Twenty-four police officers from the Northern Command provinces of Morobe, Madang, Eastern Highlands and the Lae Metropolitan Command, have graduated after successfully completing an Intelligence Training Program in Lae, Morobe Province. The officers received their certificates on Friday, May 29, after completing an intensive four-day practical workshop aimed at strengthening intelligence capabilities within the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary. The training was delivered with support from the Australian Federal Police and the PNG-Australia Policing Partnership, which continue to assist with capacity building and professional development within the country's policing sector. Morobe Provincial Police Commander Chief Superintendent Samson Siguyaru, officially closed the program and congratulated the officers on successfully completing the training. He commended participants for their commitment, discipline, and active participation throughout the workshop and encouraged them to apply the skills and knowledge gained in their respective commands and police operations. He said the training equipped officers with practical skills in intelligence processes, intelligence-led policing methodologies, intelligence report writing, fact checking, open-source assessments, and intelligence analysis. “Participants were also introduced to the intelligence cycle, the differences between strategic, tactical and operational intelligence, as well as practical techniques in information collection, reporting and developing intelligence products, including criminal profiles,” said PPC Siguyaru. He also stated that the workshop focused heavily on practical learning through scenarios, case studies, and group exercises to ensure officers can apply intelligence-led policing strategies to real-world policing situations. In addition, the intelligence remains a critical component of modern policing and enabling law enforcement agencies to make informed operational and strategic decisions, prevent crime, identify criminal networks, assess risks, and respond effectively to emerging security threats. Commander Siguyaru said the officers are expected to apply the knowledge and skills gained from the training to support police operations across the country, particularly in preparation for National General Election (NATEL) 2027 security operations. He added that the ongoing partnership between the Australian Federal Police, PNG-Australia Policing Partnership, and the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary continues to strengthen policing capabilities, promote professionalism and enhance community safety and national security throughout the country.

National Capital District (NCD) Governor Powes Parkop has strongly reaffirmed his commitment to protecting Papua New Guinea’s endangered tree kangaroos during a recent government caucus meeting at the Parliament House. Highlighting the species' vital role in national biodiversity, Governor Parkop used the occasion of World Tree Kangaroo Day on May 21 to advocate for innovative fundraising initiatives. During the meeting, he spotlighted initiatives and unique community-led projects such as Tree Kangaroo Conservation Coffee and Malomalo toilet paper. These initiatives are designed to direct consumer proceeds straight into critical wildlife preservation and breeding programs. To mark the event and drive support at the highest level of leadership, the Governor presented these branded coffee products to Prime Minister James Marape and other key state ministers. Looking ahead to World Environment Day on June 5, Governor Parkop reminded all citizens of their collective responsibility to protect the nation's natural heritage. He concluded by emphasizing that safeguarding Papua New Guinea’s unique wildlife is not just an ecological priority; it is a deeply rooted cultural and national duty.

The Bulolo District Development Authority (DDA) has provided K50, 000 in cash assistance and food supplies to support the Lutheran Women’s Conference of the Buang Lutheran Circuit held in Buang in Morobe province. Member for Bulolo and DDA Chairman Sam Basil Jnr, led a district delegation to the event where the DDA presented 50 bags of rice, cartons of meat and the cash contribution to help ensure the success of the conference. During the visit, Basil announced that the DDA would fully fund the travel and participation of women representatives from all 20 wards in the Buang LLG to attend the National Lutheran Women’s Conference in Port Moresby in September. Similar support will also be extended to women representatives from Bulolo Urban, Watut and Mumeng LLGs. The Bulolo DDA also committed to several infrastructure projects aimed at improving rural connectivity. These include the construction of a new road into Kwasang Village, the host site of the conference, as well as maintenance and upgrading works on key roads in Mumeng and Watut. Basil said the district was also engaging with leaseholders and developers operating small-scale mining projects to ensure they contribute towards maintaining roads in mining communities. He said the DDA was taking action after years of poor road conditions affecting villagers and would work with developers to improve infrastructure and ensure communities benefit from resource development. “Under my leadership as Chairman, the Bulolo DDA remains dedicated to empowering our women and improving rural connectivity.” “By investing in our women and our local infrastructure, we are investing in the foundation of our district's future.”

Australia-backed infrastructure projects are not only improving schools in rural Papua New Guinea but also helping young tradespeople gain hands-on industry experience and secure employment opportunities. Ten final-year Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) students from Port Moresby Technical College are currently sharpening their practical skills at the construction site of new facilities at Vesulogo Primary School in Sogeri, Central Province. The students joined the construction team as part of their compulsory apprenticeship program under a project funded through Australia’s Kokoda Initiative Partnership under the Papua New Guinea-Australia Partnership. Local construction company LNM Building and Construction engaged the students for a three-week placement at the school site, giving them the opportunity to apply classroom learning in a real working environment. Building Manager Michaeline Pondros said the company was committed to helping students complete the practical requirements needed for graduation. “They have specific hours to complete before graduation, and on-the-job training is where they demonstrate how they apply what they learn.” The construction project has also contributed to the local economy through the engagement of local contractors, suppliers, and laborers while creating valuable opportunities for youths entering the workforce. Among the apprentices were Ms. Dambe Dulunga and Ms. Ovin Waima, the only two female students on the site, specializing in carpentry and plumbing respectively. Ms. Dulunga said working in a male-dominated trade had motivated her to push harder and prove herself in the field. “This trade is dominated by men, but that has not discouraged me from working with them.” Meanwhile, Ms. Waima said the experience exposed her to a wide range of construction tasks and strengthened her confidence. “I helped with mixing concrete, raising cement posts, and I even did some welding. I enjoyed working with the team and I’ve really gained a lot of experience.” Following the successful completion of the placement, all 10 students were offered employment by the company as trade assistants. Australia’s support for TVET and workforce development aligns with PNG’s Vision 2050 and reflects commitments under the Joint Statement of Intent on TVET renewed in 2024, recognizing the importance of skills training and employment in driving national development.

The Kutubu Secondary School in the Southern Highlands province has reached a significant milestone following the official handover of three community infrastructure projects delivered by Santos, representing an investment of nearly K600,000 aimed at improving education, water access, and sanitation services.The projects were formally handed over during a ceremony held at the school earlier this year, attended by students, teachers, and community members. The event was led by Santos Regional Manager Vagi Tamari, who emphasized the importance of investing in facilities that support education and long-term community development. “These projects are about investing in people—particularly young people—by creating a safe, healthy and enabling learning environment,” Tamari said. He encouraged students to take responsibility for maintaining the new facilities and to pursue academic excellence in return for the investment. According to Santos Sustainable Development Supervisor Philip Makari, the works were delivered under the company’s Sustainable Development Program and included upgrades to the school’s rainwater catchment system, improvements to the student dining hall, and the installation of new water storage infrastructure. Six 9,000-litre water tanks were provided alongside upgraded dining facilities. The projects also included the construction of a new female ablution block featuring six shower rooms and six septic toilets—an improvement school leaders say will have a significant social impact. Principal Bai Irabo welcomed the investment, noting it comes as the school marks its 27th anniversary. He said the school had long struggled with limited infrastructure and that the new facilities would significantly improve daily conditions for students. “These facilities—particularly the water tanks, dining hall upgrades and new female ablution block—will make a lasting difference to our students,” Irabo said, adding that improved sanitation is especially important for supporting female students’ continued education. Student representative Samantha Mora also expressed appreciation on behalf of the student body, acknowledging the positive impact the upgrades will have on learning conditions. Kutubu Secondary School currently serves 553 students, including 137 female students, and is supported by 24 teachers. The school caters to communities across districts in the Southern Highlands region. Delivered in close partnership with the school, the projects are designed to be managed locally, strengthening community ownership and building long-term operational capacity. The handover reinforces Santos’ ongoing commitment to community-led development and sustainable investment in local infrastructure.

Students and teachers at Markham Bridge Primary School in Wampar Local Level Government (LLG) now have improved learning and living facilities following the official opening of a new double classroom and teachers’ house by the Huon Gulf District Development Authority (HGD-DDA).The project was delivered under the Bottom-Up Planning (BUP) Initiative championed by Huon Gulf MP and Minister for Community Development, Youths and Religion, Jason Peter, which aims to fund and implement development priorities identified by local communities. Speaking during the opening ceremony, Minister Peter repeated his commitment to ensuring schools across the district receive the infrastructure needed to improve access to quality education. “Education is the foundation of our future. Every classroom we build and every teacher’s house we deliver is an investment in our children, our communities, and the future development of Huon Gulf District.” The HGD-DDA has so far funded and delivered 48 teachers’ houses and 30 double classrooms across the district’s 64 primary schools. The district is also supporting the establishment of junior and secondary schools, including the construction of facilities at Wampar Secondary School and Salamaua Secondary School. Minister Peter said the district is addressing a long-standing gap in secondary education, noting that for more than five decades after Independence, Huon Gulf District did not have its own secondary school.

Representatives from Australian employers and the PNG Labour Mobility Unit recently visited Divine Word University's St. Benedict Campus in Wewak to strengthen partnerships supporting the Sepik Labour Mobility Program.The delegation was welcomed by staff and students and attended presentations highlighting the university’s academic programs and training capacity. Campus Administrator Peter Paul Kaiyeke said the visit reflected a growing partnership aimed at creating education and employment opportunities through labour mobility pathways. The Campus Administrator went on to say that the university was privileged to host the delegation and valued the growing partnership with labour mobility stakeholders. “We are honoured to host our partners at the St. Benedict Campus. This visit reflects the strong relationship we are building and our shared commitment to expanding opportunities through education and labour mobility pathways.” DWU Partnership Director, Melissa Anzu outlined the university’s commitment to developing workforce-ready graduates through strong industry and government collaborations. “DWU is committed to building meaningful partnerships that strengthen training outcomes and create real opportunities for students, particularly in areas that support national and regional workforce needs.” Visitors also toured the Nursing Simulation Laboratory, where students demonstrated practical clinical skills and patient care procedures. The delegation praised the quality of the facilities and training provided at the campus. The visit concluded with a showcase of local crafts and culture, with East Sepik Provincial Government representatives expressing appreciation to DWU for supporting initiatives that promote skills development and employment opportunities for Papua New Guineans.

The people of Ward 14 in the Salamaua Local Level Government (LLG) in Morobe province, have welcomed the official reopening of the Buakap Clinic and Community Health Worker (CHW) house by the Huon Gulf Member of Parliament (MP) and Minister for Community Development, Youths and Religion, Jason Peter.The clinic, which was originally donated by Lions Club International in 1987, had fallen into disrepair and was closed in 2021, leaving surrounding communities without access to basic healthcare services. Through funding support from the Huon Gulf District Development Authority (HGD- DDA), the clinic and CHW house underwent rehabilitation and maintenance at a total cost of K100,000. The restoration project also included the extension of additional health service facilities such as a Labour Ward, Tuberculosis (TB) Wing, and an HIV & AIDS Wing to improve healthcare delivery for people living in the area. Speaking during the reopening ceremony, Jason Peter repeated his commitment to strengthening rural health services throughout Huon Gulf District, saying healthcare remains one of the district’s top priorities. “This clinic will now continue serving our people and ensure that mothers, children and families have access to proper healthcare services closer to home.” Team Present Manager for Salamaua LLG, Mr. Cliff Wembivong, thanked the HGD- DDA for restoring the facility and urged communities in Buakap and surrounding villages to take ownership of the clinic by maintaining and protecting it for future generations. HGD Health Manager Mr. Pendeck Sitong also announced that a new nursing officer will soon be deployed to support the current CHW officer in delivering healthcare services to the communities of Tabola, Wamasu, Asini, Buakap and nearby inland wards. In support of the additional staffing, the MP also committed funding towards the construction of a new health officer’s house to accommodate the incoming nursing officer. The reopening of the Buakap Clinic marks another milestone under the HGD-DDA Bottom-Up Planning and rural service delivery program, which aims to restore and improve essential government services in remote communities across the Huon Gulf District.

The National Capital District Commission’s (NCDC) ambitious Vision to transform Port Moresby into a safe, modern and future- ready capital city ahead of the PNG Chief’s entry, has just got the thumbs up from the Prime Minister.The Vision, presented by NCD Governor Powes Parkop and NCDC Management at City Hall on Friday, outlines a comprehensive Programme of City Improvements designed to prepare Port Moresby for NRL 2028 while laying the foundation for long-term Growth and Transformation through to 2040. Prime Minister James Marape who was there at the presentation, said Port Moresby must be prepared not only as the Home of the PNG Chiefs, but also as the National Stage that showcases Papua New Guinea to the world. “Governor Parkop, we will not reinvent the wheel. We will ride with your Plan,” Prime Minister Marape said. “This must be One Plan. It is a National Outcome we are engaging upon. It is a big, monumental National Outcome — not just for Sporting Visitors, but for ourselves here in Port Moresby.” The Prime Minister said Sports had a unique ability to unite Papua New Guinea, and the PNG Chiefs concept was designed to become a national rallying point for all Citizens. “The concept of the Chiefs is a concept to unite our country into one focal point,” he said. “Sports has the greatest emotional ability to gravitate the fascination of our people into one focal point. Politics can divide, but Sports can bring our people together.” Prime Minister Marape said Port Moresby would continue to serve as the nation’s Premier Host City for major National and International Events, including NRL Matches, Regional Conferences, International Summits, and future Sporting Events. The NCDC Vision includes initiatives aimed at improving Public Safety and Security, modernizing Transport Systems, enhancing Tourism and Cultural experiences, upgrading key Public Infrastructure, creating more Recreational and Community Spaces, promoting the Motu Koita heritage, improving Traffic Management, strengthening Communications and City Branding, and enhancing the overall Livability of the Capital. Among the Concepts presented were improvements to Public Transport and Mobility, development of Modern Parking Facilities, revitalization of Public Markets and Commercial Precincts, upgrades to Sporting Facilities, enhanced Policing Infrastructure, Tourism and Cultural attractions, Fan Zones, and long-term planning initiatives to ensure Port Moresby remains a competitive and attractive Regional City. Marape said Port Moresby must continue its journey towards becoming a city that is safe, green, inclusive, connected, and planned for all.

The group of Papua New Guinean journalists and media professionals who are currently in Australia, have met with the National Rugby League (NRL) today as part of the special International Media Visit (IMV).The meet with the NRL was to just brief the team of the activities for the week that the PNG media team will be engaging in. The IMV aims to strengthen coverage and understanding of the National Rugby League (NRL) ahead of PNG’s planned entry into the competition in 2028. Whilst there, the delegation will participate in a program designed to provide firsthand exposure to the Australian rugby league landscape, including the operations of the NRL and the role of media within the sport. The media visit also forms part of the broader Pacific Rugby League Partnership (PRLP), which seeks not only to support PNG’s participation in the NRL but also to generate wider social and economic benefits for the country. Meanwhile, after the meet with the NRL, the PNG media team will attend the match this evening between the Penrith Panthers and the New Zealand Warriors at the CommBank Stadium in Sydney.

After decades of stalled plans and missed opportunities, the long-awaited vision of developing Bautama into the future capital city of the Central province is finally gaining momentum.Originally proposed in 1995, with earlier ground-breaking events held in 1998 and 2007, the Bautama Central City project faced years of delays due to funding issues, administrative setbacks and accountability challenges. Now, under the leadership of Central Governor Rufina Peter, the Central Provincial government has revived the project with several key developments already underway. In February this year, Governor Peter launched major infrastructure projects including the refit of a new provincial market, a commercial complex, a residential estate and the opening of the Bautama boom-toll gate. The latest step in the development process was the Bautama Urban Planning and Infrastructure Coordination Workshop facilitated by Atlas Urban, bringing together planners, utility providers, developers and government agencies to coordinate future urban planning. Governor Peter described Bautama as a blueprint project that will guide future metropolitan developments in Central Province, particularly in areas surrounding the National Capital District (NCD) within Hiri-Koiari. She said the province must prepare for increasing migration pressures expected from national road infrastructure developments and growing urban movement between Port Moresby and Central province. “One of the critical importance of this workshop is to ensure that we as a province are ready for urban-rural migration (Port Moresby-Central) and rural-urban migration, the influx of people into the city.” Acting Central Provincial Administrator Magini Raga, said the workshop created an opportunity for technical experts, planners and investors to align development plans for the benefit of future generations. Atlas Urban Director of Design and Strategy Paul Walter said the workshop focused on integrated planning, to ensure future developments connect effectively. “We have been tasked to work with Central Province to organise the space.” “Today we are focusing on Bautama in particular, and we are thinking about how each of these projects can connect together, how power and water can come in, what sort of circulation and access needs to come in.” “Therefore, we are working together with Water PNG and various utility authorities to bring these things together.” Participants attending the workshop included Water PNG, Central Provincial Police, the Central Province Health Authority, developers and investment representatives. The Bautama initiative is expected to create new economic opportunities, attract private investment, improve access to services and provide greater participation for customary landowners in future development. After more than 30 years of planning discussions, Bautama now stands at a critical turning point as Central Province pushes to transform the long-held vision into reality.

Governor of East New Britain (ENB) Michael Marum has described choral singing as one of the most powerful instruments of unity and healing for the people of East New Britain as the province marks its historic 49th Provincial Day celebrations today, Sunday May 31st.Governor Marum said that during difficult and uncertain times, music, worship, and cultural expression continue to bring communities together, strengthen relationships, and preserve the spirit and identity of the people of ENB. “Choral singing has always been part of the soul of our people,” Governor Marum stated. “It carries our stories, our faith, our emotions, and our identity.” “In challenging times ahead, it is important that we remain united as one people through worship, culture, and harmony.” The official commemorative celebrations will take place at the historic Malaguna United Church Grounds in Rabaul, regarded as one of the spiritual and historical heartlands in the province. This important occasion themed, “We are a people born from resilience. We are strengthened by culture. We are united by history. And we are destined for an even greater future,” marks 49 years since the Independent State of Papua New Guinea officially granted provincial government status to East New Britain under the Organic Law on Provincial Government. The historic declaration endorsed by the late Governor-General Sir Tore Lokoloko, marked the beginning of a new era of regional self-governance, political identity, and administrative leadership for the people of ENB. This year’s programme is conducted in two significant parts reflecting the province’s strong foundations of faith, culture, and unity. The first part of the official programme started with an Ecumenical Church Service led by the Rt Reverend Bishop Abel Uraboro of the United Church. The service brought together churches and Christian denominations from throughout the province in thanksgiving, reflection, and prayer for East New Britain and its people. The official ENB Day Message was delivered by Governor Marum while the keynote address was presented by former Deputy Prime Minister and former Governor of East New Britain Sir Chief Leo Dion, who is known as one of the province’s most respected senior statesmen and leaders. The second part of the celebrations featured a grand Choral Singing Festival involving church choirs, schools, youth groups, and community singing groups from across the four districts. Widely recognized throughout Papua New Guinea for its strong choir traditions and rich harmonies, East New Britain has long used music and worship as expressions of peace, unity, faith, and cultural identity. Organizers say the Choral Singing Festival not only showcased talent and tradition but also serve as a symbol of togetherness and hope for future generations. The celebrations further paid tribute to the province’s visionary pioneers, traditional leaders, and grassroots movements whose determination laid the foundation for provincial identity and self-governance. Special recognition was accorded to the Mataungan Movement and the Toma leadership movements whose courageous advocacy championed the rights, dignity, and aspirations of the people throughout the Gazelle Peninsula and the wider New Britain region. The province also reflected upon one of the most defining chapters in its modern history, the devastating twin volcanic eruptions of Mount Tavurvur and Mount Vulcan in September 1994 which destroyed much of Rabaul Town and displaced thousands of residents. Yet from the ashes, emerged one of PNG’s most inspiring stories of resilience and renewal. The successful growth of Kokopo as the provincial capital together with the gradual revitalization and reopening of Rabaul Town, continue to stand as enduring symbols of the determination, resilience, and strength of the people. Today, East New Britain remains one of Papua New Guinea’s leading provinces, renowned for its fertile volcanic soil, world-class cocoa industry, rich fisheries, vibrant tourism sector, and internationally admired cultural traditions including the Baining Fire Dance, Kinavai ceremonies, Tolai choir harmonies, and historical World War II heritage sites. In preparation of the historic 50th Golden Jubilee in 2027, organizers say this year’s commemoration is not merely about remembering the past but about inspiring the next generation to continue building a province founded upon faith, culture, unity, leadership, and service. The provincial government is inviting all residents, churches, schools, communities, stakeholders, and visitors to participate in this Sunday’s celebrations. Moreover, the occasion stands as a proud reminder that the enduring strength of the province has always been found in the resilience of its people, the richness of its culture, and the unity of its communities.