The PNG U-19 Siales selectors are on the hunt, with 44 young cricketers competing for just 22 shortlisted spots ahead of the East Asia Pacific (EAP) U-17 T20 World Cup Qualifier, set to be hosted in Port Moresby this April.Saturday, January 25, marked the second-last day of the week-long trial matches, which took centre stage at Bisini Park Cricket Ground. The players were selected through Port Moresby’s women’s cricket competitions, with five girls chosen from each of the city’s eight clubs. Siales head coach Jason Kila told PNG Haus Bung the focus is now on narrowing the squad to 22 players based on performances during the trials. “We are preparing for the EAP tournament in two months’ time.” “From these 44 girls, we will cut the squad to 22 and then move into more intensive training in bowling, batting, and fielding.” With schools resuming on Monday, January 26, Kila explained the trials had to be completed before classes begin. He added that players in Grades 10 and 12 will train on weekends only, while others will train on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Kila confirmed some players have previously featured for the Lewas, saying experience would be valuable, but his priority is building confidence in a fresh squad. As the qualifier approaches, the coach said batting remains a key area of concern, noting that while bowling is strong, more work is needed to strengthen the team’s batting depth. The trials provide valuable exposure for young female cricketers, with the final squad to be trimmed from 22 to 14 players for the EAP T20 World Cup Qualifier.

Jiwaka Province is preparing to welcome its first all-girls school- the Gobo Girls School of Excellence (GGSOE), in time for the 2026 academic year to start.The school aims to provide specialized science education for young women, marking a major step forward in the province’s educational landscape. Twenty (20) teacher positions were approved already by the Teaching Service Commission (TSC) under the Secondary Salary Structure and now awaiting the school board to finalize the staffing structure. These positions will prioritize science specialists to deliver quality learning at Gobo Girls School of Excellence. Secondary Inspector for Jiwaka, Ms. Kaul Tumun, highlighted that Gobo Girls School of Excellence will increase the province’s secondary and high schools from 25 to 26. She confirmed the selection of the best science teachers has been approved and emphasized the importance of advertising the positions within the province to attract top candidates. Ms. Tapu recommended balancing the curriculum with a focus on science while maintaining necessary humanities or social science subjects to ensure students qualify for Grade 11 and 12 exams. She also noted a current gap in leadership, with only two Heads of Departments (HODs) in place. The board will request TSC approval to create three additional HOD positions. She stressed the importance of having experienced teachers for the school’s launch. The inaugural intake will include an estimated 150 students, all selected from Jiwaka Province. Civil Aviation Minister Wake Goi has pledged resources to support the school’s operations, including chairs, desks, a tipper truck, food, stationery, and temporary accommodations in the completed Headmaster’s house. Additional teacher accommodations will be constructed in due course. Financially, the school is supported through a combination of government funding, business partners, and donors, totaling more than K5 million. Minister Goi has also offered personal financial assistance to kickstart operations while awaiting Tuition Fee Free (TFF) funds. Headmaster Johnmar Cudal expressed confidence in the school’s imminent opening, emphasizing a focus on monitoring student performance to meet parental expectations. “Our priority is to ensure high-quality teaching and track students’ results closely as we begin this important journey,” he said. With its specialized science curriculum and dedicated staff, Gobo Girls School of Excellence represents a significant milestone for girls’ education in Jiwaka, offering young women opportunities to excel academically and pursue future careers in science and technology.

Iampela Popena, crowned Miss Bird of Paradise PNG 2025-2026, is gearing up to represent Papua New Guinea at the Miss Pacific Islands Pageant in Fiji that will run from February 13th to 20th, with Miss Ponena bringing her youthful energy and pride to the international stage. As a proud daughter of Western Highlands Province, Miss Popena said she feels honored to carry the aspirations of her province and country. "It is by God's grace that I have come this far and will continue to humbly stand by my people and serve them," she said. "I am thankful for the opportunity and look forward to showing the world what Papua New Guinea is." Preparations for the pageant are well underway. Team MBoP has put together a comprehensive plan to ensure Miss Popena is fully prepared, focusing on public speaking and a review of the Expressions of Interest (EOI) for the callout made by MBOP PNG. Chair Lady of MBoP Anna Bais is confident that the team’s prior experience in regional pageants will give them an edge this year. "This year, our reigning Miss Bird of Paradise will be the youngest contestant on the MPIP stage," said Anna Bais. "She brings with her youthful energy, enthusiasm, and a fresh perspective of a young Papua New Guinean woman. Our team, now experienced with regional pageants, is well-versed in the necessary preparations." Following online bullying incidents at last year’s pageant, MBOP PNG has strengthened safeguards to protect contestants. A cyber safety campaign conducted during the national pageant encouraged respectful online engagement, and the organization has implemented processes to monitor official pages, blocking or escalating any abusive interactions. The public is also urged to support Miss Popena and contribute to a positive experience for all contestants. "Being the representative of our country on a regional platform is no easy feat. Let’s all stand behind our queen and ensure she knows we are supporting her," Anna Bais said. The Miss Pacific Islands Pageant in Fiji offers a platform not only for showcasing beauty and talent but also for celebrating the cultures and values of the Pacific region. The Miss Pacific Islands Pageant 2026 is set to take place in Nadi, Fiji, from February 13th to 20th. After a seven-year hiatus, Fiji returns as host, welcoming contestants from more than ten Pacific nations. For PNG, Popena’s participation represents a moment of pride, visibility, and empowerment on the international stage. As the pageant draws near, Papua New Guineans across the nation are encouraged to rally behind their queen, celebrating her journey and the opportunity to shine a spotlight on the country.

The PNG Lewas may have stumbled in their opening match, but faith inside the camp of comeback remains solid.Following a 41-run loss to Ireland at the Mulpani Cricket Ground in Kathmandu, Head Coach Mahuru Dai says the defeat has not shaken the team’s confidence as they prepare for their next clash against Bangladesh. Chasing 147, the Lewas finished on 105 for six from 20 overs. While the target proved out of reach, Dai said the match provided early lessons in a fast-paced T20 tournament where margins are thin and recovery must be immediate. “There won’t be changes from the first game,” Dai said, backing the same lineup to respond stronger in the coming fixtures. The coach dismissed suggestions that the recent Australia tour may have worn the squad down, instead describing it as a key part of their preparation leading into the tournament. On the field, Dai highlighted PNG’s defensive discipline, noting the team’s ability to restrict boundaries and limit quick singles, an area he believes is progressing well. Ahead of tomorrow’s match against Bangladesh, Dai said team morale remains high, and the players are focused on learning quickly and moving forward. “The girls learn from the first game. We’ll come back hard for the second game and beyond,” he said. For the Lewas, the opening loss is not a verdict, but a warning. Nevertheless, the campaign continues with hopes still alive.

As the 2026 academic year begins with teachers resuming duties today Monday January 19th, some teachers in the National Capital District (NCD) chose to front up at the National Department of Education (NDOE) office to voice their long-standing concerns over unpaid entitlements and poor working conditions.The action took place as teachers resumed duty for the new school year. Those involved say the move was driven by frustration after repeated delays by authorities in addressing their concerns.Speaking to PNG Haus Bung, Abraham Mondo, who has been actively speaking out on issues affecting teachers nationwide, said the situation had reached a breaking point, particularly over delayed leave fares and other basic entitlements.“This strike has happened through frustration, has they have been prolonging the things we teachers are entitled too and that is why we went on strike,” Mr. Mondo said.Mr. Mondo said teachers turned to social media to raise their concerns after claiming the Papua New Guinea Teachers Association failed to act when the matter was raised through formal channels.“It seems to be that our teacher's union (PNGTA) is compromised with the NDOE, as this concern is old and they have neglected it too long and that is why we took to the social media to voice our problem,” he said.He added that many teachers feel unprotected under the current system.“Also, majority of the teachers aren't registered with PNGTA. Therefore, only few will be protected under the Industrial Act through PNGTA. So, if we protest than we would be taking a massive risk,” Mr. Mondo said.According to Mr. Mondo, the protest is based on 14 key issues that teachers say continue to affect both educators and students across Papua New Guinea. These includeDeprivation of the right to speakDelay tactics used against teachers’ issuesWithholding of rightful entitlementsNepotism within the National Department of EducationBriberyEthnic biasPoor infrastructure development in many schoolsDilapidated and unsafe classroomsSexual harassment and related concernsDenial of leave faresNonpayment of HDA allowancesLack of school materialsGhost teachers and ghost schoolsLack of teachers’ housingMr. Mondo said these issues are long standing and continue to affect the education system at all levels.He called on the National Department of Education to address the 14 concerns raised by teachers, saying meaningful action would improve both teacher welfare and student learning outcomes.

During the 2025-2026 holiday break, 28 youths from the 9 Mile Seventh Day Adventist Church Choir group in Port Moresby, travelled to Indonesia to share the gospel and help build two churches in a country densely populated by Muslims.Representing the Central Papua Conference (CPC) and the entire PNG SDA Church, the youths were acting under the Global SDA theme, “I WILL GO.” The initiative began early in 2025 when the youths met to brainstorm ways to uphold the theme. When the idea was pitched, it focused not only on sharing the word of God but also on establishing church foundations in countries classified by the SDA Church as part of the 10-40 window. These are nations where Christianity is a minority and other religions dominate, such as Pakistan and Indonesia. After careful planning, Indonesia was chosen as the destination. This was suggested by their pastor, Shanghai Mara, who could leverage family connections to support the mission. Pastor Mara’s wife, Natalie Mara who hails from Indonesia, stated that her family ties became a bridge for shelter and assistance during the youths’ work. The primary goal was to raise money for the establishment of two churches: one in Sarmi District and the other in Sentani, Jayapura District, in which both were to be maintained afterward. The effort was supported by churches across the CPC zone, whose choir groups performed and helped raise over K5, 000. In addition to the group fundraiser, every individual had to cover their own travel expenses. Originally, more than 50 youths from four 9 Mile churches were involved, but the number was reduced due to financial constraints, as many were not employed. To meet these financial challenges, the remaining youths split into small groups of 10 to 12 members. Over the next nine to ten months, they carried out fundraising activities, such as selling lunch packs to offices and participating in events like PNG’s 50th Independence Anniversary. Some sponsors provided further support. Notably, NCDC awarded the church a contract to clean Nile Market, which generated significant funds for the trip. One of the major individual challenges was obtaining passports, which caused delays and added stress for many of the youths. The group departed Port Moresby on December 15th, crossing the PNG-Indonesia border on December 18th after a brief stay in Vanimo. They stayed for two nights in Vanimo before crossing the PNG-Indonesia border on December 18th and arriving in Indonesia on December 22nd. Most of them were traveling abroad as missionaries for the first time, and nerves were high until they were warmly welcomed by locals in Sarmi District. Even with different beliefs, the locals listened respectfully to the youths as they sang and shared the gospel. Outreach was conducted privately, as public evangelism is restricted by law in the area. They spent one week laying the foundation for the Sarmi church before traveling to Sentani to spend a second week maintaining an existing church and continuing their ministry. After completing the work, they prepared to return home. The group departed Indonesia on January 5th, stayed two nights in Vanimo, and returned to Port Moresby on January 9th. Upon their arrival, PNG HAUSBUNG met with Dillon Narry, a representative of the 9 Mile SDA Youths, to discuss the mission. He stated that the mission is not yet over in which they have built the foundation, and are now looking forward to helping Christianity grow in Indonesia, who is PNG’s neighbouring country. When asked what the group learned from the experience, Dillon added, “Now that we are back, we will plan even better, involve more youths, and I am looking forward to returning to Indonesia.” “I pray that when we return, there will be more Christians in Indonesia.”

The Seika Spiders have done it again, defending their title with a hard-earned victory over archrivals Oloavu Seals in the men’s final of the 2025 Oloavu Christmas Volleyball Tournament. The match was played on December 28th at Oloavu Village in the Kairuku District of Central Province, drawing a lively village crowd hungry for Christmas volleyball drama.The final score told a story of control under pressure. After both teams shared the opening two sets, the Spiders lifted their level when it mattered most. Strong serving, smart rotations, and calm leadership pushed them ahead. They sealed the match with a 25–21 win in the fourth set, shutting down a late surge from the Seals.Spiders captain Max Foxy Ala stood tall, earning the Spiker of the Tournament award with consistent attacking and composure at the net. Coaches Henry Akili Siala and Allan Mau Ume made key substitutions that shifted momentum, while young Malcolm Aika and setter Paru Piboy combined smoothly in the closing stages to keep the Seals guessing.The match briefly paused due to poor lighting conditions, but play resumed after floodlights were installed, ensuring fair competition for both teams. The interruption did little to cool the intensity, as the rivalry remained fierce until the final point.In the women’s final, Oloavu Seals produced a strong comeback to defeat Sweet 16 in five sets, claiming the women’s title and adding to the tournament’s competitive spirit.Beyond the scores, the 2025 Oloavu Christmas Volleyball Tournament once again proved why it matters. It delivered rivalry, rising youth talent, and experienced leadership, all wrapped in a village setting that felt bigger than the court itself.

PNG Lewas Captain Brenda Tau has said that belief, trust, and preparation are central to the team’s mindset as they begin their campaign at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier in Nepal, where only four spots are available for the 2027 tournament in England and Wales.In a recent interview with PNG HAUSBUNG on the sports vodcast Skelim Pilai, Tau explained how the squad maintains composure when competing away from home against international opposition. She said the focus within the team remains firmly on positivity and collective confidence. “It’s just having the belief in the girls, because we all get to talk about positive things, to trust in each other and believe that we are capable to go out and compete,” Tau said. The Lewas arrived in Nepal on January 12th, 2026, following a short recovery period after their recent Toyota Australia Cricket Country Championship (TACCC) commitments. They will open their qualifier campaign against Ireland on Sunday, January 18th, as they begin what Tau described as a demanding journey on the global stage. With the qualifier offering just four qualification spots, Tau acknowledged the challenge ahead, saying the level of competition will be significantly higher than what the team has previously faced. “To be honest, it’s going to be tough, as on this stage the level of cricket will be different, as it will be at a very high level of cricket with the teams we will be going against. And it’s going to be a tough challenge for every one of us individually,” she said. Despite the difficulty, the captain said confidence within the squad has been strengthened by earlier international tours, as well as the leadership shown by senior players and lessons learned from previous losses. She said preparation has extended beyond the field, with emphasis placed on team culture and mental readiness. “The qualifier is going to be challenging for us individually and the team, but I trust and believe in the team because we worked on that on and off the field, also with the team’s culture. And one thing God has given us is the faith God has given us, and we are taking this to Nepal, and Papua New Guinea to the world stage,” Tau said. The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier runs from January 14 to February 1, 2026, and will be hosted at the TU Cricket Ground and Upper Hulpani Cricket Ground in Nepal. The tournament brings together leading associate women’s teams competing for qualification to the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup England & Wales 2026. Following their arrival, the Lewas have entered final preparations, including recovery sessions and on-ground training, ahead of a demanding group-stage schedule. PNG Lewas – Group Stage Fixtures Sunday, 18 January: Ireland vs PNG Tuesday, 20 January: PNG vs Bangladesh Saturday, 24 January: PNG vs Namibia Monday, 26 January: USA vs PNG Matches will be played in morning and afternoon sessions in accordance with the official ICC fixture schedule.

In a quiet but powerful act of generosity, a children’s book donation drive is planting seeds of hope at Liberty International Christian School (LICS), as it prepares to open its library this year with the aim of building early childhood foundations in literacy, language, and cognitive skills.The Book Donation Drive is an initiative by Lelani Gidisa, 22, who is currently studying Business in the United States. During her school break, she shared a 30-second video on Facebook seeking book donations for the school’s library. While studying in the United States, she observed how libraries were woven into everyday life, not only in cities but in small towns as well, serving as safe spaces for learning, imagination, and growth. Bringing those thoughts home, she realized that many children in Papua New Guinea grow up without ever stepping inside a library. “For many children, access to books is not guaranteed,” Lelani reflected. “If we can’t reach every child, we can start with one; one book, one school. That alone can change a life.” With the school’s library set to open soon, the idea took shape. Lelani explained that the initiative focuses on early childhood, aligning with the school’s curriculum for children aged three to seven. “Focusing on children’s books is incredibly important because early childhood is the most critical phase of brain development. Research shows that the first few years of a child’s life are vital for building a foundation in literacy, language, and cognitive skills. Books are essential tools in this process and yet access to them is a major gap in Port Moresby and many parts of Papua New Guinea.” Without books, children miss more than stories. They miss the chance to develop imagination, confidence, and a lifelong love for learning. The donation drive aims to bridge that gap, one page at a time. For students at Liberty International Christian School, the impact of a library goes far beyond shelves and textbooks. In an age dominated by screens, a library offers something increasingly rare, quiet focus, deep thinking, and the freedom to explore ideas independently. It creates a space where curiosity is encouraged, and learning becomes self-driven rather than forced. “A library builds more than academic skills,” Lelani shared. “It shapes emotional growth, creativity, and character.” She describes the initiative as small but powerful, drawing from both lived experience and faith “One donated book can open an entire world for a child. That one act of kindness can change the direction of their education, their confidence, even their future.” As a child her first reading book was a donated Dr. Seuss title, it was worn and imperfect, yet it sparked a lifelong relationship with reading. That single book, she says, became a turning point. "I was just four years old, but that book sparked a lifelong love of reading. It was a small, simple thing that made a world of difference in my life," Lelani shared. With the LICS library scheduled to open as the 2026 back-to school fever sets in, the donation drive is laying the foundation now. The books collected today will form the backbone of a library designed to serve not just current students, but generations to come. The vision extends beyond literacy, aiming to nurture students spiritually, socially, and intellectually. Lelani hopes the message reaches families, educators, and the wider community, especially those who may take access to books for granted. She emphasizes that building a reading culture does not start in institutions alone, but at home, through shared stories and simple encouragement. At LICS, she has already witnessed the ripple effect of education, where children carry lessons, values, and faith back into their homes, sometimes influencing entire families. Donations are currently being accepted every Friday from 8am to 12pm at Liberty International Christian School on Budoa Avenue, East Boroko, with options for both in-person drop-offs and mailed contributions. Whether new or gently used, every child’s book is welcomed. “This is more than a book drive,” Lelani said. “It’s the beginning of a broader conversation about literacy, access, and responsibility.” In a country where resources are often stretched thin, this initiative stands as a reminder that hope does not always arrive in grand gestures. Sometimes it comes quietly, wrapped in pages, passed from hand to hand, carrying the promise that education, faith, and opportunity can grow from even the smallest seeds.

TISA Bank loyal customers and staff can expect some good discounts the next time they seek medical treatment at the Pacific International Hospital (PIH) thanks to a recently signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).The MoU signed on Monday 12th January by TISA Bank Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mr. Sunil Pokharel and PIH CEO Colonel Sandeep Shaligram at TISA Bank Head office in Port Moresby city, ensures customers gain access to PIH discounted medical service. It aims to provide customers and staff access to medical services effectively and efficiently. The discount rate ranging from 10% to 25% on Outpatient Department (OPD) treatments, including eye care clinics and this medical discount will also benefits customers who are looking to join TISA Bank. “All our customers, whether they already hold an account with TISA Bank or are planning to open one, will benefit from this partnership,” said TISA Bank CEO Mr. Sunil. Meanwhile, for the bank's female employees and the female employees working in TISA Group of Companies will have an additional benefit of free mammogram checks for women, supporting early breast cancer detection. The initiative traces back to a discussion in 2024 between PIH CEO and TISA Group CEO Mr. Michael Koisen where they suggested a collaborative effort between their services where banking and healthcare will benefit everyone. “The year before last year TISA Group CEO Michael met with me at the mining contracts when he called me aside and suggested to me that we need to do something together to bring benefit to everybody.” PIH CEO, who shared before thanking TISA Bank team under Sunil and his PIH team for their coordination and efforts, said, “With guidance, and ongoing coordination with our teams, we have successfully executed this partnership and I want to congratulate everyone”. While the current agreement focuses on OPD services, the partnership is looking to expand. Mr. Sunil hints on health insurance that TISA insurance offer for customers and clients that is currently looking to be in the partnership in the future. “Looking at the larger picture there is a long way to go for us.” Mr. Sunil also highlighted additional customer incentives such as earning interest on deposits held in individual accounts. “Customers can access discounts by presenting their TISA Bank card at PIH facilities, or by using the bank’s Umi Pay QR code for digital payments.” In concluding the signing ceremony, the TISA Group of Company CEO said the ultimate beneficiaries of this partnership are Papua New Guineans, who will gain improved access to quality medical services at an affordable cost. “Health is expensive, and access to services is critical. We encourage all Papua New Guineans to consider medical and life insurance as part of long-term personal and family planning,” said Mr. Koisen. The collaboration between TISA Bank, TISA Insurance, and PIH marks a significant milestone for corporate partnerships in Papua New Guinea, reinforcing a shared commitment to enhancing healthcare accessibility across the country.

Police in Enga province have arrested a 65-year-old man in Wapenamanda District for allegedly producing and circulating false and inflammatory information that authorities say risked escalating tribal tensions.The Acting Enga Provincial Police Commander, Chief Inspector Kelly Sombe, confirmed that the accused, Steven Puliplya of the Ambulin Tribe, was taken into custody following complaints from community leaders in Minama Constituency. Chief Inspector Sombe said Puliplya allegedly circulated a voice audio recording accusing the Pyapin Clan of the Wauni Tribe of harbouring and assisting armed men from the Palinau Tribe. The audio, spoken in Engan vernacular, also allegedly made claims that members of the Papua New Guinea Defence Force were supplying weapons and ammunition to certain tribes involved in ongoing conflicts. He said leaders from the Wauni Tribe reported the matter to the Minamb Peace and Security Foundation, which then referred the complaint to police for investigation. Chief Inspector Sombe described the alleged actions as a dangerous smear campaign that could incite hatred and further violence between communities already affected by conflict. Police arrested Puliplya in Wapenamanda on Tuesday and transported him to Wabag, where he was cautioned, charged, and detained at the police station. He has been charged with cyber harassment under Section 23(1)(a) of the Cyber Crime Act and is expected to appear in court. Chief Inspector Sombe warned that spreading false information on social media is a criminal offence and said police would take action when complaints are supported by evidence. He also appealed to communities in Wapenamanda to refrain from sharing unverified texts, audio recordings, and videos on social media, saying such actions undermine efforts to restore peace and good order in Enga Province. The Acting Provincial Police Commander commended officers for their swift response following the complaint.

The PNG Lewas now has three wins from six matches in the Toyota Australia Country Cricket Championships women’s tournament in Australia, after a massive 40-run bounce-back rematch win over Southern Australia, with promising young Lewas talents stepping up in the absence of big names.Going into this rematch against the Southern Australian Women after a Round 4 loss in a One Day Innings (ODI) match, the teams battled this time in the T20 format. The Lewas went into the game without their captain and main firepower Brenda Tau, as well as star all-rounder Henao Jane Thomas, following their Round 5 loss to Western Australia by 17 runs. After winning the toss, the Lewas decided to bat first, which gave them the strong start they needed, with Hollan Doriga and Konio Oala taking the Lewas to a flying start, pushing the score past 50 runs early. At the crease, Konio Oala’s solo performance with the bat was outstanding as she smashed 49 runs off just 30 balls, followed by Sibona Jimmy with 23 runs from 19 balls and Hollan Doriga with 21 runs from 23 balls. This saw the Lewas set a total of 133 runs for 7 wickets from 20 overs. When taking the field, the PNG Lewas bowlers and fielders were in sync, restricting the Southern Australia Country Women as runs slowed and wickets continued to fall. With the ball, tournament debutant Gena Tom picked up two wickets, including dismissing SA top batter Makenzie Holy for a golden duck. Sibona Jimmy followed with one wicket from four overs, conceding just 17 runs, while Hollan Doriga also claimed one wicket from four overs for 17 runs. This performance limited Southern Australia to 93 runs for 7 wickets from their 20 overs. This strong all-round performance from both the batters and bowlers saw the Lewas secure a massive victory over the Southern Australian Country Women, bouncing back from two straight losses- Round 4’s ODI loss (PNG 10/124, SA 7/125) and the Round 5 T20 loss to Western Australian Country Women (PNG 7/90, WA 8/107). The question now is whether the Lewas can keep this bounce-back rematch heat alive as they take on the Western Australian Country Women in the final round of the Toyota Australia Country Cricket Championships.