then sends an artificial tissue valve through the catheter and places it in the area of the aortic valve. A balloon on the catheter tip expands to press the new aortic valve into place. The Catheter is then removed once the new valve is securely in position.

The Mineral Resources Development Company (MRDC) and its subsidiary Gas Resources Plant (GRPNGLNGP) recently announced the handover of a double classroom to Redscar High School in Porebada village, on the PNG LNG Project plant site outside Port Moresby. The newly constructed facility is a welcome addition to the high school, which has been experiencing a significant shortage of classroom space. It took two months to finish the double classroom, which cost K620,000. Local contractors were hired to complete the project, with labor coming from the surrounding communities. Commenting during the handover of the new facility, MRDC General Manager, Reginald Ope said he was pleased to attend this event on behalf of the MRDC management to hand over very vital facility for use by children from the area. “I am glad that we have completed this double classroom in time for the start of the 2025 school year.” “For our kids to do well, we as a community must provide the necessary facilities like classrooms, science labs, or libraries, for them to thrive in their learning.” Ope commended the leadership of GRPNGLNGP for investing in their Community Infrastructure Trust Fund (CITF) funds in various high quality social development projects in the plant site villages, especially in the education and health sectors. “I want to commend Chairlady Ms Ulato Avei and her board for their foresight and vision in prioritizing education in their CITF program.” “Since 2017, GRPNGP and MRDC have delivered over 20 classrooms, and more than 30 teachers’ houses in schools in the plant site community.” “Education is key to unlocking opportunities for our children in a fast-changing world.” “We must do all we can to ensure every child gets a decent education for a shot at a better life.” He stated that in addition to providing adequate facilities in schools, the MRDC runs the Tertiary study Subsidy Program for students from the area who continue their study elsewhere. He stated that during the last three years, the Subsidy Scheme has helped 1,176 students at various higher institutions around the country.

East New Britain's Governor, Michael Marum paid tribute to the Late Grand Chief Sir Michael Thomas Somare on his 4th Anniversary which fell on this day, Wednesday Febuary 26th. Governor Marum stated that celebrating the Late Grand Chief’s anniversary is not just celebrating his life but the legacy of leader who forged the country’s path to freedom, built the foundations of PNG’s democracy, and inspired a nation to stand tall on the world stage. “Sir Michael Somare was more than just a leader—he was the Father of the Nation, the visionary who saw beyond the horizons of colonial rule to the bright future of a unified Papua New Guinea. “ “His leadership was defined by courage, integrity, and an unwavering belief in the dignity of our people and the promise of our land.” “Through his tireless work, Papua New Guinea achieved its independence in 1975.” “It was his steady hand and clear vision that guided us through those early years, ensuring that we emerged not just as a country but as a strong and proud nation with a distinct identity.” He stated that Sir Michael understood the importance of unity in our diversity, and it was under his guidance that we saw our different cultures, languages, and traditions come together as one. Additionally, during Sir Michael Somare’s time as Prime Minister, he was dedicated to the improvement of education, infrastructure, and healthcare. “His leadership in times of adversity—these all remain a testament to his commitment to the well-being and progress of every Papua New Guinean, regardless of background or belief.” Governor Marum stressed that Sir Michael Somare was not just defined by his achievements but also his character. "Humble yet strong, compassionate yet resolute, he led by example.” “He never sought to impose his will on the people; instead, he listened, he understood, and he acted in the best interest of the nation.” He urged poeple to remember that the Late Grand Chief’s legacy is not only found in the pages of history books, but in every step, we take forward as a nation. “The values he instilled—unity, resilience, respect for our cultures, and the pursuit of national progress—are still as vital to our future as they were during the early days of our independence.” “To his family, we extend our deepest gratitude for sharing him with us. "To Sir Michael’s colleagues, friends, and supporters—know that his influence continues to guide our journey, and his legacy remains alive in every corner of Papua New Guinea." He expressed his deepest gratitude on behalf of the people of East New Britain to Sir Michael Somare’s family, colleagues, friends, and supporters, saying that Sir Michael Somare’s influence continues to guide their journey, and his legacy remains alive in every corner of Papua New Guinea. “As we celebrate his life, 4 years on, let us also commit to carrying forward his dream of a prosperous, united, and peaceful Papua New Guinea—one that embodies the spirit of Sir Michael Somare.”

Moresby Arts Theatre (MAT) will be staging the Shakespearean play Hamlet, in April, but with a local modern twist. Retitled ‘Hamlet Jones 675 (A High School Tragedy)’, this play is an adaptation of Joe Ferriero's Contemporary Play ‘Hamlet Jones (A High School Tragedy)’ which will be directed by students from MAT’s Youth Arts Programme (YAP) - a competitive Drama Programme for schools in NCD, that is held every year. Robert Vaso one of the play’s director’s, stated that this was a first for the MAT to get students from the YAP to direct a theatre production. “This is the first time Moresby Arts Theatre has had students from its Youth Arts Programme direct a MAT production.” “For this production, we decided to get the two winning directors, Tina-Marie Keith and Kabake Lansana from the programme last year to assist in directing.” “I will be one of three directors for this production.” He added that audiences should expect a bit of Tok Pisin and Motu in the play. Two auditions were held; the first on, January 8th; the second on February 15th at the MAT. “No more auditions are coming up but if anyone is interested in joining, we have Backstage spots available.” Roles auditioned for included: Hamlet - One of three best friends. Ophelia - Hamlet’s best friend. Horatio - Another of Hamlet's friends. Claudius - The new Principal of the High School Hamlet and his friends attend. Polonius - The Guidance Counselor of the High School Hamlet attend. Gertrude - Hamlet’s mother. Rozencrants and Guildernstern - Two “slow” transfers and Hamlet’s schoolmates. Boy 1,2 and 3 – Social Media Fanatics (extras) Girl 1,2 and 3 – Social Media Fanatics (extras) Vaso commented that these were all the characters available for auditions but with the play having a local twist, anything can happen. “You never know what to expect from an adaption from PNG.” Hamlet Jones tackles with issues of teenage anguish, social networking, peer pressure, friendship, madness, love and revenge. Vaso added his belief the production will resonate well with the audience.

Governor for Enga Province, Sir Peter Ipatas has commended churches in the province for assisting in service delivery in education to communities in the province during his speech as the keynote speaker during the 12th graduation ceremony of the Kungumanda Foursquare Community Health Workers Training School in Tsak, Wapenamanda, Enga Province. He stated that while public servants have a careless attitude toward serving, churches on the other hand are fully committed. “Whatever little money is given by the provincial government to the church, results are tangible development is evident and this makes me happy to continue to work in partnership with the churches.” Governor Ipatas said the outcome of the Reformation Ministries and Churches Network church run Pitipais Secondary School also in the Tsak Valley of Wapenamanda District proved that churches can provide exceptional educational services. “The Baptist Church, the Catholic Church, the Lutheran Church and the Foursquare Church and the RMCN church are all partners with the Provincial Government to drive change and bring the best possible services to the people of Enga.” Governor Ipatas added that under the Enga Provincial Government and Church’s Partnership program, his government will assist all church run facilities to continue their services. Kungumanda Foursquare Community Health Workers Training School graduated 44 community Health Workers, 6males and 38 females from the six districts in the province and from throughout the country on Thursday, 13 February 2025. Several other landmark events unfolded on the day, including the opening of its three-story administrative building, the announcement of the school's certificate course to be elevated to diploma program this year, the ground-breaking ceremony for the construction of a boy's dormitory, and the announcement of the relocation and upgrading of the current CHW clinic on the school grounds to a level four health center to be built just a few meters away from the school upon the recent release of the land from locals. "Now that the program will be elevated to diploma, whatever your needs are, such as learning facilities and equipment, we will assist.” The new administrative building had an input of K 100, 000 from the Provincial Government last year upon the school board’s request. Following their appeal, the Enga Provincial Government committed additional funding for the school's growth ambitions. Meanwhile, Dr. Vincent Pyakalia, Chief Executive Officer of the Enga Provincial Health Authority, who was invited to speak to the graduates, stated that the EPHA has already formally signed partnerships with some church health service providers based in rural areas of the country in order to reach all rural communities with much-needed basic services, and that it will also consider the proposals of the Foursquare Church Health Agency.

Governor for Central Province, Rufina Peter is calling on immediate government action to address the alarming rates of Gender-Based Violence (GBV), after headlines from two of Papua New Guinea's daily papers on Wednesday 12th of February 2025 highlighted yet another unfortunate case of death caused by GBV. Governor Peter said that these front-page reports serve as reminder that PNG’s institutions remain ill-equipped in defending women and girls. “After 50 years of independence, this crisis demands more than just words—it demands urgent and decisive action.” She further outlined practical steps to address the issue of GBV: Prioritizing Counseling Services in Institutions The government is urged to promptly bolster and adequately finance professional counseling services within educational settings, workplaces, and public service organizations. It is essential that victims of violence and trauma receive appropriate psychological support, while efforts must also focus on rehabilitating offenders to disrupt the cycle of abuse. Restoring Public Confidence in Our Institutions The declining morale among our disciplined forces and public service entities is a clear indication of prolonged neglect and insufficient funding. When police officers, military personnel, and public servants feel demoralized and poorly equipped, their ability to protect and serve the community is compromised. The government must prioritize the revitalization of these institutions to restore public confidence and enhance law enforcement's effectiveness in addressing gender-based violence (GBV) cases. Respect for Women in All Spaces Violence against women is not just a women’s issue—it is a national crisis. Respect for women must be upheld in homes, workplaces, markets, and institutions. Cultural and systemic attitudes that perpetuate discrimination and violence must be challenged through strong leadership and grassroots engagement. Implementing Parliamentary Committee Recommendations The insights and proposals put forth by the Special Parliamentary Committee on GBV and the Permanent Parliamentary Committee on Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment must not be ignored. The government is urged to show its dedication by actively implementing these recommendations, ensuring that policies lead to tangible actions and accountability. “The government cannot continue to make empty promises while the lives of women and children are at risk daily.” Gov Peter urged the PM James Marape and his cabinet to effectively allocate funding for GBV prevention and survivor support, ensure swift justice and hold perpetrators accountable, strengthen police and judiciary responses to GBV crime and invest in campaigns to promote women's rights and gender equality. “As a nation, we must ask ourselves: How many more reports, committee findings, and tragedies must we witness before real change happens? If we are serious about building a safe, fair, and just Papua New Guinea, the time for action is now.”

Westpac is strengthening its commitment to customer service with a series of regional visits across the country. The bank's Relationship Managers and Leadership Team traveled to Wewak, Lae, Mt Hagen, Alotau, and Kimbe to meet with customers, learn about their business needs, and explore potential help. Acting Head of Westpac’s Commercial and Corporate Banking, Scott Parry was in Lae recently and commented. "Our duty extends beyond just providing banking and financial services. It's about contributing to the stability and security of a healthy financial system." “We want to learn more about the people we serve, not just their businesses, but also their issues, goals, and what success means to them." "These visits allow us to listen, provide tailored banking solutions, and strengthen the partnerships that drive economic growth." In a country where geography and connectivity continue to be challenges for thriving businesses, Westpac continues to go above and beyond to ensure customers receive the support they require, right from the comfort of their own offices, bridging the gap by providing financial expertise and solutions directly to its customers. Warren Bobin, Acting CEO, remarked that the visits are part of Westpac's continued commitment to provide customer-focused banking that extends beyond transactions. "We strive to understand each customer's journey and provide expert guidance, innovative solutions, and seamless banking experiences that support long-term success." Westpac remains committed to assisting businesses across the country by providing them with the financial resources and knowledge they need to succeed.

City Pharmacy Limited Foundation (CPLF) recently renewed its support to Buk Bilong Pikinini, with a donation of K103, 810.53 to continue funding the Tatana Library Learning Centre (LLC) for another three years. The cheque was presented by Sir Mahesh Patel, Chairman of the CPL Foundation to BbP’s Executive Officer, Leanne Resson. The presentation was witnessed by a various attendees, which included students, teachers, parents, guardians, former LLC students, and staff from both CPLF and BbP. BbP's Executive Officer, Leanne Resson, greeted Sir Mahesh Patel and the CPLF team. She expressed her heartfelt appreciation for the continuing assistance that allows BbP to carry out critical activities for Tatana village children. This ongoing relationship is crucial to assuring the availability of free early childhood education and after-school programs that emphasize phonics, reading development, problem solving, inclusive education, digital learning, and nutritional literacy. The donation will primarily fund: A free Early Childhood Education (ECE) program (Kindergarten 2) for the 5- year-olds. An After School Program (Kindergarten 1) aimed at helping 4-year-olds and school-aged children who require additional support with phonics and reading. Library resources to stock books and other educational materials for students from the community to borrow and read. Ms. Buru, a Tatana Primary School teacher, also expressed her gratitude for the BbP program, emphasizing how it has positively benefited pupils transitioning into primary school. The presence of former BbP students, such as Helen Daiharaga (Grade 11) and Baru Vagi (Grade), who are now attending Badihagwa Secondary School, proved the program's success, with both remarking how it helped them transition smoothly from primary to secondary school. Helen, in particular, was a pioneer student at Tatana LLC in 2014. Sir Mahesh Patel took a time to recognize Tatana LLC's accomplishments, noting that over 600 students had graduated from the program and successfully transitioned into mainstream schooling since the LLC’s inception in 2014. He expressed his delight in being a part of this important program and praised both present and former students for their efforts and development. Sir Mahesh challenged the community and BbP to ensure that all 5-year-olds in the village participate in this effective program, recognizing BbP as one of the best and most sustainable non-governmental organizations in the country. Mr. Lohia Koregai, a parent representative, also expressed gratitude to Sir Mahesh and CPLF, as well as Leanne Resson and BbP, for their crucial support of the Tatana community over the last 10 years. He encouraged other parents to take advantage of the Tatana LLC's services, demonstrating the community's dedication to its children's education. The Tatana LLC is set to continue making a significant impact on the education and future of the children in Tatana village with the renewed support from CPLF. The collaboration between CPLF and BbP reflects a shared commitment to improving educational access and opportunities for the next generation. Sir Mahesh Patel and CPLF have supported BbP since 2014.

26 youths without intellectual disabilities were selected to engage in an orientation over the weekend, which was done by Special Olympics PNG. This was the first session of Batch 2 in its ‘Call for Volunteers Program. This training, which spans four Saturdays, aims to equip participants with the skills and knowledge necessary to advocate for an inclusive environment for individuals with intellectual disabilities. President Takale Tuna inaugurated the training session, extending a warm welcome to the youths and encouraging them to fully engage in the program. He emphasized the importance of gaining insights that would enhance their ability to support and advocate for inclusivity. A notable addition to the training was a session on basic sign language, led by Jenny Sike, Senior Inclusive Teacher at the Red Cross. This component is particularly vital, as some athletes with multiple disabilities are also deaf. Special Olympics PNG is committed to ensuring that volunteers can communicate effectively with all participants, enhancing their experience during activities throughout the year. The training will continue for the next three Saturdays, with an additional 24 youths with intellectual disabilities set to join the initial group of 26 participants. The Call for Volunteers program is designed to engage and train individuals who will assist Special Olympics PNG in various roles, including event organization, coaching, and fostering an inclusive atmosphere for all athletes. Special Olympics PNG expresses its sincere gratitude to Special Olympics Asia Pacific and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan of the United Arab Emirates for their support in making this training possible.