The Watom Local Level Government (LLG) in the Rabaul District of East New Britain province, has officially commissioned its first-ever Junior High School on the island.This major educational milestone follows the opening of a new 3-in-1 classroom that will cater to grade nine students at the newly upgraded Billy Memorial Junior High School, located in the Rau-Taranata ward.As one of the oldest educational institutions on the island- originally established in the 1960s- the school boasts a long history of producing many successful professionals over the decades.Speaking at the official commissioning ceremony, Rabaul MP Dr. Allan Marat commended the Rabaul District Administration Infrastructure and Implementation Unit, alongside contractor Atlu Mas Construction, for successfully completing the vital project.“As human beings, we have basic needs and having access to quality education is one of them,” said Dr. Marat.“This new 3-in-1 classroom for Billy Memorial Junior High fulfils that crucial need for the people of Watom.”Dr. Marat further stressed that a child’s education ultimately begins at home.He noted that some parents fail to play their fundamental role as first teachers, only to later shift the blame to educators and law enforcers when issues arise.Headmaster for Billy Memorial Junior High School, Mision Warpin, expressed his profound gratitude toward the District Administration and the Rabaul District Development Authority (DDA) for providing the new classroom for the grade nine intakes.“Now our children on the island do not have to travel to the mainland to do grade nine. That has been brought closer to them, and it also lowers the risks of students commuting by boats,” said Mr. Warpin.Looking ahead, local authorities have confirmed that plans are already in place to establish a college and a vocational center in the future to cater to the growing student population on the island.

The National Gaming Control Board (NGCB) has provided K300, 000 to the PNG Kickboxing Federation to stage its Last Man Standing Series, promoting youth participation in sport, healthy lifestyle, discipline, and talent development nationwide.The funding support reflects the National Government’s commitment to empowering young people through sport and creating structured pathways for aspiring athletes to pursue excellence at both national and international levels.Prime Minister James Marape welcomed the support, describing sport as an important platform for youth development and nation-building.“Sport has the power to transform lives, build character, and unite communities. It provides our young people with opportunities to develop discipline, leadership, resilience, and a sense of purpose,” Prime Minister Marape said.“The Government remains committed to supporting initiatives that create positive pathways for our youth and encourage them to pursue their talents and ambitions.”“The Last Man Standing Series is an excellent example of how sport can be used as a vehicle to inspire, empower, and develop future champions for Papua New Guinea.”“I commend the National Gaming Control Board for partnering with the PNG Kickboxing Federation to support this important initiative and for continuing to invest in programs that deliver meaningful benefits to our people.”Meanwhile, Minister for Bougainville Affairs and Minister responsible for the National Gaming Control Board Manasseh Makiba, said the funding aligns with the government’s vision of supporting community-based initiatives that contribute to youth empowerment and social development.“Our young people are our greatest asset, and investing in their development is investing in the future of Papua New Guinea,” Minister Makiba said.“The National Gaming Control Board’s Give Back Program continues to support initiatives that deliver tangible and lasting benefits to communities throughout the country.”“Through this support, we are not only promoting sport but also encouraging positive lifestyle, discipline, community engagement, and personal development among our youth.”Minister Makiba also stated that the Federation’s Last Man Standing Series would provide a valuable platform for young athletes to showcase their talents, gain competitive experience, and pursue opportunities in professional sport.NGCB Chief Executive Officer (CEO) & Registrar Ms. Imelda Agon reiterated that the Board is pleased to partner with the PNG Kickboxing Federation in advancing a program that aligns with the objectives of the Give Back Program.“Sport remains one of the most effective tools for youth empowerment and social development,” Ms. Agon said.“Through this support, we hope to encourage greater participation in sport while creating opportunities for young people to realize their full potential.”“The Last Man Standing Series provides a structured pathway for aspiring athletes to develop their skills, compete at a high level, and represent Papua New Guinea with pride.”“We are pleased to support an initiative that promotes excellence, discipline, and positive community engagement.”Expressing gratitude on behalf of the sport, the PNG Kickboxing Federation’s Founding President, Mr. Stanley Nandex, expressed gratitude to the National Government and the National Gaming Control Board for their support.“The funding will significantly assist the Federation in delivering the Last Man Standing Series and expanding opportunities for young athletes across the country,” said Mr. Nandex.“This support will help us identify, nurture, and develop talent while promoting kickboxing as a sport that instils discipline, respect, and determination.”The funding assistance was made through the NGCB’s Give Back Program, which continues to support projects and initiatives that improve the lives of individuals and communities throughout Papua New Guinea.

The Provincial Executive Council has officially appointed the new board of the Morobe Fisheries Management Authority, which includes the National Fisheries Authority and Provincial Fisheries Authority as Ex Officio Members.Leadership of the freshly constituted board is anchored by Chairman John Kasu and Deputy Chairman Fabian Chow, who represents the shipping sector.They are joined by Hilmar Wong, a naval architect and shipwright, alongside Glenn Mesias, the General Manager of Frabelle, who represents the Fishing Industry Association.Rounding out the board’s diverse expertise are a Fisika representative; Weti Zozingao, the Authority’s former Provincial Programme Adviser; Misech Abraham, representing Inland Fisheries and the Anga region; and Benson Nablu, the former Secretary of the Department of Morobe and representative for the Huon region.In light of these appointments, Governor Rainbo Paita acknowledged that the Morobe Fisheries Authority has legislative oversight and an existing Memorandum of Understanding with its national counterpart that urgently needs to be revisited.Governor Paita emphasized that the Memorandum of Understanding and legislation governing the Morobe Fisheries Management Authority “must now be reviewed in its entirety — for it reflects current realities and defines responsibilities with a clarity that has long been wanting.”Under this new direction, the provincial fisheries authority is expected to shift its focus toward creating local fish markets and providing poppers for small-scale fisherfolks.Additionally, the board is tasked with building strategic networks with the five major canneries and loining plants to boost employment and economic spinoffs, while placing a much heavier emphasis on training within local TVET and SME activities.Governor Paita will specifically task the incoming Kayanga board to resolve the long-standing management of fisheries assets and land without further delay, with a particular focus on the properties located at the Malahang Industrial Centre.Responding on behalf of the newly appointed board, Mr. Nablu firmly stated that the Authority is not a body of convenience but a statutory authority with legal weight and obligation.He assured the public that the board members are fully committed to executing the development vision laid out by Governor Paita and the Provincial Executive Council.Mr. Nablu spoke with evident confidence regarding the board’s composition, highlighting the deep industry knowledge, export expertise, international perspective, and rich local experience available around the table.“We have the right people in the right place,” Mr. Nablu said. “And now we have the roadmap. We are here to get things done, and we will bring home the result that the government expects.”In closing, he thanked Mr. Kayanga, Governor Rainbo Paita, and the Provincial Executive Council for their trust, pledging that it would be repaid with absolute integrity, transparency, and accountability.

Thirteen agriculture volunteers recently completed a week-long Pre-Service Orientation (PSO) designed to prepare them for deployment across the Local Level Governments (LLGs) of Central Province.This initiative follows a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the National Volunteer Service (NVS) and the Central Provincial government.The orientation program, launched at the Believe Community Hub Hall in Kupiano Station, Abau District, aims to equip the volunteers with the necessary knowledge and skills to support agricultural development initiatives, with a primary focus on cocoa production to stimulate economic growth and enhance rural livelihoods.The opening ceremony was officiated by Abau District Administrator Mr. Trevor Tararau, who welcomed the partnership and reaffirmed the district’s commitment to supporting the program.Mr. Tararau acknowledged Central Governor Rufina Peter for spearheading the collaboration with the National Volunteer Service and championing efforts to strengthen agricultural activities throughout the province.“We see economic development in the province as a priority. NVS coming in to assist us is a bonus,” Mr. Tararau said.He further assured stakeholders that the Abau District Administration stands ready to support the initiative through the provision of time, resources, and ongoing cooperation.During the launch, NVS Director for Volunteer Management Division Mr. Kelly Aisi, congratulated the volunteers and encouraged them as they embark on their service journey.“The journey of a volunteer is challenging. Thank you for your spirit of sacrifice and commitment,” Mr. Aisi said.Ms. Anna Aisa, Executive Officer to the Chairman for Community Development of the Provincial Executive Council, also addressed the gathering, emphasizing the critical role agriculture continues to play in sustaining rural communities.“Agriculture remains the backbone of many of our communities,” said Ms. Aisa. “Through the dedication of volunteers, knowledge and practical skills can reach farmers at the grassroots level, helping them improve production, generate income, and build more resilient communities.”Intensive training sessions commenced immediately following the opening ceremony and continued throughout the week, wrapping up on Thursday.The volunteers then participated in a formal induction ceremony on Friday, 26 June, right before being officially deployed to their respective LLGs across Central Province.These volunteers are expected to play a vital role in supporting farmers, promoting agricultural best practices, and contributing to sustainable community development.Their deployment marks another important step in the ongoing partnership between NVS and the Central Provincial Government to strengthen rural economies and create lasting opportunities for communities throughout the province.

A collective number of health clinicians and frontline workers from the East New Britian Provincial Health Authority (ENBPHA), Catholic Church Health Services, Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) Health, and the United Church Health sector recently partnered with the Burnette Institute for an intensive, week-long adolescent health training program.The initiative is part of Burnet’s broader commitment to improving sexual and reproductive health for maternal and child health across the Asia- Pacific.In the province, twenty-five percent of the population is made up of adolescents (10-24 years of age) where there is minimal health care accessibility.Rising issues encountered as teenage pregnancy, Sexually Transmitted Infection/ Human Immunodeficiency Virus (STI/HIV), suicide, mental health disorders, drug and alcohol abuse, school dropout, and sexual violence, are becoming a barrier for responsive care that health staff need to cater for.ENB PHA Family Health Coordinator Gerarda Vinia said it is extremely important for health staff to understanding how to respond to sensitive adolescent concerns.“The focus of the training is on developing the understanding, communication skills and confidence to deal effectively with adolescent clients.”“Also, staff must know how they can empower young people with knowledge around puberty, pregnancy prevention, and reproductive rights.”She further stated that it is equally important that adolescents who suffer from mental health are fully assisted well.“There are a high number of young people tending to drug and alcohol abuse because they are mentally disturbed from problems and psychologically affected.”“It is a concern for us health to start addressing the emotional, social and psychological challenges.”As the province’s lead health provider, the ENBPHA faces a lot of challenges in implementing adolescent health care.Through this partnership with the Burnette Institute who actively conducts Adolescent training in PNG, a practical hands-on guide has been introduced to help clinicians seamlessly integrate adolescent care into daily operations.The new guide aligns with World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations and national policies to establish youth friendly health services focusing on:Privacy space to discuss issues with confidentiality.Health workers to be non judgemental when it comes to adolescent space.To set up a day at the facility. Currently we have only clinics for mother and children but not adolescence.To have enough stock available at all clinics for example condoms, pregnancy test kits and IBC materials.While this provides a clear path forward, challenges will also be face in terms of implementation such as:Putting the skills to work with a private space to accommodate adolescents.Referral pathway for adolescent to be strengthened.Proper documentation and data analysis pathways.Supervision- active supervision and mentoring from senior nurses to build confidence.The following recommendations have been put forward for the Provincial Health Authority to look into and action which includes:Making all clinics youth friendly.Ensure that trained staff are present to attend to them.Secure supplies or stock should be available at all times.Community and parent engagement involvement in adolescent activities.Data Accountability- for the National HIV Surveillance System (NHSS) does not capture all levels of Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) data.The ENBPHA has expressed its gratitude to the Burnet Institute and church-run health facilities for their collaborative efforts in elevating adolescent healthcare to a top priority in the province.

The Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) has formally outlined its final position on Bougainville’s political future, proposing a clear and peaceful pathway towards self-government and eventual independence.  President Hon. Ishmael Toroama presented the position recently to the Independent Facilitator overseeing the Joint Technical consultations between ABG and the National Government, reaffirming that Bougainville’s aspirations are grounded in the Bougainville Peace Agreement, the Constitution of Papua New Guinea and the commitments that have guided the peace process over the past two decades. “Today, I stand before you to present the final position of the Autonomous Bougainville Government regarding Self-government and Independence for Bougainville,” President Toroama said. The final position proposes a three-stage pathway.Under the proposal, Bougainville will continue preparations for self-government until 1 September 2027, focusing on strengthening institutions, governance systems, peace and security, and economic readiness.From 1 September 2027, Bougainville would enter a period of self-government, exercising the fullest practical and constitutional authority available under the existing legal framework, including additional powers provided under Section 289 of the Constitution.The proposal further envisages Bougainville attaining independence in 2030 as defined during the referendum process as an independent nation-state recognized under international law and separate from the State of Papua New Guinea. President Toroama said the pathway provides certainty, preserves peace and honours the democratic choice expressed by the people of Bougainville.He said Bougainville has consistently honoured both the letter and spirit of the Peace Agreement through dialogue, consultation and constitutional processes.“This position is not founded on emotion or convenience. It is founded on the Bougainville Peace Agreement, on Part XIV of the Constitution of Papua New Guinea, and on the solemn commitments and agreements that have guided our journey and preserved peace to date.”The President noted that the 2019 Referendum delivered a clear mandate from the people of Bougainville in favour of independence and that subsequent consultations between the ABG and the National Government had produced several important agreements, including the Joint Communique of 11 January 2021, the Kokopo Joint Statement, Wabag Joint Statement, APEC Joint Statement, Era Kone Covenant and the Melanesian Agreement.The President emphasized that Bougainville remains committed to dialogue, consultation and constructive engagement with the Government of Papua New Guinea.“Our objective has never been confrontation. Our objective has always been reconciliation, partnership and a peaceful transition founded on law and mutual respect.”He reaffirmed the importance of maintaining a strong and cooperative relationship between Bougainville and Papua New Guinea regardless of future political arrangements.President Toroama also called on the people of Bougainville to remain united, patient and committed to protecting the peace achieved through years of reconciliation and dialogue.The ABG maintains that the proposed pathway represents a practical and peaceful framework for advancing Bougainville’s political future while safeguarding stability, democracy and the gains made through the peace process.  Following the presentation of the final position, President Toroama formally handed the Bougainville Final Position Paper to the Independent Facilitator and the Chief Secretary to the Government of Papua New Guinea, marking the formal submission of Bougainville’s final position. 

Acting President and Minister for Treasury and Finance, Hon. Albert Punghau, officially launched the Cost-of Services Report recently in Buka.The report, titled ‘From Here To There’, commissioned by the ABG in partnership with the NEFC, was initially conducted to determine the costs of government administration and service delivery as Bougainville moves towards independence.In his keynote address, Minister Punghau was highlighted the challenges ahead, noting that the 97.7% vote for independence must be matched by "fiscal readiness". He described the current understanding of government costs as an "iceberg" where many expenses have remained hidden within national agency allocations in Waigani.“The report we launch today, ‘From Here To There’ speaks directly to both governments; the National Government of PNG and the Autonomous Bougainville Government on the financial stewardship of our people’s resources, and the political responsibility of building Bougainville into nationhood, after the people of Bougainville voted 97.7% for Independence under Part XIV of the PNG Constitution,” he said."For too long, the true cost of governing Bougainville has been obscured: some costs visible in our ABG budget, others buried within national agency allocations in Waigani, and still more invisible entirely," Punghau stated. The report utilized Bougainville-specific data including GIS mapping and price surveys, to account for the unique costs of reaching scattered atolls and inaccessible mountain communities.Minister Punghau acknowledged the National Economic Fiscal Commission for their partnership, and particularly for bringing a Bougainville-specific methodology to this exercise.As the Autonomous Region of Bougainville progresses with its independence-readiness efforts, this report identifies the specific areas in which the ABG needs to improve in sectoral administration and service delivery.“Bougainville’s journey towards independence, which our people voted for, must be met by fiscal readiness. A sovereign people must be served by a government that can sustain itself.”“President Toroama’s vision is of a Bougainville built on peace, rooted in our identity, and capable of governing itself with competence and pride. The work we do today, the planning, the costing, the accountability, lays a foundation for that Bougainville,” Punghau said.Minister Punghau acknowledged that ABG still depends on the National Government grants and that its internal revenue remains low. “This report now gives us the evidence-based foundation to build a more credible budget architecture, to guide our drawdown of powers from Waigani, and to strengthen our engagement with development partners and the Government of Papua New Guinea on grants and the true cost of the responsibilities we are assuming.”

The Teaching Service Commission (TSC) has clarified that it is not responsible for issuing or withholding professional teacher registration certificates, following media reports linking the Commission to delays affecting thousands of new teachers.In a statement released recently, Acting Chairman Maini Mike Ugaia said teacher registration certificates are issued by the National Department of Education (NDoE) to graduates of approved teacher training institutions, while the TSC’s role is limited to employing, admitting and deploying teachers.“Teacher Registration Certificates are issued by the National Department of Education (NDOE) to all new graduates from approved teacher training institutions under the Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (DHERST).”“The Commission functions solely as the employer. We approve the admission and deployment of new graduates and new commencements in the country.”“A Provisional Registration Certificate is simply one of the TSC admission requirements to enable teachers to enter the teaching workforce.”The Commission also rejected claims that it sets or enforces the minimum 2.8 Grade Point Average (GPA) requirement for teacher graduates, stating that the standard is determined by the Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (DHERST) for student selection and scholarship purposes.According to the TSC 3, 614 graduates completed teacher training programs in 2026, but delays in registration from January to June have disrupted teacher appointments and affected the welfare of those already working in schools.The Commission has urged graduates who began teaching in January to submit their admission applications through their provincial TSC offices immediately.Those who have not yet received appointments have been advised to complete admission forms now to be considered for the 2027 recruitment cycle, as appointments for 2026 have already closed.The TSC said it is working to take greater responsibility for all teacher-related matters, arguing that the current system has negatively affected teacher workforce planning over the past five years.The Commission also thanked the Marape-Rosso Government’s support for consolidating teacher management under the TSC, saying it is prepared to assume full responsibility for teacher welfare, employment and related administrative matters.

The East New Britain Provincial Health Authority (ENBPHA) male advocates are continuing to receive vital capacity-building support to promote gender equity, prevent violence against women, and to foster an inclusive workplace.This progress is made possible by the PNG-Australia Transition to Health (PATH), which provides full funding support for the Wok Wantaim Man program.Thanks to this ongoing partnership, the male advocates are now nearing completion of their six required training sessions.Recently, the advocates participated in a two-day session on “Shared Responsibilities and Caregiving and Building Allyship.”The sessions focused heavily on promoting men’s meaningful participation in caregiving and domestic labor and to further support them to act as positive allies in their communities.Male Advocacy Consultant and facilitator Emmanuel Ginis noted that the program started three years ago and remains an ongoing commitment and process of change where these men continue to practice.“I thank the men for their continuous commitment for the ongoing conversations where you do yourself reflections of your own actions and behaviors and identify which of these to apply as role models,” said Mr. Ginis.He emphasized that this makes it easier for the advocates to carry out the advocacy role in their respective areas of influence.“When you talk and go out to the communities, exercising your advocacy and talking from your experience, there certainly will be effects on others.”“We cannot do it alone, rather, build alliances and networks that can support each other to address issues.”The relentless efforts by these trained male advocates are slowly showing results of political intervention at the ward and Local Level Government (LLG) level with leaders becoming involve.Notably, the Reimber LLG in the Gazelle District, is one that has embraced the Wok Wantaim Man initiative.Meanwhile, President Benedict Warwakai, who attended the two sessions as a guest participant, highly commended the advocates for their years of hard work.“This is the way forward that the Provincial Government will support,” he said. “The onus is on us to provide the political influence to effectively implement to the entire population.”“I believe when at our political stance, the works of male advocacy will become possible as a driving tool for Gender Based Violence (GBV) and Gender Equality.”Furthermore, President Warwakai praised and acknowledged the full support of PATH, the Provincial Health Authority, and the facilitators for the endless hard work.“The continuous support on such programs for a healthy community, society and population, certainly is contributing immensely to the behavioral attitudes.”Looking ahead, the Wok Wantaim Man program has one final session remaining to develop the facilitator guide equipped with the necessary information to help with the male advocacy work in church and work programs and awareness in the community.

Seventy-two middle management staff of the East New Britain Provincial Health Authority (ENBPHA) recently completed an intensive, week-long manager’s development workshop.The program is specifically designed to provide a rapid yet broad overview of the critical aspects of managing a team, overseeing a work program, and mastering self-management.This marks the third time the ENBPHA has invested in leadership capacity building for both its senior executive and middle management tiers.The training was facilitated by the Health Services Sector Development Project (HSSDP), led by Peter Baran, who explained that the core focus is about understanding what a PHA is and grasping foundational health minimum standards.“This training will improve PHA managers’ performance to be more effective managers, role models and be of future health service leaders to create high performing teams,” Mr. Baran said.“The training is to be able to set realistic operational work plans and budgets and raising individual capabilities from operational focus to a more strategic perspective.”To achieve this, the workshop utilized adult and action learning techniques, balancing core management theory with active group discussions and dedicated windows for self-reflection.At the conclusion of the week, Acting Public Health Director Joachim Kais noted that the session provided participants with an in-depth, practical knowledge of management.“As a result of this training workshop, the PHA managers will now be able to apply a range of management techniques and practices as in communications, motivating and mentoring, coaching and empowering, counselling and disciplining, meetings management and management of performance,” Mr. Kais said.Throughout the workshop, staff were consistently encouraged to start by managing themselves in order to successfully guide those further down the line in their respective work areas.“You cannot manage others if you cannot manage yourself,” Kais emphasized. “Prioritize your time to manage resources and funding.”Following the success of this middle management session, a similar leadership training program is scheduled this October for the ENB PHA’s senior executive management staff.

WaterAid Papua New Guinea (WAPNG), in partnership with the National Capital District Provincial Health Authority (NCDPHA), has successfully facilitated a three-day Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WaSH) in Healthcare Facilities deep dive session at the 9-Mile Urban Clinic.The workshop brought together an inclusive group of clinic staff, support workers, and community leaders, highlighting a collective commitment to improving healthcare delivery through superior hygiene practices.Participants including managers, nurses, community health workers, cleaners, volunteers, and support clinicians, gained the skills necessary to identify and resolve critical gaps in water supply, sanitation, facility cleaning, and medical waste disposal.The program was delivered across six structured modules centered on the Water and Sanitation for Health Facility Improvement Tool (WASH FIT).Jointly developed by the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF, WASH FIT is a global, risk-based management framework that helps healthcare facilities meet and maintain strict minimum standards for hygienic safety.As a result of this collaboration, these localized WaSH improvement activities have been formally integrated into the NCDPHA’s broader Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) framework.This structural integration ensures that frontline facilities like the 9-Mile Urban Clinic will receive sustained system support and long-term oversight.Furthermore, the initiative directly aligns with the National Department of Health’s (NDoH) ongoing rollout of both the National Guidelines and the National Roadmap for Improving WASH in Healthcare Facilities across all Provincial Health Authorities.The Chief Executive Officer of NCDPHA Dr. Robin Oge emphasized the long-term vision of the project.“Our commitment to WaSH in healthcare facilities is unwavering,” Dr. Oge said. “By working with partners like WaterAid PNG, we are ensuring that every patient, mother, and newborn who walks into our clinics has access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene.”“This is not just about infrastructure; it is about dignity, safety, and saving lives. NCDPHA will continue to champion these improvements across all our facilities.”Moving forward, WaterAid remains dedicated to supporting the NDoH and Provincial Health Authorities as they advance national standards to meet Sustainable Development Goal 6 and Papua New Guinea’s Medium-Term Development Plan 4 (MTDP 4).The successful implementation at the 9-Mile Urban Clinic represents a critical step toward establishing safer, cleaner, and more resilient healthcare environments for families across Port Moresby and the surrounding regions.

Cocoa Board Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Jesse Tukup Anjen has challenged extension and field officers to return to their respective provinces and actively promote cocoa farming as a profitable business within their communities.Speaking during the certification and closing ceremony of a two-week Training of Trainers (ToT) program held at the Cocoa Board’s Tavilo Research Centre last Friday, Mr. Anjen emphasized the crucial role participants play in strengthening the cocoa industry.“Go back to your provinces and spread the gospel of cocoa to your farmers, households and communities. You are now empowered with all the skills and knowledge,” Mr. Anjen said.He congratulated the participants, acknowledging that each officer, regardless of their specific title, contributes meaningfully to the development of the sector.“Every one of you plays a unique role. Some have big roles, others have small roles, but every contribution is valuable.”Mr. Anjen stressed that the training directly aligns with the Cocoa Board’s recently launched corporate plan, urging officers to immediately apply what they have learned to support local growers.“You are now empowered- go back and utilize that knowledge and those skills to benefit our farmers, our families and our communities.”A key message highlighted throughout his address was the urgent need for farmers to move beyond subsistence practices and adopt a strictly business-minded approach to cocoa production.“Farmers cannot just remain simple farmers and become price takers. We need them to see cocoa as a business and always reinforce that message,” he urged.Mr. Anjen encouraged the participants to fully embrace their new roles as educators, adding that their training manuals should be treated as essential everyday tools in the field.“You are now trainers. Go out and train other extension officers, partners and our farmers.”Looking ahead, the CEO revealed plans for the Cocoa Board to develop formal training modules and courses in partnership with the Department of Education (DoE).These future initiatives include a cocoa-focused school curriculum, and a specialized business management manual tailored specifically for cocoa farming systems.“With this training, these are the kinds of forward-thinking ideas you must keep in mind and pass on to our farmers.”Mr. Anjen went on to acknowledge the support of PNG Agriculture Commercialization and Diversification (PACD) Cocoa for funding the program, as well as contributions from various departments that delivered both the theoretical and practical sessions.He highlighted the growing importance of new cocoa expansion areas, describing the Tavilo Research Centre as the true “engine room” and “heartbeat” of the entire industry.“This is where everything is generated. The right messages, skills and lessons are packaged here and taken out to the provinces.”Participants also expressed deep appreciation for the intensive program.Aileen Arija, a female extension officer representing Oro Province, noted that the program had been highly beneficial for her professional development.“In the two weeks, we learned a lot. We are honoured and thankful to the Extension and Research teams for sharing their knowledge,” she said.Similarly, Ario Panuel, an extension officer from the Central Office, thanked PACD for its vital support and highlighted the value of the training, particularly for officers stationed in emerging cocoa regions.“For me personally, I learned a lot. Coming from a new growth area, this information is very valuable to share with farmers,” he said.Mr. Panuel noted that while driving cocoa development in areas like Milne Bay presents complex geographical and economic challenges, the precise mix of theory and practical training had equipped participants with the necessary tools to succeed.“Our farmers are waiting for us. We will go back and help them improve,” he added.The Training of Trainers program is part of ongoing strategic efforts by the Cocoa Board to strengthen extension services and empower officers to deliver accurate, practical knowledge to farmers across Papua New Guinea’s expanding cocoa-growing regions.