The PNG-Australia Partnership is supporting Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Eastern Highlands Province to strengthen financial management skills and grow their businesses through financial literacy training.Over 30 participants have taken part in a two-day Basic Financial Literacy Training in Goroka to learn practical skills such as budgeting, saving, record keeping, tracking income and expenses, and identifying business opportunities, which are critical tools to help them sustain and grow their enterprises. Funded through the PNG-Australia Partnership, the training has been developed through a collaboration between the Eastern Highlands Division of Community Development, Nokondi Assembly of Disabled Persons, and Cottage Livelihood Consultancy. Nokondi Assembly of Disabled Persons Team Lead, Ms. Nelsie Kofiaba said the training is an important step in addressing the financial skills gap faced by many persons with disabilities in the province. She highlighted the profound impact of this initiative, noting that “it turns beneficiaries into business owners, dependents into decision-makers. Building money skills for PWDs gives them financial independence and dignity.” This practical approach is already creating tangible benefits on the ground for local entrepreneurs. Mr. Oberth Kukunto, a self-employed Poultry Farmer and member of the Nokondi Assembly of Disabled Persons, a visually impaired participant, said the training is already making a difference. Reflecting on his own experiences, he explained, “Sometimes we struggle because we do not fully understand how to manage our money or keep proper records. This training is helping me learn simple ways to control my finances and improve my small business.” By fostering these essential skills, the program ensures that local business owners are better equipped to navigate their daily operations and plan for long-term growth. Moving forward, the Australian Government remains committed to strengthening inclusive economic opportunities and supporting persons with disabilities to realize their full potential.

Twenty- two police officers from the Public Safety Section in Simbu province are currently undergoing a two-week General Duty Refresher Course, aimed at strengthening operational capabilities, discipline and service delivery within the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC). The training commenced on Monday, June 1st, at the Provincial Training Cell at Kundiawa Police Headquarters and is expected to conclude on Friday, June 12th. The program is being conducted under the RPNGC Public Safety Training framework and was formerly known as the General Duty Refresher Training. According to Simbu Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Detective Superintendent Mazuc Rubiang, the course is a mandatory training requirement within the Constabulary and is being reintroduced after not being conducted for more than four decades. He said the training is designed to reinforce core policing principles, strengthen operational skills, and ensure officers remain aligned with current policing practices and community expectations. “This training will benefit the members in the province by enhancing the knowledge, skills and the ability to respond effectively, ethically and confidently in doing their policing duties,” PPC Rubiang said. He said the training is not only a refresher course but also an important investment in building the capacity of frontline police officers. “After this training we expect our members to apply the knowledge and the skills gained through this training with professionalism when delivering policing services to members of the public across provinces, regions and the country,” he said. PPC Rubiang said the Provincial Command intends to continue the training program until all frontline Public Safety officers in Simbu province have completed the course, subject to the availability of funding. The training forms part of ongoing efforts by the Constabulary to improve policing standards, professionalism, and operational readiness among officers serving communities throughout the country.

There were tears of joy, heartfelt embraces, and a sense of relief at Jacksons International Airport on Wednesday as baby Sawong Kevin Mitian returned home to Papua New Guinea (PNG) after spending six months in Australia receiving life-saving medical treatment.The infant, one of a pair of conjoined twins born in Morobe Province last year, arrived in Port Moresby with his parents following a journey that captured the hearts of many across Papua New Guinea and beyond. Cradled in his mother's arms, Sawong's homecoming marked the latest chapter in a story defined by resilience, determination, and the collective efforts of individuals and organisations committed to saving his life. Sawong and his twin brother, Tom, were born on October 9th, 2025, at Braun Memorial Hospital in Finschhafen. Their rare condition required urgent specialist care, prompting a series of medical evacuations and assessments in the days following their birth. Just two days after they were born, Manolos Aviation pilot Captain Jurgen Ruh flew the twins from Finschhafen to Angau Memorial Hospital in Lae through the humanitarian work of the Mountain Area Medical Airlift Foundation. A few days later, he transported them to Port Moresby General Hospital, where medical specialists examined their condition. When it became clear that treatment options within Papua New Guinea were limited, Captain Ruh began searching internationally for assistance. He contacted hospitals and medical specialists in several countries before Australian authorities and specialist surgeons agreed to assess the twins for possible treatment. That effort eventually led to the twins being transferred to The Children's Hospital at Westmead in Sydney, where doctors performed the highly complex separation surgery. While the operation successfully saved Sawong, the family suffered a heartbreaking loss when his twin brother Tom passed away shortly after the procedure. For the next six months, Sawong remained in Australia under the care of specialist doctors and nurses, undergoing treatment and rehabilitation before being cleared to return home. Speaking at the airport, an emotional Captain Ruh reflected on the challenges encountered throughout the mission. "The journey to bring the twins to Australia wasn't easy. There were many obstacles along the way, and there were times when people doubted that it could be done," he said. "Seeing Sawong return home alive makes every challenge worthwhile. When I first carried him during the medical evacuation, it was as though he was determined to keep fighting." Also welcoming the family home was Paradise Private Hospital Chief Executive Officer Janet Sios and her team, who played a crucial role in caring for the twins before their transfer overseas and again upon Sawong's return. Paradise Private Hospital provided accommodation, medical care, and support services free of charge during a critical stage of the twins' treatment journey, helping ease both the financial and emotional burden on the family. Mrs. Sios said the decision to assist was driven by compassion and a commitment to helping those in need. "Sometimes you simply have to do what you can to help. We wanted to give these children every possible chance," she said. Along the way, the family also received support from veteran businessman Sir Bob Sinclair, who met them while travelling through Brisbane Airport. Moved by Sawong's story, Sir Bob pledged to fund the child's education from primary school through to university. National airline Air Niugini also assisted the family's return by providing complimentary travel from Brisbane to Port Moresby and upgrading them to business class. Ground staff in Sydney, Brisbane, and Port Moresby helped facilitate the journey, while the airline will also support the family's onward travel to Lae. Air Niugini Chief Executive Officer Alan Milne said the airline was pleased to contribute to the effort. "Air Niugini has supported many medical cases over the years, and we are pleased to assist where we can. However, the real credit belongs to Captain Ruh, Mrs. Sios, the medical teams in Papua New Guinea and Australia, and all those who worked together to give Sawong a chance at life," he said. Overwhelmed by the support they have received, Sawong's parents, Kevin and Fetima Mitian, expressed their gratitude to everyone who contributed to their son's recovery. "The support we received from so many people has been overwhelming. We truly don't have the words to express our gratitude," the family said. Captain Ruh, who has conducted numerous medical evacuation missions across some of Papua New Guinea's most remote regions, described the operation as one of the most memorable of his career. Sawong and his family will remain in Port Moresby for several days before travelling to Lae and eventually returning to their home in Gingala village, Finschhafen District. Fittingly, Captain Ruh will once again be at the controls for the final flight home. For many who followed the family's journey, Sawong's return is more than a medical success story. It is a reminder of what can be achieved when determination, generosity, and compassion come together in support of a single life.

The Papua New Guinea Office of Censorship has issued a formal Stop Notice directing The Cosmopolitan Night Club in Port Moresby to immediately cancel its planned “Pride Night” event scheduled for today June 4, 2026. The notice, issued by Chief Censor Jim Abani under the Classification of Publication (Censorship) Act 1989, orders the venue to permanently cancel the event and remove all related promotional materials. The notice also prohibits the club from hosting, facilitating, promoting or participating in future events that promote or are themed around LGBTQ+ identity, culture or practices. According to the Office of Censorship, complaints were received on June 1 regarding a digital advertisement published on the nightclub’s official Facebook page promoting the event in partnership with Crystal Bar & Lounge. Following an investigation, the Office alleged that the advertisement constituted three separate offences under the Act, including publishing an objectionable publication, publishing an objectionable publication in a public place, and making an objectionable publication. The notice states that the planned event itself would amount to a continuing offence under the Act and directed the management of The Cosmopolitan Night Club to immediately halt all preparations associated with the event. The Chief Censor cited several provisions of the Classification of Publication (Censorship) Act, including powers granted under Sections 17 and 18, and argued that the event and its promotional materials fall within the definition of an objectionable publication under the legislation. Under the notice, the nightclub has been instructed to remove, take down or destroy all remaining promotional material relating to the event, whether digital or printed, and provide written confirmation of compliance to the Office of Censorship within 48 hours. The Office further warned that failure to comply could result in enforcement action, including referral to the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) for investigation and prosecution, court applications for forfeiture of publications, and possible review or revocation of the venue's operating license by relevant authorities. In a strongly worded warning, the notice stated that the nightclub’s advertising had already constituted criminal offences under the Act and cautioned against any further action. "The Respondent’s advertising alone has already constituted criminal offences under the Act. Any further conduct – including proceeding with the ‘PRIDE NIGHT’ event – will be treated as deliberate and willful defiance of this Office and of the laws of Papua New Guinea and will be met with the full force of the law.” “You are to adhere to the Notice and Comply as of this date [June 3rd, 2026].” The notice concluded by emphasizing that the event “must not and will not go on” and that the management of The Cosmopolitan Night Club had been duly warned.

As Papua New Guinea prepares to enter the National Rugby League (NRL) competition in 2028, attention has largely focused on the headline figures surrounding Australia's $600 million (approximately K1.86 billion) commitment to the project.However, those closely following recent developments say the investment represents far more than the establishment of a professional rugby league team.During a recent tour that included training sessions, media engagements and discussions with rugby league stakeholders, it was noted that much of the public conversation has centred on the game's on-field prospects. Yet behind this lies a broader strategy aimed at strengthening sporting systems and creating long-term opportunities across Papua New Guinea and the Pacific.The funding package, spread over ten years, is not solely dedicated to the future PNG franchise. Approximately $250 million has been allocated to development pathways, grassroots rugby league programs and community initiatives throughout the region. Additional funding will support the establishment and operation of the franchise, as well as infrastructure and licensing requirements necessary for entry into the NRL competition.Industry observers say the investment should be viewed as an investment in systems, people and opportunity rather than sport alone.Beyond the future PNG Chiefs team, which will be the most visible outcome of the project, significant opportunities are expected to emerge across multiple sectors of the sporting industry.These include roles for coaches, trainers, administrators, broadcasters, content creators, event managers and marketers. The development is also expected to create career pathways for young Papua New Guineans who may not play professional rugby league but can contribute to a growing sports industry.Those involved in recent discussions highlighted the importance of development pathways, high-performance programs, administration, media operations, commercial partnerships and infrastructure as key elements required to ensure the long-term success of the franchise.Papua New Guinea (PNG) has long been recognised as a nation passionate about rugby league. Supporters of the project believe the country's NRL entry presents an opportunity to demonstrate its ability to build a professional sporting organisation that reflects the resilience, passion and potential of its people.At the same time, stakeholders acknowledge that a project of this scale will attract public scrutiny. Calls for transparency, accountability and measurable outcomes are expected as the investment progresses.While the PNG franchise is set to make its NRL debut in 2028, many believe the true success of the initiative will not be measured by its launch, but by the long-term benefits it delivers to communities, industries and future generations.Ultimately, they argue, the biggest story is not the $600 million investment itself, but what Papua New Guinea chooses to achieve with it.

The Koiari Local Level Government (LLG) Special Purpose Authority (SPA) has committed its support towards a new church infrastructure at Edevu in the Koiari district of Central province. Considering the KSPA's role in supporting church infrastructure developments in Koiari, Chairman Mr. Paul Noe said the authority's commitment towards the new church infrastructure paves a pathway to promote and enhance spiritual development with the authority's church assistance development plans. The comment by the Chairman was made during the opening of a new church pastor's house on Sunday at Edevu. "Under the new board and management of the KLLGSPA formed in 2019, the board has approved 10 percent allocated to church development programs from funds received from the Department of National Planning and Monitoring. "We implement church assistance programs in the entire Koiari LLG from these funds. We are grateful to deliver to churches right through our the Koiari LLG constituent and other proclamation areas in Rigo Koiari and Kokoda," he said. "I am pleased to present K5,000 towards the Edevu Seventh Day Adventist Church under the North- East district to start our contribution towards the building of the new church." He said of the 23 mainline churches in the Koiari LLG and the other proclamation areas, Edevu SDA church is a recipient of these funds delivered under the KLLGSPA church assistance program. Pastor Kadasa Damaro, Ministerial Secretary of the Seventh Day Adventist Central Papuan Conference, appreciated the support to the churches in promoting spiritual development in every corner of the Koiari LLG.

Papua New Guinea’s emerging rugby league talent will take centre stage this weekend when the National Youth Competition (NYC) Grand Final is showcased as part of the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup Amazing Round at Santos National Football Stadium.The Under-19 Male Grand Final will see the Central Dabaris take on the Port Moresby Vipers on Sunday morning, providing a platform for some of the country's most promising young players to compete on one of rugby league’s biggest stages. The championship match has been included as a key feature of the expanded Amazing Round program, which will also host all six Digicel ExxonMobil Cup fixtures. The initiative aims to highlight both the current stars of the game and the next generation of talent progressing through Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League’s (PNGRFL) development system. Among the players expected to make an impact is Port Moresby Vipers fullback David Sevara, who enters the decider as the competition’s leading try-scorer with five tries from five matches. For the Central Dabaris, versatile outside back and edge player David Taraka will be one to watch after producing a standout hat-trick performance in the preliminary final to help secure his side’s place in the grand final. PNGRFL Chief Executive Officer Stanley Hondina said the decision to stage the youth grand final during Amazing Round underscores the organisation’s commitment to developing future rugby league stars. “Many of these players have come through the PNGRFL Academy and National Youth Competition pathway, where they have been exposed to a structured development program designed to help them grow as athletes and individuals,” Hondina said. “The Grand Final is an opportunity for them to demonstrate the skills, discipline and commitment they have developed throughout that process.” Hondina said the National Youth Competition continues to play a vital role in preparing young athletes for higher levels of the game. “By staging the Grand Final during the Amazing Round, we are giving these young athletes the opportunity to experience a premier rugby league event and showcase their talent in front of a national audience,” he said. “The pathway from junior rugby league through to the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup and beyond is an important part of our game. Events like this demonstrate the opportunities available to young players who are committed to developing their skills and pursuing their rugby league aspirations.” The National Youth Competition has become an important component of the PNGRFL development framework, providing elite competition opportunities for young players from across the country while preparing them for representative and senior club football. Additional information on the National Youth Competition Grand Final, participating teams and related activities is expected to be released through the competition’s official social media channels throughout the week.

Remington Technology and Don Bosco Technical School (DBTS) Gabutu have formalised their long-standing partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for 2026 on May 28. The agreement reinforces both institutions’ shared commitment to advancing technical education and strengthening professional skills development in Papua New Guinea. The partnership establishes a coordinated framework focused on two key areas of collaboration. Remington Technology Limited will provide DBTS Gabutu students with structured on-the-job training aligned with the school’s academic calendar, giving them practical, hands-on experience across the company’s operational environment in various technical fields. In return, Don Bosco Technical School Gabutu will deliver tailored training and professional development programs for Remington employees, helping ensure staff remain up to date with current industry practices and standards. The signing ceremony was attended by representatives from both organisations, including DBTS Gabutu Principal Mr. Martin Dai, Deputy Principal Mr. Kenneth Gonzales, and Remington Group CEO, Mr. Justin Kieseker. Mr. Kieseker highlighted the importance of the continued partnership, noting that Remington’s investment in technical education institutions remains central to its goal of developing a skilled local workforce and creating long-term opportunities for Papua New Guinea’s youth.

Australian High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea (PNG), H.E. Mr.r Ewen McDonald, has formally welcomed the return of infant Sawong and his parents, Kevin and Fetima, to Papua New Guinea following specialized medical treatment in Australia. The High Commissioner also extended official condolences regarding Sawong’s twin brother, Tom, stating, "There are few things in life more precious than a happy, healthy, thriving baby. With joy and gratitude, I welcome baby Sawong and his parents, Kevin and Fetima, back home to Papua New Guinea. At the same time, I acknowledge and pay my respects to Sawong’s late twin brother, Tom, who sadly gave his life for Sawong to live." The medical journey required significant endurance from the family and their local community. High Commissioner McDonald noted that the infant demonstrated exceptional resilience throughout the clinical process, successfully overcoming consecutive health challenges through remarkable tenacity. The successful outcome was made possible through an international collaborative effort. The Australian Government facilitated the infant's specialized clinical care through the Sydney Children’s Hospital Network, working in coordination with multiple stakeholders. High Commissioner McDonald expressed formal gratitude to the family, network partners, church groups, civil society, and healthcare professionals in both Papua New Guinea and Australia, while also acknowledging the critical role of private donors who provided financial and in-kind logistics. Following the successful repatriation, the High Commission confirmed that Australia remains committed to its bilateral development partnership with Papua New Guinea, specifically targeting health and welfare initiatives designed to secure positive long-term outcomes for children nationwide.

Parents, teachers and school board members in Central and Sandaun provinces are taking a more active role in supporting schools and improving student learning following recent training workshops on the National Department of Education's new Parents and Citizens (P&C) Handbook. The three-day workshops, held in Port Moresby and Vanimo, were delivered with support from the Australian Government-funded Partnerships for Improving Education (PIE) program. Participants learned about their responsibilities on school boards, strategies to improve student attendance and behaviour, and ways communities can support education. Ruatoka Primary School P&C representative Philip Solomon said the training had increased parents' understanding of how their involvement directly contributes to teaching and learning outcomes. “That awareness quickly turns into action. Parents begin taking ownership, joining discussions, and sharing ideas to improve their school.” Sogeri Primary School Head Teacher Chris Manggin said the P&C was also helping promote inclusive education, with parents and teachers working together to identify and support children with disabilities. “Through the P&C, we are raising awareness and encouraging parents to bring their children forward for assessment and support,” At Gabagaba Primary School, P&C representative Vaporo Rei-Kondolo said parents are becoming more engaged in school activities and development initiatives. She said parents are helping maintain school facilities, encouraging good student behaviour, and ensuring children come to school prepared to learn. “This renewed understanding is changing what we see every day in schools.” This was part of the celebrations of ‘Global Day of Parents’

Children at Buk bilong Pikinini (BbP) Library Learning Centres across Papua New Guinea (PNG) enjoyed a day of fun, learning and treats as the organisation marked World Biscuit Day with the support of Lae Biscuit Company (LBC) and The Chow Foundation. The celebrations took place at BbP centres in Port Moresby and Lae, where children participated in a range of biscuit-themed activities, including colouring competitions, biscuit decorating, storytelling sessions, games and educational exercises. At the St Steven Library Learning Centre in Lae, which is sponsored by The Chow Foundation, the festivities were made even more memorable with a visit from the Lae Biscuit Company events team. Children dressed up as popular LBC biscuit brands, bringing creativity, colour and excitement to the occasion. Students also had the opportunity to sample the newly launched Lewa Cookies range while learning important lessons about healthy eating and oral hygiene. Organizers encouraged children to enjoy biscuits as part of a balanced diet alongside nutritious foods such as fruits, vegetables, eggs, peanut butter and milk, while emphasizing the importance of brushing teeth regularly to prevent cavities. BbP thanked The Chow Foundation, the charitable arm of Lae Biscuit Company, for becoming a Library Learning Centre partner and supporting the establishment of the St Steven Library Learning Centre in 2025 at 3 Mile, Lae. The partnership is helping provide local children with access to books, early learning opportunities, and a safe environment for education and development. BbP also acknowledged Lae Biscuit Company’s long-standing support, noting that the company recently donated 90 cartons of biscuits to assist fundraising efforts at the Lae Showground Library Learning Centre following a theft incident in which important items were stolen. Over the years, LBC has supported BbP through product donations, student activities and special events, including engagements involving the Snax Tigers team. The company’s contributions have helped create enjoyable and memorable learning experiences for children attending BbP centres. BbP expressed gratitude to its donor partners and supporters for their continued commitment to helping children and families in communities throughout Papua New Guinea.

Students and teachers at the Lakira Primary School in the Southern Highlands province can now have access to clean and reliable water, all thanks to Kina Bank. Kina Bank recently donated a 5,000 litre water tank to the primary school under its Strongim Komuniti Grant (SKG) program, led by Kina Bank staff member Sylvia Kotapu, who played a key role in coordinating the initiative and ensuring the donation addressed the school’s specific needs. “As a member of this community, I have personally observed the dedication and resilience of our teachers, as well as the daily hardships faced by both staff and students, particularly in relation to water accessibility,” said Sylvia. Located in a remote part of the Southern Highlands, Lakira Primary School serves children from surrounding rural communities where access to basic services, including safe water, remains a significant challenge. The new water tank will help address daily water shortages, supporting a healthier learning environment, and easing the burden on both students and teachers. Headmaster, Mr. Andrew Ambuya, on behalf of the school, teachers, students, and the wider community, expressed sincere appreciation to Kina Bank for the support. “This contribution makes a real difference to our school. Access to clean water has always been a challenge, and this support will greatly improve the wellbeing of our students and staff. We are truly grateful to Kina Bank for this assistance,” Mr. Ambuya said. The water tank was successfully collected and delivered to the school on 11 March 2026, marking an important signpost for the school and surrounding community. Kina Bank’s Strongim Komuniti Grant program is an internal staff-driven initiative designed to support community-based projects across Papua New Guinea. The program provides an opportunity for Kina Bank employees to give back to their home communities by nominating and leading meaningful projects that address real local needs. Through the Kina Bank’s SKG program, staff take an active role in identifying priority areas such as education, health, and community development, ensuring that support reaches places where it can have the greatest impact.