The Kopkop College in Port Moresby city recently celebrated the successful completion of the 2025 academic year, with all 27 Grade 8 students passing the National Examination, marking another outstanding academic milestone for the school.The announcement was made by Lower Secondary School Principal Frederick Raka during the graduation ceremony for Grades 6, 8, and 10. Grade 6 students were certified based on the school’s internal testing criteria, ensuring they meet the requirements to progress to Grade 7. Mr. Raka revealed that all 27 Grade 8 students scored above the national pass mark of 80, achieving 100 percent success. The school also celebrated the recent graduation of its 2025 Grade 12 students, with results for Grades 10 and 12 expected to be released on December 9. This year, 25 students scored above 100, reflecting exceptional dedication and commitment. In 2024, Kopkop College ranked fifth in the province out of 43 schools that enrolled Grade 8 students. Mr. Raka expressed gratitude to teachers, support staff, and parents, emphasizing that their collaboration contributed to the students’ success. Director Leon Buskens highlighted that both Kopkop campuses in Port Moresby and Kavieng were among the top ten schools nationally based on last year’s results. He reflected on the school’s journey, which began 24 years ago as a small early childhood center, and emphasized that the celebration recognized not only academic excellence but also the progress of all students. With this year’s graduation themed “Exploration and Innovation”, Mr. Buskens encouraged students to embrace creativity, critical thinking, and curiosity. He urged them to explore their interests, ask questions, and share their ideas, highlighting that innovation is about courage, learning, and discovery.

The Minister for Rural and Economic Development and Member for Kandrian Gloucester District, Joseph Lelang, has come out to publicly condemned misleading claims circulating in the media and on social media about him, calling them completely false and politically motivated. The allegations, made by a man named John Sanga Mondo, merely suggest that Minister Lelang and the Kandrian Gloucester District Development Authority (DDA) have neglected the Silovuti Junction to Wara Wia road. The Minister firmly rejected these claims, describing them as deliberate attempts to mislead the people of Kandrian Gloucester. “I will not allow baseless accusations to tarnish the truth or undermine established government processes,” Minister Lelang said. He made it clear that the Kandrian DDA approved the Silovuti Junction to Wia River to Kandrian Station road project on 7 November 2022. The project received National Government approval for K50 million, with K10 million to be released annually under the Public Investment Program. Since this is an existing logging road, the funds are administered through the West New Britain Provincial Government, which issued contracts and engages logging companies operating in the area to maintain the roads. “This project is under active contract with the Provincial Government. The contractor’s equipment is on site, their teams are working, and legally, I have no authority to intervene. Anyone making claims otherwise is either ignorant of government procedure or deliberately misleading the public,” Minister Lelang said. He called on Mr. Mondo to direct his questions to the West New Britain Provincial Government rather than making “reckless statements that mislead the public and attempt to score political points.” Minister Lelang also reminded the public that Mr. John Sanga Mondo is a former candidate for the West New Britain Regional seat, who lost in the 2022 national elections, questioning his motives in making statements on district development, especially with the next National General Elections coming up in less than 12 months. Minister Lelang highlighted his ongoing commitment to infrastructure development, pointing to significant allocations already in motion, including K2.3 million for Phase One of the Gloucester Ring road, K500,000 for Aingon inland road maintenance in Gasmata LLG, and K3 million for a maintenance program from Senemsi LLG Chamber to Kandrian Station road.Following Prime Minister James Marape’s visit to Gasmata in February 2025, the DDA has also completed feasibility studies and submitted a K400million proposal for a major new highway linking Gloucester, Kandrian, Gasmata, and onward to Kimbe, the largest infrastructure investment in the district’s history. Minister Lelang condemned Mr. Mondo’s statements as “irresponsible, misleading, and politically driven,” emphasizing that such actions amount to online harassment. “This crosses into cyberbullying and defamation and I will be referring this matter to the appropriate authorities for proper actions,” he said. He also urged the West New Britain Provincial Government to “step forward and provide transparency on the Silovuti to Wara Wia road contract” so the public can see who is responsible and how progress is being made. “The people of Kandrian Gloucester deserve facts, not political lies,” Minister Lelang concluded.

The Remington Group has issued a statement today, saddened by the tragic boat accident over the weekend that claimed the lives of four (4) people.In that statement, the Group Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mr. Justin Kieseker said the Remington Group is deeply saddened by the tragic boating incident that occurred on Saturday, 6th December, off Lion Island, which is just outside the city of Port Moresby.“This heartbreaking event claimed the lives of three valued members of our Remington team, as well as a child who was part of the extended Remington family,” said the Group CEO. “We are a close-knit organization, and this loss has shaken us profoundly. Our thoughts, prayers, and heartfelt condolences go out to the families, colleagues, and loved ones who are grieving during this incredibly difficult time.”Since the incident, the Remington Group management team has been working closely with the families, authorities, the boat operator, and all relevant parties to ensure they receive every possible support. “We are providing counselling services, medical assistance, and practical help to survivors of the incident, and we will continue to stand with them in the days ahead.We are fully cooperating with the ongoing investigations and expect a thorough and transparent process. We remain committed to ensuring that the circumstances surrounding this tragedy is properly addressed and that accountability is upheld in accordance with the law,” said Mr. Kieseker.“Out of respect for the families and in support of the investigative process, we ask the public and the media to refrain from sharing unverified information, images, or speculation relating to the incident. We respectfully request that the privacy of those affected be upheld.”He also advised that all media enquiries should be directed to the Remington Group Marketing Department at marketing@remington.com.pg. “We thank our staff, partners, and the community for their compassion and understanding at this deeply challenging time. Our focus now is on supporting our people and honoring the memory of those we have tragically lost.” 

The Madang Provincial Hospital is scale down some services during the festive season says Madang Provincial Health Authority (PHA) Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Dr. Martin Daimen.He said consultative clinics; elective surgeries and the eye clinic will close for the holiday period and reopen in February 2026.The CEO said only the essential services will continue.“All emergencies, TB and HIV clinics will remain open except on public holidays,” Dr. Daimen said.He also confirmed that hospital fees will stay the same for now, with any changes expected next year after Board approval.Madang PHA is reminding the public to stay safe during Christmas and New Year and only visit the hospital for urgent care.

Early childhood learners at Kopkop College in Port Moresby city marked the completion of their first academic stage in an environment that fosters confidence, care, and open-mindedness.The 42nd Early-Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) graduation was held at the school on Tuesday, December 2nd. The program certified 37 young learners, celebrating their transition from kindergarten to primary school, and recognized top-performing students, including the most improved. Head of School, Vagi Malaga, highlighted the journey of the learners, noting that the first weeks were filled with tears and hesitant steps, but through patience, routines, and guidance, the children developed curiosity and confidence. He praised the teachers for their dedication, emphasizing that their efforts help cultivate a lifelong love of learning in students. School Principal for Kopkop Primary, Isaac Senau, reflected on the strong partnership between the school, parents, and teachers, which has created a supportive learning environment. He noted the learners’ growth in all areas, from academic skills like reading and writing to confidence in performing and participating in activities. The school reaffirmed its commitment to celebrating these early milestones, recognizing the hard work and achievements of its youngest students as they prepare to embark on the next stage of their educational journey in 2026.

SP Brewery’s corporate darts teams, the Brew Masters and the Draught Masters, donated K11,000 to the Port Moresby General Hospital Oncology Unit following their victory in the Port Moresby Metro Corporate Charity Darts Competition.The cheque presentation took place on Friday 5 December at the SP Brewery Head Office in Port Moresby. “Winning the competition was an honour, but the true reward comes from being able to support those who need it most. By giving this donation to the hospital’s cancer unit, we hope to make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients and families facing an incredibly challenging journey,” said Joshua Wanji SP Brewery company lawyer and team captain. “At SP Brewery, care for people is one of our values. Supporting the cancer unit reflects that commitment, and we are proud to stand with the community in the fight against cancer,” he added. Dr. Benjamin Daur, Pediatrician at the Port Moresby General Hospital Oncology Unit, was present to receive the donation on behalf of the unit. “Thank you for thinking of us during this festive season; we are truly grateful for the support. This donation will help us to carry out essential tests that enable timely diagnosis and treatment,” Dr. Daur said. SP Brewery is among 35 corporate teams in Port Moresby that participated in the competition.

The FODE Central Provincial Centre successfully hosted its 3rd Graduation Ceremony of 2025 under the theme Breaking Barriers – Celebrating Life – Lifelong Learning.A total of 453 students graduated this year, including 303 Grade 12 Full Correspondence students, 135 Grade 10 Full Correspondence students, and 15 Grade 8 students. The milestone reflects continued growth in student enrolment and highlights the centre’s commitment to accessible education. Outstanding academic performance was recognized through awards in various categories, showcasing the dedication and achievements of the graduating students. The ceremony began with a welcome from the FODE Principal, Anthony Rayappan, who acknowledged the graduating class, distinguished guests from the Education Department, and the keynote speaker, Commander Defence Force (CDF) Rear Admiral Philip Polewara. The event featured a speech from FODE Central students’ representative Madiu Andrew, who emphasized that the day celebrated the graduates’ efforts and marked the beginning of the next chapter in their educational journey. The ceremony also included recognition of the support provided by FODE management, teachers, and staff in guiding students to this achievement. First Assistant Secretary for Flexible, Open and Distance Education & Inclusive Education (FODE&IE) Division, Andrew Angobe, commended the graduating class and highlighted the importance of FODE pathways in providing opportunities comparable to the formal school system. Deputy Secretary – Schools & Directorate, Walipe Wingi, underscored the significance of education and encouraged graduates to maintain determination in pursuing further studies, while acknowledging the contributions of teachers and staff. Keynote speaker, CDF Rear Admiral Philip Polewara, acknowledged the vital role FODE plays in offering second-chance educational opportunities to students outside the formal school system and stressed the importance of education in helping students achieve their life goals. The ceremony concluded with closing remarks from Principal Anthony Rayappan, who encouraged graduates to continue their studies with perseverance, emphasizing that their dedication would prepare them to become future leaders contributing to national development.

The Provincial Member and Governor for Madang, Ramsey Pariwa, has assured that his commitment to addressing issues faced by the displaced Manam Islanders remains steadfast and he pledges to build their human resource capacity going forward.Speaking during the presentation of a K218,200 cheque to the new Fr Frank Zuccolo Memorial Manam High School at the Potsdam care centre in Bogia District of Madang over the weekend, Pariwa said due to their situation and unavailability of land, human resource would be the solution to empower the people of Manam and improve their living standards."I am confident that human resource will bring Manam forward," Pariwa said."With the current situation, we all know that there is no other way Manam people can sustain themselves, except through human resource and that can be achieved if we invest in the education of our children," he said."I have realized that there is potential in our young generation because I've come across many elite Manam people who are well educated and living successful lives both in PNG and abroad," Pariwa said."Most of them are household names in Madang Town, Port Moresby and elsewhere," he said."So, we will cultivate Human Resource for the people of Manam from today going forward in the next 50 years and beyond," Pariwa said.When questioned by a representative of the Chiefs (Kukurai) of Manam if special consideration would be given to Manam students attending tertiary institutions under the Provincial Government's Sir Peter Barter Scholarship school fee subsidy scheme, Pariwa assured them that he has taken it into consideration and will bring it up with the scholarship committee to act on it because education remains a priority under his government.Governor Pariwa also told the Manam people that should they come across any issues they can always feel free to see him as his office is always open to everyone from all over Madang Province.Board Chairman of the newly established Manam High School, Gabriel Sila, in a very moving speech, reminded Governor Pariwa of the hardships they have faced while trying to ensure that their children pursue education and make it in life."As Chairman, what I am going to say is a sad story for us Manam people especially our children," Sila said."There was a situation that has happened and one of our kids lost his life and this has driven us to work towards what you see before you, a school of our own and we are so proud having come this far," he said."Even though we had no money, we have parents gave support in whatever little way we could, and the Yabu Local Level Government stepped in and helped to build this school," Sila said.He concluded that they still need classrooms, teachers house, clean drinking water and sanitation and electricity source to ensure effective operation of the new Manam High School.Madang Provincial Education Director, Mr. Alphonse Igag, who also attended the program and took note of the school boards concern of registration, assured the board and management that the issue will be sorted out before school starts next year."I can confirm that this school is the only school in the province that has all the necessary infrastructure and qualified to be a registered junior high school," he said."This school came about mainly through the support of Manam people who quietly build this school without noise," Igag said. "So, first thing next year, we will bring School Registration Compliance Committee to do a check list and make sure they give junior high school status given your situation," he said.Igag reiterated that most schools in Madang have applied to attain junior high school status but were rejected because they did not have the necessary infrastructure having relied in infrastructures belonging to the primary school.Former Madang Governor, James Yali, who accompanied Governor Pariwa to the program also stressed on the struggles of the Manam people since the eruption in 2004."Governor, in 2004 you were in secondary school when the eruption occured and I know you understand their issue well," Yali told Pariwa."Manam people are resilient and very intelligent because their cultural structure made them resilient," he said."We can sort out other issues but if we don't sort out Manam issue, then we will still have problems as they have been disadvantaged for the past 20 plus years," Yali said.Chief of Yasa Village, Willie Rupunai, when speaking on behalf of the Manam Chiefs called on Governor Pariwa to give special consideration to the Manam children in terms of their education."I apologize that we Manam people are a constant liability to your government," he said. "We Manam people have been like this for too long, which you are well aware, and we have been regularly visiting your office," Rupunai said."Regarding the scholarship, we Manam people feel that it's too much and can you at least pay 75 percent of the fees for our students attending tertiary Institutions?" he asked Governor Pariwa.Rupunai said it would be a relief to the parents if they can get some consideration in the education sector as their children will be their human resource to support them in the future financially given their current status.

Police investigators in the NCD- Central command are investigation the boat accident that occurred over the weekend just outside the city of Port Moresby that claimed the lives of four (4) people. According to police, the 4 individuals including a woman died in a boat accident that occurred in the waters between Gereka and Lion Island on Saturday. Several others were fortunately rescued.The acting Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP), Benjamin Turi, confirmed that his officers in the Criminal Investigation Division are investigating the incident."I had assigned the Criminal Investigation Division officers to investigate the boat owners and those who organized the event to see if they had taken into consideration the safety of the people they invited when traveling out to sea. It was an unfortunate situation, and I want the relatives of those who are victims to assist the police with the investigation and not blame the Gereka locals or do anything that is not right. The party was organized, and those who were part of it are related to each other in one way or another. We must not blame innocent people,” stated ACP Turi. “The boat operator must surrender himself to the police. He must not hide from the police because many people have lost their lives, and the others are also victims of this boat tragedy. I want him to surrender to the police and provide his statement on what happened.” ACP Turi also strongly advised the collaboration of the National Maritime Safety Authority (NMSA) to ensure that those who were involved in any way in the incident are held accountable for their actions. He said the investigation team will look at the status of each individual who was on the boat and how many passengers were on the boat when the incident happened.Meanwhile, in light of this boat tragedy, Turi stressed that boat safety must always be priority. "Overloading and boat operators operating the boat under the influence of alcohol might be some of the causes of the deaths, but we will wait for the investigation team to update us when they complete their investigation. Otherwise, the public is asked to always take care and be safety conscious when traveling on boats.”He said the function was attended by Remington Technology employees, most of whom reside in the Gereka area.

Acting Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Benjamin Turi has confirmed that Drugs and Alcohol Testing kits have been received and tests will be implemented in the command next week.Police officers in the National Capital District (NCD) and Central Provinces will now be tested for drugs and alcohol, according to ACP Turi. Moreover, ACP Turi added that the Commissioner of Police, David Manning, had launched the alcohol and drug initiative last year, but it was withdrawn due to a lack of available equipment. "Now that we have the machines in place, the Internal Affairs Directorate officers will be moving around to conduct testing on all police officers in the command. This is good because we want our officers to be in a good state of mind to carry out their policing duties.” “The tests will be administered to police drivers whom we suspect are under the influence of liquor while on duty driving police vehicles. The IIU officers have been directed that testing is compulsory for all members in the command to ensure everyone is in the right state of mind when performing their duties," ACP Turi said. Meanwhile, Turi added that the alcohol and drug testing machines will be used, and reports will be provided to the management to ensure discipline and positive workforce. Officers who are found to be taking drugs or consuming liquor will be dealt with accordingly. ACP Turi said during the launching of the two machines, two officers were tested with the machines to confirmed that they give proper reading. The readings were all negative.

The Papua New Guinea Football Association (PNGFA) concluded its 20th Ordinary Congress on December 5, 2025.Delegates endorsed several significant resolutions aimed at strengthening governance, expanding membership, and elevating the national teams’ identity. The Congress brought together affiliated Member Associations, regional delegates, and key football stakeholders to review the progress of the game and approve strategic directions for the coming years. 1.    Three New Member Associations Granted Full Membership The Congress formally recognized and endorsed the following regional associations as fully-fledged Member Associations of PNGFA: •     Alotau Soccer Association •     Wewak Soccer Association •     Vanimo Soccer Association Their elevation to full membership acknowledges their compliance with PNGFA statutes, sustained football activity, and administrative capacity. The inclusion of these associations strengthens PNGFA’s national footprint and supports the development of football in Milne Bay, East Sepik and West Sepik provinces. 2.    PNG Women’s National Team Officially Renamed “PNG Bilums” The Congress unanimously endorsed the adoption of a new official name for the PNG Women’s National Team. The team will now be known as the: PNG BILUMS This replaces the former nickname “Lakatois”, marking a refreshed identity that reflects national culture, unity, and the strength of women across Papua New Guinea. The bilum- an iconic national symbol of creativity, resilience, and connection- represents the values that the women’s team carries on the regional and global stage. The PNGFA will begin integrating the new name into all competitions, communications, branding, and team representation. 3.    Endorsement of PNGFA Judicial Bodies To ensure transparency, integrity, and good governance within football, Congress confirmed the appointment and endorsement of the following judicial bodies: •     Appeals Committee •     Ethics Committee •     Disciplinary Committee These committees will oversee matters relating to ethics, disciplinary actions, and appeals in accordance with PNGFA Statutes and aligned with FIFA and OFC governance standards. Moreover, the PNGFA President and the Executive Committee extended their appreciation to all delegates, regional leaders, and partners for their continued support. The resolutions passed reflect PNGFA’s commitment to strengthening governance, expanding representation, and enhancing the identity and professionalism of football in Papua New Guinea.

St. Michael’s Brahman Secondary School in Madang province, has taken a big step into digital education with the official launch of its first Learning Management System (LMS).This new system is designed to improve teaching and learning for students in the Usino-Bundi district. The launch took place after the school’s Grade 8, 10 and 12 graduation ceremony on November 30th, 2025. Vincent Ambane Kumura, Member for Usino-Bundi, officiated the event and described the LMS as a milestone achievement for rural schools in Madang. Mr. Kumura said the new system will help close the digital gap by giving students access to online learning materials, better classroom interaction, and modern tools needed in today’s world. Mr. Kumura thanked Dr. Zureken, the Madang Provincial Education Team, District Education officers, and the school’s staff and management for making this initiative possible. He added that his team, in partnership with Lighthouse International, has a shipment of computers on the way from Townsville. These computers come with an electronic library and can integrate with the new Learning Management System to further strengthen digital learning at the school. Teachers and students expressed their excitement, saying the system will support assignments, assessments, digital resources, and real-time communication. Meanwhile, the School Principal Mr. Malagen, also said that the LMS will reduce paperwork and help students develop the digital skills needed for higher education and future employment. The launch marks an important turning point for Brahman Secondary School and is another step forward in the digital transformation of schools across Madang Province.