The National Government is pushing forward with the structural reform in its education system, called the 1-6-6 model, which aims to ensure that every child receives a full 13 years of education—from prep through to Grade 12.This reform seeks to eliminate the selection system at the end of Grade 8 and Grade 10, offering all students the opportunity to progress to Grade 12. Secretary for Education Dr. Uke Kombra explained that the new 1-6-6 model replaces the previous 3-6-4 structure, where students attended three years of elementary school, six years of primary school, and four years of secondary school. Under the new system, students will attend one year of preparatory education (prep), followed by six years of primary school (Grades 1-6), and six years of secondary school (Grades 7-12). "The 1-6-6 model ensures that every child enters school at prep and stays through to Grade 12.” "The government's goal is that the minimum education level for every child in Papua New Guinea will be a Grade 12 certificate." Dr. Kombra emphasized that the policy aims to provide every child with the chance to complete their schooling and avoid the risks associated with dropping out early. He highlighted the fairness of the reform, noting that it is unfair and unjust to let children leave school after Grade 8 or Grade 10 at such young ages. "At the age of 13 or 17, children are not ready to fend for themselves or make informed decisions about their futures.” "We believe that by Grade 12, students are mature enough to handle independent life and are better prepared for further education or entering the workforce." Dr. Kombra noted that while some provinces have the capacity to handle the transition from Grade 8 to Grade 9, other provinces may not have the necessary infrastructure or resources to accommodate the increase in students. As a result, the government is encouraging the development of alternative pathways, including Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), vocational schools, and the Flexible Open and Distance Education (FODE) program, to ensure that no child is left behind. "Six provinces which are Enga, Hela, Western Islands, Jiwaka, Eastern Highlands, and Western Province, are ready to start removing Grade 8 selections and allow students to progress to Grade 9 this year.” "These provinces have indicated that they have the classroom capacity and resources to accommodate all students.” “For other provinces, we are working on creating more pathways to ensure that every child can complete their Grade 12 education." Dr. Kombra also made it clear that the government is not removing national exams, contrary to some misconceptions. National exams at Grade 8, Grade 10, and Grade 12 will remain in place as essential tools for assessing students' progress and learning. “What we are removing is the selection system that forces children to drop out of school at an early age.”

The 2026 academic year will officially kick off next week with teachers resuming their duties on Monday January 19th and students returning to school on January 26th.The academic year will run for a total of 41 weeks, covering the entire year. This was clarified by Secretary for Education Dr. Uke Kombra today in Port Moresby city. He also addressed rumors circulating on social media of a ‘teacher’s strike’ next week Monday, 19th of January 2026. Kombra stated firmly that only the PNG Teachers Association has the authority to lead such actions, and no individual can organize a protest. Lawyers have been instructed to investigate and track down the person behind these claims. The education system remains on track, with teachers and students set to return on intended dates, ensuring that the academic year continues as planned. The government’s free education policy will continue this year, with a significant increase in funding over the past five years—from K732 million in 2022 to K904 million this year. The policy ensures that every child, regardless of background or location, has access to education. While the government will cover tuition and project fees through a 160-million-kina allocation, parents are still responsible for providing daily meals, clothing, transport, study materials, and supporting schools with self-reliance projects.

Secretary for Education Dr Uke Kombra has dismissed claims circulating on social media that teachers across Papua New Guinea will go on strike on Monday January 19th, describing the reports as false and misleading.Dr Kombra said the only body authorised to organise a teachers’ strike or protest is the PNG Teachers’ Association (PNGTA), stressing that no individual person, group, or unofficial entity can call such actions. “There is no individual, citizen, or teacher who can lead a strike or protest outside of the PNG Teachers’ Association." He specifically referred to reports allegedly being spread by an individual whose identity and existence remain unclear. Dr Kombra said the Department of Education has instructed its lawyers to work with Cyber Crime units to investigate the source of the claims. “We don’t know whether this is a real person or something else." “Our lawyers have been instructed to find out who is behind this. If this person exists, they should come forward and identify themselves, so we know who is responsible.” Dr Kombra warned that the spread of false information could seriously disrupt the country’s education system, which serves approximately 2.7 to 2.8 million students and employs more than 60,000 teachers nationwide. “Our education system must continue to function." “We cannot allow someone to disturb the system and affect millions of children and thousands of teachers.” He added that if the individual responsible is found to be deliberately spreading misinformation, appropriate legal action may be taken. Dr Kombra confirmed that school operations will proceed as scheduled, with teachers resuming duties on the 19th and students returning to classrooms on the 26th. “We are ready to deliver education services to our people. Resumptions will go ahead as planned."

In Papua New Guinea, theatre has never been just about performance. It is a collective space for reflection, learning and engagement. Grounded in Indigenous storytelling traditions, theatre brings together the physical and spiritual worlds, creating room for moral reflection, guidance and meaningful dialogue. Here's five things to know about Theatre in PNG according to Evangeline Kove, who is the Founder of Resilient Peers and Rodney Kove, the Founder of Kove Theater business.1. Theatre is a platform for education Theatre has long functioned as a classroom without walls and formal instructors. Performances communicate moral, civic and cultural lessons. Through storytelling, symbolism and shared experience, learning becomes communal rather than individual, fixed in dialogue, observation and collective memory. 2. Theatre creates safe spaces for ethical, social and political dialogue Theatre offers a culturally grounded space where difficult conversations can unfold without fear or confrontation. By using metaphor, character and story, performances allow audiences to engage with sensitive issues in ways that open dialogue rather than silence it. 3. Theatre reflects society at critical moments Theatre becomes most powerful when it responds to the spirit of its time. For example, The Bully Beef Club theatre production emerged at a moment when many Papua New Guineans were questioning the nation’s path. Concerns about leadership integrity, governance and long-term vision weighed heavily on the national psyche, and theatre provided a mirror through which society can examine itself honestly and collectively. 4. Theatre presents truth in a digestible and relational form Rather than offering direct critique, theatre reveals truth through layered metaphors, symbolism and ancestral dialogue. Meaning unfolds across generations, connecting past, present and future. This approach aligns with Melanesian ways of knowing, where wisdom is shared through story and relationship rather than instruction. 5. Theatre inspires reflection and action Beyond awareness, theatre motivates change. By engaging emotions, memory and moral responsibility, performances encourage audiences to reflect on their role in society and imagine alternative futures. In this way, theatre becomes not only a space for reflection, but a catalyst for actionable change.

At the 2026 National Public Servants Dedication Service held this week in Port Moresby city, Reverend Matthew Tapus of the Christian Apostolic Fellowship urged Papua New Guineans to embrace a "total reset" in its public service and political systems for the nation’s long-term prosperity.On Monday 12th January at the event held at the Sir John Guise Indoor Complex, Rev. Tapus said that while change may not happen overnight, adhering to the call for a reset would ensure a brighter future for the nation. He stressed that the next phase of national development must be rooted in humility, dedication, and strong Christian values, drawing inspiration from the teachings of Jesus Christ. "God has given us an abundance of resources, and we have everything it takes to make it happen for Papua New Guinea by the grace of God.” "But for this to happen, we need a total reset in both the public service mechanism and the political will required at the beginning of this Jubilee year." Referencing Psalm 127:1, Rev. Tapus reminded attendees that without God's guidance and watchfulness, efforts will be in vain. He also highlighted the crucial role that both the public service and the clergy play in building a better PNG, with public servants as the laborers delivering the nation's goals, and the clergy serving as watchmen praying for the country's well-being. "If we, as Papua New Guineans, call ourselves Christians, then we are on the right path." Rev. Tapus stated, urging the country to remain steadfast in its Christian identity and values, especially as the nation has recently affirmed its status as a Christian country in Parliament. Rev. Tapus also responded to critics who questioned the presence of the Bible in the halls of Parliament. He reminded the audience that the Bible should be a guiding light in all institutions, including government decision-making spaces, emphasizing that the Word of God is eternal and should be respected in every sphere of life. "If we want to remove the Bible from Parliament, perhaps we should remove it from our homes, hotels, schools, and mobile phones as well.” He also addressed the importance of prayer and unity in leadership, urging church leaders to continue praying for the government and public service. "We have a moral duty to uphold our government, to pray for the public service mechanism in place so that Papua New Guinea can become a better place for us to live in.” Rev. Tapus reminded the audience that change requires patience and trust in God's timing. He encouraged all present to keep faith, as the answers to their prayers may come in God's perfect time.

In recent years, Facebook has become more than just a tool for keeping in touch with family and friends.For the education sector, many universities, colleges and even secondary schools utilize this as an online notice board, communicating important announcements to their students as well as the general public. Additionally, more schools are using these platforms to post their acceptance lists saving students and parents the cost of traveling to schools or purchasing newspapers. If you’re someone who follows PNG education content regularly, you’ve no doubt come across several feeds of individuals, groups and secondary school Facebook pages posting acceptance lists for Grades 9 and 11. Recently, I’ve come across is an update from Tusbab Secondary School in Madang. Their official page had posted its Grade 9 acceptance list on Monday, January 12th, 2026. The post had gotten over 100 shares in 48 hours and over 200 reactions. Meanwhile an individual user CJ George Arnold posted pictures of Busu Secondary School’s Grade 11 Initial Class list on Tuesday January 13th, 2026, 8:16am in the Group Busu Secondary School Notice Board. The school itself is in Lae, Morobe Province. Although the post didn’t get as many reactions, one of the beauties of social media platforms is the option to download/save and repost. What used to be a bulletin board’s job, can now be anyone’s with touch the touch of a screen. While there are challenges such as limited internet access in some regions and concerns about privacy, Facebook’s role in the educational landscape of PNG is undeniable. With the convenience it provides and the reach it has, Facebook is getting close to replacing the traditional school bulletin board, making communication faster and more accessible for many families across the country. As the use of social media continues to grow, schools in PNG may find themselves relying even more on Facebook to keep students and parents informed, making it a key player in the digital transformation of education.

Endorsed Papua New Guinea carver Jameson Agwi, from Wosera-Gawi in the East Sepik Province, described himself as “beyond blessed” to be given the opportunity to design and carve the King’s Baton that recently toured part of Port Moresby and East New Britain province.Agwi said he was confident in his God-given ability to produce the baton. “I told God I could do it, so I applied,” he said. “On Christmas Day, I was awarded the rights to work on the baton.” When asked how long he had been working on the baton prior to the official launch on Thursday, January 8, 2026, Agwi explained that he began carving only a few days before the ceremony. “I started work on the baton on Sunday at noon and completed it on Tuesday at 4 p.m.,” he said. He expressed great joy at being selected to design the King’s Baton. Agwi also spoke about the challenges he faced as an artist, explaining that while he is a skilled carver, he is not a painter. As a result, he sought divine guidance and relied on prayer while applying his knowledge to the creation. “We were given criteria for the paintings on the baton—it was to depict Papua New Guinea in its authenticity,” he said. “I prayed and asked God to help me understand what the criteria meant.” The King’s Baton features three distinct faces, each symbolizing different aspects of Papua New Guinea’s identity and its connection to the Commonwealth Games. First Face: Represents the sports targeted by the Papua New Guinea Commonwealth Games Association for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, highlighting the nation’s athletic ambitions. Second Face: Features the national flag, surrounded by cultural motifs from the country’s four regions, reflecting Papua New Guinea’s rich diversity and beauty. Third Face: Depicts a church positioned alongside elements of Papua New Guinea’s pastoral heritage, symbolizing unity and faith. It also incorporates traditional attire, artefacts, and symbols of community, resilience, and belief, illustrating the nation’s unique story of unity in diversity.

Prime Minister James Marape has called on Papua New Guinea’s public servants to recommit themselves to accountability, efficiency and service delivery, urging them to move beyond plans and promises and focus on tangible results for the people in 2026.Speaking at the National Public Servants Dedication Service at the Sir John Guise Indoor Stadium in Port Moresby city this morning, Prime Minister Marape said the nation’s entry into its 51st year of public service was not merely a ceremonial milestone but a moment of renewed dedication to public duty. “As we step right through our 50th year and celebrate our 51st year later this year on September 16, putting God first is number one." “It is not an accident that we are here today. This is a moment in which we dedicate ourselves to the cause of public service.” The Prime Minister acknowledged public servants across government, including ministers, department heads, constitutional office holders, law enforcement agencies, the judiciary, and revenue-collecting agencies such as the Internal Revenue Commission and Customs. “If I have never acknowledged you in the last six years, I’ve been Prime Minister, let me say today is the moment I acknowledge you." Marape also addressed the issue of integrity within the public service, noting that while most officers were committed and hardworking, systems must deal firmly with misconduct. Quoting Luke 12:48 — “To whom much is given, much is required” — he reminded public servants that accountability extends beyond public scrutiny. “Your accountability is not to those who are watching you. Your accountability is to the unseen eyes." Highlighting the scale of public service expenditure, Marape said nearly 40 per cent of the national budget is consumed by salaries and operational costs for a public service that represents just 1.3 per cent of the population. This, he said, placed a heavy responsibility on public servants to deliver. “Efficiency is not optional, but a must. Accountability is not negotiable." “Delivery is our bare minimum expectation.” The Prime Minister stressed that citizens are no longer interested in government intentions, strategies or frameworks, but in real outcomes on the ground — particularly in addressing unemployment, poor connectivity, and inadequate service delivery. “Government will no longer be measured by the monies we spend, but by what is actually delivered to our people." Declaring 2026 a year of reset, Marape said the public service must execute its annual operating plans with discipline and urgency. He outlined government priorities including fiscal discipline, economic repair, law and order as an economic necessity, human capital development, and greater investment in infrastructure and productive sectors. He also reaffirmed his focus on growing the non-resource economy, creating jobs, supporting SMEs, expanding manufacturing and tourism, and transitioning subsistence farmers into commercial agriculture. “Our people rightfully demand results. This year is not for explanations. We must deliver," said the prime minister.

Nine individuals were the lucky recipients of cash prizes and goodie bags after participating in 96 Nau FM, 93 Yumi FM and 101.1 Legend FM's 2025 End-of-Year countdown with Digicel.The winners: Bella Matotsi, Dylan Yohang, Carolyn Hugo (96 Nau FM); Donovan Sengi, Delvin Huangang, Ricardo Kavuvu (Yumi FM); David Tatut, Cathleen Soriam, Shanti Yaganegi (Legend FM), were partakers of a K4,500 cash giveaway.Speaking at the event, Senior Content Director Vivian Dumit (Tuloan Vitz), acknowledged listeners for making the countdown truly memorable."The End-of-Year Countdown is not just about music; it is about moments and memories as well as sharing the excitement with listeners as we end the year."She also thanked Digicel for their sponsorship, stating that their support greatly helped in making the Countdown a rewarding experience for listeners.She further extended her thanks and congratulated to the nine participants. "On behalf Nau FM, Yumi FM and Legend FMs content teams, I want to extend our gratitude towards our nine winners for their participation."

Papua New Guinea (PNG) officially launched the first-ever King’s Baton Relay on January 8, 2026, marking a new chapter in the nation’s participation in the Commonwealth Games.The King’s Baton Relay, launched by His Majesty King Charles III on March 10, 2025, at Buckingham Palace, is a longstanding tradition that connects Commonwealth nations through sport, culture, and shared values. For the first time, every Commonwealth nation and territory received its own baton, customized to reflect local culture, before being reunited at the opening ceremony of the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. In his address, Governor-General Sir Bob Dadae highlighted the significance of the Baton, emphasizing its role in promoting national pride, cultural identity, and Commonwealth values. “The presence of the King’s Baton is both simple and deeply meaningful,” said Sir Dadae. “It marks a time for reflection on our identity as a people while reaffirming our place within the wider Commonwealth and global community.” The Papua New Guinea Baton, designed by acclaimed local artist Mr. Jemeson Agwi of Wosera Gawi, East Sepik Province, features three distinct faces representing the nation’s Commonwealth Games aspirations, the national flag surrounded by cultural motifs from the four regions, and elements symbolizing pastoral heritage and faith. Through its design, the Baton tells a uniquely Papua New Guinean story of unity, diversity, and resilience. The Governor-General also stressed the importance of sport in PNG, noting that it fosters community cohesion, nurtures discipline, teamwork, and leadership, and inspires young people. “Sport has always played a powerful role in Papua New Guinea, bringing us together across regions, languages, and traditions.” The launch ceremony also recognized the contributions of the PNG Commonwealth Games Association, government partners, sponsors, volunteers, and community leaders in bringing the King’s Baton Relay to life. “Every village it enters, every young person who sees it, and every athlete who draws inspiration from it becomes part of this national and Commonwealth journey.” The ceremony concluded with the official declaration that the King’s Baton Relay is now launched in the country, a moment celebrated as a symbol of national pride, unity, and the enduring power of sport. “May God bless our people, our athletes, the Independent State of Papua New Guinea, and the Commonwealth of Nations.”

East Gate Karate Academy has already opened enrolment for 2026, inviting people of all ages to train under Julius Piku Sensei.The academy offers self-defence, fitness and discipline programmes tailored for kids, teens, adults and seniors. Training follows the traditional Shotokan Karate syllabus and includes sports karate, women’s karate, specialised self-defence, group and private sessions, seminars and competitions. A Street-Smart Pro Program is also available for practical, real-life self-defence skills. East Gate Karate Academy is located at the Stratos Building, Level 1, Stratos Avenue, Savannah Heights, Waigani. For more information or enrolment, call 7776 8311 or email eastgatekarate@ekere.net.

2025 saw part 2 of the popular franchise, Five Night’s at Freddy’s hit the big screen, bringing the classic combination of horror and childhood innocence back to its audience. Let’s compare the suspense-filled first film and its recent sequel.Plot & Story Five Nights at Freddy’s (2023): The original Five Nights at Freddy’s introduces Mike Schmidt, a troubled young man who takes a low-wage job, working as a night-shift guard at Freddy Fazbear’s Pizzaria. After spending his first night on the job, he realizes the late-night shift at Freddy’s will be tough to survive. Five Nights at Freddy’s 2 (2025): In Five Nights at Freddy’s 2, Mike Schmidt returns to Freddy’s to discover a hidden evil dormant for years, now resurrected with an appetite for revenge.   Verdict: Both films connect horror with childhood trauma, however, the first instalment is more focused on an outsider’s perspective on the horrors at Freddy’s whereas the second film explores the villain’s origins in depth. Characters & Performances Five Nights at Freddy’s (2023): Josh Hutcherson delivers his solid performance yet of a struggling guardian, walking the delicate line between being a parent and an older sibling. Five Nights at Freddy’s 2 (2025): Although actress Elizabeth Lali was the main character, the show was stolen by young actress Audrey Lynn-Marie who played Charlotte – a child with a tragic fate. Verdict: While both films featured strong leads, Five Nights at Freddy’s 2 stands out because of brilliant performances by young actors. Atmosphere & Horror Five Nights at Freddy’s (2023): The first film thrives on atmosphere with quiet, tense, suspenseful moments that keep viewers on the edge. Psychological unpredictability and fear of the unknown is utilized as characters try to familiarize themselves with a new environment. Five Nights at Freddy’s 2 (2025): The sequel pushes the horror further with a different kind of suspense – one of familiarity and expectation of a bad outcome. Scenes are faster paced, with occasional jump scares and unsettling depictions of childhood trauma. Verdict: Five Nights at Freddy’s builds dread but the sequel focuses more on reconnecting with scares.  Themes & MessageFive Nights at Freddy’s (2023): This film explores fear of the unknown, isolation, and the consequences of ignoring past trauma. The abandoned animatronics signify lost souls adding tragedy into horror. Five Nights at Freddy’s 2 (2025): The second instalment pushes the message of truthfully facing childhood trauma, the price of uncovering dark secrets and the cycle of terror that is Freddy Fazbear’s legacy. Verdict: The two films continue the storyline of discovering and confronting evil without losing sight of what’s important. Scares & Jump Scares Five Nights at Freddy’s (2023): The first film creates fear through its eerie atmosphere and rising tension, using few predictable jump scares. Five Nights at Freddy’s 2 (2025): The sequel also uses jump scares that feel overused but compensates with fast-paced horror scenes. Verdict: Jump scares need to be used sparingly but also effectively to keep audiences on the edge. Final Verdict What makes Five Nights at Freddy’s truly horrific is the weaponization of childhood innocence and psychological distress. Otherwise, scare techniques are common and expected in almost any horror film. Rating (out of 5): Five Nights at Freddy’s (2023): ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆ (3/5) Five nights at Freddy’s 2 (2025): ★ ★☆ ☆ ☆ (2/5)