As Papua New Guinea (PNG) approaches its 50th independence anniversary, the nation reflects on its journey and looks ahead to future challenges and opportunities. The Minister for Labour and Employment and Member for Rai Coast District, Kessy Sawang, emphasized the importance of nation-building as a collective responsibility, urging every citizen to contribute to the country's progress. “Each of us have a task to play. Each of us has a responsibility. We love our great country Papua New Guinea and it is only together we can fashion a better Papua New Guinea for all,” said Minister Sawang. Highlighting the nation's unique cultural, environmental, and historical assets, Sawang called for unity based on shared values and a common identity. She stressed the need for inclusive, sustainable, and people-centered development, with a particular focus on creating decent jobs to lift citizens out of poverty. She said in the world of work; gainful employment remains the most pressing challenge, therefore, providing decent jobs offers the means to lift people out of poverty and vulnerability. According to a 2022 survey by the National Statistical Office (NSO), Papua New Guinea's employment rate stands at 97.6%, with an estimated population of 11.9 million in 2021 and an annual growth rate of 4.9%. However, only 5.4% of the working-age population holds formal jobs, indicating a significant reliance on informal employment. To address this, Sawang announced the commissioning of the country's first official labor force survey in 2025, aimed at guiding targeted policy initiatives for job creation. “This will provide us with valuable data to guide and shape targeted policy initiatives to tackle decent job creation. Our people want and need jobs with fair wages so they can provide for themselves in a dignified and honest manner. We need to boost wages, lower inflation and create safe workplaces free from occupational hazards, harassment and discrimination,” she said. She added that the government plans to release an updated job growth strategy, recognizing the private sector's role in job creation and committing to support through social dialogue with unions and employers. According to the her, the review of minimum wages is set to conclude soon and will offer protection against unfair wages, while new policies and legislation for National Occupational Health and Safety and updates to the Employment Act will aim to eliminate workplace discrimination and align with international standards. She further said empowering women and youths are central to the government's human development agenda. Sawang announced a review of the Independence Fellowship Scheme and the introduction of new competency and skills standards for trades. Efforts will also focus on bridging the gap between informal and formal sectors and supporting the transition from school to work. “Our Independence Fellowship Scheme will be reviewed and adjusted to support the development of skilled workforce. A refresh of competency and skills standards for trades will commence next year. I will continue to work on creating a bridge between the informal and formal sectors and to support the transition from school to work,” she said. Sawang called on all Papua New Guineans to fight corruption, strengthen the rule of law, and build a safer, more prosperous nation. “Together, we need to actively work to purge our government systems and country of corruption. This scourge is a menacing and an onerous tax on economic growth, development and democracy. Corruption is not only a sin of commission but also of omission. Each one of us must stand guard and fight against this. We have a responsibility to act against corruption whenever we observe it and not just turn a blind eye. As we start a momentous year and prepare to celebrate a milestone, let us also celebrate each other and all before us who have contributed to this great nation especially the workers of Papua New Guinea,” she concluded.