Metoreia Health Centre has successfully conducted Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) training for its support staff, reaffirming its commitment to patient safety and high-quality healthcare delivery.The training equipped staff with practical skills to prevent the spread of infections within the facility. Key topics included proper hand hygiene, correct use of personal protective equipment (PPE), waste management, cleaning and disinfection procedures, and safe patient-care practices. Metoreia Health Centre Manager, Regina Wuri, highlighted the critical role of IPC in protecting both patients and healthcare workers. “Infection prevention is essential to ensure that everyone—staff and patients alike—remains safe while receiving or providing care,” she said. The program was facilitated by the National Capital District Provincial Health Authority (NCDPHA) in collaboration with public health partners and is part of ongoing efforts to build capacity at frontline health facilities, reducing the risk of healthcare-associated infections. Key outcomes of the training include improved hand hygiene, correct PPE usage, safer waste disposal and environmental management, and stronger teamwork in maintaining infection-free spaces. Dr. Robin Oge, Chief Executive Officer for NCDPHA, commended the Metoreia management and IPC team for their efforts. “Community members must continue to practice good hygiene and support health workers in keeping the facility safe,” he said.

More elementary teachers across Papua New Guinea (PNG) will get the chance to upgrade their qualifications in 2026 as the Department of Education rolls out a new nationwide training plan.Department of Education Secretary Dr. Uke Kombra said the program will help early grade teachers move up to a Diploma in Primary Teaching (In-Service), which is now required under the new 1–6–6 education system. “This process has already started,” Dr. Kombra said. “PNG Education Institute, Divine Word University, Innovative University of Enga, and Balimo Teachers College are already offering the two-year conversion program.” The plan aims to train 8,576 elementary teachers between 2026 and 2029. This is a big step up, compared to the 1,430 teachers—only 7 per cent of the total—who completed similar training between 2019 and 2025. Right now, Papua New Guinea has 21,602 elementary teachers working across the country. Training numbers will increase each year, with 2,082 teachers expected to join in 2026, 3,613 in 2027, 2,890 in 2028, and 2,371 in 2029. The diploma program was developed by the Department of Education and launched in 2024. It is being delivered in partnership with the Teaching Service Commission (TSC), the Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (DHERST), and several teacher training institutions. Dr. Kombra said the two-year course includes eight units and a total of 120 credit points. To qualify, teachers must be employed under the TSC, have at least five years of teaching experience, hold a Certificate in Elementary Teaching, have a valid Teacher Registration Certificate, and have completed Grade 12 or an equivalent qualification through FODE. The training program supports the National Education Plan 2020–2029, which changes the school system from 3–6–4 to 1–6–6. Under this system, Preparatory, Grade 1, and Grade 2 will be taught by trained early grade teachers. Dr. Kombra also thanked the development partners supporting the program. Funding is being provided by DFAT through the Program for Improving Education, the World Bank through the Learning Enhancement and Access Project, and the Global Partnership for Education through UNICEF, covering all provinces. “This training is important for the future of our children,” Dr. Kombra said. “By 2030 and beyond, we want all elementary teachers to have the right qualifications to teach in primary schools.”

The SP PNG Hunters Assistant Coach Enock Maki says that role clarity and discipline will be the central focus as the team moves into Block Two of its preseason program.Maki explained that role clarity is about ensuring every player understands their responsibilities and remains accountable both on and off the field in order to contribute to the team’s success. “Players need to focus on their own job and understand their role within the team,” Maki said. “When players are clear on that, it helps the whole group move in the right direction.” The Hunters currently have a squad of 36 players, including 32 contracted players and four development players. Maki confirmed that 32 players will form the club’s final squad for the season, with the development players continuing to train alongside the main group. He also reinforced the importance of maintaining the club’s standards, noting that all players sign a code of conduct during the induction process when joining the Hunters, and they are expected to strictly adhere to it. "We have our own standards here. If players don’t meet those standards, then difficult decisions have to be made. However, the door is not closed, players can work on themselves and earn their way back,” Maki said. The Hunters are expected to play their first trial match in approximately five weeks’ time against the Pride in Cairns, before opening the season with a round one clash against the Capras in what is anticipated to be a strong rivalry. “Our priority at the moment is lifting everyone to the level we want. There’s still a lot of work to be done, but we’re building steadily.” With several senior players having departed, the Hunters are entering a rebuilding phase. Despite this, Maki expressed confidence in the squad, particularly in the middle forwards and spine positions. He said, “We’re comfortable with our middle. The spine is still a work in progress, but by the time round one arrives, we believe we’ll be ready.” Maki also praised the attitude and work ethics of the new players who have joined the squad during the preseason. “They’re eager to learn and improve every session,” he said. “That’s exactly what we want to see.”

Minister for Education Lucas Dekena has welcomed the Marape–Rosso Government’s commitment of K4.9 billion to the education sector under the 2026 National Budget, describing it as a strong endorsement of ongoing reforms across the system.The allocation accounts for 16% of the total national budget, a level of funding Minister Dekena said reflects the Government’s confidence in education as a national priority. Of the total amount, K1.4 billion has been appropriated directly to the Department of Education, including K1.199 billion for recurrent expenditure. Minister Dekena confirmed that K905 million will be allocated for tuition and project fees in 2026, ensuring continued access to education for students nationwide. A further K211 million has been set aside for departmental operations. The Minister expressed his appreciation to Prime Minister James Marape, Cabinet, and the leadership of the Department of Education for their collaborative efforts in securing the funding amid competing national priorities. He also outlined major investments aimed at improving school infrastructure and learning environments across all levels of education. Minister Dekena confirmed that US$100 million (approximately K500 million) has been secured through the World Bank to support Early Childhood Education, while an additional K500 million has been approved by the National Executive Council for school infrastructure development. In addition, the Department of Education is in discussions with the Asian Development Bank to secure US$60 million to support infrastructure development for secondary schools, particularly grades seven to twelve. “These investments are critical to addressing legacy infrastructure issues, reducing overcrowding, and improving learning outcomes,” Minister Dekena said. As part of broader education reforms, the Government aims to reduce class sizes to between 20 and 25 students per classroom, bringing Papua New Guinea closer to international best-practice standards. “We must think about our teachers’ welfare as well as the quality of learning our students receive,” the Minister said.

Port Moresby's Gordons Secondary School Principal, Mr. George Kenega, has revealed that limited spaces in universities and other institutions of higher learning are a major reason many high-performing students fail to secure placements, despite appearing to meet academic requirements.Mr. Kenega explained that while many students achieve strong grades, particularly A’s, not all A grades are treated equally during the university selection process. He said institutions apply detailed classifications when assessing results, with distinctions such as “top A,” middle-range A, and A grades that are closer to a B.“On paper, it may look like students have met the criteria, but when selections are made, those differences in grading become critical,” Mr. Kenega said. “Some A's are very high, while others fall into lower categories, and universities take those classifications into account.”He noted that this grading variation often leaves parents and schools questioning why students with good results are not selected. According to Mr. Kenega, the issue becomes clearer once the grading categories and selection criteria used by universities are fully understood.In addition to the grading standards, Mr. Kenega highlighted the growing pressure caused by limited university capacity.He said the number of students completing secondary schools continues to increase each year, while available spaces in higher learning institutions remain largely unchanged.“The output of students keeps rising every year, but universities cannot expand at the same pace. As a result, fewer students are being selected, even though many of them perform well academically,” he said.Mr. Kenega stressed that the situation does not reflect a lack of effort or ability among students, but rather structural limitations within the higher education system.“On the surface, our students have done well, but the reality is that limited spaces and strict selection criteria prevent many deserving students from moving on to universities,” he said.He called for better planning and expansion in the higher education sector to accommodate the increasing number of qualified school leavers.

Port Moresby General Hospital (PNGH) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr. Paki Molumi is urging the families and relatives of unclaimed bodies at the hospital's mortuary to collect and bury them as the facility is about to reach its maximum holding capacity.Currently, the hospital mortuary, including refrigerated containers, can hold 300 bodies.  With an average of 10 to 15 admissions per day, Dr. Molumi said the hospital needs space for incoming cases.“We urge the public, if you have loved ones at the mortuary, please come and claim them for burial to create space for new bodies,” he said.Unclaimed bodies, particularly those who die on arrival or have no identified relatives, are subject to mass burials after court clearance. So far, the hospital conducted three to four mass burials, each involving 15 to 20 bodies.Looking ahead, Dr. Molumi revealed plans to expand the mortuary with funding from the Indonesian government.The new facility, currently under design review, is expected to begin construction in the first quarter of 2026.The upgraded mortuary will include increased storage, a forensic medicine section for post-mortems, an environment-controlled preservation area, funeral service facilities, and a chapel. Cremation services, however, will not be included in the current design.Dr. Molumi also highlighted the hospital’s medical achievements and plans for the coming year. In February 2026, Port Moresby General Hospital will perform kidney transplants for five patients, following the successful recovery of two previous transplant recipients who have returned to work and normal life.Cancer care and programs addressing lifestyle-related diseases such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease will also be expanded.“We aim to provide comprehensive healthcare to the people of Papua New Guinea as part of the Golden Jubilee celebrations,” Dr. Molumi said.

FC Wantok secured a commanding 4-0 victory over Rutz FC in the NCD Governor's Cup Grand Final at University Oval last week, with striker Leo Rue scoring a brace to seal the win.Rue opened his account in the 26th minute before adding his second just after the restart in the 47th minute. The match, officially kicked off by a representative from NCD Sport Desk and witnessed by NCD Governors Cup Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Billy Aki and his committee, saw FC Wantok dominate from the outset. The game started at a measured pace, but FC Wantok quickly capitalized on Rutz FC’s shaky defence. Solomon Rani broke the deadlock with a stunning 20-meter strike in the opening minutes, putting Wantok ahead. The lead was extended in the 13th minute by stunning winger Bernard Maru, who showcased his speed and skill to put the team 2-0 up. Rue then added the third goal before halftime, heading past the Rutz's defence and goalkeeper to put the game out of reach. Despite a brief resurgence from Rutz FC after the break, Rue sealed the result with his second goal of the match, ensuring FC Wantok’s emphatic win. Rutz FC continued to fight until the final whistle, but FC Wantok’s defence held firm, preventing any goals. The 4-0 result reflected Wantok’s dominance, though both teams delivered a performance worthy of a grand final. FC Wantok walked away with K15, 000 and the prestigious Governors Cup, while Rutz FC took home K10, 000. Third place went to 21 BC FC with K7, 000, and the Peter Paul-led team received K5, 000. Meanwhile, in the women’s grand final, Mosama FC claimed the K10, 000 prize and the Governor's Cup after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Tupuru FC, winning 4-3. Both teams were tied 1-1 after regulation and extra time. Tupuru FC received K7, 000, Bomana Wild Duck received K5, 000, and FC Sisters took home K4, 000.

The Metoreia Urban Health Centre located at the Hanuabada village in the National Capital District (NCD), had a quiet and calm start to the New Year.Acting Manager Health Extension Officer Ms. Regina Wuri, reported that the health Centre only received two admissions on New Year’s morning where one safely delivered her baby while the other was referred to the Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH). “Only one baby was delivered by the mid-wife on duty during the early hours of New Year, but we also had an emergency referral to the Port Moresby General Hospital,” said Ms. Wuri. She said the second mother was experiencing complications where the baby was experiencing fatal distress and was referred to the PMGH Labor Ward. She explained that they only operate twenty-four-seven for the labor ward and not the out-patient, hence they had no reports of emergency cases.

Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr. Paki Molumi, has confirmed that the hospital’s long-awaited Cancer Centre is expected to open in 2026, with services rolled out in phases to align with government funding.“The Cancer Centre has been divided into phases to suit annual government funding.” “We thank the Government of Papua New Guinea, through the last budget, for allocating K60 million for this project.” He said PMGH is hopeful the funds will be released in the first quarter of 2026, allowing the centre to open in the second quarter of the year. “We hope the government will release the funding in the first quarter of 2026 so that we can open this facility most likely in the second quarter.” Dr. Molumi explained that once operational, the Cancer Centre will initially provide chemotherapy and radiotherapy services using modern technology. “When we open the cancer service in the second quarter of 2026, we will be providing chemotherapy services.” “We will also be providing radiotherapy services with one machine, which is the linear accelerator- not the cobalt machine. This is the latest technology.” He added that the facility will be equipped with an LCM linear accelerator and will also offer brachytherapy services. “We will be providing brachytherapy services for several cancer treatments.” “Hopefully, we will also have a nuclear medicine department with PET scans installed so we can provide PET scan services in 2026.” Looking to the future, Dr. Molumi said PMGH plans to expand services further between 2027 and 2028 with the addition of a second radiotherapy machine. “In 2027 and 2028, we should be able to include the second cancer machine, which is the TrueBeam.” He said even more advanced cancer treatments are planned in the years that follow. “By 2029 and 2030, we should be able to introduce advanced radiotherapy treatment, immunotherapy, and bone marrow transplant services.” “By 2030, we hope to offer the people of Papua New Guinea a one-stop shop for comprehensive cancer care.” On patient numbers, Dr. Molumi said it is still too early to provide exact figures but noted the scale of cancer cases nationwide. “I cannot give the numbers right now, but our statistics show there are about 300,000 new cancer cases a year,” he said, adding that PMGH expects to treat a significant portion of patients once the centre is operational.

Serving more than one million people in the National Capital District (NCD) and Central Province, Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH) has confirmed it will remain fully operational throughout the Christmas and festive season, with no scaling down of services.PMGH Chief Executive Officer Dr. Paki Molumi, said the Christmas and New Year period is one of the busiest times of the year for the hospital. “Christmas and New Year is always a very busy period for us, so there will be no scaling down of services at Port Moresby General Hospital.” “We will continue to operate as normal to ensure our people receive the care they need.” Dr. Molumi assured the public that the hospital is fully prepared to manage emergencies and routine cases during the festive season. “We prepare for this period every year. We have adequate medical supplies, and our staff will be available across all departments to handle all types of emergencies.” As the largest hospital in the city, PMGH will continue to work closely with other hospitals and clinics in the National Capital District and Central Province to ensure uninterrupted healthcare delivery. Dr. Molumi confirmed that staff leave has been carefully managed to ensure key areas remain fully operational. “Critical sections such as the emergency department, operating theatres, labour wards and children’s emergency services will be adequately staffed throughout the festive season.” In addition, PMGH also highlighted the ongoing support of the 6Mile Clinic, which operates as an extension of the hospital’s emergency department with support from the National Capital District Provincial Health Authority (NCDPHA). “6Mile Clinic is an extension of our emergency department. We encourage members of the public to visit 6Mile first for screening before being referred to PMGH.” He noted a significant increase in trauma cases this year and urged the public to celebrate responsibly. “We have seen a drastic increase in trauma cases. When casualties come in large numbers, it places a strain on our workforce and facilities.” “We urge everyone to celebrate peacefully and avoid unnecessary risks.” In his Christmas message, Dr Molumi encouraged residents of Port Moresby and the wider National Capital District to prioritise safety. “Celebrate the festive season peacefully, avoid accidents, and spend time with your family.” Meanwhile, on behalf of the board, management, staff and patients, PMGH thanked the public and stakeholders for their continued support and wished everyone a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.    

For former Miss Bird of Paradise, May Hasola, life after passing on the crown has been one of reflection, growth, and a renewed purpose.Speaking to PNG HAUSBUNG May described how her experience as a national pageant queen shaped her confidence, outlook, and aspirations beyond the stage. “Life has changed for me in a significant way,” she said. “I’ve learned so much from my time as Miss Bird of Paradise, and I carry those lessons with me. It’s made me stronger and more confident in the woman I am today.” Hasola, who represented Papua New Guinea in the 2023–2024 pageant season, said her year of service deepened her commitment to community work. Her advocacy focused on empowering women and raising awareness for children with special needs — key areas of the Miss Bird of Paradise platform. “Being of service taught me that there’s so much to be done in our communities,” she explained. “That’s something I want to keep doing, helping people and supporting the next generation of girls to find their place.” Currently studying law at the University of Papua New Guinea, Hasola took a year off but plans to return to complete her degree. With her legal training, she hopes to continue championing social equity and youth empowerment. Reflecting on the impact of her reign, Hasola said she hopes to have built a “wider platform for women and girls in Papua New Guinea to stand on,” creating opportunities for those who follow. When asked what advice she would give young women considering entering the pageant, her message was simple but heartfelt. “Say yes. Opportunities don’t always come when you’re ready, but you just need the courage to take them and contribute to something greater than yourself.” For May, the end of her reign isn’t a conclusion, it’s a continuation. The glitter of the crown may fade with time, but her commitment to service, empowerment, and community remains as bright as ever.                           

Christmas came early for an exciting group of early learners today at the Dame Carol Kidu Early Learning Centre at Taurama Tutu Bay just outside the nation’s capital, when they were gifted with new reading books.The United States’ State Department, through the Asia Foundation, generously funded the distribution of children’s books to Taurama and surrounding communities across Papua New Guinea. These titles where written and illustrated by PNG & Pacific Island authors for Pacific Islanders, emphasizing the nation’s shared values and telling stories that will motivate young readers and encourage the love of reading. United States Ambassador Ann Marie Yastishock and the Asia Foundation formally presented the books to 10 communities at a reading event held at the Dame Carol Kidu Early Learning Centre. “Thank you to the parents and community leaders for supporting this event. These books will be loved for years to come, helping children to become principled, engaged, and responsible members of your communities who uphold the values you hold most dear, such as the freedom of religion and the freedom to practice one’s faith,” said U.S. Ambassador Yastishock. “ This initiative brings together Pacific communities, local creatives, and community partners. Let's Read supports broader goals of improving early learning, nurturing cultural understanding, and expanding access to children’s literature created by and for Pacific communities. Meanwhile, speaking on behalf of the Kidu family, Lana Davina thanked all partners for their support and for donating a vital resource that will contribute to the learning and development of each child at the centre. Through this program, over 12,000 books will be distributed to schools and community partners across the Pacific, including Papua New Guinea, Fiji, Samoa, Tonga, and Vanuatu. The books are also translated into languages spoken across the region so to also preserve language and culture. In addition to print distribution, all titles are now available on the Let’s Read digital library, home to more than 15,000 free children’s books in over 70 languages at letsreadpacific.org. Download the Let’s Read app on any Android or iOS smartphone or tablet to access the full collection offline. The U.S. Embassy in Port Moresby is proud to support the distribution of books to communities across Papua New Guinea, increasing access to educational materials while celebrating the shared values of the United States and Papua New Guinea.