Fourteen volunteers and their respective supervisors underwent a week-long Pre-Service Orientation (PSO) which was conducted by the National Volunteer Service (NVS) at Okari Campus in Lae, Morobe Province.

The training, ran from June 22 to 26, was aimed to equip volunteers with the knowledge, skills, policies and procedures required to effectively serve their communities in the health and education sectors.

The orientation serves as a critical induction process, preparing volunteers for deployment, and reinforcing the values of volunteerism, community service, and teamwork.

Speaking at the opening of the training, NVS Executive Officer Poponu Wenda urged participants to fully embrace the program and understand the role and responsibilities of the

National Volunteer Service before returning to their respective communities.

“Volunteerism is about commitment, sacrifice and service. Volunteers should not work in isolation but must work together as a team to achieve meaningful outcomes for the

communities they serve,” Mr. Wenda said.

He also emphasized the important role supervisors play in ensuring volunteers are effectively supported and monitored while carrying out their duties.

“Supervisors are very important in the community. You are the leaders and support system for

these volunteers."

"You have a significant responsibility to be present on the ground and monitor the work being carried out,” he said.

One of the participants, Community Health Worker Cathy Jim from Malaman Community Health Post in Komba Village, Kabwum District, expressed her appreciation for the orientation.

“I am happy to be part of this Pre-Service Orientation. There are many things I need to learn,

and I am excited to better understand how NVS operates and what is expected of me as a

volunteer,” she said.

NVS Societal Responsibility and Partnerships Manager Rodney Uvovo, who is leading the NVS team in Morobe Province, said he was confident the orientation would adequately prepare volunteers for service in their communities.

He said the training would ensure volunteers clearly understand their roles and responsibilities and are equipped to contribute effectively to community development initiatives.

National Volunteer Service remains committed to supporting the Government’s efforts to improve service delivery in the health and education sectors, particularly in remote and underserved communities throughout Papua New Guinea.