The Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) has officially announced the departure of Andrew Hill, Chief Executive Officer of the PNG NRL Bid, who will take on a new role as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Panthers Group in Australia. Mr. Hill, who was appointed to lead PNG’s historic bid to join the National Rugby League (NRL) in May 2022, played a pivotal role in securing the country's successful entry into the competition. His leadership culminated in the establishment of the PNG NRL Franchise, announced on December 12, 2024, with preparations now underway for the team’s debut in 2028. PNGRFL Chairman Sandis Tsaka extended his gratitude on behalf of the board and management, commending Mr. Hill for turning the PNG NRL dream into a reality. “Andrew has had a long-standing relationship with rugby league in PNG. He was engaged to carry out the mammoth task of getting our team into the NRL.” “On all accords, he has done so well, and we are extremely grateful for his tireless contributions.” “We wish Andrew all the best in his new role with the Panthers and look forward to continuing our journey with Chairman Ray Dib and his board as we work towards 2028.” Under Mr. Hill’s leadership, the franchise has begun community engagement efforts, including a nationwide “Name Your Team” competition to help shape the identity of PNG’s first NRL side. Following his departure, Mr. Hill will take up the CEO position at Panthers Group, a leading sporting and hospitality organization based in Western Sydney. He will assume the role in early November, overseeing operations across Panthers’ extensive leagues club network in Penrith, Port Macquarie, Bathurst, North Richmond, and Glenbrook, as well as the Western Sydney Conference Centre and Pullman Sydney Penrith. Hill brings a wealth of experience to the position, having held senior executive roles with the Parramatta Eels, GWS Giants, and the National Rugby League, as well as leading the 2017 Rugby League World Cup and serving as CEO of the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs. Meanwhile, Panthers Group Chairman Peter Graham welcomed Mr. Hill’s appointment. “Andrew is an outstanding leader with extensive experience across both the sporting and corporate sectors.” “The Panthers Group is in an exciting period of growth, and Andrew’s leadership ensures we are well-positioned to deliver long-term success for our members and the broader community.” In addition, Mr. Hill said he was excited to begin a new chapter with one of Australia’s most recognized sporting organizations. “This is a role that allows me to align my skills and experience with one of the most successful and respected organizations in Australian sport.” “Panthers Group has an incredible reputation, not just in rugby league but across its clubs and facilities, and I’m excited by the opportunity to lead the organization into its next chapter.”

The Papua New Guinea Football Association (PNGFA) has praised the national U16 men’s team for their determined and spirited showing at the OFC U16 Championship, following a hard-fought 2-0 semi-final loss to New Zealand. Despite the defeat, the young Kapuls impressed with their tenacity, matching New Zealand’s intensity and creating scoring opportunities throughout the match. Their disciplined defense and flashes of attacking creativity highlighted the progress of youth football in PNG, earning admiration both at home and abroad. PNGFA General Secretary Ahmjad Tekwie said that these players represent the future of PNG football. “The lessons from this campaign are invaluable, and we remain committed to developing them through youth programs, competitions, and clear pathways to higher levels.” The semi-final loss means PNG missed out on an automatic qualification spot for the FIFA U17 World Cup. However, the team now turns its focus to the crucial third-place playoff against New Caledonia, which will determine the final Oceania berth for the World Cup. “We have nothing to lose. Our focus now shifts to giving 110% in the playoff. We are still fully committed to our goal of qualifying for a FIFA World Cup.” PNGFA also extended its gratitude to the coaching staff, team personnel, families, fans, and partners whose unwavering support helped drive the team’s strong showing in the tournament. As the young squad prepares for their final challenge against Fiji, the nation stands united behind them, hopeful that their journey to the world stage is not yet over.

Andrew Hill has officially stepped down as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Papua New Guinea (PNG) NRL Bid after more than three years at the helm of the project. His departure comes as he takes on a new role as Chief Executive Officer of the Panthers Group, one of Australia’s most prominent sporting organizations. Hill, who has played a central role in advancing PNG’s bid and related projects since early 2021, confirmed he will step down to pursue a new opportunity closer to home in Australia. “This journey has been an extraordinary and humbling experience,” Hill said in a farewell statement. “I am sincerely grateful for the support, collaboration, and warmth extended to me by the people of PNG throughout this time.” Hill’s tenure coincided with a period of significant progress in the bid to secure PNG’s entry into the NRL. With the recent formation of the PNG NRL Franchise Board on the 30th of July, the groundwork has been laid for the next phase of the initiative. “With the successful outcome of the PNG NRL Bid and the establishment of the new Franchise Board, now is an appropriate time to transition leadership,” Hill said. “The project is well-positioned for the next phase, and I am confident that the foundation laid by the many committed stakeholders will continue to grow into a successful and sustainable NRL Club.” Hill, who has regularly travelled between Sydney and Port Moresby during his time in the role, said the new position will allow him to spend more time with his family while continuing to contribute to the sports industry. He leaves behind a legacy of dedication and professionalism in what has been one of PNG's most ambitious sporting initiatives. “It has been an honour to contribute to such a significant and inspiring initiative,” he concluded. A successor to Hill has not yet been officially named, but the project’s leadership transition is expected to be smooth given the recent structural developments and ongoing support from key stakeholders.

The Civil Aviation Safety Authority of Papua New Guinea (CASA PNG) is hosting its 10th Aviation and Security Conference bringing together key stakeholders in the sector to share updates on safety trends, regulatory progress, and future plans for national aviation development. The annual conference is being held at the APEC Haus in Port Moresby city from the 27th-28th August and serves as a platform for communication and collaboration between regulators and operators. This year’s gathering was particularly significant as it aligns with Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence Anniversary and reflects the nation’s aviation achievements over the past five decades. “This event allows us to communicate the latest trends in aviation safety and security, much of which stems from our engagement with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO),” stated 10th PNG Aviation Safety and Security Conference Chair (ASSC) and Director of Civil Aviation, Mr. Benedict Oraka. The conference brings together 31 licensed air operators including Air Niugini, Tropic Air, MAF, and the Summer Institute of Marine Works—alongside 33 certified maintenance organizations. The National Airports Corporation (NAC) and New Sky Pacific Ltd are also among the key participants in the two-day conference. Each year, CASA PNG presents safety data and global best practices to these stakeholders, with the objective of enhancing the safety and reliability of air travel across the country. A major highlight of this year’s event was the discussion of 60 new action items resulting from PNG’s recent engagement with ICAO’s Asia-Pacific Office. Operators were urged to support CASA P&G in collecting the necessary data to meet these international standards. Papua New Guinea’s aviation safety and security ratings have improved significantly in recent years. ICAO’s Effective Implementation (EI) score—a measure of a country’s compliance with international aviation standards—shows that PNG has progressed from a 60.7% implementation score to 80.18%. In terms of aviation safety specifically, PNG’s rating has jumped from around 35% to 62% within just two years, positioning the country as a regional leader. “From a safety perspective, we are now ahead of many of our South Pacific neighbors. Out of 39 Asia-Pacific states, Papua New Guinea ranks 12th—a remarkable achievement for our country,” added Mr. Oraka. With Air Niugini set to welcome new aircraft into its fleet next month, questions about readiness were answered with confidence. “CASA PNG will provide full support to ensure that Air Niugini and all other operators are ready to introduce these aircraft safely and smoothly,” Mr. Oraka assured. The aviation sector’s ongoing growth is being matched by national infrastructure improvements. NAC is enhancing airport facilities, and New Sky Pacific Ltd now operates one of the most advanced air navigation systems in the region. As PNG celebrates 50 years of independence, the conference also emphasized the aviation sector’s role in national development—particularly for rural communities. “With most of our population living in remote areas, aviation must help bridge the gap,” Mr. Oraka said. He said, “We want our work to produce real, tangible outcomes that improve lives, especially in hard-to-reach parts of the country.” When asked about the biggest challenges facing the sector, the response was optimistic. “Challenges can be viewed as opportunities. With collaboration and commitment, we can transform them into progress for PNG.” In closing, CASA PNG called for continued cooperation across the industry to ensure the next 50 years of aviation in PNG are even more transformative than the last. “Together—with Air Niugini, NAC, New Sky Pacific, and all our partners—we will pursue the greater good for our people. CASA PNG is committed to doing its part to help realize that vision.”

A nationwide polio vaccination campaign is underway across the National Capital District (NCD), with health teams already reaching more than 68,000 children under the age of 10 since the rollout began last week Monday. The campaign, led by the NCD Provincial Health Authority (NCDPHA), aims to immunize 152,095 children across the city’s three districts, covering 28 health facilities, schools, and surrounding communities. NCDPHA Health Extension Officer (HEO) & Acting Deputy Director of Public Health-Family Health Services, Janet Pongone, confirmed that 120 teams are on the ground, delivering oral polio vaccines in both public and private settings. “As of Friday, last week, we’ve vaccinated 68,563 children. We still have around 80,000 more to reach in the remaining 27 days,” Janet said. The polio campaign is structured in two rounds: · Round 1 is running for 12 days, · Round 2 will follow one month later in October, lasting 15 days. While the campaign has largely been smooth, minor challenges have been reported—particularly in accessing some private schools. However, ongoing coordination efforts with education officials and school health inspectors aim to ensure full coverage. Private clinics are also supporting the campaign, with all vaccinations provided free of charge, including at private facilities. “We encourage all parents and guardians to bring their children to the nearest health facility or mobile clinic. We don't want any child left behind,” said Janet. The campaign is part of a broader national effort to keep Papua New Guinea polio-free following previous outbreaks. The Department of Health, in collaboration with local health authorities and partners, is urging families to participate fully in the vaccination drive to protect every eligible child.

Air Niugini has unveiled a striking commemorative livery on its first Airbus A220 aircraft, celebrating Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence Anniversary in bold, symbolic fashion. Dubbed the "People’s Balus", the aircraft features a vibrant design that incorporates the national flag and the official 50th Independence Anniversary logo. The livery serves as both a tribute to the country's rich cultural heritage and a statement of optimism for its future. The elaborate paintwork was completed at the Airbus facility in Mirabel, Canada, where 120 skilled painters worked around the clock in three shifts. The design used 11 distinct colours and employed advanced airbrushing and stencil techniques, marking only the second time Airbus has used such a method on an A220 aircraft. Air Niugini Acting CEO Captain Samiu Taufa, MBE, described the aircraft as a major milestone for the national carrier. “This aircraft is more than just a new addition to our fleet — it is our first brand-new, next-generation jet aircraft and captures the spirit of our nation and our aspirations for the future,” Taufa said. “As we celebrate 50 years of independence, the 'People’s Balus' stands as a testament to our journey and our commitment to progress.” The Airbus A220, developed with new-generation Pratt & Whitney GTF engines and enhanced aerodynamics, offers significant operational benefits. Compared to older models, it delivers around 25% lower fuel burn per seat and a 50% reduction in noise. Passengers can expect a quieter, more comfortable flight experience, with wider seats, larger windows, spacious overhead bins, and complimentary Wi-Fi onboard. Currently registered under Canadian test registration C-FOWU, the aircraft will be re-registered as P2-PGA once it meets PNG’s Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) requirements. It will then be issued a PNG Certificate of Airworthiness before making its delivery flight to Port Moresby. The A220 marks the beginning of a broader fleet modernization plan by Air Niugini. The airline has ordered 11 of the aircraft, with three expected to arrive by the end of the year and the rest delivered over the next three years. The A220s will gradually replace the ageing Fokker fleet, and eventually, the Boeing 737s, as the airline works to enhance regional connectivity and service reliability. The arrival of the first A220 in Port Moresby is scheduled for September — a moment that will coincide with Papua New Guinea’s golden jubilee of independence. Air Niugini is inviting the public to take part in this historic occasion as the "People’s Balus" takes flight, proudly representing the unity and identity of a nation celebrating five decades of independence.

South Pacific (SP) Brewery, a cornerstone of Papua New Guinea’s (PNG) cultural and economic development since its establishment in 1951, has officially launched its national campaign, “Born & Raised,” in celebration of the country’s upcoming 50th Independence Anniversary. SP Brewery Managing Director, Ed Weggemans, reflected on the brewery’s deep connection to PNG’s identity and milestones over the past seven decades. “With all its diversity, there are only a few things that truly bring Papua New Guineans together; SP Lager is one of those few.” “From the first locally hosted Pacific Games in 1969, to the historic raising of our national flag in 1975, to sporting triumphs like the SP Hunters’ Grand Final victory, SP Lager has proudly stood with the people of PNG.” Weggemans emphasized SP Brewery’s lasting impact, not just in celebration but in nation-building. Over the past 73 years, the company has significantly contributed to the economy through investments, tax contributions, job creation, and community initiatives, with SP Lager remaining at the forefront of its success. As PNG approaches its Golden Jubilee of independence, the “Born & Raised” campaign is set to honour the country’s growth, resilience, and national pride. Central to the campaign is a specially designed 50th Anniversary logo, which will be featured across brand touchpoints, from media to delivery fleet, and on limited-edition collectible packaging for bottles and cans. In addition, a nationwide consumer promotion will be rolled out, bringing the celebration to retail outlets across the country. “This is more than just a campaign, it is a tribute to the spirit of Papua New Guinea and the people who make this nation great,” “The celebration marks a new chapter for the brand and the nation. Cheers to the next 50 years!”

The Teaching Service Commission (TSC) has officially approved the establishment of Gobo All-Girls School of Excellence in the Jimi Electorate of Jiwaka Province, with 20 teaching positions validated and approved under the Secondary Salary Structure. This development follows a formal request from the Office of the Minister for Civil Aviation and Member for Jimi, Wake Goi, proposing the full establishment and operation of the school by the 2026 academic year. According to TSC Commissioner Operations, Mr. Maini Mike Ugaia, the Commission has received and acknowledged the minister’s letter, confirming the approval of 20 vacant teaching positions for the school. “This approval is done to cater for the science specialist learning for all girls in the province and the country as a whole commencing with first Grade 11 intakes to be enrolled in 2026 academic year,” Mr. Ugaia stated. He added that the positions are part of a broader push to support science-focused education for girls in line with the national government’s education reforms. “The Approval captures the minimum structure of 20 teaching position identified to be relocated and reclassified for full implementation by 01/01/2026 academic year,” he said. “The approved Gobo All-Girls School of Excellence Position Specification under Secondary Salary Structure will to be effective starting 01/01/2026 academic year.” The institution is designed to serve as a Specialized Science Education School for girls under the Secondary Education system. Mr. Ugaia confirmed that teachers with science specialization will be selected and appointed specifically to these newly created roles. “Teachers with Specialized Science Education within the School of Excellence and Secondary Education will be approved for appointment to the specific approved teaching positions to commence Teaching by 2026.” The Commission has issued directives for the Establishment Section of the Education Payroll Division to immediately begin compliance action for processing all validated positions. “Appointment Authorities within the Provincial and National Education Board is advised to comply with all TSC Admission and compliance process in preparation for the school commencement,” Mr. Ugaia said. In addition, the TSC emphasized the importance of aligning the school with national education policy. “Given the Minimum Secondary Science Specialist School Structure, the Commission further advice for Gobo All-Girls School of Excellence to ensure there is alignment with the current 1.6.6 education structure that will complement girls Science Stem Education to be accessible by all top performing science female students within the secondary population in Jiwaka province,” he explained. He further highlighted the need for fair and merit-based enrollment of students: “The relevant authorities within the Student Selection Board were advised to ensure there is fair, transparent and merit-based selection done to have all academically performing science female students are given prominence to be enrolled at Gobo All-Girls School of Excellence.” To ensure a supportive environment for teachers, Mr. Ugaia urged the local community respect and look after the school facilities and the staff. The Provincial TSC Advisor in Jiwaka has been tasked with overseeing proper deployment and performance management of teachers to uphold quality delivery of specialized science education in the province.

Kopkop College in Port Moresby city hosted a vibrant cultural food event on Friday, August 15, highlighting the importance of heritage, unity in diversity, and intergenerational knowledge-sharing as part of the school’s celebrations for Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence Anniversary. The event, themed “United in Diversity – One Culture, One People,” is part of a three-part school-wide program designed to foster cultural appreciation among students, parents, and staff through traditional storytelling, food, and dance. Lower Secondary School Principal Frederick Raka explained that the traditional food showcase was the second event in the series, launched earlier this year. “Food plays a vital part in our culture. And food brings people together in a communal society. So, if we have to celebrate our country's independence, looking at our cultural background and tradition and values, food is at the center of any event,” said Mr. Raka. Parents and families joined the celebration by bringing a variety of traditional meals to share. Students also showcased videos demonstrating the preparation of four regional signature dishes, which were made under the guidance of teachers and family members. Parent, Martha Jaro, who has three children attending Kopkop College, praised the initiative. “I’m from Popondetta and I cooked sago and sprinkled it with coconut, sometimes we call it lamington. With the opportunity given by the school to encourage parents and kids to cook tradition meals, I am so happy that the kids have learnt different ways of cooking, have tasted different meals." “Some kids, even mine, don’t know the names of the traditional food and how it is prepared, and I thank Kopkop for such a wonderful event,” she added. Mr. Raka emphasized that the initiative goes beyond food preparation, aiming to preserve oral traditions and promote storytelling around cultural practices. “Our history has been passed on orally from generation to generation so looking at our food there is a story behind the preparation of it, for what purpose and for what intent, who prepares it, for what group of people and for what specific event." “We hope that this event in terms of the preparation of food and sharing of it will enable our students to understand that food plays a very important role in our country, our way of doing things and daily life. The important message that will be taken away are the stories behind the preparation. When those foods are prepared, the stories are told.” The cultural program began with a screening of myths and legends from Papua New Guinea and will conclude with a traditional dance performance on September 5th. Kopkop College School of Learning and Innovation Principal Ms. Roddy Kidoro reinforced the school’s vision of celebrating cultural diversity while instilling national identity in students. “Our root is still embedded in the understanding that we are Papua New Guineans and we come from one nation.”

South Pacific (SP) Brewery has reaffirmed its commitment to community and culture by sponsoring the upcoming 2025 Tama Festival with a K5, 000 donation. Scheduled to take place from August 21st to 22nd in Arawa in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, the two-day festival will showcase the rich cultural heritage of Bougainville through traditional performances, arts and crafts exhibitions, and local cuisine. SP Brewery’s Sponsorships & Events Executive, Meiva Lalatute, said the company is proud to be involved in the event. “SP Brewery is proud to be part of this important cultural event. Our involvement with the show demonstrates our commitment to embracing community spirit and preserving our cultural practices for the next generation.” The sponsorship cheque was officially handed over to Zhon Bosco, Vice President of the Central Bougainville Tourism Association, who accepted it on behalf of the festival committee. “We thank SP Brewery for their sponsorship. This support will enable the committee to stage the event successfully.” The Tama Festival is expected to draw crowds from across the region, celebrating Bougainville’s unique identity and strengthening community ties through culture.

A groundbreaking climate-resilient development initiative has been launched in Kemabolo village, Rigo District, offering residents access to clean water and improved social services, thanks to a partnership between the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and UNICEF. The program, rolled out in collaboration with the Central Provincial Government, Rigo District Administration, the Climate Change and Development Authority (CCDA), and the Department of National Planning and Monitoring, is expected to directly benefit 30,000 people — including 12,000 children — while contributing to improved health and education outcomes for nearly half a million Papua New Guineans. At the center of this initiative is the installation of a new solar-powered water supply system. The system will provide safe and reliable water drawn from boreholes to all 250 households in Kemabolo, as well as to local schools and health facilities. This critical infrastructure is designed to bolster the village’s ability to cope with climate-related challenges such as droughts and floods. “The Government of Korea has donated money through UNICEF to upgrade the living condition of this village, and I know this project will be a success,” said H.E. Jong Ho Choi, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Papua New Guinea, as he officially commissioned the new system by turning on the water tap. The need for such investment became evident following a comprehensive Climate Risk and Vulnerability Assessment (CRVA), which highlighted Kemabolo’s exposure to frequent droughts, contaminated water sources, poor sanitation, and limited economic opportunities. The burden of water scarcity has fallen most heavily on women and girls. “For us, water is not simply a resource — it is a daily struggle,” said Joan Gwaibo, Head of the Women’s Committee. “It was something the women of Kemabolo carried on their backs and in their arms, walking long distances under the scorching sun, often before dawn or after dusk.” Students are also set to benefit from the water access, which supports better attendance and health outcomes in schools. “Water is not just a basic need for life — it is a right. When proper water is supplied to the school, it helps students stay in school, stay healthy, and achieve their dreams, especially girls,” said Mackllah Gulu, the school head girl. Strong community engagement has been key to the project’s success. Local residents have formed a Water User Committee that includes representatives from youth groups, women, education, health, and religious organizations. The committee will manage the water system’s ongoing operation and maintenance, with support from a monthly household contribution scheme. “Rigo District and Kemabolo can be champions in showing how climate-smart social services and infrastructure can be established and sustained,” said Veera Mendonca, UNICEF Representative. “This is not just about infrastructure — it’s about local ownership, resilience, and protecting the most vulnerable.” Government officials emphasized the long-term vision behind the project, describing it as a model for community-led development across the country. “Creating a good environment for our children and their communities to enjoy their life is fundamental to our progress going forward in the next 50 years. If we are to reset our country, this is the basic reset we must do at the community level. Providing clean and safe drinking water is where it starts,” said Michael Kumung, Deputy Secretary for the Department of National Planning and Monitoring. This project is part of a wider UNICEF–KOICA regional initiative, launched in May 2024 with a grant of nearly US$25 million. The regional program aims to enhance climate-smart infrastructure and services across Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Timor-Leste, and select African countries. In Kemabolo, the initiative includes: · A solar-powered water supply system for all households, schools, and health centers · Solarization of a school block to serve as a climate information hub · Rehabilitation of the local aid post to ensure essential health services With strong collaboration between local leaders, development partners, and the community, Kemabolo is poised to become a model of climate resilience in rural Papua New Guinea. “This is not just a campaign — let it be a turning point for the children of Papua New Guinea,” said Mendonca.

In a ceremony marked by national pride and renewed vision, 90 graduates from the Somare Institute of Leadership and Governance (SILAG) donned their blue gowns today, celebrating their achievements under the theme: “Honoring 50 years of Independence and 71 years of Leadership Excellence: Celebrating our past, Shaping the leaders of tomorrow.” Though 99 students successfully completed the program, only 90 were present at the mid-year graduation, a symbolic milestone in SILAG’s mission to professionalize and future-proof Papua New Guinea’s public service. Delivering the keynote address, Vice Minister for Public Service Francis Siune urged the graduates to embrace their responsibility as the next generation of public servants, especially as PNG prepares to celebrate its 50th year of independence. “It is a privilege to celebrate your achievements and the powerful impact you will have on the future of Papua New Guinea’s public servicee. “You are not merely entering the workforce — you are stepping into history,” said Siune. He praised SILAG for its pivotal role in public sector training since 1954, referencing the “Bully Beef” era as a legacy of resilience and unity that should continue to inspire the leaders of today. Looking forward, Siune reaffirmed the government’s vision for SILAG to transform into a Special Public Service University by 2027, positioning it as the nation’s center for governance, innovation, and capacity building. “From those simple meals, national visions were born. That spirit must continue as we look to the next 50 years,” he added. Vice Minister Siune outlined key priorities under the Marape Government’s reform agenda, referencing NEC Decision 61/2021, which introduced a competency-based approach to public sector training. He outlined a five-pillar vision for the public service: - Efficient and Results- Oriented - Digitally Enabled - Ethical and Accountable - Responsive to Citizens - Resilient and Future-Ready “These are not abstract goals,” he said. “They require skilled, adaptable, and committed public servants — the kind we are seeing here today.” Encouraging the graduates to lead with integrity, Siune concluded: “Trust is the currency of public service. Leadership is about people. And learning must be seen as national infrastructure — as essential as roads and power lines.” SILAG Chief Executive Officer Michael Barobe also addressed the graduates, describing the occasion as a moment of great opportunity and responsibility. “Good news comes in a very successful year,” said Barobe. “This is just your first step — there are many more ahead. The ball is now in your court.” He encouraged graduands to aim high — to become department heads, line managers, and CEOs — and called on them to return to their communities as visible agents of change. “They must know and understand that this person was trained at SILAG — and that’s why we see a difference,” he said. Barobe also spotlighted ongoing academic reforms, including the transition of certificate programs into government-recognized qualifications, particularly targeting school leavers and entry-level public servants. In a major policy announcement, Barobe revealed that proposed amendments to the Public Service Management Act could make certification a prerequisite for public service employment. “Without civil service certification, no one should be employed as a public servant,” he stated. “That’s the future we are preparing you for.” Barobe ended with a strong call to action: “You are lucky people. Let’s take this journey together — for the good of our country.”