Papua New Guinea is joyously anticipating the 49th anniversary of its independence, and the thriving village of Hiri-Koiari is looking forward to the events that will take place from September 14th to September 16th. This auspicious occasion marks the start of the Hiri-Koiari Trade and Cultural Festival, which will be hosted in Edai Town on the outskirts of Port Moresby city. The objective of this festival is to pay honor to the deep-rooted tradition of the Hiri trade while also promoting economic prosperity and cultural interchange within the prestigious Hiri-Koiari District. Amidst the colorful array of events, the festival will offer a notable trade fair dedicated to modern business methods, as well as a beautiful cultural showcase. This platform not only promises unrivaled business opportunities, but it also aims to foster a better awareness of the district's unique past. Furthermore, the festival has placed a strong emphasis on empowering women through the strategic growth of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME). The event envisions a future in which women-led SMEs can not only prosper, but also benefit from critical safety nets and vital learning opportunities. This comprehensive strategy symbolizes the festival's main purpose of inclusive economic and cultural progress, ensuring that all participants are prepared for success and collaboration during these transformative times.

South Pacific Brewery is proud to announce its support of K10,000 for the 68th Goroka Show scheduled for the 14th – 15th September in Goroka. Aaron Japu, Highlands Region Sales Manager at SP Brewery, expressed the company's support for cultural activities that celebrate tradition and bring communities together. "SP Brewery has maintained a long-standing partnership with the Goroka Show since 1975, as it is the biggest cultural show in the Highlands region." Keryn Hargreaves, the Show's Chairlady, accepted the sponsorship on behalf of the Organizing Committee. "We are pleased to welcome SP Brewery as one of the Goroka Show's longest-standing partners. SP Brewery's ongoing funding helps keep cultural events like the Goroka Show running. "We thank SP for recognizing the efforts of the Goroka Show executives and look forward to delivering another successful Goroka Show." Japu concluded by announcing that SP Brewery will have a booth at the showground on the 14th – 15th September and will conduct responsible consumption of alcohol awareness emphasizing the importance of moderation and responsible drinking. “As part of our show day activation, we aim to advocate and raise awareness on responsible alcohol consumption and emphasize our commitment to social responsibility.” SP Brewery invites all showgoers who are +18 years old to visit their booth.

Catholic students will not be having classes on Monday as they will be participating in a Youth Festival as part of celebrations for Pope Francis’ visit to the country. Principal for Don Bosco Technical Secondary School, Mr. Martin Dai clarified activities that not only students from DBTS but also other Catholic Schools who wish to participate will be attending. “This occasion is very significant to us, because our Pope will be here and he would like to meet the youths.” “He wishes to speak to the young people and offer encouragement – that is one of his intentions of visiting the country.” “Participating youths are there to listen to him speak.” “Most of our country’s population consists of youths, therefore it is important that we give this opportunity to our youths.” According to the Vatican, Pope Francis is scheduled to meet the youths as follows: Monday, Sept. 9 (Port Moresby) — 9:45 a.m is his meeting with young people at the Sir John Guise Stadium.

Throughout August, Bucket of Love Foundation in Kimbe, West New Britian have distributed essential resources to local villages through donors. The team consisting of founder Tiana Reimann and with logistical support from: Liamo Reef Resort and Baia Sportfishing PNG, who provided transportation from Kimbe to Kove villages during a liveaboard sportfishing expedition with Australian tourists and Kimbe Bay Shipping Agencies, who handled shipping from Australia to Kimbe Port. Over 500 students on various islands in the Kove & Gloucester region, including Potne Village, Kilenge Village, Tamuinai Island, Lagoon Point received buckets (donated by Ballina Memorial Pool and Waterslide), sporting equipment (donated by Somerville House and purchased in Kimbe Town), reading books (donated by BOOKS 4 PNG KIDS) and various stationery (purchased in Kimbe Town). When asked what prompted these donations, Reimann responded that these villages have a disadvantage when it comes to accessibility of such resources. “One of the primary struggles for students is obtaining basic stationery items like pens and exercise books, hindering their ability to learn and succeed.” “Furthermore, the scarcity of water on the islands poses a significant threat to the health and well-being of the villagers. “Retrieving fresh water from the mainland requires a laborious canoe ride, making our donated buckets a vital lifeline.” Reimann further explained that the benefits of buckets go beyond just storing fresh water. “These buckets can also be used for laundry and dishwashing, waterproofing valuables and safely storing food from rodents.” She added that since receiving the donated items there has been significant improvement in the villager's livelihood. “The exercise books and stationery directly improve their classroom learning, while the buckets indirectly help them with their domestic chores by offering a stable way to store water and other necessities.” “Furthermore, the sporting equipment promotes a sense of community and social connection, encouraging students to participate in physical activity, form new friendships, and develop a lifelong love of sports, which in turn, encourages healthier, more active lifestyles and strengthens communal relationships.” “By addressing both academic and extracurricular needs, our donations create a positive ripple effect that reaches well beyond the classroom, encouraging students to excel in all parts of life.” Reimann thanked the organizations that assisted in making these donations possible and adds that the foundation is seeking like-minded individuals and partnerships to collaborate and make an impact in communities. “Before discarding items, consider the potential value they could bring to others.” “Your thoughtful donations can bridge the gap for marginalized communities, empowering them to thrive.” “Every individual has the power to create positive change.” “By donating, volunteering, or spreading awareness, you can be a force for good.”

As part of its Climate Change and Environmental Diplomacy Project, entitled "Love Your Nature Park, Protect Our Biodiversity," Port Moresby Nature Park has been carrying out tree distribution within the city since August 15th, to selected schools, churches and communities. A total of 701 trees have already been distributed in NCD. Locations include Waigani Primary School, Paradise College, University of Papua New Guinea (Demography & Population Studies Association), First Steps School of Tomorrow, Don Bosco Technical Institute Residents, Jubilee Secondary School, Bomana Primary School, Port Moresby Business College, Metago Theological Bible College and Porebada Primary School. According to POM Nature Park, their goal is to encourage social and behavioural changes that promote biodiversity conservation and build a more environmentally friendly Port Moresby. "We want to promote reforestation and afforestation (planting new trees or sowing seeds in areas where there were no trees before), raise environmental awareness, and enhance the beauty of our capital city through the distribution of trees." "Our mission is to inspire individuals, families, and children to embrace sustainable practices, with the goal of fostering a greener and more sustainable future." "We aim to engage more children, communities, and organizations in tree planting activities and tree justice dialogues to promote social cohesion and environmental stewardship." POM Nature Park is striving to achieve NCDC’s goal of planting 1 million trees in the Nation's Capital.

The 19th Garamut Na Mambu Festival under the theme: “Promoting and Preserving Our Diverse Cultural Heritage”, is set to take place from September 12th to 14th, 2024 at Sir Michael Somare Stadium in Wewak, East Sepik Province. The festival which celebrates two of the most iconic traditional instruments in the Momase Region: the Garamut (slit drum) and the Mambu (bamboo flute) will alos feature spectacular arts displays, traditional dances, singing and include various other cultural activities performed by children. Invitation for participation have been sent out since early August to cultural groups, contemporary art groups, tertiary institutions, schools, traditional artists and craftsman in the Momase region to showcase any of the following activities: Painting exhibition Fashion display Floral display Traditional dishes String band Theatrical performances Traditional dances The Garamut Na Mambu festival brings together people from across the region to highlight and promote these cultural assets.

The National Department of Education, Teaching Service Commission, Department of Higher Education, Research, Science, and Technology, and the Australian High Commission will hold a Teacher Expo in Port Moresby's Sir John Guise Stadium on September 19 and 20. The Expo intends to address the issue of a qualified teacher shortage in Papua New Guinea, where, as in many other nations, the number of teachers has not kept up with the expanding student population, posing a challenge to the country's education sector. The future prosperity of all Papua New Guineans is inextricably tied to educational performance, and motivated and skilled teachers are critical to achieving great educational results. To attract more people to the teaching profession, the value of teachers needs to be recognized with opportunities for professional development. The Expo will bring together education institutions, training providers, professional bodies, programs, and organizations that support PNG's teaching staff and education sector to promote teaching as a noble vocation and emphasize the necessity of investing in the teaching workforce. The Teacher Expo will inspire school leavers to seek a teaching career while also providing current teachers with information on how to improve their teaching credentials. High school and university students, teachers, and anyone interested in a teaching career should attend the Expo to get information and resources from around 30 stalls representing education-related organizations, as well as attend a series of presentations, masterclasses, and panel discussions. Australia is supporting the Teacher Expo alongside the National Department of Education, Teaching Service Commission, Department of Higher Education Research Science and Technology through the Partnerships for Improving Education program.

Coca-Cola Europacific Partners (CCEP) continues to provide a starting platform for young Papua New Guineans by engaging 15 youths to work in its operations. CCEP are the latest partners to sign up with the Urban Youth Employment Project II (UYEP II) by providing an internship program. The 15 interns are registered with UYEP II and started this week working at CCEP’s plant sites in Lae and Port Moresby. Head of People & Culture Adlyn Nagwi said this three-month internship program is a win-win case for both parties with CCEP committed in providing short term work experience for young Papua New Guineans. “We firmly believe that by investing in people and providing short term employment opportunities, we help to lay the foundation by giving them exposure in working in a global company like CCEP.” Nagwi said ten interns will be based in Lae and five in Port Moresby and will be attached to the Supply Chain and Commercial departments. “This is the first time CCEP has signed on to this program and we were impressed with UYEP’s detailed training module that covers all aspects of this short-term employment by grooming these candidates to meet the basic standards of any employer.” UYEP II Internship Coordinator for NCD, Vivian Ningis said the partnership with CCEP is a significant step towards empowering the next generation. “I thank CCEP for coming on board to provide meaningful job opportunities and skill development as we are not just investing in the youth but also in the future of our communities.” Ningis stated that prior to the 15 interns starting with CCEP, they were required to complete a 50-day work readiness training. UYEP II Internship Coordinator for Morobe, Fred Firinu said that CCEP’s commitment to this initiative marks the beginning of a partnership as these youths embark on their three-month work experience. This opportunity is a crucial component of the UYEPII project. “We ensure that all our youth undergo this mandatory training which includes physical fitness, basic life skills and urban work services before they are shortlisted to work.” The UYEP is a World Bank-funded initiative aimed at increasing youth employability opportunities through training, job matching assistance, placement and wage subsidy. The Project aligns with the Government’s GoPNG key strategies for human development, wealth creation, and poverty reduction.

The Papua New Guinea Olympic Committee (PNGOC) is aiming to officially open nominations for the 8th PNG Sports Hall of Fame today (04/09/2024), to give Papua New Guineans an opportunity for their favorite accomplished athlete to be recognized for their performance in their respective sporting codes. To be considered for nomination, candidates must meet the following criteria: Have been retired from competitive sports for at least five years. Possess a distinguished record of achievements, including but not limited to, medals won, records set, and a notable career span. Have represented Papua New Guinea at an international level. Have demonstrated influence and made significant contributions to sports and communities in various capacities. The PNGOC established the Hall of Fame in 2011 to recognize and preserve the legacy of PNG athletic greats. This yearly event recognizes those who have made outstanding contributions to sports in PNG and brought pride to our country. The occasion will be held on Thursday, October 17, 2024. Current inductees in the PNG Sports Hall of Fame include: -Sir John Kaputin (Athletics) -Edward Laboran (Athletics) -Nigel Cluers (Swimming) -Salita Pitpit (Athletics) -Tumat Sogolik (Boxing) -Jackson Seeto (Weightlifting) -David Seeto (Weightlifting) -Oe Ivaharia (Athletics) -John Kokinai (Athletics) -Raki Leka (Athletics) -Naomi Polum (Athletics) -Kenneth Hopkins (Boxing) -Kea Kapulu Schwarz (Netball) -Charles Martin (Swimming) -Iammo Gapi Launa (Athletics) -Geua Tau (Lawn Bowls) -Sibona Oka (Weightlifting) -Tau John Tokwepota (Athletics) -Joseph Turia (Soccer) -Veitu Diro (Basketball & Netball)

Trukai Industries, through its Tru Hero Campaign, joined with Buk Bilong Pikinini (BBP) to publish two books today (2/09/24) at the BBP Library Learning Centre at the University of Papua New Guinea, with the goal of improving children's nutrition in PNG through education. These books consist of a picture book about two superheroes named Tru & Kai who go on an adventure to help their community through good nutrition. The other is a program textbook for teachers, students, and families that highlights nutritious local foods prevalent around the country while also providing detailed information on their nutritional value, good cleanliness, and featuring some of Chef Julz's TruInspiriation recipes. Trukai Industries has fully funded the printing of 20, 000 copies of the Tru and Kai storybook, which includes the Program textbook. These will be distributed to all BBP Library Learning Centers in Port Moresby, Lae, and Goroka, as well as sold at Theodist outlets throughout PNG, to raise funds for BBP to continue driving the nutrition literacy agenda and their operations to improve literacy rates in PNG, particularly in early childhood education. Andrew Grace, Trukai Industries' General Manager for Sales and Marketing Supply Chain, noted that their cooperation with BbP represented their commitment in communities and proved the company's value for education as a crucial tool for nation building. “Our partnership with BBP in creating this nutrition education program signifies our commitment and investment in education, good health, nutrition and the well-being of Papua New Guineans and its future generation.” “This partnership not only signifies our investments in communities as a good corporate citizen, but it also underpins our values as manufacturer of a high-quality staple product that is rice, and a major contributor towards food security in PNG.” “It is through such partnerships that we can build a healthier, nutrition conscious and active generation as we work in line to address the PNG Government’s Medium Term Development Plan Goals under the strategic priority area of improving nutrition standards and reduce malnutrition in PNG.” BBP Founder Anne-Sophie Hermann was grateful for their partnership with Trukai Industries stating that the two books will allow the students and their families’ access to nutritional education. “BBP is grateful to Trukai for their partnership to create a beautiful children’s superhero picture book and program text book for our upcoming Nutrition program.” “This support is critical as it will allow the students in our Early Childhood Education Program – and their families – to gain access to nutritional education, which will assist them with ensuring that children are eating the correct foods to sustain them through their schooling.” “We have noted that children and families are moving towards a diet of ultra-processed foods and drinks, which is not suitable for growing minds and bodies as they contain no vitamins, minerals and fibre.” “We looking forward to supporting the children to become nutritionally literate by teaching them how to gain strength and mental focus through eating all superfoods PNG has to offer.” Malnutrition is growing at an alarming rate in PNG, with one in every five children diagnosed with malnutrition and is the leading underlying cause of deaths in children below the age of five. Trukai Industries through its Tru Hero campaign hopes to reach as many children, families and communities in PNG by making awareness about healthy eating through this partnership.

Papua New Guinea Bible Translation Association achieved a significant milestone this year, launching its new website www.btapng.org on Saturday 31st, August 2024, at approximately 9:25pm at Dynasty Restaurant, Vision City. This launching took place during their 2024 Corporate Dinner, in which funds were raised to support PNGBTA’s work in translating the Bible. The website contains PNGBTA’s mission and vision statements, prayer meets, prayer requests, newsletters and other information regarding the organization. PNGBTA is an indigenous Christian Organization dedicated to training mother-tongue speakers for Bible translation. Their vision is to see Papua New Guineans transformed by the translated Word of God. Their mission is; To Glorify God in PNG To provide the Word of God in collaboration with the local people. To see local people become disciples of Jesus Christ, living like Him The association has had 74 Bible translation projects, 10 completed translations, and 11 literacy programs.

Papua New Guinea Bible Translation Association successfully hosted its 2024 Corporate Dinner, an event meant to raise funds to support the work of translating the word of God. This special occasion was held at Dynasty Restaurant, Vision City last night (31/08/24) in which members of PNGBTA, Christian churches, organizations, sponsors, families and friends all flocked to the occasion celebrating PNGBTA’s efforts in translating the Bible, which has helped many Papua New Guineans who are not English literate understand the gospel. Chairman of PNGBTA, Ganjiki Wayne opened the occasion, speaking passionately about the significance of Bible translation work. He stated that translating the written word of God helps Papua New Guineans see Jesus as another Papua New Guinean. “Translating the written word of God, helps people see Jesus as their wantok.” “With the translated word, people see Jesus communicating to them using their language – they do not have to become English speakers in order to understand Jesus.” He added that many people who have worked hard in translation passed away and did not see the fruits of the work. “Individuals have died before seeing a complete translation of the Bible.” “Hence, there is an urgency – a reality that people are dying without understanding Jesus as their local wantok.” Executive Director of PNGBTA Nelson Tapineng, explained the spiritual significance about mother tongues, stating that speaking or singing in one’s language, connects you to the spirit and is a core element of your identity. “Communicating in your language is a heart connection; that is the power of language.” PNGBTA has some form engagement with 500 languages; and roughly 300 more languages require a Bible translation into local language. AROB – 7 translation programs Central – 8 translation programs ENB – 1 translation program ESP – 5 translation programs EHP – 3 transltion programs Enga – 1 translation program Gulf – 2 translation programs Jiwaka – 1 translation program Madang – 8 translation programs NIP – 1 translation program Manus – 8 translation programs Milne Bay – 5 translation programs Morobe – 11 translation programs Oro – 9 translation programs SHP – 3 translation programs WHP – 1 translation program PNGBTA wishes to thank its major sponsors: The Department of Prime Minister and Executive Councils, Jesus Film, Mineral Resource Authority, Trix Investment Limited, Weekly for Australia, Divine Word University, OK Tedi Mining Limited, National Cultural Commission, Telikom PNG Limited, PNG DataCo, NICTA, Four Square Church, PNG Christian Professional Network, E-Products Limited and Water PNG. PNGBTA has a vision of seeing Papua New Guineans transformed by the translated word of God.