Papua New Guinea's new Resilient School Infrastructure Policy is seeking to change how schools are planned, built, and maintained, with stronger standards for dealing with natural disasters and climate-related risks.Walipe Wingi, Deputy Secretary for Schools and Standards, said the policy provides a framework covering the entire infrastructure cycle-from planning and design to construction, maintenance and management.Speaking on behalf of Education Secretary Dr. Uke Kombra, Wingi said that resilient infrastructure is fundamental to quality education as schools must provide safe, secure, healthy, inclusive and accessible environments for students, teachers, administrators and communities.“The policy provides a framework for strengthening the planning, design, construction, maintenance, and management of school infrastructure," said Mr. Wingi. “So that the schools can continue to provide quality learning environments, even in the face of natural hazards, climate change, and other risks.”However, Wingi stated that standardization would not mean every school would necessarily look the same.“Standard designs should be acceptable and adaptable to different geographical, environmental, cultural, and community contexts throughout Papua New Guinea.”“This is particularly important in a country where schools face different disaster risks depending on their location,” he added.He identified earthquakes, floods, landslides, and cyclones among the hazards school infrastructure must be able to withstand, and in addition the policy also places emphasis on water and sanitation, hygiene, security, accessibility, and the wellbeing of school communities.Facilities for people with disabilities and gender-responsive infrastructure are also included.“You do not want to build classrooms up on the stilts when the majority of students nearby are disabled.”Therefore, Wingi stressed that resilient infrastructure could not be achieved through construction alone.He said coordinated planning, adequate budgeting and regular maintenance; rehabilitation and assessment, would be required at national, provincial, and local levels.Meanwhile, the PNG National Disaster Centre's Director Laso Mana, said the policy should also be viewed from a disaster preparedness perspective. Maso said schools capable of withstanding disasters could become places of shelter and safety for communities during emergencies.He cited the current El Niño situation and drought as reminders of the country's exposure to disasters and the importance of stronger preparedness.“A school built to withstand a cyclone, an earthquake, or a drought is not only a place for learning; in many of our communities, it has become a place of shelter and safety when disasters strike.”For the European Union, however, the key question now is how the policy will be implemented.Dr. Hans Lambert, Head of Cooperation with the European Union Delegation to PNG, urged the Education Department to work with the Department of National Planning and Monitoring to develop a costed implementation plan.He also called for clear timelines and funding to ensure the policy moves from paper into practice.

More than 1000 Papua New Guinean students have travelled to India this year to pursue undergraduate and postgraduate studies across a range of fields, highlighting growing education links between the two countries.This was said by India’s High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea, H.E Shri Rajeev Kumar during the commission’s recent celebration of India’s 80th Independence Day.H.E Shri Rajeev Kumar, said PNG students are studying engineering, medicine, information technology, hotel management, MBA programmes and other fields at Indian universities.“Over 1,500 students from PNG have gone to India.” “Our universities teach in English and offer high quality education at significantly lower cost.”He encouraged more Papua New Guinean students to explore the opportunities available through India’s education system.Kumar also announced that several Indian universities are expected to come to Port Moresby in September for a “Study in India” roadshow.The roadshow will provide an opportunity for PNG students to learn more about study options and programmes available in India.He said education remains an important part of the growing relationship between India and Papua New Guinea, alongside areas such as health, agriculture, technology and infrastructure.For PNG’s young people, the growing education partnership provides opportunities to gain skills and qualifications that can contribute to the country’s future development.

India’s 80th Independence Day was recently celebrated in Port Moresby with attendees from both Papua New Guinea and India as well as various countries gathering to mark the occasion and witness the growing relationship between the two countries.The celebration hosted by the High Commission of India, brought together Prime Minister James Marape, West New Britain Governor, Sasindran Muthuvel and Indian High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea, H.E Shri Rajeev Kumar.In his address, Indian High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea H.E Shri Rajeev Kumar reflected on India’s journey since gaining independence in 1947, describing freedom as a foundation for the country’s democratic, economic and social transformation.He highlighted India’s diversity, noting its large Muslim, Christian and Buddhist populations, as well as its 22 official languages and thousands of other languages.Kumar also pointed out PNG’s academic involvement in various subjects in India.“This year alone, more than 1,500 students from PNG have gone to India for undergraduate and postgraduate courses in engineering, medicine, information technology, hotel management, MBA programs and other fields.”West New Britain’s Governor Sasindran Muthuvel, meanwhile, used the occasion to recognize India's support during times of crisis.Assistance provided following the Mulitaka landslide in Enga Province and the Mount Ulawun volcanic eruption in West New Britain, as well as India's support during the COVID-19 pandemic, were emphasized as examples of the two countries' growing friendship.“True friendship between nations is not measured only by trade figures but it is also measured who stands beside you when your people are suffering.”Prime Minister James Marape, called for solidary between the people of India and Papua New Guinea, in the midst of our differences.“One of the greatest contributions PNG has is our ability to tolerate human diversity.”“Because we are the most diverse nation ourselves, we tolerate someone else from another language group, religion and class.”“I want to encourage India on its 80th anniversary and maintain that level of tolerance and diversity.”

The National Capital District Commission has shown support for Papua New Guinea’s growing film industry, with the launch of the local movie Black Python during the NCDC Youth Expo and Walk.Governor Powes Parkop acknowledged the actors, actresses and production team behind the film, saying NCDC had provided funding support together with other partners.“Under my leadership and with the support of our commissioners and management of NCDC, we keep on exploring different venues and different initiatives in which we can support young people.”“We have not limited ourselves to common programs.”Parkop said supporting local film production can give young people opportunities to develop their talents in acting and other areas of the creative industry.He also recognized Black Python director, writer and producer Spencer Peter Wangare, for his efforts in reigniting a passion for filmmaking.“Our movie industry has gone dormant for a while, but I'm pleased to see individuals such as Spencer investing his time, energy and talent to bring bring movies for entertainment and recreation.”After a brief countdown, the film’s trailer was played for public viewing.Papua New Guinea has produced notable films in the past such as Tukana – Husait I Asua (1984), Wokabaut Bilong Tonten (1974) and Tinpis Run (1991).

Education will be critical in order to achieve the National Capital District Commission’s long-term vision for Port Moresby, according to City Manager Ravu Frank.Mr. Frank made the remarks as NCDC formally assumed responsibility for education services in the capital, describing education as the foundation for achieving the city’s wider development goals.He said the vision was to build a city that was clean, safe, healthy, inclusive, prosperous, productive, and sustainable, but stressed that these goals could not be achieved without a strong education system.“Education, I believe, is the fundamental pillar to drive all these outcomes that Governor Powes Parkop wants.”He said the transfer of education functions from the National Department of Education to NCDC therefore represented more than an administrative change, but an opportunity for the city government to give greater attention to the quality and delivery of education.Mr. Frank said NCDC had already been supporting schools across the city through funding infrastructure and other education-related needs.He pointed to projects such as Butuka Academy as examples of the level of investment and attention NCDC had given to education under the leadership of the Governor, NCDC Board and the Minister for Foreign Affairs.Mr. Frank also described the completion of the transfer as the result of strong leadership and cooperation after almost a decade of negotiations and administrative processes.He acknowledged that the process had taken longer than expected but said the extended period ensured the necessary requirements were properly addressed.“As the nation's capital, we want to set some benchmarks. We want to set some precedents. We want to set some examples.”Mr. Frank said NCDC was now committed to ensuring the transfer produces tangible benefits for students, teachers, parents and communities throughout the National Capital District.He urged all stakeholders to continue working together as NCDC begins its full responsibility for education services.“This is a tremendous effort towards a brighter future for education in our city.”

Education Secretary Dr. Uke Kombra has described the transfer of education functions from the National Department of Education to the National Capital District Commission (NCDC) as a move that will strengthen education service delivery in Port Moresby.Dr. Kombra made the remarks during the official transfer ceremony, acknowledging the occasion as an important moment in Papua New Guinea education.He said the transfer was the result of continued efforts and persistence by NCD Governor Powes Parkop, who had consistently advocated for the decentralisation of education functions to the commission.Kombra explained that education in Papua New Guinea has operated under a decentralised system since the 1970s, with provinces taking ownership and leadership of education functions.However, NCD remained under the direct administration of the Department of Education until this transfer.“From today onwards, one of the 20 divisions in the Department of Education will now be moving next door to NCDC.”Dr. Kombra clarified that the transfer covers the overall operations and management of the general education sector, including elementary, primary, secondary and vocational schools, but does not include higher education.Under the transfer arrangement, a total of 92 schools will move under NCDC management, including 37 elementary schools, 37 primary schools, 12 secondary schools and five vocational institutions.The transfer includes 2,290 teachers and approximately 107,000 students across the NCD education system.Dr. Kombra said the move would give NCDC greater authority to make local decisions that directly improve education services.“The schools will be under your control directly. You will not have to come to the Department of Education. Services and education can be delivered efficiently under your management.”While highlighting the benefits, he acknowledged there would also be challenges, particularly in aligning the different administrative structures of NCDC and the public service system.He thanked the Department of Personnel Management (DPM) for supporting the transition process and allowing the necessary movement of personnel.Dr. Kombra also congratulated Governor Parkop for his leadership and commitment towards improving education in the capital city.He said the transfer would allow the Department of Education to focus more on its core responsibilities, including maintaining standards, inspections, curriculum development, examinations, school registration and teacher registration.

Director: Andrew StantonCast: Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Joan Cusack, Greta Lee, Conan O’Brien, Tony Hale, Craig Robinson, Ernie HudsonRating: PG | Genre(s): Adventure, Animation, Comedy, Kids & Family | Run Time: 1hr 42minWILL TECH AND TOYS FIND COMMON GROUND?“What happens when childhood’s favourite toys are suddenly competing with technology for a child’s attention?”Bonnie’s toys find themselves pushed to the sidelines after she receives Lillypad (Greta Lee), a child-friendly tech device. Jessie (Joan Cusack), convinced that imaginative play is one of the best ways for children to bond, takes matters into her own hands and sets out to find Bonnie some new friends.Integrating tech into the world of toys was a clever way to reflect modern childhood, which is increasingly characterized by constant hours spent behind screens. By positioning technology as a rival to traditional, toys, the film captures the very real – and rapidly growing shift away from physical play towards digital pastimes. Toy story 5 explores the fear of becoming obsolete in a world that constantly evolving. In this sense, the film’s familiar toy-versus-toy premise, remains a culturally relevant commentary on a very real aspect of contemporary childhood.Joan Cusack’s Jessie takes the reins in Toy Story 5, a change from her debut as a supporting character in previous instalments of the franchise to the primary lead and protagonist role. Since her debut in Toy Story 2, Jessie was known as the energetic, fearless, and emotionally complex cowgirl doll whose journey explored themes of abandonment, belonging, and the importance of friendship. In Toy Story 5, the spotlight finally turns towards Jessie, allowing audiences to experience her perspective, in a way that was not undertaken before. As the story rests on Jessie’s shoulders, her courage, determination, and compassion become the driving forces in Toy Story 5, demonstrating her growth from a team member to the central figure in the Toy Story Universe.Eight-year old Bonnie engaging even with social media is out-of-touch given her very young age and inexperience with technology. While the introduction of child-friendly platforms on Lillypad is meant to reflect the increased exposure of minors to online spaces, the film does little to acknowledge the boundaries that would realistically surround an eight-year-old’s online activity. Overall, lack of attention given to parental supervision makes it one of the less convincing aspects of the film.Another one of the film’s shortcoming’s is the minimal impact of Woody’s return. After what seemed like his departure from the franchise in Toy Story 4, his reappearance plays little significance apart from being Buzz’s sidekick in his quest to find Jessie. Woody’s return is not inherently a bad idea, but Toy Story 5 doesn’t give him enough purpose to justify it, making what should have been a momentous comeback feel more like an extended cameo from a character who has already completed his story.Ultimately, Toy Story 5 succeeds in giving the franchise an appropriate new direction by exploring the growing influence of technology on childhood and the fear of becoming obsolete in an ever-changing world. Jessie’s change from supporting character to central protagonist is a welcome change that allows the film to explore a character who has long remained in the shadow of Woody and Buzz. However, questionable decisions surrounding Bonnie’s online independence and Woody’s unnecessary return prevent the film from reaching the standards set by its predecessors. Despite these shortcomings, Toy Story 5 remains an enjoyable addition to the franchise.Final VerdictToy Story 5’s decision to pit toys against the convenience and attraction of digital entertainment gives the franchise a contemporary issue to explore. Jessie’s promotion to the central protagonist provides the series with a fresh perspective. On the other hand, Bonnie’s relatively unrestricted interaction with technology feels difficult to reconcile with her young age. Meanwhile, Woody’s return feels largely unnecessary, with the character contributing little beyond accompanying Buzz on his journey.★★★⯪☆ (3.5/5)

Director: Destin Daniel CrettonCast: Tom Holland, Zendaya, Sadie Sink, Jacob Batalon, Jon Bernthal, MichaelMando, Mark RuffaloRating: PG-13 | Genre(s): Action, Adventure, Fantasy | Run Time: 2hr 25minCinema/Streaming Platform: Paradise Cinema, Coca-Cola Premiere LoungeNEW DAY, NEW IDENTITY — SAME MAN“Spiderman: Brand New Day (2026) brings Tom Holland back on a dynamic journey to reclaim himself.”Peter Parker (Tom Holland) or Spiderman is starting over after the entire world forgot who he was because of a spell cast by Doctor Strange. Things take a turn for the worst when his body reacts to the extreme shift in his environment, making him almost vulnerable to a new villain, Jean Grey (Sadie Sink).One of the film’s interesting developments is Peter Parker’s gradual transition from depending on technologically advanced web shooters to developing organic webs.Instead of changing his abilities almost overnight, the film presents the shift as a natural consequence in his life, reflecting Peter’s growth, trauma, and evolving identity as Spiderman.This also affects his ability to fight crime, consequently raising the stakes even higher during combat.The film’s extras really stole the show in Spiderman: Brand New Day, with their performance of being mind-controlled by Jean Grey.The way each actor put effort into showing that they were being possessed by the telepath is applause worthy. Although it was exaggerated, that quality heightened the film’s experience.Moreover, line delivery from each performer flowed smoothly- a stark contrast to their overdramatic act.Consequentially, this results in a brilliant composition of conflicting acting that is demonstrated when one must act as a person being controlled by another entity.While Spiderman: Brand New Day's acting remains top tier, some of the visual effects during web swinging scenes with MJ feel less convincing.The background occasionally appears artificial, making it noticeable that the scenes were built digitally.This takes away slightly from the sense of realism and immersion, especially during moments that are meant to capture the freedom and excitement of swinging through the city.The film’s messages and life lessons Sometimes feel overly sentimental, with certain emotional moments leaning more towards sappy rather than genuinely moving a common shortfall amongst most superhero films.While themes of responsibility, loss and identity are meaningful, the delivery occasionally feels heavy-handed rather than impactful.Overall, Spiderman: Brand New Day continues the thrilling adventure of PeterParker as your friendly neighbourhood Spiderman but with much more in-depth themes and complex development.Film extras perform outstandingly even with their limited screen time, effectively solidifying their presence.Visual effects occasionally fall short, particularly during web-swinging scenes. Additionally, lesson delivery in dialogue is overly sentimental, taking away from the film's meaningful moments.Spiderman: Brand New Day presents a dynamic action-packed film with common shortfalls.Final Verdict:Spiderman: Brand New Day - as expected is an action-packed superhero film showcasing the continuous development of Tom Holland's Spiderman. Both lead and background actors perform outstandingly. Although the visual effects undermine its realism and over-emotional line delivery negatively affects potentially genuine scenes, the film remains an exciting watch.Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)

Colgate Palmolive (PNG) Ltd. is celebrating the 15th anniversary of its National Tooth Brushing Day, with a total of 484, 265 students and teachers taking part in this year's nationwide event.The annual campaign, held in partnership with the National Department of Health's Oral Health Services, promotes good oral hygiene among Papua New Guineans.General manager for Colgate-Palmolive PNG, Mr. John Wood stated that Colgate is all about creating a healthier future for people.“We are committed to giving every person in Papua New Guinea a future that they can be proud of and they can smile about every single day.”National Tooth Brushing Day is a key part of its global Bright Smiles, Bright Futures programme, which has positively impacted more than four million people across Papua New Guinea since 2010 through oral health education and awareness.This year's event was hosted at Lahara Avenue School in Port Moresby, while schools across all four regions of the country also participated.Meanwhile Dr. Shirley Kauba, Vice President of the PNG Dental Association emphasized that good oral health is a personal choice and also gave additional tips on keeping one’s teeth in good condition, which included reducing sugar intake.The event also awarded three young essay winners for their thoughtful write-ups on oral health.April Hamata who took first place, read her winning essay after receiving her prize.“Every smile tells a story, and every bright, healthy smile begins with good oral hygiene.”“A smile is more than just showing our teeth—it is a symbol of joy, kindness, confidence, and good health. It brightens our faces, lifts our spirits, and has the power to make someone else's day a little happier.”“That is why every smile deserves to be treasured and protected.”The event concluded with a nationwide countdown with every participant brushing their teeth with free toothbrushes and toothpaste distributed by Colgate-Palmolive.

Port Moresby National School of Excellence (PMNSOE) is confident its Grade 12 students will perform strongly in the 2026 Written Expression Examination, with 277 students from the school preparing to sit for the national assessment next week on Monday August 3rd, 2026.PMNSOE Principal Mr. Teddy Feria said the school achieved outstanding results in last year’s English examination, with its students securing the top three rankings nationwide.“Last year, we got rank one, two and three in the English examination across the country.”He said the school is hopeful of maintaining the same level of performance this year, crediting the dedication and quality of its teaching staff.“We are confident that we might maintain the same results just like what we had last year because our teachers are very good.”Mr. Feria encouraged the 277 Grade 12 students to approach the examination with confidence, saying they have worked hard to reach this stage.“I would like to first congratulate them because they managed to come this far. Now they are going to sit for the final one.”He added that students are prepared, especially with the examination topics focusing on Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence anniversary.“I am pretty sure that they are all ready to sit for this one.”Feria also pointed out challenges brought by the ongoing El Niño conditions, particularly water supply concerns, but said the school has been able to manage the situation with support from Water PNG.Despite the dry conditions, Mr. Feria said the school has continued its academic activities, with some events postponed as students focus on examination preparations.He said the school carnival held in the first week of the term is yet to have its awards presentation, while the Student Representative Council (SRC) election was completed recently, with results to be announced next week.

Papua New Guinea’s National Department of Education has just launched the Edunex Learning Management System (LMS) and the Integrated ICT Policy for Education marking the beginning of a nationwide effort to integrate sophisticated technology in the education system.Speaking at the Port Moresby National School of Excellence, Education Secretary Dr. Uke Kombra said the reforms align with Prime Minister James Marape's directive for government agencies to embrace artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technology to improve public services and drive economic growth.Dr. Kombra said the Department of Education is committed to turning that vision into reality by introducing digital learning tools that will reach classrooms across the country."We would like to see this in every classroom, in every province, in every corner of Papua New Guinea.”He said the newly launched Integrated ICT Policy brings together years of digital education initiatives into a single framework that sets standards for infrastructure, internet connectivity, digital classrooms, data protection, teacher training and long-term financing.The policy was approved by the National Executive Council in 2025.Dr. Kombra described Edunex as the next stage in the evolution of education, following the transition from slates and blackboards to whiteboards and now smart digital classrooms."Edunex is going to be transformational, a reform that will disturb the normal traditional way of teaching and learning.”The platform will connect schools through reliable internet services, including Starlink where required, allowing students and teachers in remote areas to access lessons, digital resources and specialist teachers regardless of location.AI will also be integrated into classrooms to provide customized learning experiences and help students prepare for higher education both in Papua New Guinea and overseas.Dr. Kombra said the Department partnered with technology company PowerX and the University of Western Pacific to develop the platform after reviewing learning management systems used internationally and within Papua New Guinea.Initially, the Department will digitize Grade 11 and 12 curriculum materials before expanding to lower grades.Students will be able to access learning resources, complete homework online, receive instant feedback, and sit on digital assessments through the AI-powered system.One of the vital features of Edunex will allow expert teachers to deliver live lessons simultaneously to multiple schools, helping address teacher shortages in remote areas.An AI presentation at the launch explained that Edunex is designed as a complete digital education ecosystem that enables teachers to create lessons, conduct assessments, monitor student progress, and communicate with learners through a single platform.Students will have access to digital classrooms, assignments, quizzes, and learning resources from anywhere.The system is powered by Nexa AI, an intelligent assistant developed in Papua New Guinea to support teachers and students by answering academic questions, generating lesson plans, recommending learning resources and assisting with administrative tasks.According to the presentation, Nexa AI has been built specifically to meet the needs of PNG's education system.Edunex will be rolled out in phases, beginning with all seven National Schools of Excellence during the 2026–2027 implementation period before expanding to secondary schools nationwide and eventually all primary schools by 2035.Participating schools will receive Starlink satellite internet and supporting digital infrastructure to ensure maximum connectivity.Dr. Kombra said the launch marks only the beginning of a long-term transformation of PNG's education system."Today is not the end – it is the starting point – a transformation that we cannot wait for."

Director: Curry Barker Cast: Michael Johnston, Inde Navarrette, Cooper Tomlinson, Megan Lawless, Andy Richter Rating: R | Genre(s): Horror, Mystery, Thriller | Run Time: 1hr 48min A CHILLING PSHYCHOLOGICAL HORROR WITH AN EERIE SUPERNATURAL TOUCH  “Obsession (2026) blends supernatural horror with psychological tension, examining the dangers of control and false devotion while delivering a disturbing picture of identity lost.”  Baron “Bear” Bailey (Michael Johnson) a shy and insecure music store employee, purchases a supernatural product known as the “One Wish Willow”, which grants the user a single wish. He uses it to force his co-worker and crush Nikki’s (Inde Navarrette) affections which turns into twisted artificial devotion.  Female lead, Inde Navarette delivers a brilliant and terrifying portrayal of woman who’s lost all agency against her will. Her acting particularly during scenes when her character switches between her genuine self and her wish-influenced persona, ‘Freaky Nikki’ is not only very disturbing but flawless in its execution. She slowly regresses from a mature and independent person to an obsessed woman-baby who’s only desire is to please Bear. Overall, Navarette consumes the role to perfection capturing the chilling nature of an individual completely at the mercy of someone’s else’s entitlement and dark desires.   The film dives into themes of identity, self-destruction and psychological distress, examining the consequences of surrendering autonomy and control. By depicting its antagonist as someone manipulated by forces beyond her own will, the film delves into how distorted devotion and dependence can destroy individuality, diminish humanity, and transform a once-defined sense of self into something unrecognisable.  Supernatural activity is naturally woven into the storyline and does not overshadow the psychological aspects of the film. Rather than relying solely on supernatural elements to create fear or tension, the supernatural elements function as a narrative device to expose the hidden desires of a seemingly innocent character. This balance allows Obsession to maintain psychological depth, with the paranormal aspects enhancing rather than exchanging the emotional and thematic foundation of the story.  Obsession’s excessive use of profanity often overdramatizes the narrative, with frequent F-bombs feeling more distracting than impactful. Strong language can enhance intensity when used purposefully, however, its constant inclusion throughout the dialogue makes certain scenes feel overstated rather than emotionally compelling. The repetition weakens their impact and creates a sense of exaggeration that occasionally detracts from the overall experience.  Overall, Obsession presents a gripping psychological horror and thriller that explores the destructive consequences of control, artificial devotion, and the loss of personal autonomy. While its excessive profanity infrequently weakens the emotional weight of certain scenes, the film’s strongest aspects lie in its examination of underlying themes and Navarrette’s excellent performance. By blending supernatural horror with psychological tension, Obsession creates a disturbing examination of identity and manipulation, leaving audiences torn between mental distress and thoughtful reflection.  Final Verdict  Obsession is a haunting psychological thriller elevated by a powerful lead performance and a thoughtful exploration of identity, control, and distorted devotion. Although its overstated dialogue and excessive profanity occasionally undermine its seriousness, the film remains an unsettling and thematically rich experience that effectively blurs the line between supernatural horror and psychological tragedy. ★★★★☆ (4/5)