The Office of Censorship has launched its 2024–2027 Training Plan, a move aimed at building staff capacity and professionalism as Papua New Guinea nears its 50th Independence Anniversary. The event was held on Friday 22nd August 2025 at the Lamana Hotel in Port Moresby city, where government officials, and development partners attended. Chief Censor Jim Abani said the plan was vital to ensure officers are better trained and equipped to meet modern challenges. “This plan is our roadmap to reset and retool our workforce. As we turn 50 years as a nation, our officers must be multi-skilled, professional, and ready to deliver quality service,” Abani said. The Training Plan is aligned with the National Training Plan and government priorities to strengthen the public service. It sets out career pathways for censorship officers while promoting collaboration with private sector training providers. Abani reminded staff and partners that qualifications alone were not enough for effective service delivery. “Our graduates may have diplomas and degrees, but true professionalism comes from structured training that prepares us to serve our people better,” he said. Entertainment was provided by the Manus and East New Britain cultural group, adding colour to the formal proceedings before the event ended with lunch and networking. The Office of Censorship says the plan will guide its workforce over the next three years, ensuring officers remain skilled, ethical, and responsive to the changing demands of the digital age.

Prime Minister (PM) James Marape in welcoming his Solomon Islands counterpart, Jeremiah Manele, to Port Moresby for his two-day official visit, described the visit as a reaffirmation of Melanesian unity and shared history. Speaking at a joint press conference at the Melanesian Haus yesterday, PM Marape said the two countries had always been linked by people-to-people ties, even before establishing diplomatic relations in 1978. He emphasized that Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands remain “one people, like brothers and sisters, coexisting in this part of the world.” The Prime Minister noted that over 50 PNG companies are now investing in the Solomon Islands, creating opportunities and strengthening trade. He highlighted sectors such as fisheries, telecommunications, and banking as areas of growing cooperation. “Despite our own challenges, we continue to support Solomon Islands where we can,” PM Marape said. He further announced PNG’s commitment to continue its development and education support to Solomon Islands from 2026 to 2030, including opportunities for Solomon Islands students to study and train in PNG institutions. PM Marape also commended PM Manele’s leadership in preparing to host the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ Meeting in Honiara later this year, pledging PNG’s partnership in regional and international cooperation. The Solomon Islands leader is on a two-day state visit ahead of PNG’s 50th Independence Anniversary.

During his first press conference in Port Moresby Melanesian Haus yesterday 21st August 2025, Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele expressed gratitude to Papua New Guinea for its continued support across a range of areas, highlighting the long-standing partnership between the two countries. Mr. Manele thanked PNG for its contribution to the 2023 Pacific Games, noting both financial assistance and the deployment of security personnel. “The Games were a success, and that would not have been possible without the support of our partners, including Papua New Guinea,” he said. He also acknowledged PNG’s role in the Solomon Islands’ 2024 joint elections through police cooperation. “We appreciate the support that PNG police provided, working alongside our own force to ensure peaceful and secure elections,” Mr. Manele stated. The Prime Minister further recognized the presence of more than 50 PNG businesses operating in the Solomon Islands. “Your private sector has shown confidence in our country, creating jobs and income for our people. We look forward to welcoming even more investment, especially in agriculture, fisheries, tourism, mining, forestry, and commerce,” he said. On regional collaboration, Mr. Manele praised joint efforts in the tuna industry under the East New Britain initiative. “There are great opportunities for our two countries to enhance cooperation in the fisheries sector, particularly tuna. Our ministers are already working closely to take this forward,” he explained. He also welcomed PNG’s assistance in improving Solomon Islands’ immigration systems. “We are very grateful for your support in introducing the e-visa system, which is one of the best in the region,” he said. Looking ahead, Mr. Manele confirmed the Solomon Islands will host the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ Meeting in September, the first since 1992. “We are ready to host the Forum, and we look forward to welcoming leaders and strengthening our collective regional vision,” he said. In closing, he congratulated Papua New Guinea on its upcoming 50th Independence Anniversary. “On behalf of the government and people of Solomon Islands, I extend our warmest congratulations to Papua New Guinea. We wish you peaceful and joyful celebrations,” Mr. Manele said.

In fostering literacy and reading for early childhood and improving education access for all children in Papua New Guinea, Theodist has renewed its annual commitment with Buk bilong Pikinini with a K50,000 donation today, 20th August 2025. The office and school supplies company has supported BbP as a Gold Sponsor since 2014, with the partnership now marking a decade of collaboration. The sponsorship aims to improve literacy and expand access to education for children across Papua New Guinea. Over the years, the partnership has contributed to several initiatives, including the launch of the children’s book series When I Grow Up, I Want to Be a Graphic Designer, which encourages imagination and inspires future career aspirations. Speaking at the handover ceremony, Theodist’s Corporate Development Manager, Ryan Pini, said the company remained committed to supporting education in the country. “Being involved with school supplies, we realize the positive impact that early childhood learning centers can have. This is very encouraging to our organization,” Pini said. He added that one of Theodist’s key corporate responsibilities is to invest in programs that bring long-term, positive change to communities. “Reaching this 10-year milestone, we are proud and happy to continue our partnership with Buk bilong Pikinini,” Pini said. Executive Officer of Buk bilong Pikinini, Leanne Resson, expressed gratitude for the continued support. “For the last decade, we have been fortunate to have the support of Theodist. With this sponsorship, we will be able to provide teaching resources across schools. On behalf of Buk bilong Pikinini, I sincerely thank Theodist and the Pini family for always supporting us,” Resson said.

The Papua New Guinea Barramundis recorded their first win of the tour with a six-wicket victory against Guernsey in a men’s T20I warm-up match at College Field, Saint Peter Port, on Thursday, 14 August. The game was the first between the sides and comes as Papua New Guinea prepares to travel to Jersey next week for round two of the ICC Challenge League tournament. Batting first, Guernsey posted 165 for 6 from their 20 overs, led by Tom Nightingale’s 75 off 51 balls, which included nine fours and two sixes. He shared a 73-run fourth wicket stand with Zak Damarell, who struck 45 from 27 balls. Earlier, Guernsey lost openers Josh Butler (13) and Lucas Barker (1) cheaply, but the middle order steadied the innings before late wickets slowed their momentum. For PNG, Alei Nao impressed with the ball, taking 2 for 21, while Kabua Vagi Morea (1 for 30) and John Kariko (1 for 33) added key wickets by run outs from Sese Bau and Hiri Vare also helped restrict Guernsey’s scoring. In reply, the Barramundis reached 168 for 4 in 19.2 overs to secure the win with four balls to spare. Opener Sese Bau anchored the chase with a dominant 85 from 52 deliveries, hitting 13 fours and two sixes which he shared a 99-run partnership with Boio Ray, who contributed 46 off 35 balls. Guernsey’s Charlie Forshaw was the pick of their bowlers, taking 3 for 29, including the wickets of Peter Karoho (7), Bau (85), and Kipling Doriga (0) in the 19th over. Despite his efforts, captain Assadollah Vala (14 not out) and Hila George Vaieke Vare (9 not out) guided the barramundis home. The standout performers were Sese Bau (85) and Boio Ray (46), alongside Guernsey’s Tom Nightingale (75) and Charlie Forshaw (3 for 29). Bau was named player of the match. Barramundis coach John Ovia praised his side’s discipline under pressure, while acknowledging Guernsey’s challenge. “Guernsey came hard at us, especially with the bat, but the PNG Barramundis stayed disciplined and trusted our batting,” he said. The two sides will meet again this weekend in two 50-over matches at the KGV ground before PNG departs for Jersey for the ICC Challenge League. Next up the Barramundis will face Denmark, Kuwait, Kenya, Jersey and Qatar, with the series running until 31 August.

Prime Minister (PM) James Marape has called on all Papua New Guineans, especially the nation’s future leaders, to uphold and defend the National Constitution, describing it as the “living document” that has bound the country together for the past 50 years and will continue to guide it into the future. Speaking at the University of Papua New Guinea on Constitution Day, 15 August 2025, PM Marape reflected on the foresight of the leaders who steered the country to Independence in 1975. He paid tribute to the Constitutional Planning Committee (CPC), chaired by the late Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare and deputized by Dr John Momis, for crafting what he described as “one of the most inclusive nation-building documents ever found on planet Earth.” “The Constitution is the one book, apart from the Bible that must continue to bind and hold this diversity called Papua New Guinea together,” Mr. Marape said. “It frames our borders, our national emblems, our governance structures, and our rights as citizens. It is timeless, and its relevance is as strong today as it was in 1975.” Among those acknowledged at the event was former Chief Justice and Ambassador-designate Sir Arnold Amet, an alumnus of UPNG who served as President of the UPNG Students’ Representative Council at the time of Independence. The Prime Minister also recognized the role of UPNG and the Papua New Guinea University of Technology in producing leaders, technocrats and professionals across all sectors. Highlighting achievements in the legal profession, he congratulated the country’s first female Public Prosecutor, Helen Roalakona, a UPNG Law Faculty graduate, saying her success reflected the opportunities available to those who worked hard. PM Marape provided historical context, recalling the political and diplomatic resistance faced in Canberra and Port Moresby before Independence. He said some political groups had sought to delay self-government, but visionary leaders prevailed. “The 1975 generation is the generation that stood on the threshold of history and gave us our Constitution, and our Independence and they will forever be the greatest generation of our country,” he said. “They achieved this without bloodshed, through dialogue, wisdom and unity.” He praised the CPC’s consultative approach, which included study tours to Africa and other parts of the world to ensure the Constitution reflected PNG’s cultural and social diversity. He commended the system of provincial government, born from the CPC’s vision, as a cornerstone of national unity and local empowerment. PM Marape stressed that respect for the Constitution is non-negotiable, warning that even parliamentary majorities must act within its provisions. He recalled moments in PNG’s history when the Constitution was tested, including the 2011 political impasse, and reminded the audience that the judiciary is the proper forum for resolving constitutional disputes. “If anyone feels the Constitution has been breached, the answer is not protest, violence or civil disorder. The answer is to go to court, respect the rule of law, and abide by judicial decisions,” he said. The Prime Minister also outlined his government’s commitment to strengthening the judiciary, including creating a Court of Appeal, raising judges’ retirement ages and improving judicial capacity. Closing his address, he urged all citizens to make a personal pledge to uphold the Constitution as Papua New Guinea marks its golden jubilee. “The greatest gift we can give our country on the 50th anniversary of Independence is not roads, bridges or money but it is the solemn commitment of every child of Papua New Guinea to defend and live by our Constitution,” Marape said. The Prime Minister’s speech was delivered as part of the university’s Constitution Day program, which gathered legal scholars, students and national leaders to reflect on the document that has shaped the nation since its adoption by the House of Assembly on 15 August 1975. The Constitution came into effect on 16 September 1975, the day Papua New Guinea became an independent nation.

NCSL successfully reintroduced its Wokabaut Tablets by streaming new members onboard in under five minutes. Members were issued their membership numbers on the spot with ease, even with limited or no network coverage, showcasing the tablets’ capability of opening accounts in offline mode. In collaboration with CEFI and UNDP, NCSL took part in a three-day financial literacy program where the Wokabaut Tablets were used to onboard new members in real time during the recent member engagement in the oil palm-rich townships of Bialla and Kimbe, West New Britain. Further explaining on the Wokabaut Tablets is the NCSL Head of Digital Services Gila Ebenosi. “The goal was simply to make it easier for members to open an account and get started on their savings journey with NCSL, guiding them through the registration process on our digital services such as MyNCSL and Mobile USSD”. He then added on with the advantages this digital initiative brings “This is about giving our members a better experience, no long queues, no paperwork delays, just fast, reliable service that puts the member first.” The success of the pilot highlights NCSL’s commitment to improving member access and convenience through smart, practical technology. It is a step forward in making financial services more responsive, accessible, and member focused.

Minister for Education Lucas Dekena, MP, alongside Secretary of the National Department of Education Dr. Uke Kombra, officially launched the Corporate Plan 2025 - 2027 with its Self-Reliance Policy and Implementation Guide. Alongside the plan’s launch, the NDoE also unveiled its new logo and the 50th Anniversary logo today, Friday 15th August 2025, at the Vulupindi Haus in Port Moresby city. Dr. Kombra opened the ceremony, noting that the corporate plan and guideline were essential departmental requirements under the government system that align the Education Development Plan (EDP) to support Papua New Guinea’s Vision 2050. “The plan is there to support us in our functions and responsibilities, and I believe we will all be equally committed to its implementation over the next three years,” Dr. Kombra said after thanking all the staff for their tireless efforts in preparing the plan. “I want to thank each and every one of you for the leadership you have provided to develop this plan.” Before launching the plan, Minister Dekena emphasized that the corporate plan was a detailed, step-by-step framework translating the National Education Plan 2020–2029 into concrete actions. “It outlines the specific steps our staff will take to address challenges, train employees, and promote diversity, social and gender inclusion, and equality across all areas. Over the next three years, we must work together to build and structure strong foundations that ensure quality education, improved performance, and clear accountability,” the Minister stated. He further challenged every officer, from the lowest-ranked staff member to senior executives, to be proactive agents of change. “The hardest part is the actual implementation. If you are unsure of what you are doing, escalate it. Do not sit on things you don’t understand and hope they will resolve themselves cause they won’t. Share information, share ideas, and that is how we will move this country forward. Education is the foundation, and through it, we will advance our nation,” Minister Dekena urged. The ceremony concluded with a renewed call for commitment from all staff, as the country approaches its 50th year of Independence, to fully implement the Corporate Plan 2025–2027, ensuring it delivers on government priorities and strengthens the education system for the future.

With just four weeks until Papua New Guinea marks its historic 50th Independence Anniversary on September 16, the National Capital District Commission (NCDC) has launched a city-wide maintenance program on all four-lane arterial roads across Port Moresby. The initiative, announced by City Manager Mr. Ravu Frank in an official notice on August 6, aims to upgrade key roads to ensure they are safe, accessible, and fully operational in time for the national celebrations. Several construction companies are working simultaneously across the city, and along the Tokarara Dikagari Road, Nuigini Engineering Procurement and Services is leading the work in that area. In terms of the progress, Project Manager and Lead Engineer Lawrence Blehe, said that there are many construction companies currently working together to maintain the main routes in Port Moresby, both day and night. He further explained the project timeline and expected completion, and confirmed that they are on track to meet their targets before the celebrations. “For our project, we began by installing new signs during the first week and have now completed about 300 metres of road sealing.” “At the pace we are going, we expect to finish sealing by the end of this month and start installing streetlights in the first week of September.” With the ongoing maintenance, commuters are urged to observe traffic management signage, exercise caution near construction zones, and follow directions from road crews and traffic controllers. According to NCDC, these upgrades are critical not only for the smooth running of the anniversary celebrations but also for improving the long-term safety and efficiency of Port Moresby’s road network. Furthermore, the general public, motorists, business owners, and residents are advised to expect temporary disruptions, plan their travel accordingly. NCDC apologizes for any inconvenience while reaffirming its commitment to delivering better and safer infrastructure for the city.

A successful three-day workshop on gender equality and disability inclusion was held at Stanley Hotel in Port Moresby from August 11th to 13th, 2025. Hosted by Team Up with support from the Australian government, the event brought together representatives from various sports and disability inclusion programs across Papua New Guinea (PNG). The workshop, facilitated by Team Up's GEDSI and Safeguarding Advisor, Roshika Deo, aimed to strengthen capacity and promote safer, more inclusive sporting environments. Key objectives included: - Understanding how gender inequality and social norms affect sports. - Identifying and addressing barriers, unconscious biases, and discriminatory practices. - Developing inclusive strategies for diverse participants. - Exploring climate action initiatives within a sports context. A powerful session on gender-based violence, presented by Tommy Kaiyo from the Regina Sagu Foundation, sparked meaningful dialogue among attendees. The workshop encouraged collaboration and the sharing of ideas, enhancing the impact of existing programs nationwide. The initiative is part of Team Up's broader commitment, supported by the Australian Government, to drive lasting change through sport across the Pacific. The workshop's ultimate goal is to create sporting environments where everyone can enjoy and benefit from the game. Participating programs included: - Inclusive GymBad - NRL League Bilong Laip - Hook-in For Health - One Netball - AFL Pilai lo Senis (with Tribal Foundation) - Just Play Soccer - Basketball For Good - Kicks for Kokoda - PNG Olympic Committee - Inclusive Impact Rugby - Play for Equity - Special Olympics PNG - PNG Assembly of Disability Persons

All Papua New Guineans have been invited to play a key role in the nation’s sporting history with the official launch of the “Name Our Team” competition for the country’s first-ever National Rugby League (NRL) franchise, scheduled to debut in the 2028 premiership. The announcement was made today, 13th August 2025 at the Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby during a ceremony attended by Prime Minister James Marape, Australian High Commissioner Ewen McDonald, franchise Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mr. Andrew Hill, and members of the PNG NRL Franchise Board. Franchise CEO Andrew Hill, said the initiative aimed to create a team that every Papua New Guinean could call their own. “This is more than a name it’s a symbol of national pride and a reflection of who we are as a nation.” “By inviting every Papua New Guinean to help us name our team, we are building something that truly belongs to its people.” Prime Minister Marape described the launch as a milestone for PNG’s sporting and cultural history. “Rugby league is in our DNA. In 2028, our team will step onto the NRL field for the first time, representing our people, our culture, and our spirit,” he said. “The announcement of our team name on Independence Day will be one of the proudest moments in our history.” He encouraged submissions that reflect national unity, respect for all citizens, positive growth, and PNG’s relationship with Australia, rather than purely personal or local references. The competition is open to all Papua New Guineans, with submissions accepted online at www.yourteamnamehere.co until 31st August. The board will shortlist entries before opening them to a public vote, ensuring that the final name is truly ‘owned by the people.’ Preparations for the team are underway, including plans for a High-Performance Centre and a player village, with expressions of interest from developers already received. Meanwhile, High Commissioner McDonald said Australia supported the franchise’s development as a way to strengthen sporting and cultural ties between the two nations. The campaign will be promoted nationwide across television, radio, newspapers, and online platforms. The final team name is expected to be revealed during PNG’s 50th Independence Anniversary celebrations, marking a historic moment for the nation. “When the team runs out for its first NRL match in 2028, the name on their shirts will represent every Papua New Guinean.” “The stage is set. The opportunity is yours. Name our team. Shape our history.”

In only their second season competing in the Port Moresby Basketball Association, the Equalizers Basketball Club has made a remarkable rise to the top, booking their spot in the Men’s Grand Final this Monday, 11 August, against the seasoned champions, Ultimax. Founded in 2023 by co-founders Agnes Urupua and Tirimahn Masi, the Equalizers were born out of a shared love for basketball and the determination to create their own opportunity after being turned away by other clubs. What started as a team made up entirely of players from the De La Salle community has now grown to include talented recruits from across the Bomana area and the wider North-East electorate. Most of the Equalizers’ players had little to no prior competition experience, but that did not stop them from defying the odds. Their Grand Final opponents, Ultimax, are no strangers to silverware, having won multiple championships before – making Monday’s clash a true David-versus-Goliath showdown. “We didn’t just start this club for ourselves,” said Tirimahn Masi. “Our goal was to showcase the hidden basketball talent in Bomana, a place known more for rugby and soccer, and to give young people a positive outlet – away from drinking and drugs – and something to keep them busy.” In their debut season, the Equalizers self-funded their campaign through grassroots fundraisers such as selling lunch packs and hosting K100 dish kaikai events. This year, the club secured vital sponsorship from ChildFund PNG, which covered registration fees while an anonymous sponsor generously purchased new jerseys for both the men’s and women’s teams. While the men’s side surged into the Grand Final, the women’s team fell just short, finishing 5th and narrowly missing out on the top four. Transport and finances were major challenges in the club’s early days, with the team hiring PMV buses for K150 each week to get to match. A breakthrough came when De La Salle Secondary School agreed to provide transport in exchange for training opportunities for their students – some of whom were impressed enough to earn a place on the Equalizers’ roster. Despite the obstacles, the team’s resilience and tight bond have been key to their success. “Every challenge made us stronger,” Masi said. “The commitment from our players and the support from our community has carried us all the way to the Grand Final.” The Equalizers tip off against Ultimax in the PMBA Men’s Grand Final this Monday at the Taurama Aquatic Centre – a game that promises both grit and heart from a club determined to make history.