Former NRL Bulldogs enforcer James Graham has thrown his support behind the upcoming PNG NRL franchise, saying players should view a potential move there as a unique life experience rather than a risk or disruption to their careers.Speaking recently on his “The Bye Round Podcast with James Graham” on the future of the expansion club based in Port Moresby, Graham said many players nearing the end of their careers often struggle with uncertainty about life after football, making opportunities like PNG particularly appealing.He said the prospect of joining the new team, the PNG Chiefs, could offer players both stability and a new sense of purpose beyond the game.Graham said, “If I was still playing, I’m in. It would be a huge life experience.”He added that retirement often brings anxiety for athletes due to the sudden loss of routine and income but said the PNG opportunity could ease that transition by offering a structured and rewarding environment.He said, “Players quickly realize their lifestyle is going to change significantly once football ends. But this gives them something different, something exciting.”Graham recently visited accommodation arrangements being prepared for players and said he was impressed by what he saw, describing it as a comfortable and well-organized setup that could feel “resort-like” in nature.He also recalled interacting with local children during informal visits, including playing rugby league on the beach, which he said highlighted the strong community connection already forming around the club.“You get there and think, it’s actually not that bad at all. It’s different from Australia or New Zealand, but not in a bad way,” he said.Graham acknowledged that life in PNG will differ significantly from what players are used to in Australia and New Zealand but said those differences should be viewed positively.“It’s going to be different, but you quickly adjust to a new normal,” he said.“And I think players will actually really enjoy it.” He also addressed concerns about relocating families, noting that many players’ children and partners often adapt quickly and even thrive in new environments.“It becomes an adventure for them. Like players who go to England, it’s about experiencing something new,” he said.Graham added that safety concerns should not be overstated, saying his own experience visiting Papua New Guinea left him feeling comfortable and welcomed.“I felt incredibly safe,” he said. “I can’t see safety being an issue at all.”The PNG franchise, which is set to enter the NRL in 2028, is expected to attract both emerging talent and experienced players as it builds its foundation in the competition.

Minister for the Department of Higher Education, Kinoka Feo, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening the country’s health workforce, announcing major investments in a new medical university aimed at addressing critical staff shortages.Speaking at a recent event marking the International Day of the Midwife 2026, Minister Feo made a brief but heartfelt appearance after arriving directly from overseas travel, using the opportunity to personally thank midwives, nurses, and healthcare workers for their service. “I came here simply to thank you all. You do an amazing job caring for our mothers, our wives, and our babies,” he said. “Your work does not go unnoticed.” The Minister acknowledged the difficult conditions many frontline health workers operate under, often in under-resourced and understaffed environments, yet continuing to deliver essential care. “You work behind the scenes in some of the most challenging places, but you continue to give your best. For that, I sincerely thank you,” he added. Drawing from his own personal experiences, Feo said he holds deep respect for healthcare workers, particularly those involved in maternal and child health, noting the emotional weight of their responsibilities. He also highlighted the urgent need to expand training capacity, revealing that Papua New Guinea faces a significant shortage of health professionals. “When I saw the statistics, I was shocked by the shortage we have. We need to produce thousands more health workers to meet the country’s needs,” he said. As part of the government’s response, Feo pointed to the establishment and expansion of a new medical university, which he said will play a central role in building the nation’s workforce. “We are committed to ensuring this institution grows into a fully-fledged university with the capacity to train more students, including midwives,” he stated. The Minister confirmed that initial government funding has already been secured, alongside additional infrastructure developments aimed at increasing student intake and training capabilities. He added that further financial support is being pursued through international partners, including the Asian Development Bank. “We are looking at major investments to expand facilities, bring in more lecturers, and ultimately produce the workforce our country urgently needs,” Feo said. He encouraged stakeholders to continue engaging with government and development partners to ensure that training programs align with national healthcare demands. Closing his remarks, Feo reiterated his appreciation for healthcare workers and emphasized the importance of their role in improving outcomes for mothers and children across the country. “What you do during the most critical moments in people’s lives is invaluable. Thank you for your dedication, your compassion, and your service,” he said.

Papua New Guinea’s Health Secretary Pascoe Kase has underscored the urgent need to align health workforce training with the country’s most pressing challenges, particularly high maternal and child mortality rates.Speaking during celebrations marking the International Day of the Midwife 2026, Mr. Kase stressed that future health policies and training programs must directly respond to the realities faced by communities across the country. “One of the biggest challenges we face today—and in recent years—is the high rate of maternal mortality,” he said. “Our policies and planning must focus on training health workers to respond effectively to these issues.” Kase highlighted that preventable deaths among mothers and young children remain a critical concern, calling for a more targeted approach in developing the country’s health workforce. “If young mothers and their babies are dying during childbirth or before the age of five, then our attention must shift toward preparing health workers who can manage exactly those situations,” he stated. Drawing from recent discussions with government leaders, Mr. Kase said workforce development must be driven by evidence and national priorities rather than broad, generalized approaches. “We should not take a one-size-fits-all approach. Our training must reflect the challenges we are facing as a country and ensure that resources are being used effectively,” he said. Kase also emphasized the importance of strengthening specialized roles within the health sector, particularly midwives, who play a frontline role in maternal and newborn care. “Midwives and frontline health workers are serving in some of the most difficult environments. Their work requires dedication and resilience, and they deserve recognition and proper support,” he said. He further called for improved policies, better working conditions, and structured professional development pathways to support these essential workers. The Health Secretary also acknowledged the contributions of international and local partners, including the United Nations Population Fund and UNICEF, for their continued collaboration with the NDoH and local health institutions. Kase encouraged stakeholders attending the event to actively participate in discussions and contribute ideas that will help shape future strategies for improving maternal and child health outcomes. “This is not just a day to celebrate progress, but a moment to reflect on what more needs to be done,” he said. “We must ensure that women and children across PNG have access to quality healthcare services.”

President of the Papua New Guinea Midwifery Society, Sister (Sr) Mary Sitaing, has called for urgent government action to strengthen the country’s midwifery workforce, warning that shortages, policy delays and growing pressure on health facilities are threatening maternal and newborn health services.Speaking at the International Day of the Midwife 2026 celebrations, Sr Sitaing also formally welcomed a United Kingdom delegation and acknowledged the presence of senior health leaders, including the Health Minister and Health Secretary, describing it as a significant milestone for the profession. “Please let’s make a welcome to the UK delegation,” she said. “Good evening, good morning to my boss, and all the distinguished guests. It’s my honour to be here.” She said the attendance of top health officials marked a turning point in recognition of midwifery in Papua New Guinea. “This is the first time we have both the Minister and the Secretary for Health joining us for this celebration,” she said. Sr Sitaing acknowledged support from development partners including UNFPA, UNICEF and the Australian Government, noting their ongoing contribution to strengthening midwifery services. She described midwives as “guardians of life” and the first point of contact for many mothers and babies across the country. “Midwives are often the first point of contact for mothers and babies. They provide care from conception through to delivery and beyond,” she said. Despite their critical role, she said the workforce remains under severe strain. According to figures presented, Papua New Guinea currently has just over 2,000 registered midwives nationwide. “As of the 2024 figures, we have 2,002 midwives in the country,” she said, warning that this is far below what is needed. Sr Sitaing said the country must significantly scale up its workforce to meet demand, proposing a target of 6,000 midwives by 2035. “To achieve this, we need strong political support, increased investment and a clear strategy,” she said. She outlined a four-pillar reform plan focusing on training, deployment, retention and workforce development, including a proposal to train up to 500 midwives annually through expanded training pathways. She also noted that Papua New Guinea has five midwifery schools and confirmed that the current curriculum—recently extended to an 18-month program—is now due for review. “The midwifery curriculum will now be due for review. We need to evaluate the changes and ensure it remains relevant,” she said. Sr Sitaing warned that retention remains a major challenge, with several midwives leaving the profession due to poor working conditions. “We must support our midwives better if we want to retain them,” she said. She further called for the urgent endorsement of a long-delayed national midwifery policy and the creation of dedicated midwifery positions within provincial health systems. “Midwives are autonomous practitioners and must be recognized as such within the health system,” she said. Sr Sitaing concluded by calling for coordinated national action to ensure better outcomes for mothers and newborns. “If we want better outcomes for mothers and babies, we must invest in midwives,” she said.

To commemorate International Midwife Day with the theme: “One Million More Midwives”, a common call was made today to increase the investment in midwifery training and workforce development to tackle the country’s high maternal and child mortality rates.Papua New Guinea’s Health Minister, Mr. Elias Kapavore, has called for urgent reforms to strengthen the country’s midwifery workforce, warning that delays in policy implementation have cost valuable time in addressing maternal and child health challenges. Speaking at the International Day of the Midwife event, Minister Kapavore acknowledged midwives and their tireless contributions to saving lives across the country while also stating that outdated policies must be reviewed immediately and translated into action within weeks—not years. “We have lost four years. Let’s not take another four years—let’s take four weeks,” he told attendees, urging stakeholders to meet and update key policy documents to reflect current health priorities. The Minister emphasized that a clear and updated policy framework must guide workforce development, focusing on training, recruitment, and strengthening health systems. “If we have a clear policy and strategic plan, it makes implementation easier and allows us to secure the necessary funding,” he said, noting that all health plans carry significant financial implications requiring government approval. Meanwhile, Health Secretary, Mr. Pascoe Kase has called for increased investment in midwifery training and workforce development to tackle the country’s high maternal and child mortality rates. Kase said one of the country’s most pressing challenges remains the number of mothers and young children dying from preventable causes. “One of the biggest challenges that we face in our country today is high maternal mortality. Our policies and plans must focus on training the workforce to respond directly to these challenges.” Kase emphasized that health workforce training should be aligned with the realities faced across the country, particularly in maternal and child health. “If young mothers and their babies are dying during childbirth or before the age of five, then our attention must be on training health workers to deal with those issues,” he said. He highlighted the importance of targeted investment in midwives, noting their critical role in delivering frontline care, often in difficult and resource-limited environments. “Midwives continue to provide essential services under challenging conditions. Their work requires skill, commitment and endurance, and they serve where they are needed most,” he said. Kase said it was vital to recognize and support midwives through improved training, better working conditions, and clear professional development pathways. Both Health leaders also acknowledged the role of all development partners, including UNFPA and UNICEF, DFAT, Marie Stopes for their ongoing collaboration with the National Department of Health, the PNG Midwifery Society, PNG Nurses Association and training institutions. Furthermore, Minister Kapavore noted that global calls for “a million more midwives” align with Papua New Guinea’s own priorities to strengthen its health workforce and improve service delivery nationwide. Despite these challenges, the Minister noted improvements in key health indicators, including reductions in maternal mortality rates over time. He credited frontline health workers, particularly midwives, for these gains. “Because of people like you, our statistics are improving. Now we must support you more and provide a clear pathway forward,” he said.

A spirit of gratitude, resilience and responsibility defined the 71st University of Papua New Guinea graduation ceremony for the School of Medicine and Health Sciences when student respondent, Angela Mala Gul delivered a heartfelt address on behalf of the Class of 2025.Speaking before university leaders, faculty, dignitaries, families and fellow graduates today, Gul described the occasion as “a significant day with great joy, gratitude and achievement,” marking years of dedication and perseverance. She acknowledged institutional leaders, including the Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor, alongside academic staff and families, before grounding her speech in faith, crediting God for providing “strength, wisdom and knowledge” throughout the graduates’ journey. The highlight of the ceremony was Gul’s recognition as the recipient of the annual PNG–Australia Pragmatic Award for overall academic excellence, presented with support from the Australian High Commission. She expressed deep appreciation for the honour, noting that the achievement reflected collective support rather than individual success. “This recognition brings me great joy and encourages me to continue striving for excellence,” Gul said, while thanking mentors, lecturers and clinical instructors who contributed to her academic and professional development. She also paid tribute to parents, families and sponsors, acknowledging their sacrifices, patience and encouragement during the demanding years of study. Gul described the academic journey as one marked by “sleepless nights, challenges and perseverance,” highlighting the pressures of exams, assignments and clinical training. Addressing her fellow graduates, Gul emphasized that their qualifications represent more than academic success—they signal the beginning of a lifelong commitment to service. “As graduates entering the health professions, we recognize that today marks the beginning of greater responsibility,” she said. “We are entering a field where knowledge must meet compassion, and service must always place people first.” She urged graduates, many of whom will become doctors, nurses, pharmacists and allied health professionals, to serve with humility, professionalism and integrity, and to remain committed to continuous growth. The ceremony concluded with a message of optimism and duty, as Gul encouraged the Class of 2025 to carry forward their knowledge and values to make a meaningful impact in their communities. “Let us leave here with confidence, integrity and a sense of purpose,” she said. “The future now awaits us, and it is our responsibility to serve with excellence.”

University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) Chancellor, Sir Robert Igara has hailed the last group of graduating students from the School of Medicine and Health Sciences as both a milestone achievement and a turning point in the nation’s medical education history.Speaking at the graduation ceremony this morning at the Sir John Guise Indoor Stadium in Port Moresby city, Sir Robert announced that the school has produced a total of 1,507 graduates over the past five years since 2022, including the 318 students graduating in the current cohort. The group includes international students and award recipients across a range of qualifications, from diplomas to higher postgraduate degrees. Of the graduates, 238 received bachelor’s degrees and 11 earned diplomas in specialized cross-sector areas, while 69 were awarded postgraduate qualifications, including master’s degrees and higher postgraduate diplomas. Chancellor Sir Robert commended the school for maintaining strong academic standards and leadership in health education. He also highlighted gender representation, noting that women made up 52% of the graduating class, a figure he described as a significant achievement for the institution. “This is not only a moment of completion, but one of tradition, legacy, and continuity,” Sir Robert said. The ceremony marked the final graduation of the School of Medicine and Health Sciences under UPNG, ahead of its transition into the new Papua New Guinea University of Medicine and Health Sciences, which is expected to admit its first students in January 2027. Sir Robert reflected on the school’s long-standing contribution since becoming part of UPNG in 1957, describing it as a pillar of excellence that has trained generations of doctors, nurses, and public health professionals serving communities across Papua New Guinea. Addressing the graduates, he emphasized their unique role as the final cohort to carry the UPNG medical school legacy. “You stand as the bridge between the past and a promising future,” he said, acknowledging the challenges students faced throughout their studies, including demanding clinical training and long hours of preparation. The ceremony also included a tribute to a graduate who was awarded their qualification posthumously, recognizing their academic achievement and contribution. Sir Robert urged graduates to view their qualifications not just as academic credentials but as a call to service, stressing the urgent need to strengthen Papua New Guinea’s healthcare system. “Whether you serve in urban hospitals or rural health centres, your role extends beyond clinical care. You are leaders, educators, and advocates for the well-being of our people,” he said. He also thanked families, friends, and academic staff for their support and contributions, acknowledging their role in the success of the graduates and the institution. Looking ahead, Sir Robert said the foundation built by the school will guide the new university as it continues its mission to train competent and compassionate health professionals. He added that a formal joint assembly will be held once leadership for the new institution is appointed, marking the next phase of collaboration and nation-building. He congratulated the graduating students as they prepare to enter the workforce at a critical time for the country’s healthcare sector.

A prominent Papua New Guinean business leader has called on new graduates to approach the rise of artificial intelligence with caution, integrity, and a commitment to equality.Speaking at the 71st graduation ceremony of the University of Papua New Guinea for the school of Business and Public Policy where a total of 565 students graduated, the former BSP CEO and UPNG council member Robin Fleming, reflected on the growing influence of AI and the responsibilities facing the next generation of professionals. Fleming described the AI revolution as potentially more transformative than the agricultural and industrial revolutions but warned that its long-term impact on the global economy remains uncertain. While acknowledging the significant benefits AI can bring, he stressed that its “intelligence is artificial” and should not replace human judgment. “The workforce still needs people with the ability to reason, to question, and to act with patience,” he said. “Not every problem needs to be resolved immediately, and sometimes a deliberate pause is more valuable than a decision driven purely by speed and computing power,” said Fleming. He emphasized that qualities such as integrity and ethics, developed during students’ academic journeys, will remain critical in a rapidly evolving business landscape. Fleming also highlighted gender disparities in higher education and the workforce, noting that 42% of graduates at the ceremony were female. However, he pointed out that female representation declines at higher levels of study and leadership, with women facing ongoing challenges balancing professional careers, further education, and family responsibilities. He said this contributes to the continued underrepresentation of women in senior leadership and public office roles across PNG, and called for a sustained commitment to merit-based systems that provide equal opportunities for women to reach their full potential. In closing, Fleming urged graduates to remain grounded in their values and to acknowledge the support that enabled their success. “Always remember those who made ample sacrifices over the years to bring you this far,” he said, congratulating the class and wishing them success as they enter a workforce shaped by rapid change and uncertainty.

Former PNG LNG Kumuls and SP PNG Hunters Coach and now Governor for East new Britain province, Michael Marum, has welcomed the signing of four-time premiership-winning five-eighth Jarome Luai with the PNG Chiefs.He said the country needs such key players like Luai to build the foundation of this new franchise going forward in the NRL competition. “Of course, we need a marquee player like himself to come on board and support our people here.” Governor Marum said, Jerome Luai and Alex Johnston are both talented players in their ways and are a good fit for the team. With no official statement from the Chiefs regarding AJ’s signing, the Governor stated that it would be an honour to watch him play for the PNG Chiefs as he heads towards the back end of his career. “Yeah, AJ, for him to, you know, he's getting towards the back end of his career, so it would be an honour for him to finish off playing at home with the home team too.” “And if he's signed or if he's yet to sign and if he's on the radar, it would be really good for us. He's a quality player, both of them.” Governor Marum also stressed that having signed key marquee players like Jerome and AJ (still in talks), it’s a good space for marketing to get top NRL players on board to lead the team come 2028. “And of course, they're going to attract more of those marquee key players to come on board. With the Chiefs coming on board in 2028, recruiting top players is key to boost the teams' performances.” Meanwhile, Luai is contracted for seasons 2028 and 2029 and has an option to remain at the club in 2030.

A new community-driven initiative is set to take center stage in May, as the We Are One (WOW) Foundation prepares to host its first-ever Mother’s Day Charity Music Festival, aimed at raising funds and awareness for women’s health.Foundation Manager Izabell Druma said the organization, established in November 2025, grew out of earlier community-focused initiatives led by Islands Petroleum. What began as a corporate social responsibility activity through the Color Run has since evolved into a broader foundation focusing on health and education programs. “Our focus is on community delivery through education and health,” she said. “This festival is about bringing people together while supporting a very important cause.” The event will raise funds to build a cervical screening centre at Port Moresby General Hospital, addressing a critical gap in early detection services for women and young girls. Organizers say awareness is a key objective of the festival, particularly around early screening for cervical cancer. According to Isabel, a significant proportion of Papua New Guinea’s population is affected by the human papillomavirus (HPV), making early detection and intervention essential. “This is about educating people on the importance of screening and good health,” she said. “If we can raise awareness and encourage people to get tested early, then we’ve already made an impact.” Beyond fundraising, the initiative promotes a broader message of community ownership, encouraging individuals and organizations to contribute in any way they can—whether through attending the event, volunteering time, or spreading awareness. “We are one is what we’re all about—bringing the community together, collaborating, and creating harmony,” Isabel said. “Everyone can contribute, no matter how small.” The festival will feature performances from a range of Papua New Guinean musicians, including Kali D, Mal Meninga Kuri, Marianne Masani, Isaiah Manoa, Boys from 9-1-1, Jessie, G-Fan, and Justin Wellington. Organizers say the response from performers has been overwhelmingly positive, with many artists volunteering their time and talent to support the cause. The family-friendly event will also include food stalls, children’s activities such as bouncy castles, and a fireworks display to close the evening. All proceeds from the festival will go towards establishing the cervical screening facility and supporting ongoing health initiatives. Organizers are also encouraging corporate participation through bulk ticket purchases, which can be distributed to employees or donated to mothers in schools and communities. “We want this to be a shared effort,” Isabel said. “Whether you attend, support financially, or simply spread the message, you’re a part of something that can help save lives.”

Papua New Guinea officially joined the global community in observing World Immunization Week 2026, as it launched Round Three (3) of Supplementary Immunization Activities (SIA) of the Polio Campaign, that began in 2025, at the Metoreia Urban Health Centre in Port Moresby yesterday.Speaking at the event, Acting CEO for NCD Provincial Health Authority (PHA), Mr. Gilbert Ori highlighted the city’s health authority’s commitment to providing support to crucial public health programs such as the immunization program. “Immunization remains one of the most cost-effective strategies in disease prevention,” he stated. The immunization program includes providing accessible immunization services at the health facilities in NCD, including private clinics and hospital and conducting regular mobile and outreach immunization services to reach unimmunized children especially in squatter settlements. Also present at the event was Dr. Masahiro Zakoji, the country representative for the World Health Organization. In his remarks, he noted that over the past 50 years, vaccines have saved more than 150 million lives from diseases such as Measles, Polio, Ebola, HPV, Malaria and other diseases. He went on to say this week is an opportunity to celebrate what science and teamwork have achieved. At the same time, it should remind us about the goals yet to be reached through immunization. He congratulated the leadership of the National Department of Health for its effort in managing the Polio outbreak that began in May 2025. Dr. Zakoji also extended his appreciation for campaign partners including the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization (Gavi) and the governments of Australia and Japan for their continued support. “Following expert advice from the Technical Advisory Group, this third Round of immunization will focus on 4 provinces- NCD, Central, Enga and Morobe - with the aim to vaccinate 90 % of children under 5 in each province, and this is the only way to stop the outbreak,” he further stated. In closing, he thanked the community leaders, healthcare workers and partners, describing their efforts as the engine with which the country can move forward.

International partners have reaffirmed their commitment to Papua New Guinea’s immunisation efforts, as the country launched its 2026 vaccination campaign alongside the third round of its polio outbreak response.Representatives from Japan, Australia, and global health organizations joined national health officials at Metoreia Urban Health Centre in Port Moresby city to mark World Immunization Week and the rollout of the OPV2 Round 3 vaccination campaign. A representative from the Embassy of Japan highlighted the country’s ongoing support for global health initiatives, describing vaccines as “one of humanity’s most effective tools to protect lives and strengthen communities.” Japan recently signed a major agreement with the Government of Papua New Guinea and the World Health Organization to fund polio eradication efforts. The project, valued at 663 million Japanese Yen (approximately K18 million), will support outbreak response measures, expand surveillance, and strengthen laboratory capacity nationwide. “The fight against polio is a shared global responsibility,” the representative said. “Every child must be reached, and every missed opportunity must be addressed.” The Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization (Gavi), the Vaccine Alliance also commended PNG for its progress, noting that vaccination campaigns launched in 2025 reached more than 2.3 million children and achieved coverage of around 80 per cent. However, Gavi representatives stressed the need for further improvement, particularly in routine immunization coverage, which remains below target in many provinces. “We want more,” the representative said. “We need to reach missed children, strengthen outreach services, and ensure vaccines are accessible to every community.” Australia, through its Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, reaffirmed its longstanding partnership with Papua New Guinea. Country representative Madeline Moss acknowledged the efforts of frontline health workers, many of whom have travelled long distances to deliver vaccines in remote areas. “It is your health workers who have walked for hours, climbed mountains, and crossed rivers to reach communities,” she said. “Because of these efforts, we have reason for cautious optimism that transmission has been interrupted.” Australia has committed more than K20 million to support the response, particularly targeting hard-to-reach populations. Deputy Secretary for Public Health, Ken Wai, emphasized that immunization remains the country’s strongest defence against preventable diseases, but acknowledged that coverage rates—currently between 40 and 50 per cent—are still too low. “Our target is above 95 per cent, but we are not there yet,” he said. “We must go house to house to ensure every child is vaccinated.” Meanwhile, UNICEF warned that gaps in routine immunization continue to leave children vulnerable, despite progress in halting the outbreak. Country Representative Dr. Veera Mendonca noted that while no new polio cases have been recorded since late 2025, environmental samples indicate the virus may still be circulating. “As long as there is risk anywhere, all children remain at risk,” she said. “This is our opportunity not only to end polio, but to strengthen routine immunization so no child is missed.” Health officials and partners say the third round of vaccinations will focus on high-risk provinces, aiming to close immunity gaps and ensure at least 95 per cent coverage. The campaign is being delivered through a coordinated effort involving the government, international partners, and local communities, with a shared goal of achieving a polio-free Papua New Guinea. “Together, we have the vaccines, the partnerships, and the experience,” Dr. Mendonca said. “What matters now is execution—reaching every child and building a stronger health system for the future.”