The Minister for Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Timothy Masiu on Saturday 17th May announced the “50 for 50” Connectivity Project when commemorating the World Telecommunications and Information Society Day (WTISD). Minister Masiu was in Papa Junior High School, in Central Province to launch the ICT Learning Center which was funded by the National Information and Communication Technology Authority (NICTA) under the Universal Access Services (UAS). “It is my pleasure, on behalf of the Marape Rosso government through my ministry and specifically through NICTA’s UAS program, to announce our “50 for 50” Connectivity Project aimed at increasing internet and voice coverage from current levels to 100%. This is for basic voice services and internet connectivity ensuring that no Papua New Guinean, regardless of gender or location, is not left behind. Our journey over the years has been marked by dedicated policy development, robust regulatory interventions, and ambitious connectivity programs aimed at transforming our nation’s digital landscape. The “50 for 50” Connectivity Project is a landmark initiative celebrating Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence Anniversary,” Minister Masiu said. He said that the “50 for 50” Project aims to bridge the broadband telecommunications mobile and broadcasting access gap in Papua New Guinea, addressing both the supply and demand sides of connectivity through mobile, broadcasting, and other ICT projects. “This initiative is expected to provide ICT services to approximately 2.5 million people across the country, with an estimated total cost of K50 million. Through the “50 for 50” Project, more than one hundred (100) institutions including Local Level Governments (LLGs), Districts, schools, health centres, government stations, rural airstrips local communities and small enterprises across the nation will benefit from this project,” he added. In commemorating PNG’s 50th anniversary and marking the World ICT Day, the Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to harnessing technology to promote sustainable development, economic opportunity, and social inclusion.