Students and teachers at Boreboa Primary School in Port Moresby started the 2025 academic year digitally enabled – with an e-library that provide access to digital learning resources, thanks to BSP Life PNG Limited. As part of BSP’s Community Project, BSP Life PNG reaffirmed its commitment to education by establishing a fully equipped e-library, benefiting 3,200 students and 56 teachers. This initiative reflects BSP Life PNG’s dedication to creating learning environments that empower the next generation. Speaking at the handover ceremony, BSP Life PNG Country Manager, Nilson Singh, highlighted the transformative power of education in shaping Papua New Guinea’s future. “It is an honor to officially hand over this e-library to Boreboa Primary School. At BSP Life, we believe education is the key to unlocking opportunities and transforming lives. With access to digital learning, students will gain the knowledge and skills needed to build brighter futures,” Mr Singh said. Addressing the students, he encouraged them to work hard and take advantage of the opportunities education provides. “Today, you are students, but tomorrow, you could be part of BSP, making a difference in your communities. Just as we are giving back today, one day, you too can play a role in supporting and uplifting others.” BSP’s Community Projects are carried out annually by its Branches, Strategic Business Units (SBUs), and Subsidiaries across PNG and the Pacific Markets. These projects focus on education, health, sports, environment, and other community-driven initiatives, reinforcing BSP’s long-standing commitment to championing prosperity for the South Pacific. Boreboa Primary School’s administration expressed heartfelt gratitude to BSP Life PNG for its support saying the e-library is a game-changer for the school. "With digital access to learning materials, our students will have greater opportunities to expand their knowledge and enhance their education. We are incredibly grateful to BSP Life PNG for this generous contribution,” Head Teacher of Boreboa Primary School Theckla Rasehei said. This latest initiative is a testament to BSP Life PNG’s ongoing investment by providing essential educational resources. With education at the heart of development, BSP Life PNG remains committed to initiatives that empower young minds and build a better tomorrow.

South Pacific (SP) Brewery as part of its ongoing commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and empowering the local communities, recently donated essential equipment to support the vital work of the police in North Fly District in Western Province. On Monday 03rd January, SP Brewery donated K20, 000 worth of essential equipment, including a brand-new tuffa tank and four air conditioning units, which were handed over by SP Brewery’s Representative, Jaimie Kerepa. All these items will be installed at North Fly Police Station to assist the work of the police forces in the region. During the handover, Mr. Kerepa expressed the company's delight in contributing to the local law enforcement efforts. "We are delighted to provide our hard-working law enforcers in Kiunga with much-needed equipment to support them in their daily operations to mitigate crime and violence in the district," he said. Present to receive the donation were North Fly Acting Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Inspector Anjap Minata and Kiunga Police Station Commander Inspector Siawa Ricker. Acting PPC Inspector Anjap Minata expressed gratitude towards SP Brewery, acknowledging the impact of the donation. “I would like to thank SP Brewery for their generous donation. Our station has faced water supply challenges since the cut-off five years ago, and this contribution will significantly resolve our water issues. It's challenging working in humid conditions and the new air conditioning units will assist the police station in its operations. “I appreciate working in partnership with stakeholders that serve the people of this beautiful province and country has a whole,” Minata added. SP Brewery looks forward to future opportunities to engage with and support the community in meaningful ways.

Bank of South Pacific Financial Group Limited (BSP), a leading retail and corporate banking group, continues to support the prosperity of the community – this time assisting one of the Port Moresby’s oldest primary schools with a sanitation health standard. Tokarara Primary School commenced its 2025 academic year with improved sanitation facilities – a boost in school morale for its 1, 200-student population. Established 60 years ago, the institution has not received any infrastructure improvement until this BSP Community Project. BSP’s Group Operations team at the Waigani Head Office took the initiative to improve the school’s ablution block, upgrading its toilets, sinks, and water systems, ensuring they comply with heath standards and provide clean and hygienic facilities for the students and staff. BSP Operation’s Business Project Manager - Tina Pomat said BSP was happy to assist not only improve the infrastructure of the school but also contribute to the overall well-being of students, staff, and the community. “At BSP we are committed to being part of a community beyond our professional roles. The modernization of the school’s infrastructure has created a lasting positive impression, encouraging further investment in community development and improving the overall education experience for future generations,” Mrs. Pomat said. Mrs. Rona Laho, retired schoolteacher and Tokarara Primary School community representative, did not let the rain on Thursday 30th January 2025, dampen her excitement and gratitude as the completed ablution block was given back for the school’s use. She thanked BSP for being the first corporate organization to address the school’s sanitation issues by refurbishing its ablution block. Tokarara Primary School Head Teacher, John Piason also expressed his gratitude and appreciation to BSP for giving them a renovated ablution block. “Proper sanitation is not just a health issue—it’s a fundamental right; No child should have to choose between their education and dignity. Thank you BSP,” Mr. Piason added.

The Catholic Professional Society of Papua New Guinea (PNG) has expressed deep concerns about the escalating violence and killings in the country, urging government leaders to take immediate action. Mr. Paul Harricknen, president of the Catholic Professional Society PNG, stated, “As a Church, we are very concerned about the out-of-control law and order situation in our communities and country. The indiscriminate killings and violence have become regular and normalized, showing disregard for human life.” He continued, “We join the Law Society of PNG in voicing our concerns about this dire situation. The rule of law appears to be mere lip service, while law and justice agencies seem overwhelmed by lawlessness, which appears to be beyond their reach and capability.” The president emphasized that government presence feels absent, and leadership at all levels appears helpless or indifferent. “It is no longer safe to live in PNG. How can we deny this reality? We can’t continue living in denial. Our towns are unsafe, and our communities, both urban and rural, are no longer safe and free, especially for women and children. Where is the rule of law? It seems that nobody cares anymore.” “Each individual, family, and community are left to fend for their own protection and survival. The rule of law fails to guarantee safety without proper enforcement,” he said. “What do we do when killings occur almost daily? Bag snatching and theft of valuable items from vulnerable individuals by armed groups and mobs have become commonplace. People can’t walk out of their homes without fearing for their safety. This is unacceptable in a country that is supposed to uphold freedom, democracy, the rule of law, and human rights,” he added. President Harricknen also noted that as PNG prepares to celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2025, a significant question looms for the people: What are we celebrating? Is it worth celebrating? “We still remember the tragic events of Black Wednesday on January 10th, 2024, and the ongoing tribal killings in places like Enga, Southern Highlands, Hela, Alotau, Rabaul, Madang, East Sepik, and the recent brutal incidents in Goilala and Port Moresby. This cycle of violence seems endless,” the President said. He urged the national government to urgently and seriously address these concerns. “Police and law enforcement agencies must be free from political interference to fulfill their duties effectively. Public service and constitutional offices should not be politicized." “We need a change in the culture of money politics to foster leadership built on integrity and common sense. Tribal warlords must be held accountable to the full extent of the law if we ever hope to end tribal conflicts.” “The churches and civil society can only do so much. We pray and hope for good governance, justice, and peace in our country and communities,” he concluded.

Foreign Affairs Minister and Moresby South MP, Justin Tkatchenko, has intervened to address a potential ethnic conflict in Kaugere, following the death of a man who succumbed to injuries inflicted on him by a group of young men. The deceased from Hela Province, had been living in a property owned by the family of one of nine suspects from Gulf Province. The deceased's family organized a haus krai (a mourning gathering) and made demands for compensation from the families of the suspects, setting a deadline for their request. In a firm statement to both families at the haus krai, Minister Tkatchenko condemned the attack and the resulting death. He urged the family of the deceased to allow the law to take its course. “I completely condemn the attack and the unfortunate death. The suspects are now in police custody, and we must respect the legal process. They are innocent until proven guilty. However, no one is above the law." “This assistance is not meant to satisfy the demands of the deceased’s family. Let me be clear: we cannot continue to hold each other to ransom. The law must prevail." “I will assist with the costs for repatriation and the funeral so that the family can give the deceased a respectful farewell, honoring him with the dignity he deserves," said the MP. Minister Tkatchenko urged both parties involved to remain patient and allow the legal process to unfold, encouraging peaceful coexistence in the community. “As members of the Kaugere community, whether from Hela, Gulf, or Western Province, we must unite in times like this." "Stop fighting among ourselves, respect one another, and let the law take its course." “In difficult times, all leaders and individuals must come together for the common good of our community,” he concluded.

The Kamano-Kafe Seventh-day Adventist Students Association (ASA) YESUNOFI, is set to host its 34th Annual Convention Camp at Titona Village in Dunatina Local Level Government (LLG) of Henganofi District, Eastern Highlands Province. Founded in 1991, the Kamano-Kafe Adventist Students Association is a student organization dedicated to supporting spiritual, academic, and social growth within the community and has provided a platform for Henhanofi Seventh-day Adventist students who speak the Kamano-Kafe language. It focuses on promoting unity and collaboration among students and the community, encouraging academic excellence and personal development in alignment with Christian principles, and offering mentorship and guidance to younger students. Association President, Mccrecgen Rusty Korarome, acknowledged the association's achievements over the years, including organizing annual spiritual conventions, evangelistic programs, and community outreach projects. “Kamano-Kafe ASA actively gives back to the community through initiatives like free water supply, clean-up campaigns in villages and public spaces, assistance with church construction, mentorship and educational support for primary and high school students, health awareness and offering free skills training in areas such as beekeeping, financial literacy, and courtship. “The association has also built a strong network of Adventist professionals who mentor students and promote Adventist values among the youth,” President Korame said. He emphasized that the association's primary goals include promoting the Adventist faith and baptizing new believers, expanding outreach programs to reach more communities, enhancing support for students through spiritual retreats and academic workshops, and establishing community projects. Mr. Korarome also noted that the highly anticipated 34th YESUNOFI Convention Camp will run from January 24th to 26th. This event aims to raise awareness in the Titona community about the upcoming convention at the end of the year. The theme of the Convention Camp is "Jesus Is Our Everything,” and will feature praise and worship sessions led by the Kamano-Kafe ASA YESUNOFI choirs and youth groups, and outreach activities focused on health awareness and community service initiatives. The program is expected to attract approximately 350 to 500 Kamano-Kafe Adventist students from Henganofi and Kainantu Districts. These students will come from various institutions, including primary and secondary schools and tertiary institutions from across the country, along with local community members.

The Papua New Guinea University of Technology (PNGUoT) is pleased to announce that all five engineering courses have been granted full accreditation recently by Engineers Australia under the prestigious Washington Accord, following a comprehensive review in September last year. The accredited engineering programs, which came into effect on 18th December 2024, include the Bachelor of Civil Engineering (Honours), Bachelor of Electrical Engineering (Honours), Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering (Honours), Bachelor of Mining Engineering (Honours), and Bachelor of Mineral Processing Engineering (Honours). As part of the Washington Accord, these engineering degrees are now recognized in countries such as the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and other member countries, opening doors to advanced education and international career opportunities. This achievement highlights PNGUoT’s commitment to world-class education and global competitiveness for its graduates, as enshrined in its vision and mission. The full accreditation granted is for a term of five years. This achievement is a significant milestone for PNGUoT, allowing its engineering graduates to gain enhanced postgraduate and employability mobility, enabling them to work globally without additional qualification assessments. Furthermore, it provides free graduate membership and a streamlined pathway to gain full membership, leading to international recognition as professional engineers. In celebrating this achievement, Vice Chancellor Professor Ora Renagi emphasized that this remarkable accomplishment is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the entire PNGUoT community, including its esteemed faculty and students. He expressed his gratitude to the Dean of Engineering, the Heads of the four engineering schools, and all faculty and students who contributed to reaching this significant milestone. PNGUoT embarked on the accreditation journey for its engineering programs in 2017, with the goal of aligning its offerings to international standards. This process was boosted by the support of the PNGUoT Industry Advisory Board, comprising key representatives from various mining companies, including Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited, ExxonMobil, Ok Tedi Mining Limited, and others throughout PNG. A special mention goes to the Chairman of the Industry Advisory Board, Dr. Luke Liria. In 2019, the engineering courses attained provisional accreditation, meeting Engineers Australia Stage 1 Competency Standards and the PNG National Qualifications Framework (PNGNQF) level 8. Professor Renagi also paid tribute to the former Deans of the Engineering Faculty—late Professor John Pumwa, late Dr. Moses Kavi, and late Dr. Gabriel Arpa—recognizing their essential roles in developing the accreditation programs during their tenures. Dr. Shoeb Syed, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, emphasized that accreditation is an ongoing process, requiring continuous collaboration with industry partners and stakeholders to maintain high educational standards. He further stated the need for PNGUoT to maintain the accredited standards and teaching practices through continuous funding and training for staff in the coming years. He highlighted that the conditions that accompanied the award are being addressed and will be lifted in May 2025. The next review for maintaining full accreditation will be conducted in 2029. PNGUoT extends its heartfelt appreciation to the industry, government agencies, and graduates for their invaluable support throughout this accreditation process. The accreditation of the engineering programs positions PNGUoT as a leading higher education institution in the country, committed to preparing its graduates for the real world.

Womayen Market in East Sepik province, the highly anticipated first-ever 24-hour market in Papua New Guinea (PNG) and the first in the South Pacific, is set to commence its project work next month. Minister for International Trade and Investment and Yangoru-Saussia MP, Richard Maru, confirmed this after meeting with the leaders of the market project, who are eager to get started. “We are ready to kickstart the Womayen Project next month,” he stated. Minister Maru emphasized that the Yangoru-Saussia District Development Authority (DDA) and United Nations (UN) Women initiated the project, which aims to serve both the Yangoru-Saussia District and the people from the East and West Sepik Provinces who use the Sepik Highway. He also noted that this modern 24-hour market in PNG will be a state-of-the-art facility in the region. Additionally, he highlighted that UN Women has extensive experience in establishing and developing such markets around the world. The market will be constructed in three phases. The first phase will involve the village WASH project, which will launch next month and provide 200 water tanks to 200 families in Womayen Village. This will be followed by the second phase, which will consist of constructing a police station. The third phase will be the actual construction of the market. In total, the project is expected to cost K8 million and will serve as a significant transformation for the district and the province as a whole.

A quick response by police in Port Moresby city over the weekend resulted in the apprehension of suspects who were involved in a home invasion at the Glory Estate in 8 Mile. The police apprehended three of the total ten suspects that broke into the house and stole items. The seven are still on the run. According to the police report, it was alleged that on Saturday night, January 18th, ten men who were armed with homemade guns and other forms of weapons, entered an apartment at Glory Estate and stole three phones, a laptop, and K30, 000 cash. Police units who were on night duty quickly responded to the distress call at the Glory Estate. Police were able to track one of the stolen phones between 1am and 2am and apprehended three suspects. The suspects are now detained at the Boroko Police Station after being charged with the appropriate charges, while the hunt for the others continues at this time.

The Member of Parliament (MP) for Port Moresby South and Foreign Affairs Minister, Justin Tkachenko, has organized an exciting event—the Back-to-School Fishing Competition—for the children of Port Moresby city, aimed to refresh their spirits before heading back to school. The Back-to-School Fishing Competition will take place at Adventure Park, 14 Mile in Port Moresby over two days: Saturday, February 1st, and Sunday, February 2, starting from 9am to 5pm. There will be hundreds of prizes available for the children to win, helping to prepare them for the school year 2025 by providing support for their stationery and uniforms. The program will feature a “Catch a Tag Fish” contest, with prizes as follows: - 100 Fish with Green Tags (K50 each) - 50 Fish with Yellow Tags (K100 each) - 10 Fish with Red Tags (K500 each) Participants are encouraged to bring their own fishing lines and bait, or they may purchase them on the day of the event. The admission fee for each participant is K10, which should be paid at the event site before the event starts. The event is set to be a fantastic day out for the whole family.

Governor for East Sepik, Allan Bird has provided alternate fuel supplier Solution for his Province, given continuous fuel supply shortage in the province and nationwide. “I am pleased to advise our people that a fuel distributor is ready to locate 600,000 liters of temporary fuel storage to Wewak as soon as possible and supply fuel to the Sepik region. “After 2 years of fuel shortages, it is good to finally have a solution in Zap Fuel. "The fuel supply by Zap Fuels is a 100 percent private sector solution. East Sepik Provincial Government (ESPG) will only help to facilitate. We will not be providing any funding for the business,” Governor Bird said. Zap Fuel currently supplies fuel to Manus, Gulf and the Autonomous Region of Bougainville and they have now expressed an interest in meeting East Sepik shortage of a million plus liters of petroleum products each month. This week ESPG will connect them with potential business partners in Wewak so they can start as soon as possible. Governor Bird emphasized that over the next 12 months ESPG will assist the Fuel suppliers to find land to build a tank farm so they can provide the province with fuel options for the future. He also stressed that the ESPG’s next challenge is to solve the continuous power blackouts. “We need reliable power supplies and PNG Power Limited (PPL) sadly doesn't have the solutions. “This year we will find solutions and seek out the partners who will help us with solutions. ESPG is ready to welcome businesses who will provide solutions for our people,” Governor Bird concluded.

BSP customers can now deposit cash at ATMs, eliminating the need to wait in long queues at bank counters. This service allows customers to deposit money at a location and time that is convenient for them. The Bank of South Pacific (BSP) has partnered with NCR Atleos Corporation, a global leader in self-service financial solutions, to upgrade and install ATMs equipped with advanced technology to benefit its customers in Papua New Guinea (PNG) and across the South Pacific. BSP will roll out over 600 advanced ATMs with enhanced features, including the ability to make account deposit directly to ATM. This upgrade will enhance reliability and improve customer experiences, as announced today at Ravalian Haus, Harbour City, in Port Moresby. BSP Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mark Robinson emphasized that with this innovative upgrade, BSP will uniquely enable deposit capabilities at ATMs, a first for any commercial bank in the country. “We hope this will help alleviate some of the familiar queues at ATMs and branches throughout the country. The project will begin with the technology refresh and rollout of deposit ATMs in PNG by mid-year, followed by expansions into six other Pacific markets later in the year,” he said. This advanced technology will position BSP as a leader in innovation and customer convenience. Currently, the BSP network consists of 600 ATMs, with approximately 300 in PNG, 120 in Fiji, and the remainder in Samoa, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Tonga, and the Cook Islands. The introduction of the new self-service ATM network is expected to enhance customer convenience and help reduce the burden on 120 branches. This milestone initiative aims to decrease customer queues, lower in-branch traffic, and offer a more efficient and convenient approach to serving customers. The investment in this upgrade exceeds 90 million Kina, a considerable amount that represents a significant portion of BSP’s annual net income. The CEO reaffirmed the bank's commitment to making banking easier and more convenient for customers. “We are dedicated to modernizing our banking services to meet the evolving needs of our customers, both in Papua New Guinea (PNG) and in the other six Pacific countries where we operate. As a proud South Pacific Bank, our mission is to promote prosperity in the region by providing reliable and consistent service to our customers. Today marks a significant milestone in that journey,” he said. Robinson also expressed excitement about the partnership with NCR, noting that through this collaboration, BSP is undertaking a major upgrade of its ATM fleet.