The Mary Mother of Catholic Hope clinic, in Buka, Bougainville, operated by the Catholic Church Health Services (CCHS), is setting a shining example of how sexual and reproductive health services can be successfully delivered in some of Papua New Guinea’s most remote and underserved areas. Backed by the Australian Government through the Sexual and Reproductive Health Integration Project (SHRIP), the clinic is part of a broader initiative across 11 provinces. SHRIP is improving access to high-quality sexual and reproductive healthcare by supporting 13 CCHS-run facilities to deliver vital services, including HIV and STI counselling, testing, and treatment. But in Buka, this care goes far beyond basic health interventions according to Sister in Charge, Mama Rose. “We see mothers, children, and entire families come through our doors, often from far-flung villages. They come because they trust us.” “We are here to serve them with dignity and care.” The clinic also provides antenatal services, making it a critical lifeline for maternal and child health in the region. Mama Rose and her dedicated team conduct regular outreach and awareness sessions, helping local communities understand prevention, early treatment, and the importance of reproductive health. “These services are crucial in ensuring our people, especially women and young people, receive the care they need, when they need it.” The work is done in close collaboration with the Bougainville Department of Health, the National Department of Health, and various partners. Through satellite clinics operated under the local diocese, the team extends their reach deep into hard-to-access communities. SHRIP, implemented by a consortium including ASHM (Australasian Society for HIV, Viral Hepatitis and Sexual Health Medicine), Burnet Institute, and Igat Hope—under CCHS leadership—is part of the PNGAus Partnership, which supports the strengthening of health systems and services across PNG.

The Digicel Foundation has launched a powerful new initiative under its Men of Honor program, calling on its staff to lead a national movement against gender-based violence (GBV) and in support of child protection throughout Papua New Guinea. Through this ground-breaking staff-led campaign, Digicel PNG employees are being equipped to become Community Ambassadors, in order to promote values of respect, safety, and accountability both in the workplace and in their communities. Speaking at the launch, Digicel PNG Chief Executive Officer Mr. Tarik Boudiaf commended the team members participating in the program, highlighting their role as change-makers. “This program is not about blame; it’s about building capacity and inspiring leadership. When our staff step forward to champion values like respect and equality, they set a powerful example. Real change starts from within.” The four-day training, developed by the Digicel Foundation, focuses on personal development, leadership, and social responsibility. It encourages participants to engage in open dialogue, confront harmful behaviors, and embrace inclusive, non-violent approaches to leadership. Since its inception, the Men of Honor program has trained more than 100 ambassadors across Papua New Guinea, with Digicel staff playing a central role in taking the message to the grassroots level. Graduates of the program are known as Ambassadors of Accountability, tasked with modeling respectful behavior, supporting safe community spaces, and initiating conversations around gender justice and protection. According to the Foundation, the initiative is grounded in the belief that engaging men as positive agents of change is essential in the fight to end violence and promote safer communities for all. The Digicel Foundation welcomes support and collaboration from the public, civil society, and other organizations in expanding this important movement. For more information about the program, visit www.digicel.png.com, email customercare@digicelpacific.com, or call 123.

Organizers preparing for the iconic Mt Hagen Cultural Show have received a financial boost, with the National Cultural Commission (NCC) stepping in to support the event with a K10,000 sponsorship. The funding, presented during a modest ceremony at NCC headquarters in Port Moresby, was handed over by NCC Executive Director Steven Enomb Kilanda to Richard Lazarus, Executive Manager for Commerce and Tourism in the Western Highlands Provincial Administration. This contribution will help ensure the show continues its proud tradition of uniting tribes and communities from across the Highlands to share their customs, dances, stories, and songs in one of PNG’s most vibrant displays of cultural pride. The show is more than an event, it’s a platform to showcase identity and keep traditions alive, throughout generations. For the region, it’s a powerful tourism drawcard that brings in thousands of visitors, inserting life into the local economy. With the 2025 show scheduled for 14–17 August, anticipation is already building. Local singsing groups, cultural performers, and artisans are preparing to take the spotlight as Mt Hagen once again becomes the focal point of Highland culture.

Students from the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) and the Papua New Guinea University of Technology (Unitech) have received a major academic boost following the donation of state-of-the-art TNavigator software licenses from the Mineral Resources Development Company (MRDC). The high-end reservoir modelling software, used globally by top-tier companies in the extractive industry, will now be accessible to students from UPNG’s Earth Science Division and Unitech’s School of Mining Engineering for academic tutorials. MRDC Managing Director Augustine Mano said the donation is part of the company’s commitment to developing the country’s future workforce. “Being part of the extractive sector, we believe it’s our responsibility to contribute where we can upskill and prepare our young people, especially engineers, for successful careers in the industry.” MRDC Technical Manager Ann-Tania Sipori explained that when the company purchased the software, the agreement with the vendor included the provision of free student tutorial licenses to tertiary institutions. MRDC selected UPNG and Unitech to benefit from this opportunity. UPNG Earth Science Associate Professor Joseph O. Espi welcomed the donation, saying it marks a transition into advanced learning and equips students with hands-on skills needed in the workforce. “Most of our teaching is theoretical and field-based, but some aspects such as modelling, require high-end computers and industry software. These are expensive, so we’re fortunate and thankful to MRDC.” “Having TNavigator means our students can now visualize in 3D and gain skills in mineral, geotechnical, and geoscience software applications. It will greatly improve their readiness for the industry.” Unitech’s Deputy Head of Mining Engineering, Dr Kel Ail, said the donation comes at a critical time, especially for final-year students involved in mine design projects as the installation will help raise standards, and help them be industry ready when they leave. He added that more than 250 mineral processing and mining engineers have graduated from Unitech in the last decade alone, and this kind of industry support is important for the development of future professionals.

“Because justice should include everyone — even kids.” Recently, 16 students from ten schools (Gordons Secondary Tokarara Secondary, Caritas Technical Secondary, Marianville Secondary, Kila Kila Secondary, Gordons International, Taurama Primary, Bavaroko Primary, Ward Strip Primary and Don Bosco Technical Secondary School) congregated for the Children’s Consultation on General Comment 27 (GC27), focusing on children’s rights to access justice and effective remedies. At the Children’s Consultation on General Comment 27 (GC27), students shared their thoughts, fears, and hopes about how justice should really work for kids in Papua New Guinea. Here are 6 real things they said loud and clear: 1. “Justice means fairness, safety, and being treated the same.” For these students, justice isn’t just about laws, it’s about being heard and respected. 2. Not all kids even know they have rights. “Not all children know their rights as a child.” – Barbra, Grade 11 Too many kids are unaware of their rights. Not many schools actively teach children about their rights and not many parents are aware of their children’s rights. 3. The justice system isn’t welcoming for kids. “Children do not feel safe to go to the police station.” – Jean, Grade 11 A lot of kids are scared to speak up, especially if they’ve been hurt or mistreated. Police stations feel scary. Not to mention, a classic tactic used by parents towards a misbehaving child is to threaten to call the police. 4. Shame and fear stop kids from getting help. Barriers like discrimination, embarrassment, or even being ignored by adults can stop children from reporting abuse or injustice. Many feel like no one will listen or worse, blame them. 5. The system needs to work for ALL children. The students said loud and clear: girls, children with disabilities, and kids in rural areas must be included. Justice must be accessible to everyone, not just a few. 6. Here’s what they want to see change: Train police and justice workers to speak to children with empathy Set up child-friendly spaces and reporting systems Run awareness campaigns about children’s rights Give young people more platforms to speak up

Papua New Guinea’s rich cultural heritage is facing significant risks due to inadequate safeguarding efforts and the loss of invaluable artefacts to museums overseas, according to a new Issues Paper (No. 49) released by the Papua New Guinea National Research Institute (PNGNRI). In “Strategies to preserve and reclaim Papua New Guinea’s cultural artefacts”, senior research officer Clara Bal highlights the urgent need to protect PNG’s cultural identity. She points out that many local museums, including the National Museum and Art Gallery (NMAG) in Port Moresby, are struggling with outdated infrastructure and poor environmental conditions, hindering their ability to properly care for precious cultural items. To address these challenges, the paper recommends a multi-faceted approach, including: Investment in modern museum facilities and cultural heritage research to ensure artefacts are preserved under optimal conditions. Promoting education and awareness among PNG’s youth, fostering a deeper appreciation for the nation’s cultural legacy. Decentralising museum management to empower regional institutions and better protect local heritage. Repatriation of ethnographic objects currently held in overseas museums, restoring cultural property to their rightful communities. These strategies aim to safeguard PNG’s cultural treasures for the benefit of communities today and future generations.

In a powerful address, Anthony Uechtritz, Principal Program Manager for Youth Opportunities at the Santos Foundation, highlighted the remarkable transformation of the Pimaga Vocational and Education Training Centre in Lake Kutubu in Southern Highlands Province, showcasing how focused investment and community collaboration can revitalize rural education and unlock the potential of Papua New Guinea’s youth, at the 2025 Papua New Guinea Resources Week held at APEC Haus. According to the United Nations Population Fund, over 60% of PNG’s population is under the age of 25—a demographic shift posing both a challenge and an opportunity. “When young people lack opportunities, it puts pressure on communities, but with the right support, they can drive PNG’s future economic success.” Established in 2018 and recognized as a government institution in 2019, the training centre, initially faced significant hurdles—only six teachers, two on payroll, and 100 students, with just seven of them being females. Most graduates had completed theoretical training without practical skills and received unrecognized certificates, leaving them disheartened. In response, the Santos Foundation launched a two-pronged strategy: lift student morale and transition the centre toward delivering nationally recognized training. Thirteen students were selected for a life skills program in Port Moresby. Ten later secured employment in Australia, and three in the capital city. The results were immediate: morale surged, enrolments doubled, and female participation tripled. A curriculum audit conducted in partnership with the Department of Education laid the foundation for upgrading training programs and infrastructure. Since then, major milestones have been achieved, including: - Installation of a 99kW solar mini grid providing 24/7 electricity. - Construction of dormitories, classrooms, and six teachers' houses—built by the students themselves. - Accreditation to deliver four nationally recognized certificate courses. - A jump in student enrolment from 100 to 300, and female enrolment from 7 to 83. “It’s about creating new pathways connecting training to jobs and giving young people, especially women, a chance at a brighter future.” The Pimaga success story is part of Santos Foundation’s broader Youth Opportunities Program, which includes about eight major initiatives aimed at youth empowerment across PNG.

Four swimmers; Joanna Chen, Josh Tarere, Jhnayali Tokome-Garap, and Nathaniel Noka are currently holding our national flag high at the 2025 World Aquatics Championship in Singapore. After participating less than a month ago at the Pacific Mini-Games in Palau, the youngsters are now competing alongside the best athletes globally from July 27th– August 3rd at the OCBC Aquatic Centre in Singapore. The athletes touched down in Singapore, approximately two days ago, accompanied by Coach Rick Van Der Zant and Team Manager, Jean Valu Vava. Joanna Chen kicked off the competition on Sunday 27th July 2025, swimming in Event 1, Heat 1 of the Women’s 200m medley, clocking in a time of 2:48.66, ranking 8th with a score of 418 points; meanwhile, Nathaniel Noka followed soon after in the competing in Event 4, Heat 4 of the Men’s 50m butterfly, clocking in a of 26.06, ranking 5th with a score of 624 points. The World Aquatic Championships – Singapore 2025 kicked off on 11th July and ends on 3rd August.

As someone who went through a rollercoaster of emotions in my teen years, engaging in self- destructive behaviors seemed like the only option available…until I discovered poetry. Engaging in art can be therapeutic for many young people. Here’s a few ways creative activities can help youths: 1. Provides a healthy outlet for managing emotions. Instead of using drugs, alcohol or pornography as coping mechanisms, young people can express emotions through art, music, writing or dance. 2. Builds Self-Esteem and identity. Success in a creative field is a confidence booster for young people and gives a sense of purpose, reducing the need to seek attention through dangerous actions. 3. Creates a sense of belonging. Engaging in groups that share the same creative interests as you develop healthy connections and connects them to good communities. 4. Improves mental health. Artistic products such as music can ease stress and anxiety – common triggers for destructive behaviour. 5. Keeps youth busy and focused. Having something to do – a painting, script, song or performance, leaves less time for boredom and negative influences. 6. Offers a legal and safe form of rebellion Slam poetry, graffiti art (doodles), rap battles etc. provide platforms for youth to voice their opinions as well as be rebelliously authentic without breaking the law. 7. Opens up career opportunities. Creative hobbies can open doors to various career opportunities or even scholarships giving youth a hopeful future. 8. Boosts communication skills. Pursuits such a storytelling, drama and songwriting teach youth how to express their thoughts and feelings clearly instead of through aggression or withdrawal. 9. Gives youth a sense of achievement. Completing a creative project teaches patience and brings a sense of pride – something destructive behaviour never delivers.

Tokarara Christian Fellowship will be hosting an event to honor fathers and also raise funds for church infrastructure and the church’s J424 Worship Night, called the ‘Father-Son Banquet’ – where fathers are invited to bring their sons and daughters; and sons and daughters to bring their fathers. This was a new approach to the previously held ‘Father-Son Breakfast’ held in 2022 & 2023. According to Chairman of Tokara Christian Fellowship, Ganjiki Wayne, the event will feature two keynote speakers, covering topics on biblical masculinity and the role of fatherhood in nation-building, followed by a panel discussion on the importance of Godly fatherhood. “Masculinity has been distorted over the years and in today's modern, modern world and with modern ideologies, as a result fatherhood has been watered down.” “The role of fathers has been displaced so that men are not taking the role too seriously –which leads to the breakdown of the family unit.” “We're trying to encourage the idea redefining the definition of masculinity to that original godly design.” He added that TCF wants to remind young people who have grown up in a broken home without a father figure that good father figures still exist. “If your own father is not around to providing that role model for you then they are father-figures out there that you can connect with and be mentored.” TCF is encouraging inclusive participation by allowing attendees to "adopt" a father figure or a son or daughter for the evening. Youth without fathers can invite someone they see as a father figure and sponsor their attendance, while men without children are welcome to adopt a son or daughter for the day. The banquet will be held on September 6th, the eve of Father’s Day at TCF church, outdoors with 300 to 500 individuals expected. Ticket prices will range between K150 to K175. For more information, contact TCF Chairman, Ganjiki Wayne on 71059629.

 Director: James Gunn Cast: David Corenswet, Rachael Brosnahan, Nicholas Hoult Rating: PG-13│Genre(s): Action, Sci-Fi │Run Time: 2h 10min DOES JUSTICE ON SUPERMAN’S HUMANITY BUT FALLS SHORT ON CHEESY LINE DELIVERY “Superman (2025) introduces audiences to a hero with more empathy – reflective of his upbringing by human parents.” Superman (David Corenswet) also known as Clark Kent, is faced with a moral dilemma after discovering his original purpose of being sent to Earth does not align with his personal values of serving humanity. As his internal battle rages on, political tensions are building up between two countries as they near the brink of war. DC’s latest installment of the popular superhero takes a unique but brilliant turn, giving the alien character more humanity. Unlike the initial installments which portrays the hero as stereotypically apathetic with exceptions of romantic feelings, Superman’s display of empathy, and accepting his shortcomings powerfully reflects the influences of earth and being raised by flawed human beings. The impact of social media in society is utilized in building public perception of Superman. This is demonstrated through the usage of online interactions on smartphones. Lex Luther uses social media as a tool to build a fake audience against the hero thus manipulating public response stats, which even affects the news. With every rage bait, every troll response, it influences how the public can view Superman, even if it’s inaccurate. A common shortfall in most superhero movies is line delivery during climactic scenes where the hero must declare his unwavering stance in being humanity’s protector or something similar – Superman is no different. David Corenswet gave his best but ultimately fell into the category of his predecessors – giving a cringe delivery of Superman’s defining dialogue despite it being brilliantly written: “I’m as human as anyone; I love, I –I get scared – I wake up every morning, and despite not knowing what to do, I put one foot in front of the other and try to make the best choices I can. I screw up all the time and that is being human. And that’s my greatest strength.” It sounded as though it came from a children’s show about self-acceptance. Final Verdict: However, the film’s shortfalls pale in comparison to its strengths. DC studios took a huge risk in delivering a powerful extraterrestrial superhero that embraces their humanity – something most audiences aren’t used to, which paid off. Rating: ★★★★☆ (8/10) Best suited for: DC fans and older teens.

Colgate Palmolive (PNG) Ltd marked the 14th anniversary of Colgate National Tooth Brushing Day, an annual event aimed at promoting better oral health across Papua New Guinea. Held in partnership with the National Department of Health - Oral Health Services, this year’s celebration took place today, Friday July 25th, at the Salvation Army Boroko Primary School in Port Moresby. Students and staff came together to brush their teeth in unison, symbolizing a collective step toward a healthier future. Now in its 14th year, National Tooth Brushing Day is part of the wider Bright Smiles, Bright Futures program, which has positively impacted more than 3 million children in PNG since its launch in 2010. The initiative promotes vital oral hygiene habits, especially the importance of brushing twice a day for two minutes and replacing toothbrushes every three months, or after illness. Colgate-Palmolive's school visits continue to be a vital part of this event, helping reinforce the message directly with students in a fun and engaging way. In 2025, Colgate is proud to see over 262,000 individuals partaking in the nationwide brushing event across Port Moresby, Lae, Wewak, and Rabaul. The public is also encouraged to participate by taking just two minutes out of their day to brush their teeth, collectively demonstrating the nation’s dedication to good oral health. As the nation brushes together, Colgate reiterates its belief that everyone deserves a future to smile about.