More than 280 newly elected ward members from across Central Province have begun a week-long induction program under the Central Province Local Level Government (LLG) Leaders Induction Workshop 2026, aimed at strengthening local governance and equipping local leaders with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively serve their communities.
Speaking to PNG Haus Bung, Central Provincial Administration District and LLG Affairs Advisor, Guma Tau, said 283 ward members from the province's five districts are participating in the workshop, which runs from June 29 to July 3.
Mr Tau said Central Province has a total of 288 ward positions, with five currently vacant following failed elections and the recent passing of a ward member.
Participants are being accommodated at Gateway and Ponderosa Hotels while attending the weeklong workshop.
He said the induction is designed to provide newly elected ward members with a better understanding of government systems, governance processes, leadership responsibilities, and their role in planning and delivering services at the ward level.
Mr Tau described the Central Province LLG Leaders Induction Workshop 2026 as the first formal induction program of its kind for ward members since the introduction of the 1995 Local-level Government reforms.
"According to our records, ward members have never undergone a formal induction after being elected. This is the first time the province has brought all ward members together to receive structured training," he said.
Mr Tau said the workshop began the previous week with the successful induction of LLG Presidents and nominated Provincial Assembly representatives before continuing this week with ward members.
He said the province intends to make the induction workshop a standard program following every LLG election to ensure newly elected leaders are properly prepared before assuming office.
A total of about 320 participants, including ward members, LLG managers, District Administrators, District Local Government Advisors, National Development Commission representatives, facilitators, and provincial officers, are taking part in the workshop.
Mr Tau acknowledged the support of the Central Provincial Administration and the province's five district administrations, saying the program is jointly funded through a cost sharing arrangement.
He also thanked the Acting Provincial Administrator and the Deputy Governor for committing funding to ensure all elected local leaders receive the training.
Mr Tau said participants who successfully complete the workshop will receive certificates of participation in recognition of their commitment to strengthening leadership and improving local governance.
He expressed confidence that the knowledge gained during the week-long induction would better equip ward members to return to their communities and provide stronger leadership, improve governance, and deliver more effective services to the people of Central Province.
