The Divine Word University Student Representative Council (DWU SRC) strongly urges the Minister for Higher Education and the Minister for Finance to immediately fast-track the release of the TESAS and HELP funds for the 2025 first semester, which has now ended. The DWU SRC advised of this in a media release today that it has been informed that the University Administration has reached the limit of its ability to cover for the government component of fees expected for the 2025 first semester and is considering requiring students who are currently under the TESAS scholarship and HELP loan scheme to cover their own unpaid fees. This follows the continued delay in the release of sponsorship funds from the government. The Divine Word University Administration is actively working with the Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (DHERST) to secure the TESAS and HELP funds. However, due to the delay by the Department of Finance in approving release of these grants, the University is now deliberating that students’ primary sponsors (parents) will be required to cover these unpaid government-sponsored fees for students to continue into the second semester. This development poses a serious threat to the academic future of the significant majority of students at Divine Word University. Out of the total student population at Madang Campus of 1, 943, at least 50% are currently expected to be supported by the TESAS scholarship, and 37% have applied for the HELP Loan scheme. It is deeply concerning and unacceptable that these students now will face the possibility of being excluded from classes due to funding delays that are beyond their control. Timely release of these funds is crucial to ensure that affected students are able to register and attend classes for the second semester, commencing at the end of June. Meanwhile, this newsroom received confirmation from the Divine Word University President Professor Father Phillip Gibbs that the information released by the SRC is in fact true. Father Gibbs told PNG HAUSBUNG that after four months of covering student expenses, we are reluctantly having to inform the students that the time for credit is over, and someone has to cover the fees and pay the bills. Moreover, DWU SRC has reiterated that education is a fundamental right and an investment in the future of Papua New Guinea. While the government has supported students in past years, it must now take urgent action to the government component of fees and ensure students continue to have uninterrupted access to higher education this year.

The Rabaul District Administration in East New Britain province, successfully completed a three-day refresher training that took place on the 10th to the 12th of June 2025 at the Rabaul Hotel for contractors and interested partners with the aim of upholding government compliance and procedures when dealing with projects. The training is being facilitated by the Rabaul District Project Implementation Unit and supported by the Provincial Technical Services and other relevant stakeholders including the Internal Revenue Commission. Attending the training were local contractors from Rabaul district as well as interested partners and other contractors from Kokopo and Gazelle District. When officially opening the training, the Deputy District Administrator Mr. John Matava said that this is an important training as is it essential for contractors to remain knowledgeable, compliant and for them to carry out work efficiently. He added that as contractors, overtime they become accustomed to the same nature of work that they do that they tend to forget about what binds them in the contract agreement, and do not deliver accordingly. “This refresher training can help us understand implementing projects efficiently and avoid risks including financial penalties, legal issues and reputational damage for both the contractor and employer.” Meantime, the Acting District Engineer, Jude Gigiala, said that this training is timely as the district is currently rolling out major civil and building projects. He further said that the refresher training is like a guide that will help contractors be informed on the government tender and procurement processes.

The Crown Hotel in Port Moresby city came to life last night as Papua New Guinea’s sporting elite gathered for the prestigious SP Sports Awards 2025. The 33rd edition of the awards was a momentous occasion, celebrating the outstanding achievements of Papua New Guinea (PNG) athletes in the past year (2024). Under the theme “Legends of Sports: 50 Years of Excellence and Inspiration,” the evening was a powerful tribute to the countless athletes, administrators, and coaches who have shaped the nation’s sporting landscape. A list of winners across thirteen categories received their awards. These categories as well as the winners are as follows:   Sports Photo of the Year award- Tony Haro Sports Official of the Year- Edward Kassman Sports Media of the Year- Jamie Haro Community Sports of the Year- Roland Muluyaru Para-athlete of the Year- Manega Tapari Junior Female Athlete of the Year- Timonaliz Alarcos Kriebisch Junior Male Athlete of the Year- Gaba Frank Stan Joyce Award- Pacific Industries Limited National Performance of the Year- Valley Hunters Team of the Year- PNG Mosquitos Female Athlete of the Year- Leonie Beu Male Athlete of the Year- Morea Baru Managing Director of South Pacific (SP) Brewery, Mr. Ed Weggemans said that this year was particularly special celebrating not only sporting success but also reflect on the journey of PNG sports over the past fifty years. “As we gather here to recognize the sporting achievements and excellence, let us also acknowledge the significant role sports has played in building the nation over the past fifty years.” “Sports unites Papua New Guinea and enhance our culture and diversity.” In addition, he also highlighted that for fifty years, the athletes’ sporting power has put PNG on the world stage and the sporting legends have shaped and inspired many since their first participation in the 1976 Summer Olympic Games. “They have shown that through passion and hardworking, we can perform against the world’s best and that we can dare to dream in achieving the impossible.” SP Brewery acknowledged that sporting achievements and development can be a key driver for socio economic progress and inspire behavioral change in the country. This is why SP Brewery has continued to significantly invest in this important partnership with the PNG Olympic Committee and the PNG Sports Foundation. He further mentioned that SP Brewery as a proud and responsible corporate citizen, is committed to promoting the development of sports in the country well into the next fifty years. Meanwhile, President of the PNG Olympic Committee, Mrs. Emma Waiwai, also shared similar sentiments stating that this year’s edition is made especially meaningful as a light is shone on the sporting legends and individuals who have paved a way for generations of athletes to dream bigger and aim higher. “These legends laid the foundation for the very same system we celebrate today.” “We honour the past to ignite the future. Therefore, when our young athletes see these trailblazers celebrated on a stage like this, they understand that greatness is possible.” “I am incredibly proud of the strides our athletes have made across all codes and even proud of the spirit in which they carry our flag.” The selection panel for the SP Sports Awards had a challenging task this year with over 210 nominations received across all categories, reflecting the immense talent and growing competitive spirit within PNG sports. The event at the Crown Hotel was also a chance to acknowledge the crucial support from families, friends, partners, and dedicated sponsors including Trukai Industries Limited, Coca-Cola Europacific Pacifc Partners PNG, Brands Pacific, City Pharmacy Limited Group, Carbine Clube of PNG, Crown Hotel, Air Niugini, Vodafone PNG, Next of a Kin, Kalang Advertising Limited, Color Boys PNG and KPMG Nominees (PNG) Limited.

Minister for Education, Lucas Dawa Dekena, has strongly condemned the criminal actions at Nawaeb Secondary School in Morobe and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to making all schools safe and secure for students. “We will not allow criminals to bring fear into our schools. Every student has the right to feel safe and protected while they learn.” “The Department is already working with the Morobe Provincial Education Division, police, and local leaders to ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice and that measures are in place to prevent a repeat of this horrific incident.” He also said that the incident at Nawaeb Secondary School was a grave violation of student safety and security. However, through the swift efforts of school leaders, provincial authorities, and law enforcement, the situation has been brought under control. The school has since resumed normal classes as this week is the assessment period, and the school will close for term two break on Friday, 20th of June 2025. Security has been increased on campus and students are being monitored closely to ensure their safety. Meanwhile, in response to the incident, the department, through the Morobe Provincial Education Division, will immediately review school security measures in the province. This review will also apply to all schools nationwide. The measures include, tighter gate access control, more police patrols during vulnerable periods and hours, stronger community partnerships to improve school safety and psychological support for affected students. On the evening of Thursday the 5th of January 2025, seventeen armed individuals, believed to be part of a criminal group, entered the Nawaeb Lutheran Secondary School grounds and attempted to steal mobile phones from the girls’ dormitory. During the confrontation, seven female students were stabbed, and two male students were hurt while trying to drive the attackers away. Two of the female students remain in critical condition at Angau Memorial Hospital, while the rest have been treated and discharged. In addition to this as well, the Secretary for Education Dr. Uke Kombra, confirmed that the attack was not linked to land disputes, neither school fees nor internal issues. “This was an act of opportunistic criminal behaviour targeting students.” Moreover, the department is urging parents, community leaders, and citizens to work together with schools to prevent such incidents and ensure schools remain safe spaces for learning and growth.

Supported by Australia, fifteen finalists in the annual Lily Magazine Homemade Competition have just completed a week of intensive business development training in Port Moresby city. The training, which included practical lessons and tips on key business skills such as budgeting, financial management and marketing, is being followed by eight weeks of tailored mentoring. Among the finalists undertaking the training is Ms. Julie Rereve from Bougainville, who is transforming cocoa, coffee, tea, and coconut oil into natural hair dye. She said the insights she gained on pricing and budgeting provided her a ‘golden opportunity to upgrade her business.’ Among the other finalists is Ms. Regina Varaosi from Alotau, who developed herbal soaps under the business name 28 Essence Natural Products to help those in her community struggling with skin ailments. “There were so many things that I was not aware of.” “This training is really equipping us with everything we need to scale our business.” She singled out what she has learned about financial management and annual budgeting as key takeaways that will help her ‘plan ahead so that she can avoid risks.’ Furthermore, Australia is committed to working with Papua New Guinea partners to support a vibrant micro, small and medium enterprise (MSMEs) sector through initiatives such as the Lily Magazine Competition to help transform innovative ideas into thriving enterprises that add to the diversity and resilience of the PNG economy.

Australia has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting a vibrant, independent and resilient media sector in Papua New Guinea (PNG) with a presentation of new sets of Mobile Journalism (MoJo) kits to representatives from mainstream and church media organisations in Port Moresby. The event marks the third round of MoJo kit distribution under the Media Development Initiative (MDI), a long-standing media partnership between PNG and Australia. Now in its 20th year, MDI aims to build capacity, enhance skills, and improve access to technology, including church and community-based media. A central theme of the event was the transformative power of mobile journalism in today’s digital age. Mobile phones have evolved into powerful tools for storytelling, reporting, and broadcasting. The MoJo kits, each containing the latest smart phone, tripods, recording rigs, professional-grade microphones, and other essential accessories, enable journalists to produce high-quality content on the run and from virtually anywhere. By equipping journalists with these tools, MDI supports the media to produce stories that focus on local voices and issues from the villages and provinces across the country. In an era of misinformation and digital noise, providing journalists and storytellers with the right equipment helps pave the way for credible and high-quality content. Australia also acknowledged recent positive developments in PNG’s media landscape, including implementation of the Media Council PNG Code of Ethics and Professional Practice (2024) and the 2025 PNG Media Summit, recognising the commitment and achievements of media professionals. Furthermore, the Australian Government expressed deep appreciation to the Government of Papua New Guinea, media partners, and trainers whose contributions have been vital to the success of this initiative.

A total of thirteen enthusiastic and vibrant journalists from seven media organizations recently completed a successful 3-day Mobile Journalism (Mojo) and Social Media training at Lamana Hotel in Port Moresby. This training was hosted by ABC International Development (ABCID) under the Media Development Initiative (MDI), which took place from 3rd to the 5th of June 2025. The media organizations included participants from both the mainstream media and the church media, including EMTV, PNGFM, Kalang FM Advertising, ABCID, Christian Media Network Television (CMNTV), Laif FM and Trinity FM. The team leader of ABCID in Papua New Guinea, Ms. Hare Haro expressed excitement about the participants’ progress and enthusiasm toward learning more about mobile journalism storytelling and social media training. “To all of our participants, your dedication and willingness to grow has made this workshop a resounding success.” “You all have been dedicated in harnessing the power of mobile journalism and social media to tell compelling stories.” Not only the participants receive recognition of their participation and active engagement in this training but were also given a ‘mojo kit’ in which she encouraged them to continue their skills by utilising the kits and sharing vital information in the media space. “In today’s digital age, the way we consume and share news and informatio has transformed.” “With the rise of smartphones, anyone can capture, edit, and share content with a global audience.” Ms. Haro also expressed that she is now confident that participants now have a deeper understanding of mobile journalism’s potential in storytelling. Moreover, she stated that, it takes a strengthening of passion to capture the true and real stories of people and to not only share their stories but also to hold those in power accountable to the people. The training wouldn’t have been more engaging and informative without the support from both trainers from ABC Australia; David McMeekin and Lara Lauth, whose expertise and dedication have been invaluable throughout this training. Furthermore, Ms. Haro also thanked her team for organizing this training workshop and training and the PNG AUS partnership for their continued support, hoping participants will create impactful content. This is the third Mobile Journalism and Social Media Training that ABCID under MDI has carried out with the funding support of the Australian government through the PNG AUS partnership.

Police are working with the surrounding communities of Nawaeb district lo Morobe province to apprehend youths who attacked female students of Nawaeb High School in the Morobe province. Morobe Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Superintendent Jacob Singura confirmed that between 7PM and 8PM last night, the youths from the surrounding community came into the female dormitory to steal phones and other staff and caused infiltrated harm to the female students at their dormitory. PPC Singura has already tasked his police officers this morning to go to the school and give assurance to the school management, parents and the citizens that police are investigating the matter. He has also tasked the police officers to talk to the surrounding communities to identify the youths and assist police to surrender those youths involved. “We want to make sure there is a rule of law, and it must be respected by everyone." "Those students should also be respected and allow them to live and study in a peaceful and safe environment to get an education.” “I will again attend the incident today for further follow-up as I have not confirmed the number of female students being attached.” “I appeal to the people particularly the surrounding communities to have respect for the learning institutions and make the learning environment conducive for our children to get better education.” PPC Singura stated that this kind of incident was very concerning. He also called up on everyone to identify those youths involved so that the police could arrest and bring them before the courts.

A total of 87, 990 Grade ten (10) students across the country will sit for their Written Expression National Exam on Thursday June 5th, 2025. The students are from 514 Secondary and High Schools, including 48 private permitted schools in the country who have been nominated to sit this important exam. Secretary for Education, Dr Uke Kombra, confirmed that the exam booklets have already been delivered to all the provinces and had reached all the schools a week prior to the exam date. “This marks the first National Exam in the education calendar and for National examination schedule for this year.” “The Written Expression Exam is important as any other lower secondary certificate exams to be held in October, later this year.” To ensure the integrity and fairness of the exam, the Department has put in place strict security measures for handling and distributing the exam papers. All the Provincial Education Advisers (PEAs), provincial education examination supervisors, senior secondary school inspectors, guidance officers, principals and governing councils are asked to be vigilant and security conscious with the examination materials through the actual administration, by following the rules enforced by the Measurement Services Division. Dr Kombra also advised everyone involved in the examination process to prevent all tendencies towards any mal practices that may compromise the results. “I want to remind students to stay calm and focused during the exam. Read all the questions carefully, manage your time well, and go over your work before submitting it.” Special support will be provided for students who have special needs so that they can also take the exam comfortably and fairly. He further wished all Grade ten (10) students the very best of luck and called on parents, teachers, and the community to support the students during this important time.

The Papua New Guinea Immigration and Citizenship Authority (ICSA) recently launched the first in a series of training workshops aimed at educating its officers on the importance of embedding the Gender Equity and Social Inclusion (GESI) policy into its services. Taking place at APEC House from the 20th to the 22nd of May 2025, the first of ICSA’s GESI ‘Know Your Series’ kicked off with the inaugural Know Your Strategic Work Plan three-day workshop focused on understanding ICSA’s Corporate Plan. Twenty officers from all levels across the organization participated in tailored activities over three days, including real-world case studies and scenarios. The initiative was aimed at embedding the GESI policy into strategic planning and daily tasks while promoting ownership, accountability and collaboration across teams. PNG ICSA Chief Migration Officer (CMO), Wellington Navasivu praised the success of the initiative and highlighted the importance of the GESI policy in all aspects of ICSA’s work. “We here at ICSA acknowledge the importance of furthering the GESI agenda and are working towards full implementation of the GESI policy.” “This training workshop is a pivotal step toward empowering our officers to achieve their professional aspirations while collectively improving the organization by promoting accountability and ownership.” The workshop program was structured over three days to enhance understanding and implementation of key strategies. On day one, participants engaged in interactive discussions, group presentations, and team-building activities to deepen their knowledge of strategy and planning, particularly through an examination of ICSA’s Corporate Plan 2024–2028. Followed by that, in days two and three, focused on defining roles, key performance indicators (KPIs), and practical applications of GESI principles, using case studies to connect policy with daily responsibilities. The training will continue sessions throughout this year, 2025.

The Marape-Rosso government remains steadfast in its commitment to build an education system that meets the needs of every child, leave no child behind, strengthens communities, and supports the nation’s long-term development goals. This is according to Minister for Education Lucas Dekena, who on behalf of the Ministry of Education expressed his gratitude to the government for its undivided support for a World Bank Loan. He also extends appreciation to the World Bank for its recent approval and release of US$100 million (K406 million) in funding to support the Learning Enhancement and Access Project (LEAP) in Papua New Guinea (PNG). The Learning Enhancement and Access Project (LEAP) is a transformative initiative that aims to improve learning outcomes for children across the country, targeting the foundational years, that is, Early Childhood Education (ECE) preparatory, grade one and two. This critical investment will directly support an estimated 3, 500 schools, benefiting approximately 375, 000 preparatory to grade two students and 9, 000 teachers, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive in an environment that nurtures their potential. LEAP will now focus on four key pillars including: - Preparing children to be ready to learn: The project will support pilot Early Childhood Education (ECE) initiatives, laying a strong foundation for future learning and aligning with the government’s commitment to expand and formalize ECE in the national education system. - Supporting teachers to teach effectively: LEAP will provide high-quality teaching and learning materials, extensive professional development, and teacher qualification upgrading to equip teachers with the skills and resources they need to succeed. - Modernizing infrastructure and management: Recognizing the importance of safe, well-equipped learning environments, the project will invest in refurbishing school infrastructure, improving data management systems, and enhancing overall governance in the education sector. - Strengthening project management and capacity-building: LEAP will support the Department of Education in building strong systems and human resource capacity to ensure effective delivery, monitoring, and sustainability of project activities. Minister Dekena said this funding shows the World Bank’s trust in our plans for education. “LEAP will help our teachers and children and bring hope to communities across the country and once again, I thank the World Bank for standing with us to improve the future of our children.” “We look forward to signing the agreements and formally launching the project in the coming weeks.” Moreover, the project represents the first phase of a 12-year Multiphase Programmatic Approach (MPA), designed to be a scalable and sustainable pathway to achieve significant education reforms and ultimately improve learning outcomes across the country. LEAP is aligned with the Government’s National Education Plan 2020-2029, the Medium-Term Development Plan IV 2023-27, and the country’s commitment to Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all). Furthermore, the Ministry of Education also acknowledges the ongoing efforts to secure additional funding through the $50 million OPEC Fund and the approximately $10 million grant from the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), which will bring the total project funding to approximately $160 million (K429,145,600) once finalized.

On Tuesday this week, a distinguished delegation of Papua New Gionea’s fashion representatives departed for the Fiji Fashion Week 2025, marking yet another milestone in the country’s rise on the Pacific fashion scene. Onboard this mission are cultural fashion icon Florence Jaukae Kamel, brand ambassador Incennea Minz, and Bridgette Kassman as well as Executive Assistant to the Managing Director of PNG Fashion Week. Their presence in Fiji highlights the deep commitment PNG Fashion Week has made to both regional collaboration and cultural diplomacy. Leading the charge is Florence Jaukae Kamel, known worldwide as the “Bilum Meri,” who’s handmade bilum couture pieces turn tradition into high fashion. Her participation is a celebration of PNG women’s artistry and indigenous knowledge, woven into every stitch. Also joining her is Incennea Minz, PNG Fashion Week’s vibrant brand ambassador, who will grace the Fiji Fashion Week runway as a model, proudly representing the fusion of tradition and modern Melanesian style. Incennea embodies this year’s theme, ‘GENESIS’, with elegance and authenticity. In addition, also providing crucial support is Bridgette Kassman, who travels in her role as ExecutiveKat Assistant to the Managing Director, ensuring the smooth coordination and representation of PNG Fashion Week throughout the event. The delegation is flown to Suva and back, with the courtesy of Air Niugini, the official air carrier and cornerstone partner of PNG Fashion Week. Their ongoing support plays a vital role in enabling international exposure and exchange opportunities for Papua New Guinea’s fashion industry. Adding to the moment was the presence of William Maba Bray, a celebrated PNG designer, who was at Jacksons International Airport to see the team off. William will take part in Florence Jaukae Kamel’s Bilum Festival in Goroka later this year, as part of PNG Fashion Week’s ongoing fashion exchange program, further strengthening regional and cultural fashion ties. Spokesperson from PNG Fashion Week, Bridgette Kassman stated that this is what GENESIS is all about, and that is new beginnings, deeper connections, and stronger representation PNG’s culture. “We are not just sending designers, we are sending ambassadors of heritage, identity, and innovation.” Furthermore, with the team now in Suva, they will now carry with them the pride of a nation ready to shine and bring the spirit of PNG to walk boldly down the Fiji Fashion Week 2025.