The Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) has announced the return of the Pawa Meri Round this weekend, in partnership with the SP PNG Hunters, Digicel ExxonMobil Cup, and Santos Cup. Now in its second year, the Pawa Meri Round honors the significant contributions of women to the game of rugby league in Papua New Guinea (PNG), both on and off the field. From players and coaches to team managers, trainers, and game day staff, the round highlights the essential roles women play in the rugby league ecosystem. PNGRFL Chief Executive Officer, Stanley Hondina said the initiative is a direct outcome of the PNGRFL Wan Haus Policy, which promotes inclusion across all levels of the sport. Under this policy, all three national and international competitions which are the Hostplus Cup (SP PNG Hunters), Digicel ExxonMobil Cup, and Santos Cup, will participate in this weekend’s celebration. “All players, game day staff, and competition officials will wear bright pink socks as a show of recognition.” “The SP PNG Hunters will also take the field in their dedicated Pawa Meri jerseys for Round 20 of the Hostplus Cup.” He also extended an open call to businesses and organizations to support the round in future editions. “We hope that next year we can partner with like-minded businesses to further champion this important cause.” Hondina highlighted recent milestones in women’s rugby, including the establishment of a National Women’s Rugby League Competition, and reaffirmed PNGRFL’s commitment to gender equality. He revealed that a PNGRFL Gender Equality Strategy will be officially launched in the coming months. “The Pawa Meri Round is more than symbolic; it is a reminder that we play with respect and stand united against all forms of gender-based violence.” “I also want to acknowledge the incredible work of our female staff, sponsors, and volunteers, past and present, who have shaped the growth of rugby league in PNG.”

A night of celebration, recognition, and hope for the future marked the 10th anniversary of the STEM program in Papua New Guinea (PNG), as 80 top-performing students were honored ahead of their academic journeys to the United States, India, China, Malaysia, and Fiji. The event, held in Port Moresby, brought together key government officials, international diplomatic representatives, education leaders, proud parents, and scholarship recipients under one roof to celebrate the third cohort of PNG’s Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) students selected for overseas scholarships. Dr. Uke Kombra, Secretary for the Department of Education, emphasized the significance of the evening, describing the selection of these students as a “golden opportunity” and a reflection of PNG’s commitment to nurturing the nation's brightest young minds. "You are the 1%,” Dr. Kombra told the students. “You have been chosen purely on academic merit, not on where you come from or who your parents are. You carry the hopes of your families, your communities, and your country.” Dr. Kombra highlighted that out of over 17,000 Grade 10 graduates in 2022, only 203 students enrolled in STEM programs in the National Schools of Excellence in 2023. From those, 160 students have been selected this year, representing just 0.7% of all Grade 12 students – a testament to the program’s rigorous standards. The event also marked the first official sponsorship by Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited (KPHL), which committed to funding 30 students annually for the next five years. “A big thank you to KPHL and the government of the day,” said the Dr. Kombra. “Your support will change lives and build our country’s future.” The celebration was attended by representatives from the Indian High Commission, the United States Embassy, and other diplomatic missions – partners who continue to support PNG’s STEM advancement. Minister for Education, Lucas Dekana, and Minister for Higher Education, Kinoka. Feo was acknowledged for their ongoing dedication to securing funding and logistical support for the program, despite financial challenges. Dr. Kombra praised Minister Dekana in particular for his relentless advocacy, noting that “he checks on the students 24/7.” This year’s STEM scholars will pursue studies in 53 different disciplines, including Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Biotechnology, Aerospace Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, Forensic Science, and Agricultural Biosystems – many of which are not currently offered in PNG. “We believe that these students will return not just with degrees, but with the expertise to transform our economy, infrastructure, and society,” said Dr. Kombra. He also reminded students of the cultural adjustments they would need to make, particularly in countries like India and the U.S., encouraging them to embrace diversity and maintain focus. The emotional highlight of the night came when Dr. Kombra recalled a past recipient—the son of a taxi driver—who broke into tears upon receiving his scholarship, demonstrating the transformative power of education. The Department of Education has now supported 368 students through the STEM scholarship program since its inception in 2021, with numbers expected to grow as partnerships expand and institutional frameworks strengthen. “There is no difference between a child from PNG and Elon Musk,” Dr. Kombra said. “It’s about how much you are willing to work, how much you give, and how far you want to go.” As the students prepare to depart for their studies abroad, the nation watches with pride and high expectations. The students are set to live for US and India next week. “You don’t come back as any normal graduate,” Dr. Kombra reminded the students. “You are going overseas not just for yourselves, but to make a difference for your country.”

Minister for Youth, Religion and Community Development, Jason Peter, has reaffirmed the Marape-Rosso government’s commitment to inclusive development with a K20,000 donation to Mt Sion Blind Centre in Goroka, Eastern Highlands province. The donation, presented during a visit on Monday, 28 July 2025, is part of the Church-State Partnership Program and aims to support the centre’s ongoing work in empowering people with special needs. Minister Peter was accompanied by Secretary Jerry Ubase and members of the Church Development Council (CDC). He commended Mt Sion’s work, acknowledging the Catholic Church’s leadership in delivering inclusive community services. “Every citizen, regardless of ability, deserves protection, dignity, care, and opportunity,” the Minister said during the visit. In a symbolic gesture, a visually impaired resident presented a handwoven bilum to Prime Minister James Marape, through Minister Peter, as a token of appreciation for the government’s support in building and sustaining the centre. Mt Sion Chairperson and Principal, Mr. Justin Wagame, thanked the Minister and delegates for the financial support. He also took the opportunity to outline the centre’s challenges, including limited skilled staffing and ongoing funding constraints. Despite these hurdles, Wagame emphasized the centre’s commitment to delivering education, life skills, and care for individuals living with disabilities. The Minister’s visit followed the latest CDC meeting and underscores the government’s continued focus on uplifting vulnerable communities across Papua New Guinea.

More than 40 members of the Eastern Highlands-Simbu Mission (EHSM) of the Seventh-day Adventist Church have successfully completed a two-day Financial Literacy Retail Training, receiving certificates during a ceremony held last week in Goroka, Eastern Highlands province. The training, organized by the Department for Community Development and Religion (DfCDR), focused on equipping participants with essential financial management skills, including budgeting, saving, emergency planning, and time management. Minister for Youth, Religion and Community Development, Jason Peter MP, addressed the graduating participants and encouraged them to apply what they had learned with discipline—while also staying committed to their spiritual responsibilities. “Never forget to give your tenth [tithe] to the Lord. Leave your worries with Him. He is the provider of all that you have and will have. Trust Him in all your plans,” the Minister said. DfCDR Secretary Mr. Jerry Ubase and representatives from the PNG Council of Churches were also in attendance to witness the official presentation of certificates. Speaking on behalf of the graduates, Ms. Angele Verefu said the training had boosted their confidence in managing household finances. She shared her enthusiasm for potentially launching a small informal business using the skills she had gained. In a gesture of gratitude, participants presented small tokens of appreciation to the training facilitators, recognizing their support and dedication throughout the program. The event coincided with the second Church Development Council meeting, which was held on 27 July at the EHSM headquarters. The Department’s Informal Economy team reaffirmed its commitment to expanding this community-based training initiative to other regions of Papua New Guinea in the coming months.

The National Rugby League (NRL) has unveiled the official draw for the 2025 Pacific Championships, which will see elite men’s and women’s international rugby league teams compete across three countries over four action-packed weekends in October and November. Following the thrilling conclusion to last year’s tournament—where the Kangaroos and Jillaroos lifted their respective Pacific Cup trophies in front of a sell-out crowd at Sydney’s CommBank Stadium—the 2025 edition promises even more high-intensity clashes and passionate national pride. Samoa will return to the men’s Pacific Cup after touring the UK in 2024, and will headline a blockbuster opening double-header on Sunday, 26 October at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane. They will face off against Tonga, runners-up in last year’s tournament, while the Jillaroos begin their title defence against Samoa on the same day. The men’s Pacific Cup will also feature New Zealand, who will host Samoa at Go Media Stadium on 19 October and take on Tonga at Auckland’s Eden Park on 1 November. That match day will also see the Jillaroos face off against the Kiwi Ferns in a key women’s clash. The tournament will culminate with the men’s and women’s Pacific Cup finals at CommBank Stadium in western Sydney on Sunday, 9 November. The region—home to Australia’s largest Pasifika community—is expected to deliver a vibrant and unforgettable atmosphere for the deciders. NRL CEO Andrew Abdo praised the continued growth and emotional impact of the Championships across the Pacific. “The images of a sea of red jerseys and Tongan flags at last year’s Final in Sydney, the big crowds in New Zealand and the hero’s reception for the teams playing in Fiji and PNG were massive moments for rugby league last year,” Abdo said. “Nothing stirs the emotions and inspires players or fans quite like the pride for their nation and there is no greater example of the unique passion and energy that international rugby league brings than what we witness during the Pacific Championships.” In addition to the Pacific Cup, the men’s and women’s Pacific Bowl competitions will be staged over three weekends at Santos Stadium in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea. The men’s Bowl will feature Papua New Guinea, Fiji, and the Cook Islands, while the women’s Bowl includes Papua New Guinea, Cook Islands, and Tonga. The 2025 Pacific Championships Final is proudly supported by Destination NSW, the NSW Government’s tourism and major events agency. NSW Minister for Sport, Jobs and Tourism, and Multiculturalism, Steve Kamper, expressed his excitement about Sydney hosting the tournament's climax: “I’m thrilled Sydney will host the Final of the Pacific Championships. Western Sydney has the nation’s largest Pasifika community, whose passion and enthusiasm will create a unique and incredible atmosphere that’s not to be missed. “We look forward to welcoming rugby league fans from around the nation and across the ditch for an unforgettable sporting experience in the rugby league capital of the world.” The Pacific Bowl is supported by the Australian Government through PacificAus Sports, an initiative that fosters development and collaboration between Australian and Pacific athletes through shared opportunities to train, play, and grow. MATCHES Round 1-Pacific Bowl · Fiji Bati V Cook Islands Aitu, Saturday 18th October, 3:00pm at Santos National Football Stadium, PNG Round 1- Pacific Cup · Kiwis V Toa Samoa, Sunday 19th October, 3:00pm at Go Media Stadium, Auckland Round 2-Pacific Bowl · PNG Kumuls V Cook Islands Aitu, Saturday 25th October,3:00pm at Santos National Football Stadium, PNG Round 2-Pacific Cup · Toa Samoa V Tonga XIII, Sunday 26th October,3:00pm at Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane Round 3- Pacific Bowl · PNG Kumuls V Fiji Bati, Saturday 1st November, 3:00pm at Santos National Football Stadium, PNG Round 3- Pacific Cup Kiwis V Tonga XIII, Sunday 2nd November, 3:00pm at Eden Park, Auckland FINAL TBC V TBC, Sunday 9th November, 3: 05pm at CommBank Stadium

The World Health Organization (WHO) has welcomed a NZ$2 million (around K4.7million) contribution from the Government of New Zealand to support Papua New Guinea’s ongoing response to a polio outbreak. The funding arrives at a critical moment, as cases of circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 (cVDPV2) continue to be detected through environmental and community surveillance in Lae and Port Moresby since April 2025. Papua New Guinea remains at high risk of polio resurgence, driven by low routine immunization coverage and significant challenges in reaching remote areas. New Zealand’s support will aid broader efforts to strengthen the country’s immunization systems, in collaboration with Australia, Gavi, the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI), and Papua New Guinea’s National Department of Health. The WHO said the funding will enable it to provide critical support on multiple fronts, including: - Technical assistance for planning and rolling out Supplementary Immunization Activities (SIAs) at the provincial level, - Operational support for vaccinator payments in areas not covered by other donors, - Enhanced surveillance of acute flaccid paralysis (AFP) and environmental samples, - Training of over 100 trainers across all 22 Provincial Health Authorities, who will in turn train and deploy thousands of frontline vaccination workers. “This contribution comes at a critical time,” said Dr Masahiro Zakoji, Officer-in-Charge of WHO PNG. “With ongoing poliovirus transmission and low routine immunization, this funding allows us to provide training of trainers to health staff from all provinces. These trainers will cascade the training to more than 5,000 vaccinators, 3,000 social mobilisers, and 900 supervisors nationwide to engage communities, vaccinate children, and strengthen surveillance.” Since the declaration of a public health emergency in May 2025, WHO has been working closely with the National Department of Health and other partners to coordinate a nationwide response. To date, over 31 detections of cVDPV2 have been confirmed, found in both healthy children and environmental samples. So far, no cases of paralysis have been reported. To stop further transmission, targeted vaccination campaigns are being rolled out across the country. In the 17 mainland provinces—considered high-risk—two rounds of vaccination will be conducted for children under 10, using the novel oral polio vaccine (nOPV2). The second round will also include a fractional dose of inactivated polio vaccine (IPV) to boost immunity. In the five New Guinea Islands provinces, where the assessed risk is lower, a single round of fractional IPV vaccination will be conducted. The vaccination campaign will also include other essential child health services such as nutrition support and routine immunizations, helping to protect children from a range of preventable diseases while reinforcing Papua New Guinea’s broader health system. WHO reaffirms its commitment to supporting the Government of Papua New Guinea, Provincial Health Authorities, and partners in achieving high immunization coverage and building a resilient health system capable of preventing future outbreaks.

Papua New Guinea’s Ministry and Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) will participate in the 2nd Pacific ICT Ministers Dialogue (PICTMD) scheduled for 8 August 2025 in Suva, Fiji. First launched and led by Papua New Guinea in 2023, the Dialogue gathers ICT Ministers and senior officials from up to 12 Pacific Island nations to advance digital development aligned with the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent. The inaugural meeting resulted in the Lagatoi Declaration, which calls for coordinated regional actions to boost digital inclusion, connectivity, cybersecurity, and policy harmonization—key pillars guiding the Dialogue’s agenda. The Dialogue focuses on three strategic pillars: A unified Pacific voice on global digital issues Regional collaboration for tailored ICT solutions Advocacy for a stronger International Telecommunication Union (ITU) presence in the Pacific This week’s meeting will feature: - Sharing national progress and regional coordination - Reviewing and endorsing the Governance Framework - Finalizing the Pacific ICT and Digital Transformation Strategic Action Plan - Issuing the 2nd Pacific ICT Ministerial Dialogue Communiqué Papua New Guinea currently chairs the Dialogue and hosts its Interim Secretariat, which will transition into the Pacific Island Forum structure after the meeting to ensure sustainability. The Dialogue will be preceded by a Senior Officials Meeting on 7 August 2025 in Suva.

Finschhafen MP and Minister for Mining & Special Projects, Rainbo Paita, has strongly condemned the brutal killing of four Kabwum citizens in Lae, describing the incident as barbaric and calling for urgent government action to restore peace and uphold the rule of law. “I join Deputy Prime Minister and Member for Lae, John Rosso, in calling for immediate and decisive action following this senseless act of violence. The people of Morobe are peace-loving and respectful. What happened in Lae is not just an attack on individuals — it is an affront to the values we stand for as a province and as a nation,” Minister Paita stated. He described the alleged perpetrators from Enga as having taken the law into their own hands, carrying out brutal and inhumane acts that demand swift justice. “I am utterly appalled and heartbroken by the loss of life in Lae. This kind of senseless violence has no place in our society. My heart goes out to the victims and their families. This is not how we, as Papua New Guineans, should resolve our differences.” Minister Paita urged the National Government and Members of Parliament to take immediate action, emphasizing the urgent need to pass the Vagrancy Act and reconsider the implementation of the death penalty for cold-blooded murderers. “The time for political posturing and delays is over. The safety and security of our people cannot wait. I implore all Members of Parliament to put aside political differences and pass the Vagrancy Act without delay. This legislation is crucial to addressing the root causes of ethnic and urban violence and ensuring lasting peace.” He also called on law enforcement agencies and the judiciary to deliver swift and uncompromising justice. “The law-and-order issues leading to ethnic clashes will further divide our already diverse country. We as a government must be willing to take hard measures to forge this unity that is very important in holding us together going forward.” Minister Paita emphasized that while Morobeans welcome mutual respect, any form of hostility will not be tolerated. He praised Deputy Prime Minister and Lae MP John Rosso for his efforts in stabilizing law and order in Lae City and called on all Morobe MPs to support these initiatives to ensure Lae becomes a safe hub for business, investment, and peaceful living for its people. “For all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword. The death penalty must now be brought into our laws. This punishment will not apply to innocent people but to those who do not appreciate the sacredness of life.” “We can’t continue to call ourselves Christians, yet our thoughts and ways are too far from its guiding principles. The rule of law must be upheld. The Government must not take this matter lightly. The criminals responsible must face the full force of the law, and justice must be delivered to the grieving families.” Minister Paita extended his deepest condolences to the families and communities affected by the tragedy and assured them of his unwavering support in the pursuit of justice.

The East Sepik Province has officially joined the Miss Bird of Paradise (MBOP) Papua New Guinea Pageant, becoming the sixth province to sign onto the national platform. A formal partnership agreement was signed on Friday, August 1st, marking a significant milestone in the expansion of the MBOP initiative across the country. The signing ceremony was witnessed by committee members from both the MBOP national organization and the newly formed Miss East Sepik Pageant Committee. This partnership paves the way for East Sepik to host its first-ever provincial pageant and send a representative to the national stage later this year. The Miss East Sepik committee is led by Chairperson Susil Nelson, with Dulciana Somare-Brash serving as Deputy Chair, Jacinta Wagambie as Treasurer, and Fiona Nelson as Secretary. The team also includes dedicated Sepik women leaders: Kate Apinur Maino, Estelle Walters, Luanne Saun, Anna Nawara, and Wavie Kendino Leki. Speaking at the ceremony, MBOP PNG Chair Anna Bais praised the East Sepik team for their commitment to advancing a platform that not only empowers young women but also promotes tourism and advocates for marginalized communities. “As a national platform, we are thrilled to welcome East Sepik during our Golden Jubilee year,” Bais said. “We believe this expansion helps us reflect the full beauty and diversity of Papua New Guinea.” This year, all 22 provinces will be invited to participate in the national pageant, set to take place in December. The winner will go on to represent Papua New Guinea on the regional stage. In a new initiative, the home province of the crowned national queen will also host the national pageant in 2026. The MBOP PNG Committee extended its best wishes to Team East Sepik as they prepare to stage their inaugural event and crown their first Miss Bird of Paradise East Sepik.

The National Written Expression Examination for Grade 12s was held this morning and out of 38, 716 Grade 12 students from 238 secondary and 6 National Schools of Excellence throughout the country, a total of 127 students from La Salle Technical Secondary School in Port Moresby also joined the rest. According to Principal Brother (Br.) Antony Samy Pancras, all students were present today and sat for their exam. Prior to that, Br. Antony said the school received the booklets last week and their English Department went to work preparing the students for months for the exam. “All are present today. We got the booklets last week and our English department had been working with the students, preparing them for their exam, and we are confident the students will do well.” Br. Antony stared, “Our students are well disciplined and are focused on their exam studies. They always give their best in everything they do. They have shown their seriousness in their studies throughout the year prepping for the exams.” He is confident the students performed well in this exam and should secure spaces in the tertiary institutions for next year. Out of the 127 grade 12 students, 63 are males and 64 are females.

The University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) has officially appointed Professor Ian Findlay as its new Vice-Chancellor. The announcement was made by Chancellor and Council Chairman, Sir Robert Igara KBE CMG, during a formal handover ceremony at the university’s Council Conference Room recently. Professor Findlay becomes the 13th Vice-Chancellor since UPNG was established in 1965. He takes over from Professor Cecilia Nembou, who had been serving in an acting capacity since March 1, 2024. Sir Robert praised Professor Nembou for her strong leadership during a critical period, noting her success in restoring institutional stability, improving academic governance, and overseeing two successful graduation ceremonies. The university’s governing council appointed Professor Findlay under Section 28(1) of the UPNG Act 1983. He will serve as the Chief Executive Officer of the University and Chair of the Academic Senate. His primary tasks include enhancing efficiency and integrity across university operations and spearheading the institution’s “Reconstruction and Modernization Strategy 2026–2030.” “Professor Findlay brings a wealth of international experience and a proven track record of transformative leadership. We are confident he will help lead UPNG into a new era of academic excellence and institutional renewal,” said Sir Robert. A British-Australian national, Professor Findlay holds a Bachelor of Science from the University of Glasgow and a PhD in genetic diagnosis from the University of Leeds. He has worked extensively across Australia’s tertiary education sector, including senior roles at Griffith University, the University of Queensland, and the University of the Sunshine Coast. Internationally, he is best known for his transformative leadership at the University of Puthisastra in Cambodia, where he served as President and Vice-Chancellor. Under his leadership from 2018 to 2024, the university rose from a struggling institution to being ranked number one in Cambodia and among the top eight in Asia. Professor Findlay’s academic achievements include receiving the 1999 “Scientist of the Year” award from the European Society of Human Genetics, and the Bancroft Medal in 2005, the Australian Medical Association’s highest honour. He has also filed several patents in genetics, with grants awarded by the United States Patent and Trademark Office. His appointment follows a global recruitment process facilitated by Vanguard PNG International. Of the 39 applicants—five from PNG and 24 from overseas—a shortlist of three candidates was selected, including one Papua New Guinean. All three underwent interviews and presentations to UPNG’s senior leadership and staff associations. Professor Findlay emerged as the top-ranked candidate and was unanimously endorsed by the University Council in a special meeting on May 22, 2025. In Friday’s ceremony, he was sworn in by legal counsel Mr. Michael Wagambie and formally robed in the Vice-Chancellor’s academic gown and cap, signifying his assumption of office. “We warmly welcome Professor Findlay and his wife Carol to Papua New Guinea,” Sir Robert said. “As we mark 50 years of our nation’s independence, UPNG remains committed to its mission of national development. Under Professor Findlay’s leadership, we look forward to a new chapter in the University’s proud history.” The university’s long-term development will be guided by the “Reconstruction and Modernisation Strategy,” a five-year plan aimed at revitalizing infrastructure, governance, and academic delivery across all campuses.

Rugby league in Papua New Guinea reached a defining moment this week on Thursday as the newly established Board of the country’s National Rugby League (NRL) franchise met for the first time, laying the groundwork for the nation’s historic entry into the NRL competition in 2028. The inaugural Board meeting, held in Port Moresby, brought together key figures in PNG’s NRL journey, including newly appointed Chairman Ray Dib and Chief Executive Andrew Hill, along with a diverse group of Board members bringing extensive expertise from corporate, commercial, and sporting backgrounds. Describing the meeting as a “truly historic day,” Chairman Dib emphasized the significance of the occasion for the game in PNG. “This marks an important moment as we look ahead to our entry into the NRL in 2028,” Dib said. “We’ve already achieved a great deal, and I thank everyone who has contributed to getting us to this point. Our Board's combined experience will be instrumental in shaping our strategic direction and building a club that embodies the pride and passion of our people.” The meeting followed months of behind-the-scenes work since PNG’s inclusion in the NRL was formally announced in December 2024, during a joint press conference in Sydney with PNG Prime Minister James Marape, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, and NRL Chairman Peter V’landys. Chief Executive Andrew Hill, who has been working behind the scenes for more than three years, acknowledged the milestone. “This day has been a long time in the making,” Hill said. “I want to thank the PNG and Australian Governments, along with the PNGRFL, for their unwavering support. Today marks the beginning of real, tangible preparations for our debut in 2028.” The meeting signals the official start of the franchise's journey toward full competition, with a focus on establishing world-class governance, operational structures, and a team that can compete at the highest level and inspire a nation. As the only country in the world where rugby league is the national sport, PNG’s inclusion in the NRL represents a dream come true for many and promises to reshape the game’s regional landscape.