NCSL Savings & Loan Society has unveiled its newly redesigned website today, marking a significant step in improving digital accessibility and member services.The refreshed site features a modern, user-friendly interface designed to serve registered members, employers, and the general public. The redesign aims to make it easier for users to explore savings and loan options, access member services, and stay informed with the latest updates, whether at home, at work, or on the go. “This launch is a humble step forward in our journey to serve our members better. It reflects our gratitude for their continued trust and our commitment to making financial empowerment accessible to every Papua New Guinean,” said CEO Frans Kootte. “This isn’t just a new look; it’s a new way of connecting with our members.” Key features of the new website include: · Simple Layout: Easy navigation from homepage to all menu options. · Interactive Interface: Clickable links for quick access to key information. · Quick Access Tabs: Fast entry to About Us, Forms, FAQs, and more. · Media Section: Employer videos, tutorials, and the Wokabaut Tokabaut show. · Digital Services: Direct access to MyNCSL Member Online and Your NCSL Employer Online. “This redesign is more than just a new look it is a strategic step toward transparency, convenience, and member engagement, supporting our goal of building trust and delivering value through digital innovation,” said Gila Ebenosi, Head of Digital Services. The website was developed in collaboration with local technology provider SnS Tech, a company with decades of experience operating in Papua New Guinea. Members and the public are encouraged to visit www.ncsl.com.pg from today to explore the enhanced NCSL online experience.

Prime Minister (PM) James Marape said he is not scared or upset about a fresh motion of Vote of No Confidence (VoNC) in him lodged by the Opposition and looks forward to the outcome of the motion.Marape welcomed news yesterday, saying it is part of the democratic process and reflects the Constitutional rights of Members of Parliament to choose their Leaders freely and without coercion. Speaking after Parliament was informed of the new Motion’s admission by the Private Business Committee, Prime Minister Marape said he holds no fear or resentment towards the process, stressing that he will not resort to Political Camps or “behind-the-scenes lobbying” as often seen in past political struggles. “I welcome any challenge. This is not the first time Mr. Peter O’Neill has challenged me, and it may not be the last. Since I left his Government in April 2019 because I had no belief in his leadership, he has continued to pursue every possible Political and Legal means to unseat me. But I remain focused on governing and serving our people,” Prime Minister Marape said. The Prime Minister emphasized that he has faced multiple Political and Legal challenges since assuming Office on 30 May 2019, including the 2020 Political Impasse, numerous Court cases, and repeated attempts to destabilize his government. Yet, he noted, Papua New Guinea has continued to progress under his leadership. Prime Minister Marape concluded by reiterating his belief that the stability of Government and the maturity of leadership are critical to national progress. “We must stop this nonsense of constant political maneuvering. Fifty years on, our nation deserves better. Leaders must grow up and make responsible choices. The people are watching, and history will judge us all by how we act today.” He further called on ordinary Papua New Guineans to also prepare for their moment of choice, reminding them that the 2027 National General Election is only 14 months away.

Prime Minister James Marape yesterday during the parliament sitting reaffirmed that his Government has been fair and consistent in distributing Funding support across all Districts and Provinces in Papua New Guinea since taking office in 2019, rejecting claims of bias or political victimization made in Parliament by the Member for Chuave, James Nomane.In his address to Parliament, Prime Minister Marape emphasized that his government has maintained a policy of fairness and accountability in the District Services Improvement Program (DSIP) and Provincial Services Improvement Program (PSIP) allocations, ensuring that every District and Province benefits regardless of political affiliation. “I want to place on record that this Government, for the past six consecutive years, has done its utmost best to be fair to all Districts and Provinces right across the country,” Prime Minister Marape said. “If we were not fair, then even Chuave District would not have received K7 million this year — that’s already been transferred to date.” He explained that even Members of Parliament on the Opposition side have received over half of their DSIP allocations to date, including other components such as Infrastructure and Kina-for-Kina policy grants, so long as their projects align with Government development priorities under MTDP IV (Medium-Term Development Plan4). “Every Member and District that complies with the national development policy gets their due funding,” he added. “We have not discriminated against anyone. Our approach is based on national interest, not political colour.” Prime Minister Marape noted that since 2019, a total of K56 billion has been disbursed through the Budget process to Provinces, Districts, Government Departments, and Statutory Bodies — all documented and transparent. “We are not a government that hides disbursement,” he stressed. “We have been transparent, telling the country how much has been transferred to every District, every Province, and every Sector.” “In fact, I met with the Auditor General last week and requested a full Audit Report on all Departmental Agencies and Sectors that have received public funds.” The Prime Minister said that all Agencies and Sectors receiving public funds are required under the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) to submit Annual Reports by 31st March each year.  He reaffirmed that it is the Government’s responsibility to ensure accountability, not just at the national level but across the entire Public Service delivery chain. Responding directly to the Chuave MP’s comments that Simbu Province had been unfairly treated, Prime Minister Marape rejected the notion and assured the people of Simbu that their Districts have not been “systematically victimized” under his leadership. “To the good people of Simbu — you have not been left behind, all your Districts have received funding allocations as per the National Budget framework.” “The Finance Department will publish full reports showing how much each Province and District including those in Simbu has received since 2019.” He also highlighted that his government established the National Monitoring and Coordination Authority (NMCA) to strengthen the follow-up and auditing of funds disbursed nationwide, ensuring that public money is being used for tangible development outcomes. “The NMCA will not act as another bureaucracy but will engage independent auditors like Deloitte to follow the money trail,” he explained. “We want to ensure that every Kina released is producing results in education, health, infrastructure, and other vital sectors.” Prime Minister Marape further pointed out that under his Government, Chuave and other Simbu Districts have continued to receive steady funding for key infrastructure, including the Karamui Road, which has seen over K50 million in cumulative funding since 2019. “I urge all Members to focus on delivery,” he said. “K7 million or K10 million may not do everything, but let’s ensure those funds make visible impact. The records will show that our government has allocated fairly and consistently not just to Simbu, but to every District in our country.” Prime Minister Marape reaffirmed his government’s ongoing commitment to equitable development, transparency, and results-driven governance. “Our records are open, the Final Budget Outcomes from 2019 to 2024 speak for themselves.” “We have delivered funding fairly and transparently to all Provinces and Districts. Let’s now work together to make sure those funds turn into real results for our people.”

Senior government officials met in Port Moresby on Monday 27th October 2025 to mobilize action against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), asserting that the long-standing crisis demands immediate, institutional ownership and accountability within the public sector. The meeting, hosted by the Department of Personnel Management Secretary Ms. Taies Sansan, serves as a crucial preparation platform for the upcoming 20 Days of Activism against GBV and the NCD "Redvember" campaign. The nation’s alarming GBV statistics, which continue to rise despite decades of activism, were front and centre in the discussions. Secretary Sansan stressed that combating violence is not merely a women's issue but a shared human responsibility. She focused her call to action directly on the nation’s bureaucracy, urging public servants to lead the change. "Ending violence is everyone's responsibility.  It is not just a women's issue. It is a human being issue both male and female," Ms. Sansan stated. "We must all work together to take ownership and make sure our actions match our words." She also outlined a clear directive for all government agencies: "Let us lead by example. Show zero tolerance for GBV in our workplaces. Uphold the GESI policy and make gender equality and respect part of how we work every day." She further appealed to development partners to assist in the urgent development of a GBV database with the GBV secretariat, noting the current lack of proper data registry. Closing her remarks, Ms. Sansan reminded attendees of the global challenge: "The world must end GBV by 2030. We have 5 years to go. The question that is put forward to us is, are we set to achieve this for PNG?" NCD Governor Powes Parkop, also serving as Chairman of the Permanent Parliamentary Committee on Gender Equality and Women's Empowerment (GEWE), declared that the fight against GBV is failing because government agencies have not taken ownership of the response strategy. Governor Parkop noted the persistent high prevalence of violence is a major impediment to achieving national progress. He pinpointed the solution and mandated policy enforcement across all state entities. "The government itself is not taking ownership and responsibility for the response strategy to GBV and that is why it is failing.” “We are not showing leadership. We are not taking ownership. We are not walking the talk," the Governor asserted. He issued a stern challenge to all state institutions to implement immediate action. "I want to see in the city all the government departments, state agencies, state owned enterprises, they must take ownership of the strategy, and implement it at the workplace, in the homes, in the community.” “Make it the terms and condition of employment of all the state employees." Governor Parkop confirmed that NCDC is already implementing zero tolerance as a term and condition of employment, and this mandate must be extended nationwide. Furthermore, he announced a personal challenge to all Members of Parliament, including the Prime Minister and Ministers, to sign a declaration adhering to the strategy and saying no to violence. All the attendees including GESI Officers of various government departments agreed that the upcoming campaigns, including Redvember (where the color red signifies danger and the call to 'stop' violence) and the 20 Days of Activism, must mark a decisive turning point for the country.

A 1-megawatt Buin Solar Farm was officially launched last Friday in Buin Town, that marking a major milestone in Bougainville’s renewable energy journey.The project, was funded by the Government of Japan and implemented through the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in partnership with the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG), will see to deliver clean and reliable electricity to homes, schools, hospitals, and business houses across Buin and its surrounding communities — thus this clean energy will be reaching nearly 80 percent of the population. Chief Albert Nukuitu who spoke during the officially opening of the solar Farm, reflected on the community’s determination to keep Buin powered through difficult years. “In 2018, we formed Buin Power — a community-driven effort that ran 22 hours a day without government funding,” he said. “These young people gave their lives to serve the community and deserve recognition as Bougainville Power moves forward.” The solar farm now transforms that legacy into a region-wide power solution, integrating solar panels, battery storage, and backup generators to ensure a constant energy supply while cutting fossil fuel dependency. President Ishmael Toroama in his keynote address, commended the people of Bougainville for their resilience and unity, describing the solar project as a milestone in the region’s journey toward self-reliance. “What we have achieved today is not by chance, but it is through our own hands, our pride, and our unity as Bougainvilleans.” Stating that peace is here to stay, and he further expressed gratitude to development partners for their continued collaboration and encouraged communities to take ownership of projects that contribute to Bougainville’s growth. “We must take ownership of our land, our power, and our future,” he said. “When we work together, we strengthen our journey toward independence,” said President Toroama. Representing the Japanese Ambassy was Japanese Ambassador Hisanobu Mochizuki who reaffirmed Japan’s support for Bougainville, describing the project as a reflection of a long-standing friendship and cooperation. “This solar farm will help stimulate the local economy by improving access to clean energy,” the Ambassador said. He also highlighted Japan’s ongoing assistance to Bougainville, including the construction of 15 coastal bridges, support to the 2019 Bougainville Referendum, and the building of new school facilities. Furthermore, the UNDP Resident Representative Nicholas Booth noted that the event coincided with United Nations Day, marking 80 years since the UN Charter came into force and 50 years since Papua New Guinea joined the UN. “Bougainville once knew the scars of war, but today it stands for peace,” Booth said. “This solar farm represents renewal — linking peace, equality, and sustainable development.” He added that the project will reduce energy costs by up to 50 percent, deliver steady power to essential services, and directly benefit over 200 households. Chief Secretary Kearnneth Nanei also acknowledged the continued partnership with Japan and UNDP, describing the initiative as a vital step toward Bougainville’s energy independence. “Bougainville Power will manage generation and distribution across Buin, Arawa, and Buka,” he said. Nanei added that the upcoming government initiatives, including plans for a new hospital, teacher’s college, market facilities, and major road improvements will also be supported by this project. The Buin Solar Farm will expand its network to nearby villages and missions, including Piano, Tokaino, Tabago, and Kangu, covering a 48-kilometre radius.

Forty (40) netball administrators and coaches from Hiri Koiari District have completed the Oceania Sports Education Program (OSEP) training, strengthening the capacity of local sports organizations and enhancing community-level sports development in Central Province.The five-day training, held at Koke Hanua Lodge in Boera Village from October 20 to 24, forms part of the Oceania National Olympic Committee’s regional capacity-building initiative delivered through the Papua New Guinea Olympic Committee (PNGOC). The OSEP program aims to address a key challenge in PNG’s sports landscape where around 80% of community sports organizations operate without formal training by equipping participants with essential skills in sports administration, coaching, and event management. According to the PNGOC, this training supports PNG’s long-term preparations for regional events, including the Pacific Games, by strengthening grassroots leadership and governance in sport. President of the Hiri Koiari Netball Association, Hoi Koani, described the training as a milestone achievement for local sports leaders. “This is a blessing, and a dream come true for Hiri Koiari Netball Association as it aligns with our goals for capacity building,” Ms. Koani said. “We sincerely thank the PNG Olympic Committee for coming down to the community level to deliver this program. We are also grateful to ExxonMobil PNG, the main sponsor of this week’s OSEP event, and to our local member Keith Iduhu for his continuous support and funding.” A total of 34 sports administrators and 6 community coaches successfully graduated from the program, immediately putting their new skills into practice by organizing a “4-Net Netball Tournament” on the final day. Participants managed all aspects of the event from planning and officiating to post-tournament evaluation demonstrating practical application of their training. Sere Airi, Assistant Match Coordinator for the Tubusereia Netball Association, said the training provided valuable insight into how sports organizations should operate. “It was my first time attending an OSEP course. I’ve learned about the structure of sports organizations and how people should connect and run associations and clubs at the community level,” she said. “I’m excited to take this knowledge back and apply it in Tubusereia.” Serah Vagi Lohia, Tournament Team Manager for Boera Netball Association, who completed the OSEP Community Coach course, said the experience expanded her understanding of coaching systems across PNG and the Pacific. “The OSEP Community Coach course has broadened my understanding of coaching systems in PNG and Oceania. I thank the facilitators for this opportunity and look forward to putting my new skills into practice in Boera,” Ms. Lohia said. Each participant will receive certification recognized by the Oceania National Olympic Committee, giving them access to future advanced training and career development opportunities within the sports sector. The PNG Olympic Committee says the success of the Hiri Koiari training highlights the importance of investing in people at the community level to sustain sporting excellence and development across Papua New Guinea.

The first grade- 12 students of the Roy Biyama Academy graduated recently marking a historic milestone for both the school and the people of Western Province. Held on campus under the theme “Breaking Barriers and Creating Pathways for Success,” the graduation ceremony brought together students, families, community leaders, education officials and partners to honour the pioneering graduating class of 2025.Distinguished guests included Provincial Education Advisor Mr. Charlie Buia, Deputy Provincial Administrator Mr. Rupert Tabua, representatives from SDP and KTF, as well as local education and community leaders.The day was filled with pride and celebration, featuring traditional dances, cultural performances, and the presentation of certificates to the graduates.Academy Principal, Ms. Patricia Kombele, reflected on the significance of the occasion, stating: “This is a proud and historic day for our students, our school, and our province. Our first graduating class represents hope, perseverance, and progress for Western Province. They have shown that with vision, community, and determination, anything is possible.” Deputy Provincial Administrator, Mr. Rupert Tabua, paid tribute to the late MP Roy Biyama, saying: “In his lifetime Roy Biyama was a tree that spread seeds in his community that are still growing today.” A total of 20 students graduated from HRBBA’s inaugural Grade 12 class, representing communities from North Fly, South Fly, Delta Fly, Balimo, and beyond. Grade 12 dux, Jonathan Somono, shared his pride and optimism for the future.“We are proud to be the first graduates of Roy Biyama Balimo Academy. This school has taught us to aim high, to lead with humility, and to serve our communities. We leave here ready to make a difference.” In just its second year of operation, the Academy has grown rapidly, currently enrolling over 400 students from communities across Western Province. An SDP initiative delivered in partnership with KTF, the Academy provides education from kindergarten through to Grade 12, offering passionate teachers, fee-free tuition, boarding, and high- quality facilities and resources. SDP CEO, Lesieli Taviri, said this is a significant achievement to improve learning for students by providing quality education and facilities and a pathway into tertiary institutions such as Balimo College.Welcomed warmly by the Balimo community and beyond, the Roy Biyama Balimo Academy has already established itself as a leading educational institution, not just in Western Province but across the country, dedicated to unlocking the potential of students from across the region.

The newly established Flexible Open Distance Education (FODE) centre called the Trinity Centre of Excellence located in the districts headquarter of Kurakakaul, Rabaul district in East New Britain province, successfully completed their pioneer grade 10 national FODE examinations yesterday.A total of 146 grade 10 students sat for their exams starting on Monday October 20th, 2025, with the English paper in the morning session and Social Science in the afternoon. On Tuesday, the students sat for their Maths and Business Studies exams; Wednesday saw them completing Personal Development and Science and ended the exam week with Written Expression in the morning session and Information Communication Technology (ICT) in the afternoon. East New Britain Provincial FODE Coordinator Ms. Delma Polong who was present to supervise and oversee the exams, said that these are the pioneer grade 10 FODE students. “Rabaul district, we are so fortunate that we have a FODE centre right at our doorstep.” “This is our lifeline to accessing a second chance in education and pathway to further secondary, tertiary, and even employment opportunities.” She said that of the 146 grade 10s, about 112 students sat for the Maths exam and added that this subject has always seen a lot of students upgrading around our FODE centres in the province. Meantime, the Rabaul District Education Coordinator Mr. Markus Tipepe, said that students who will pass the selection cut off mark will be selected to continue grade 11 in our formal system schools and those who score below can continue year 11 here at the FODE Trinity Centre of Excellence. The Education Coordinator further thanked the Rabaul District Administration for their continuous support in the operations of the new FODE centre, stating that they are seeing an increase of students coming in from other districts of Kokopo and Gazelle. He suggested if the administration can look into expanding to cater for the growing population. On the other hand, Rabaul District Administrator Freddy Lemeki, commended the Education sector and said that the administration will continue to support the FODE centre and further encouraged students that such institutions should not be seen as set backs but a bridge to better pathways and opportunities.

A series of infrastructure projects in Rabaul District in East New Britain Province have been completed recently. Rabaul District Administrator, Freddy Lemeki said these projects are the Watom sea wall upgrade and extension, Second 22nd Street road works and repair, Tunnel Hill road works and repair and Toleap Reinforced Concrete Box Culvert (RCBC). The 2nd Phase of Blanche Street major rehabilitation is 60 per cent completed. He said these projects are funded through the District Services Improvement Program (DSIP) and Provincial Services Improvement Program (PSIP) and are expected to bring much-needed upgrades to roads in Rabaul town and sea wall at Watom Local Level Government (LLG). Mr. Lemeki said the upgrade and extension on the 80-metre sea wall is built in front of the Vunakabai government station at Watom LLG. This area had been badly affected by the rise in sea level, causing erosion on coastal areas. The government station was also being affected. The sea wall project is funded under DSIP and constructed by Senuak Contractors and took four months to complete. Mr Lemeki said the major rehabilitation of Blanche Street (PSIP/DSIP counter fund), Second 22nd Street (DSIP) and Tunnel Hill road (DSIP/PSIP counter fund) projects all undertaken by Nivani Ltd will improve the transportation network in Rabaul. These projects, valued at K4.9 million; K876, 000, and K2.2 million respectively, will reduce travel times, improve road safety, and boost economic activity. The Toleap RCBC (DSIP), recently completed by Senuak Contractors and worth K373, 862.50, now addresses past problems faced by commuters during heavy rains and erosion making it impassable. In September this year, Rabaul District witnessed the commissioning of the 2nd Phase Blanche Street Rehabilitation, Second 22nd Street works and repair, Tunnel Hill road works and repair, and Toleap RCBC. Mr. Lemeki said the district will continue to prioritize infrastructure development both in the civil and building sectors.

A joint venture partnership between two landowner companies in the Central province with Synergy Alliance Limited (SAL), is set to benefit a lot of people in both the Kido and Rearea villages in the Hiri- Koiari District. A groundbreaking partnership between Synergy Alliance Limited (SAL), and the Kido Holdings Limited (KHL), and Rearea Minerals Limited (RML) landowner groups was celebrated recently on the 14th of October at the Central Cement and Lime Project site at Kido, Central Province. The Joint Venture Spin-Off Inauguration & Equipment Handover ceremony marked a pivotal moment for economic and social empowerment, and for transitioning local landowners from project stakeholders to active owners and partners in the region's burgeoning lime and cement industry. The historic event drew prominent figures including Rainbo Paita, MP, Minister for Mining; Keith Iduhu, MP, Member for Hiri-Koiari; Central Province Deputy Administrator, Augustine Tipale; Ambassador to PNG, Isaac Lupari; Australian Deputy High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea, Adrian Lochrin; and, most importantly, representatives from the Kido and Rearea landowner communities, PLC, and SAL. "This joint venture delivers more than promises; it provides tangible benefits and real ownership for the people of Kido and Rearea," said Mr. Paul Mulder, Managing Director of Pacific Lime and Cement (PLC) Limited. "We are building a sustainable future, together." This unique Partnership offers: • Free-Carried Equity: Landowners become immediate equity partners without initial capital investment. • Capacity Building: Training, skill development, and mentorship by SAL. • Community-Driven Growth: Over time, a clear path to 90% landowner ownership of spun-off services businesses and asset-heavy equipment contracts. "I commend the leadership of the Landowners who have been working closely with PLC to see the initiative that we witnessed at the launch become a reality," said Iduhu. "This challenges the status quo of all projects," added Minister Paita. "Companies now must match this or do even better.” Pacific Lime and Cement (PLC) is committed to building a brighter future for Papua New Guinea through responsible resource development, local partnerships, and community investment.

Two other new Air Niugini A220- 300 Airbus aircrafts will soon join the new one already in service with the airline’s fleet to further boost the service to the people of Papua New Guinea (PNG). Air Niugini’s second and third brand new Airbus A220-300 aircraft — registered P2-PGB and P2-PGC — are taking shape at the Airbus factory in Mirabel, Canada. Following the historic arrival of the first A220-300 aircraft, P2-PGA on 15th September, just in time for PNG’s 50th Independence Anniversary, the next two A220s will soon join the fleet to continue Air Niugini’s exciting transformation journey. While P2-PGA wears the special 50th Anniversary livery with the PNG flag and colours, P2-PGB and P2-PGC proudly feature our classic Air Niugini livery featuring the iconic Bird of Paradise — timeless, elegant, and proudly Papua New Guinean - symbolizing Papua New Guinea’s spirit and connection to the world. Both aircraft are now nearing completion, with the final touches being done before P2-PGB and P2-PGC arrive before the end of the year – ready to usher in a new era of comfort, reliability, and efficiency in our skies. These aircraft are not just new planes – they represent a new chapter for Air Niugini and for Papua New Guinea aviation as they bring more comfort, reliability, and efficiency to domestic and regional international travel, and strengthen connections across our beautiful country and the region. “We can’t wait to welcome our new beautiful birds home soon,” Air Niugini stated.

Following the completion of the Pawa Bilong Niu Ailan project, the people of New Ireland in the remote communities should look forward to some positive changes. Access to clean and affordable energy will raise living standards and empower local communities in New Ireland province. The project, implemented by Australia and the United Kingdom with support from local authorities, installed solar power systems in 74 of the district’s remotest villages. The new solar systems are supplying clean, reliable energy to more than 9,000 households, 76 community facilities and 151 streetlights, lighting up homes, streets and public spaces for more than 35,000 people. New Ireland Governor Walter Schnaubelt recently joined representatives from Australia and the United Kingdom to congratulate Namatanai District authorities on the successful completion of the project. “These solar lights will provide a safe learning environment for our students, and communities’ livelihoods will improve,” Governor Schnaubelt said. Local communities have also played a key role in the project’s long-term Success, whereby through the initiative, a total of 592 local solar champions (296 women and 296 men) have been trained to provide ongoing maintenance for the new solar systems. This is backed by a dedicated Solar Hub in Silom village, set up to provide technical guidance and spare parts, the champions are ensuring their communities have access to clean, reliable energy in the years ahead. Australian High Commission Minister Counsellor, Dr Cate Rogers commended the commitment and hard work of project partners. “The project owes its success to the communities themselves – their support and participation was vital.”  Australia remains committed to working alongside Papua New Guinea to achieve its ambitious electrification targets – to connect 70 per cent of the population by 2030 and 100 per cent by 2040.