IBS University is introducing several key updates and improvements for the 2025 academic year, ensuring a more efficient and student-friendly experience. While the academic calendar remains accessible on the official website, notable enhancements include a new enrolment system, curriculum improvements, and facility upgrades. A significant development is the introduction of the Academia Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system. This upgrade aims to streamline administrative processes, making enrolment and registration more accessible, though the overall process remains unchanged. Academic offerings have also been enhanced, particularly in Economics and Business Management programs. Additionally, IT programs now integrate Oracle courses through a partnership with Oracle Academy, providing students with advanced technology training. IBS University’s academic structure remains flexible, requiring 16 units for a diploma and 32 for a bachelor’s degree, though postgraduate programs are not currently available. A 10% increase in tuition fees has been implemented, but students have access to multiple scholarship opportunities. These include the Miss Pacific Island Pageant Scholarship, the Nadesaligam Foundation for Education Scholarship, the Mineral Resources Development Scholarship, and provincial government aid programs. Government support such as the DHERST HELP Loan and TESAS Scholarships also continue to be available. Student welfare remains a priority, with the Guidance Counsellor providing mental health support. The Student Affairs Department oversees extracurricular activities, and Course Coordinators assist with academic guidance. Facility improvements this year include a new open arena for graduations and events, an upgraded security perimeter fence, and enhanced accessibility features such as an elevator, accessible toilets, and a newly built ablution block. Additionally, the university has expanded its digital learning environment by establishing four digital learning hubs across campus, including in the library, COE Hall, and the academic building. Moodle remains the primary platform for lecture materials, assignments, and submissions, supported by the university’s Wi-Fi services. Student engagement remains a key focus, with major events such as the Entrepreneurship Workshop, Management Fest, IT Fest, Cultural Show, Founder’s Cup, and Corporate Refresher Training for final-year students. Other activities include the Fashion Elegant Show, Quest for Mr. and Miss IBSU, Wellbeing Camp, Literature Day, and guest lectures. The university also plans to introduce new events throughout the year, with updates provided via social media. To maintain discipline, students must adhere to the Student Code of Conduct. The chewing of betelnut and consumption of homebrew or alcohol are strictly prohibited, with violations resulting in disciplinary action. Certain areas behind the campus are also designated as out-of-bounds. With these updates, IBS University continues to enhance academic quality, student services, and campus life, ensuring a dynamic learning environment for 2025.

Community leaders at Watermark Estate, Gerehu, have called for urgent action from authorities and the National Capital District (NCD) Governor to improve safety and security following the tragic abduction, assault, and murder of resident Margaret Gamaru Gabriel on February 15 in Baruni. At a press conference held at Watermark Estate, committee spokesman Mr. Dermott Bagasel strongly condemned the incident and emphasized the need for a collective effort to curb rising violence in Port Moresby, particularly gender-based violence (GBV). "We really condemn what has happened on the 15th of February and do not support whatever issues that are happening, especially in the GBV space. Mr. Bagasel stated. He further stressed that while women and girls are often victims of such crimes, men also face attacks, and the safety of all residents must be a priority. The Watermark Estate committee, which comprises property owners, outlined key recommendations to the authorities. Their primary concerns revolve around ensuring that women, children, and all residents can live and move freely without fear. "As a community, we are trying to make sure that we grasp this issue with both hands." "We want to be a safe community, so that women, girls, daughters, they can move freely," Mr. Bagasel said. The committee further acknowledged that while they have their own plans to strengthen security within Watermark Estate, broader government intervention is necessary to implement effective and long-term solutions. "We cannot work outside of the government framework." "What we are trying to do can also help others to do the same for the protection of their community," he noted, adding that settlements and urban areas require a more structured approach from authorities to prevent similar tragedies. The Watermark Estate leadership also shared their vision for making the estate a safer place for current and future residents. According to Mr. Bagasel, the association has long-term plans that, if supported, could serve as a model for other communities in Port Moresby. "Watermark Estate should be a better place for everyone." "If we work together, everyone who comes here would want to stay here," he said. Then he further emphasized that collective community action is key to addressing security concerns. As the tragic death of Margaret Gamaru Gabriel highlights the increasing security concerns in Port Moresby. The rise in violent crimes, particularly against women, has placed immense pressure on local communities to demand stronger protective measures from law enforcement and policymakers. The Watermark Estate committee hopes that their recommendations will be taken seriously and acted upon. They stressed that while communities can take internal measures to improve safety, real change requires committed government action and stronger policies addressing crime and security. In closing, Mr. Bagasel extended gratitude to the media for covering their statement, underscoring that their message reflects the collective concern of the entire estate. "This is not just one man’s thinking; this is a community consensus." "We hope that whatever has been deliberated here will be heard and acted upon." The residents of Watermark Estate now wait to see whether their calls for better security measures will be met with concrete action from the authorities.

Concerns have been raised by Police Officers in the Vanapa Brown, Central Province in collaboration with the Laloki landowners, regarding the movement of evicted settlers from Baruni into the Laloki. In a media statement posted, both the landowners and police have called on the responsible authorities to intervene and find a solution to resettle the displaced Goilalas from Baruni. The landowners and police, seen meeting with the affected settlers this afternoon, expressed their concerns about the situation. The settlers from Baruni, now residing in Laloki, have created tensions not only with the local landowners but also with the traveling public along the Hiritano Highway. The presence of the Goilalas in the area has reportedly led to various issues, including disturbances and safety concerns. The landowners and police are united in their plead for immediate action to address the issue, making it clear that they do not want another settlement of Goilalas to emerge in the area, fearing further complications and disruptions. In an effort to maintain peace and order, police officers were present to ensure that the settlers were provided with appropriate guidance on how to address the situation. Both parties are urging the responsible authorities to take swift and decisive action to find a viable solution, preventing the situation from escalating any further. It is crucial for the relevant authorities to step in and resolve this matter promptly to ensure the well-being of all parties involved.

As the evening sky painted Port Moresby in golden hues, supporters, alumni, and families gathered to honor two inspiring groups of future leaders. The event marked the graduation of the 2024 Archer Leaders and the exciting introduction of the 2025 cohort. Distinguished guests, including Oro Governor Hon. Gary Juffa, Australian High Commissioner HE John Feakes, British High Commissioner HE Anne Macro, Dame Carol Kidu, and key sponsors from Newmont Corporation and Kina Bank, joined in celebrating this milestone. The night was hosted by alumni Courtneyalla Dotson and Nelson Kokoa, who proudly welcomed the 2024 Archer Leaders into a growing community of over 100 alumni: Chelsea Paspalau Darrel Yockopua Denphil-Hunt Mitir Issabelle Vilau McBride Matai Nabieu Lansana Solange Dawana Taine Kassman Vilousa Hahembe Wallace Parimahi Zaraleena Adamson Zeruiah Grammon. After two days of inspiring interviews with 28 outstanding candidates, the selection panel introduced the 12, 2025 Archer Leaders: Brenth Karol (Mechanical Engineering, Unitech) Cash Mekere (Law, UPNG) Charles Edward Sorman (Applied Economics, Unitech) Jodie Pelis (Mechanical Engineering, Unitech) Kylie Margaret Sabarei (Law, UPNG) Lovanchor Dotson (Tourism & Hospitality Management, UPNG) Miranda Rea (Law, UPNG) Penny Unobo (Science, PAU) Puka Vele (Science, PAU) Robert Raia (Accounting & Management, PAU) Sasa Pero (Civil Engineering, Unitech) Wornley Kidoro (Accounting, DWU) As the Archer Leaders Development Program enters its 15th year, exciting plans are in store for 2025 and his transformative journey is made possible through the support of the Fred P. Archer Trust, Perpetual Limited, Newmont, and Kina Bank. The future looks bright for these young leaders.

Children across all Buk bilong Pikinini (BbP) Library Learning Centres (LLCs) nationwide celebrated International Mother Language Day yesterday with the addition of two new library centres in Vabukori and Baruni. These new LLCs were made possible through the generous support of the Sir Brian Bell Foundation (SBBF). International Mother Language Day plays a crucial role in fostering cultural appreciation, curiosity, and tolerance among children as they explore the diverse languages of Papua New Guinea and thanks to SBBF’s extended support, even more children will have the opportunity to participate in these events and enroll in BbP’s high-quality Early Childhood Education program. Previously supported by Steamships Trading Company, the new LLCs in Vabukori and Baruni now benefit from SBBF’s sponsorship, furthering the foundation’s commitment to education. A valued Platinum Sponsor of BbP since 2018, SBBF continues to play a significant role in shaping the future of Papua New Guinea’s children. BbP expressed deep gratitude for SBBF’s unwavering dedication to education. The foundation’s support extends beyond the two new LLCs, covering the sponsorship of six LLCs in Port Moresby and Lae, backing BbP’s Inclusive Education program, and contributing to the publication of the popular When I Grow Up series of readers. Additionally, Bronwyn Wright, CEO of SBBF, serves as the Chairlady of the BbP board, further strengthening this partnership. This generous support will have a lasting impact on the children of Vabukori and Baruni, providing them with access to quality early childhood education and library services. This will ensure that young minds in these communities have the resources they need to grow and thrive. The announcement coincided with International Mother Language Day, a significant occasion for the Motu Koita people of Vabukori and Baruni. For these communities, preserving their native language is crucial in safeguarding their cultural heritage and the ability for children to learn their mother tongue alongside formal education is a privilege made possible by the continued support of the Sir Brian Bell Foundation. The sponsorship guarantees that more children in these villages will have access to libraries and essential educational resources, fostering a love of reading and learning. It also provides a platform for cultural education, enabling children to connect with and celebrate their heritage. “We are incredibly grateful to the Sir Brian Bell Foundation for their continued support of our mission to provide quality early childhood education and library services across Papua New Guinea,” said Anne-Sophie Hermann, Founder and Vice-Chair of Buk bilong Pikinini. “Their commitment to our work is shaping the future of thousands of children. With their sponsorship, we can continue to offer invaluable learning opportunities to children in Vabukori and Baruni.” BbP looks forward to further collaboration with SBBF and the long-term positive impact this extended partnership will have on the children of these two communities for years to come.

The Basketball Federation of Papua New Guinea (BFPNG) has officially confirmed the final roster for the national 3x3 basketball team set to compete in the upcoming FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers 2025. The tournament will take place on March 26 in Singapore, marking a significant milestone for the country's growing presence in international 3x3 basketball. A press conference was held today at the Taurama Aquatic Indoor Centre from 1:00 PM to 1:30 PM to formally announce the team lineup and coaching staff updates. With 3x3 basketball rapidly gaining global recognition as a premier urban team sport, PNG’s squad is eager to make an impact on the international stage. This will be the team’s second appearance at the FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers, following their debut in 2022. During that tournament, Papua New Guinea's women’s team secured a commendable 19th-place finish, while the men’s team placed 25th, showcasing the nation’s growing talent in the sport. BFPNG has also announced key changes to the coaching staff ahead of the qualifiers, reflecting the organization’s commitment to strengthening the team's performance and fostering continued growth in the sport. “Our goal is to enhance the development of 3x3 basketball in the country and provide more opportunities for our athletes to compete on an international level,” the BFPNG president stated. “We are excited about this journey and confident in our team’s ability to represent Papua New Guinea with pride.” he added. The Basketball Federation of Papua New Guinea remains dedicated to promoting the sport at all levels, ensuring greater community engagement and development opportunities for players, BB coaches, and officials alike. BFPNG, in collaboration with FIBA, continues to work towards advancing 3x3 basketball across the region.

PNG Ports Corporation Limited (PNG Ports) has recruited its first female marine pilot, Ruth Philp as a part of the PNG Ports Maritime Cadetship Program’s first intake in 2010. She said it took her about 10 years at sea, much grit, and a very supportive partner to help her succeed in completing this program and to clock in the required sea-time and eventually be employed full time by PNG Ports. During her 10 years of training, she gave birth to her first child (boy) in 2016 and her second child (Girl) in 2020 which kept her away from the seas for months but with the help of her supportive partner and mother to help raised the kids, she managed to complete her training. “It was not smooth sailing as a female pursuing a career as a seafarer,” said Ruth “It is largely a male dominated industry with very few female Papua New Guineans.” “To be a Marine Captain, it’s not all about what you know and what you have learnt but it is about gaining respect from your crew and that takes time with a lot challenges.” “You have to be accepted first before you can be respected, and that takes time and challenges,” she said. “But lucky for me, I started my sea-time on a Steamships vessel which had two other females on board as well, so we worked together, with our male counterparts.” Then she revealed one of the many challenges she faced when she started working out on the sea and how she overcame it. “One of the main challenges I faced was after I got my Certificate of Competency. I had to work with men who had been out at sea much longer than myself, but I overcame that by proving that I knew my job and was out to get it done.” Her sentiments are not isolated to PNG as women around the world also overcome ‘undesirable discrimination’, which often leads these women to abandon their maritime career for one on land. Ships and their facilities were traditionally built for male crew, and with the recent rise of females entering the profession, adjustments had to be made to cater for females on board. “In terms of sacrifices, I took in total a year off to have each of my children. I left the sea for my son when he was just six weeks old, and then for my daughter at two months.” Ruth said. But that didn’t stop Ruth from achieving her dream to one day become a Marine Captain. “It was a tough journey, and wasn’t easy at all, but if you have a dream, you got to put your mind to it and reach for your goals.” she said. With Ms. Philip success, she is now paying tribute to past female seafarers who dared to test unchartered waters by paving way for others like her to succeed. She also commended fellow male seafarers for their support, guidance and acceptance. Her success on sea came from 10 years doing sea time with various shipping agents like P&O, Svitzer PNG Ltd, Steamships, Morobe Coastal Shipping, V Ships and U Sky Ltd. And her last role was as a Trainee Marine Pilot with Consort Express Lines, before joining the PNG Ports Pilotage team in Port Moresby. CEO of PNG Ports, Neil Papenfus, welcomed Philip into PNG Ports, saying her success was a win for all women in maritime and a testament of PNG Ports’ on-going effort and commitment toward a direction that can calibrate individual ambitions in alignment with business goals.

Fone Haus is set to host the much-anticipated Samsung Galaxy S25 Unpacked event on February 27, 2025, at the Crowne Plaza Residences. This exclusive event will showcase the groundbreaking Samsung Galaxy S25 Series, featuring AI technology designed to transform how people work, play, and create. The event will unite industry leaders, business professionals, and tech enthusiasts for a first glimpse of the Samsung Galaxy S25’s innovative design and features. Amy Tomlinson, Group General Manager Retail at Fone Haus, shared her excitement about the upcoming launch. "At Fone Haus, we strive to bring our customers the latest in mobile innovation." "The Samsung S25 series sets new standards in smartphone technology with its AI capabilities, sleek design, and powerful performance." "We’re thrilled to offer this experience to our customers.” In addition to showcasing cutting-edge technology, Fone Haus is committed to supporting the community and they will auction a Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra, with proceeds benefiting the Young Port Moresby Chamber of Commerce & Industry (YPOMCCI). The funds will help foster professional growth for young people in Papua New Guinea. Jim Gui, Group Managing Director of NWTL, highlighted the company’s dedication to empowering the next generation: “By supporting the YPOMCCI, we’re investing in the future of PNG." "We aim to foster local talent, promote innovation, and build a sustainable business community that will contribute to the nation’s growth.” Fone Haus, in partnership with Samsung, continues to lead the charge in bringing the latest mobile technology to Papua New Guinea, making innovation accessible to all.

The Qhatapa initiative, a PNG Sustainable Development Program Ltd. funded initiative implemented in partnership with KTF, celebrates and recognizes a community’s commitment to education - and is breathing new life into education in Lake Murray, Western Province. The Qhatapa initiative is bringing new energy to education in Lake Murray, inspiring communities across 12 villages in Middle Fly District to take ownership of their schools. This exciting program, built on a points system, rewards villages for improving teacher and student attendance while working on a community project of their choice. At the end of each school term, points are tallied, and villages can redeem them for useful items such as solar lights, sewing machines, fishing nets, and even building materials. These rewards motivate communities to stay engaged and make lasting improvements in their schools and surroundings. The results have been remarkable with over 95% of participating villages having either started or completed a community project. So far, four new classrooms have been built, four more have been refurbished, 23 toilet blocks have been constructed, and four maintenance projects have been completed. Funded by the PNG Sustainable Development Program Ltd. and implemented with KTE, Qhatapa is more than just a program—it’s a celebration of a community’s dedication to education. With education, Qhatapa is transforming lives in Lake Murry so that the communities take charge of their own future. Because the schools that they built are not just buildings – they are building hope and opportunity and a stronger tomorrow.

The FIFA match officials from New Zealand, Fiji, the Solomon Islands, Tonga, and Sāmoa were selected to officiate at the recent tournament, breaking barriers for women in Pacific football. For the first time in Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) history, an all-female officiating team took charge of the recent OFC Men's Champions League Qualifying tournament in the Cook Islands. Eleven FIFA match officials from New Zealand, Fiji, Solomon Islands, Tonga, and Sāmoa were selected to officiate at the tournament. "For me, this is so special," says Maria Salamasina, one of the officials, reflecting on the historic occasion. "It's the first time ever that an all-female team will officiate in a men's tournament. Not only that, but we're all FIFA match officials. This is a historic moment, not just for us, but for all female referees in the Pacific." The team included some of the region's most accomplished referees, such as Sarah Jones (New Zealand), who will referee the opening match between American Sāmoa's Royal Puma FC and Sāmoa's Vaipuna SC. Allys Clipsham and Heloise Simons, both from New Zealand, assisted her, with Lata Kaumatule (Tonga) serving as the fourth official and Salamasina (Sāmoa) as the fifth official. "Being part of an all-female officiating team in a men's tournament is a huge step forward for gender equality in football," said another official, Torika Delai. "It shows that women can excel in all aspects of the game. We are honoured to be part of this, and we're ready to prove that female referees belong on this stage." The referees expressed gratitude for the respect they have received from players and teams. "A lot of them, if they're not happy with the referees' decision, honestly, they listen to us. That is really good," Salamasina says. "We really appreciate that. And if they don't, then as part of the laws and rules of the game, the cards will be coming out. It's a matter of respect and understanding football." The historic moment reflects OFC's commitment to increasing opportunities for women in football, as outlined in its strategic goals. OFC head of refereeing Kevin Stoltenkamp praised the milestone, calling it a "historic moment for female match officials and the Oceania Football Confederation. "These officials have worked tirelessly and proven themselves at the highest level, with many officiating at FIFA tournaments," Stoltenkamp said. "This is a testament to the growing quality of referees coming through Oceania and our commitment to creating a more inclusive football community." For many of the referees, it was deeply personal. "I've been working for 16 years now, and this is a very big deal for my family," Salamasina says. "My family has always been there for me, supporting me. Not only my family, but my federation and OFC as well. "OFC has always supported female referees, and not just females, but male referees too. So, for me, this is a big thing. I'm representing my family, my country, and all female referees in the Pacific." The referees also aim to inspire the next generation of women in football. "We hope to inspire more women to pursue their dreams in football, whether as players, coaches, or referees," Delai says. "This is just the beginning of great opportunities for females in sports. We are grateful for this opportunity and the support of the OFC and the football community in making this historic moment possible." The all-female officiating team embraced the challenge as the tournament kicked off in Rarotonga last week. "We are looking forward to officiating at this level and proving that female referees belong on this stage," Salamasina says. "It's an opportunity for us to showcase our skills, gain experience, and continue breaking barriers in football officiating. Most importantly, I'm excited to contribute to the success of the tournament. "The future is bright, and this is the beginning of great opportunities for female officials in sports. Follow your passions, don't give up too easily, and find people who will support and push you forward," Salamasina says. In a thrilling encounter, Tupapa Maraerenga, of the Cook Islands, edged out Sāmoa's Vaipuna 2-1 to secure their place in the OFC Men's Champions League next month in the Solomon Islands. After three days of qualifying matches in Rarotonga last week, Tupapa finished with four points, Vaipuna three, and Royal Puma from American Sāmoa with one point. Vaipuna beat Royal Puma 4-0, while Tupapa drew 3-all with Royal Puma to make the final. Eight teams will contest the Champions League in Honiara from 30 March to 12 April. Tupapa have been drawn into Group B of the Champions League, where they will face clubs from Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea, and the Solomon Islands. In Group A, defending champions Auckland City (representing New Zealand) will meet AS Tiga Sport (New Caledonia), Rewa (Fiji), and either AS Tefana or AS Pirae (Tahiti).

The Western Provincial Health Authority (WPHA) successfully concluded its 2024 Annual Review Conference and Partnership Meeting on Friday, February 14. The three-day event, hosted by the PNG Sustainable Development Program (PNGSDP) in Balimo, Delta Fly District, was a milestone in collaborative healthcare planning. For the first time, local Officers in Charge (OICs), district health managers, church and private healthcare providers were actively involved in key decision-making processes. This inclusive approach marks a significant shift from previous years when only a select few determined healthcare strategies for the province. The conference focused on the pressing challenges faced by healthcare providers in Western Province, including: Medicine shortages Geographical barriers Infrastructure limitations Human resource constraints Logistical and communication difficulties Healthcare representatives had the opportunity to present their concerns and contribute to identifying solutions for WPHA’s overall planning. The open dialogue fostered intense discussions, scrutiny, and fact-based analysis, providing WPHA with valuable insights into both rural and urban healthcare challenges. Prominent guests and key health partners engaged in discussions to dissect core issues affecting healthcare delivery in the province with the meeting underscored the importance of collaboration, leading to renewed commitments from stakeholders to support WPHA’s mission of delivering quality healthcare for all Western Province residents. By fostering mutual understanding, WPHA aims to develop a comprehensive and inclusive plan to tackle healthcare challenges effectively while the Partners expressed strong interest in addressing these issues, reinforcing their dedication to strengthening healthcare services across the region. Representatives from various organizations attended the meeting, including: PNG Sustainable Development Program Ok Tedi Mining Health Services LBL Western Medicare ECPNG Health Services Catholic Church Health Services PNG Australia Transition to Health Burnet Institute World Vision Callan Services Australian Doctors International Youth with a Mission (YWAM) Strickland Bosavi Foundation Rotarians Against Malaria Council of Women, SFD WPHA remains committed to working alongside its partners to ensure a more effective and diversified healthcare outreach in Western Province. This landmark conference marks a new era of cooperation, paving the way for improved health service delivery in the years ahead.

A woman was found brutally murdered in the early of hours of this morning at Baruni, Port Moresby, after being kidnapped from her home in Rainbow Heights, Watermark Estate. According to the Acting Assistant Commissioner of Police for NCD and Central, Benjamin Turi, the woman was abducted by a group of twenty armed men during the late hours of Valentine’s night and taken to Baruni, where she was raped and murdered at approximately 2 AM. The attackers stormed the estate, tied up the security guards, and forcibly took the woman from her residence. Once they had left, the guards managed to free themselves and immediately alerted the police. Assistant Commissioner Turi condemned the horrific act, stating that the perpetrators had not only violated an innocent woman but had also committed an act of extreme brutality. "This was a horrific and inhumane crime. The suspects will be tracked down and brought to justice. I urge all witnesses with information to come forward and assist police in fast-tracking the investigation." He further revealed that settlers in the Baruni area have been linked to multiple crimes in the past, targeting residents of nearby estates. He warned that with upcoming developments planned for the area, measures need to be taken to ensure the safety of the community. "Many developments will be taking place along that section. All illegal settlers must be evicted before these projects begin." Police investigations are ongoing, and authorities are working on a plan to address the security concerns in the area.