Papua New Guinea (PNG) is set to become the first country in the world to implement a comprehensive space-based Air Traffic Management (ATM) system across its national airspace following a landmark agreement signed between NiuSky Pacific and Australian aviation technology company, Skykraft. The agreement was signed by Skykraft Chief Executive Officer Michael Frater and NiuSky Pacific Managing Director Graham Blythe, witnessed by Civil Aviation Minister Wake Goi and First Secretary to the Ministry of Civil Aviation Reuben Daniel. The partnership will introduce space-based communication and surveillance technology designed to improve the monitoring and management of aircraft operating throughout the country. According to NiuSky Pacific, the new system will significantly enhance aviation safety, operational efficiency and connectivity, particularly in remote, mountainous and oceanic areas where traditional air traffic monitoring can be challenging. The technology will provide air traffic controllers with improved situational awareness, allowing safer and more efficient aircraft operations across PNG's airspace. In a separate development, NiuSky Pacific also signed a Letter of Intent with the ENAV Group during Airspace World 2026 to explore future cooperation in aviation innovation and air navigation services. Areas of cooperation under the agreement include Air Traffic Management, drone traffic management systems, flight procedure design, digital transformation of aeronautical information services, training and capacity building, and remote tower technologies. NiuSky Pacific said the agreements will provide access to next-generation aviation technologies and expertise from internationally recognized industry leaders. The partnerships are expected to support ongoing efforts to modernize the country’s aviation sector while strengthening air navigation services across the country. The agreements also position PNG among the leading nations adopting emerging aviation technologies within the Asia-Pacific region.

The Member (MP) for Markham District and Deputy Speaker, Koni Iguan, has reaffirmed his commitment to investing in education to shape the future, despite facing criticism over his academic background. In an emotional moment witnessed by students, teachers and district officials at the School, the MP publicly stated that he has forgiven individuals who have been attacking and defaming him on social media through fake Facebook accounts. The attack on the MP and deputy speaker is an ongoing issue, degrading and accusing him of baseless claims via Facebook. When the MP publicly announced his forgiveness just before the announcement of his funding support to the school, most in the crowd fell silent, with some seen moved by his message of forgiveness and focus on the future. “I have forgiven those who are criticizing me. My focus is not on insults, but on building the future through our children,” Mr. Iguan said. He said his belief is grounded in the vision of the late Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare, who championed education as the key to national progress. “I believe in investing in education so that the next generation will rise and take this district, this province and this country to greater heights. They will prove in the future what is being said today,” he said. Mr. Iguan made the remarks while presenting a K200,000 cheque to support the school, which was facing an imminent boarding crisis due to delays in GTFS funds. School Principal Mr. Billy Kayo said the school spends about K11,000 weekly on food rations and was heading towards a shortage within three weeks. “We were about to face serious difficulties feeding our students. This support has saved us,” Mr. Kayo said. He praised the MP for his consistent support, saying the school has never been turned away during times of need. The funding will now ensure boarding students continue to receive meals, bringing relief to both students and teachers. For many present, the moment was not only about financial support, but a powerful message of leadership, forgiveness and hope for the future.

More than 92,000 Grade 10 students across Papua New Guinea are set to sit for the Written Expression (WEX) National Exam on Thursday, June 4. A total of 92,596 students from 554 secondary and high schools, including permitted private schools, will participate in this important assessment. Secretary for Education, Dr Uke Kombra, confirmed that all examination materials have been dispatched to the provinces, including the National Capital District (NCD) and Central Province, ready for distribution to schools. “The Measurement Services Division (MSD) has completed all necessary preparations for the Grade 10 Written Expression Examination. This is the first national exam of the year and marks the beginning of the national examination calendar.” Written Expression accounts for 30 percent of the overall English result, making it a critical component of students’ academic performance. Dr Kombra emphasized that the exam holds similar importance to other lower secondary certificate exams scheduled later in October. To maintain the integrity and fairness of the examination, strict security measures have been put in place for handling and distributing the exam papers. Provincial education advisers, examination supervisors, senior secondary school inspectors, guidance officers, principals, and governing councils have been urged to remain vigilant and follow all rules enforced by the MSD. Dr Kombra advised everyone involved in the examination process to prevent all tendencies towards any malpractice that may compromise the results. Special support will be provided for students with special needs to ensure they can take the exam comfortably and fairly. He wished all Grade 10 students the very best of luck and called on parents, teachers, and communities to support learners during this important time.

The PNG Chiefs have made it official, announcing that Sydney Roosters’ Connor Watson has become player number 003, signed up for the new Rugby League Franchise ahead of its entry into the NRL in 2028. Watson has agreed to join the PNG Chiefs on a two-year deal for the 2028 and 2029 NRL seasons, marking another major step forward as the club continues building its inaugural roster and momentum towards 2028. One of the NRL’s most respected and versatile players, Watson will arrive at the PNG Chiefs with extensive top-level experience across multiple positions, including hooker, lock and the halves. His professionalism, leadership and team-first mentality have made him one of the game’s most valued players throughout his career. Watson has built his career within some of the NRL’s strongest football systems, spending time with both the Newcastle Knights and Sydney Roosters, while also representing New South Wales on five occasions in State of Origin football. As Signing 003, Watson joins the growing list of elite players committing to the PNG Chiefs project, reinforcing the club’s vision of building a world-class organisation grounded in culture, professionalism and long-term success. PNG Chiefs General Manager Football Michael Chammas said Watson’s character and professionalism stood out throughout the recruitment process. “Connor has made it clear from the outset that he wanted to be part of the PNG Chiefs and this incredible journey we are building. “He and his partner Kiana recently spent time in Port Moresby and genuinely fell in love with the country, the people and the opportunity to be part of something much bigger than football. “Connor is the type of player every club wants. He is selfless, tough, professional and incredibly respected across the game. His versatility and experience will be invaluable for us as we continue building our squad towards 2028. “Every signing matters for a new club, but there is something exciting about seeing the roster continue to build piece by piece. Connor becoming Signing 003 is another important moment in the journey of the PNG Chiefs. “We also want to thank the Sydney Roosters for their professionalism, patience and understanding throughout this process,” said Michael Chammas. PNG Chiefs CEO Lorna McPherson said Watson represented exactly the type of person and player the club wanted helping shape the future of the organisation. “What impressed us most, beyond Connor’s football ability, was his sense of purpose and the way he treats people. “He leads with kindness, he listens, and he brings a calm strength into every environment he enters. We wanted people who would genuinely feel at home in Papua New Guinea, and people Papua New Guinea would feel proud to welcome. “Connor immediately connected with the country and our vision for what this club can become. We know he will have a significant impact both on and off the field as we build towards 2028. “You can feel the excitement continuing to build around the club now. With every signing, the vision becomes more real for our fans, our partners and for Papua New Guinea,” said Lorna McPherson. Watson becomes the latest major signing for the PNG Chiefs as the club continues assembling a high-performance roster ahead of the club’s inaugural NRL season in 2028.

The University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) has signed a landmark Memorandum of Intent (MOI) with the Universities of Wisconsin, creating the first formal academic partnership between a Papua New Guinean and an American university. The agreement was signed on May 29th at the U.S. Embassy's American Center in Port Moresby by UPNG Vice-Chancellor Ian Findlay and Universities of Wisconsin Senior Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs Johannes Britz, who joined virtually. The three-year agreement will promote academic and cultural exchanges, including student degree pathways, faculty and student research collaboration, virtual exchange programs, and campus visits. U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Alex Berenberg said the partnership demonstrates the strength of U.S.-PNG educational cooperation and a shared commitment to advancing academic excellence. The partnership is expected to expand educational opportunities for Papua New Guinean students while strengthening institutional ties between the two countries. The three-year agreement establishes a foundation for cooperation across a range of shared academic priorities, including: Joint development of a framework to communicate a shared understanding of the relationship's nature and goals, reduce barriers for participating campuses, and create clear pathways to participation, Exploration of degree pathways for students, Survey and communication of opportunities for faculty and student research collaboration, Organization of virtual exchange opportunities, and Encouragement of in-person visits between both campuses. UPNG was honored to partake in such a partnership. “Education has always been at the heart of Papua New Guinea's development, and partnerships like this one remind us that our ambitions are shared beyond our borders.” Meanwhile, a statement from The University of Wisconsin affirmed the partnership. “This reflects our deep belief that universities have a responsibility to build bridges across cultures and continents — and we are eager to learn from one another as we work toward shared goals in research, education, and exchange." The Universities of Wisconsin serve more than 160,000 students across 13 campuses, while UPNG remains Papua New Guinea’s oldest and largest university. Both institutions will appoint coordinators to oversee collaboration and review progress, with the agreement open for extension beyond its initial three-year term.

Acclaimed Papua New Guinean–born Australian artist Ngaiire is bringing her international career back home to launch Musik Blok, a bold new mentorship initiative based in Goroka, Eastern Highlands. The four-time ARIA Award nominee designed the pilot program to equip the next generation of Papua New Guinean artists with the skills, infrastructure, and industry access she originally had to leave the country to find. After building a globally respected career spanning Australia, Europe, and the United States, Ngaiire is now investing that wealth of experience directly into the local music community. “There is no shortage of brilliance in PNG,” she said. “What’s missing is access. I had to leave to learn how this industry works. Musik Blok is about making sure the next generation doesn’t have to.” Supported by the Australian Government through the Australian Cultural Diplomacy Grants Program, this inaugural initiative will bring a select group of emerging talent into an intensive, two-week song writing and production lab. Led by Ngaiire alongside experienced mentors and established PNG musicians, the residency takes place in newly developed creative spaces near Goroka, focusing on practical, career-building skills and high-quality recorded outcomes. Following a highly competitive national application process, eight promising PNG artists have been selected to participate in the debut Musik Blok cohort: · Michael Vaki — MC/Rapper · Philip Kurina — MC/Rapper · Roslyn Koisen — Singer/Songwriter · Davincy Rodgers — MC/Rapper · Oliver Bangkoma — Singer/Songwriter · Brendan Lahui — Songwriter · Danielle Morgan — Singer/Songwriter · Martina Kara — Singer/Songwriter “In my career I’ve seen what happens when artists are given the right environment to grow. The confidence shifts. The ambition expands. I’m deeply committed to building that environment here in PNG, not just once, but for the long term,” said Ngaiire. In a country where professional music infrastructure remains limited outside major urban centers, this initiative represents a major stride toward locally led creative development. Musik Blok ultimate aims to shift the paradigm, positioning PNG not merely as an exporter of raw talent, but as a nation fully capable of cultivating its own sustainable, thriving music ecosystem.

The people of Papua New Guinea (PNG) can expect a major water project coming up that would transform the way clean water is accessed by the population. This will be made possible through the EIB Global, the development arm of the European Investment Bank (EIB), with a $25 million financing to Papua New Guinea (PNG) to expand networks for drinking water in towns across the country and in the capital Port Moresby city. The project aims to bring steady supplies of potable water to an extra 400,000 people in Papua New Guinea. The EIB Global support takes the form of a loan to the government of Papua New Guinea, the most populous Pacific island nation with more than 10 million inhabitants. State-owned utility Water PNG will carry out the project. This concessional loan is supported by the European Union with a €13.4 million investment grant and €3 million for expert help to implement the project, in line with the EU’s Global Gateway investment strategy. Only about a fifth of Papua New Guinea’s population has access to reliable water services. The EIB Global loan will finance new water connections in underserved urban areas and reduce water losses in Port Moresby. This in turn will support national efforts to increase urban water coverage to 95% by 2030. “Our financing will help Papua New Guinea extend clean, reliable water services to more communities, improve living conditions and support more resilient and sustainable growth across the country,” said EIB Vice-President Ambroise Fayolle, who oversees its operations in the Pacific region. “Investment in water systems is essential to improving public health and strengthening long-term development.” The financing agreement was announced today, Tuesday 2nd June during the EU–Papua New Guinea Business Forum in Port Moresby city. This project is part of Global Gateway, the EU’s external investment strategy for sustainable development.

Prime Minister James Marape recently led a high-level government delegation to Kikori in Gulf Province to conduct a familiarization tour and inspect the proposed site for the upcoming Papua LNG Development Forum and its associated project activities. Joining the Prime Minister on this strategic visit were Gulf Governor Chris Haiveta, Petroleum Minister Jimmy Maladina, and Finance Minister Thomas Opa. According to Prime Minister Marape, the visit was designed to allow the National Government to consult directly with Gulf provincial leaders, landowners, and key stakeholders on preparations for the Papua LNG Development Forum, which is scheduled to take place late next month. He emphasized that given the immense national significance of the Papua LNG Project, it was vital for relevant ministers and leaders to participate so that all stakeholders maintain a common understanding of the proposed forum location and local infrastructure requirements. “We headed out to Kikori to discuss the Development Forum with the Gulf leadership and will take advice from the Gulf leadership as to what to do as we begin discussions in Kikori,” Prime Minister Marape stated. The Prime Minister underscored that the Papua LNG Project remains one of Papua New Guinea’s most vital economic development opportunities and a cornerstone of the country's long-term economic growth strategy. He explained that reaching a Final Investment Decision (FID) for Papua LNG will trigger a continuous chain of energy project construction and development across the country over the next decade and beyond. Several major oil and gas projects are lined up over the next 10 to 20 years, including Papua LNG, P’nyang, Pasca A, and other future petroleum developments. “These projects will provide long-term construction activity, production opportunities, employment and revenue for PNG,” Prime Minister Marape noted, adding that the state is looking at the next 10 to 15 years as a period of sustained energy sector activity, encompassing both construction and long-term production. While Papua New Guinea’s economy continues to be anchored by major resource developments in the oil and gas sector, agriculture and other non-resource sectors also contribute strongly to national growth. The non-mining and petroleum sector has recorded an approximate growth rate of four percent, driven largely by agriculture, where the majority of Papua New Guineans continue to earn their livelihoods. The Prime Minister reiterated his government’s strict commitment to ensuring that natural resource development delivers greater benefits directly to citizens, local businesses, landowners, and impacted communities. “Our government is predominantly known for the principle that we are fighting to take back more benefits for our country,” Prime Minister Marape declared. “This Pangu administration has made it absolutely clear that we will not compromise on ensuring the State secures around or above 55 percent of the total benefit from our major resource projects. There can be no clearer example than the New Porgera Limited Agreement.” “The resource sector industry knows very well our vision and where we want to take the country. We want to secure above 55 percent as the total stake for the State.” “I want to thank all resource developers, investors and partners for understanding our position. This is being achieved within our existing laws and through good, amicable negotiations that benefit all stakeholders.” Reflecting on his administration's tenure, the Prime Minister acknowledged that while his government may not have solved every socio-economic challenge over the past seven years, it has remained focused on expanding the economy, increasing national participation in major projects, and securing a fairer share of natural resource wealth. He pointed out that bringing pipeline projects like Papua LNG in Gulf Province and the Wafi-Golpu Project in Morobe Province online will generate vital additional revenue, strengthen foreign exchange reserves, and create long-term economic opportunities for the population. In tandem with these developments, ongoing petroleum exploration remains active as Prime Minister Marape revealed that a deep-water drilling vessel is expected to commence exploration activities soon in the maritime waters between Central Province and Western Province. This continuous activity reinforces Papua New Guinea’s international standing as a stable and reliable destination for oil and gas investment. “Since 1990 we have exported oil, and since 2014 we have exported LNG. We have never had one cargo disrupted,” the Prime Minister highlighted. “PNG has maintained a strong reputation as a dependable energy producer. You have wars and conflicts in other parts of the world, but PNG’s Kumul Marine Terminal in Gulf Province has not missed an export shipment since 1990, and the PNG LNG export facility has maintained uninterrupted exports since 2014.” “That is a reputation we should be proud of. PNG continues to tell the world that we are a safe, stable and dependable place for oil and gas business.” To further advance the project, Prime Minister Marape recently met with TotalEnergies Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Patrick Pouyanné in Paris to discuss Papua LNG and broader future investment opportunities. The project is currently being actively progressed by the State Team in partnership with TotalEnergies, which serves as the project operator, alongside its joint venture partners. The upcoming Development Forum is a mandatory process under the Oil and Gas Act 1998 designed to bring together landowners, provincial governments, and the State. This platform will allow all parties to finalize benefit-sharing arrangements and address project implementation issues ahead of future development milestones, ensuring that Papua LNG delivers a lasting positive legacy for the people of Papua New Guinea.

The annual Hausples Real Estate Show is on again this year, and the BSP Financial Group Limited (BSP) is once again supporting the event. BSP officially became the Diamond Sponsor after giving K45,000 to help host the upcoming 2026 Hausples Real Estate Show in Port Moresby city this month. A partner since the event’s inception in 2017, BSP continues to champion the vision of making homeownership a reality for Papua New Guineans who are looking for a good home to buy and live in. The 2026 show, scheduled for Friday 26th and Saturday 27th June at the Sir John Guise Indoor Complex, remains the premier platform for property seekers and investors alike. Hausples General Manager, Arne Alfajardo, expressed his gratitude for the bank's continued support as the Diamond Sponsor, adding that this long-standing partnership reflects a shared commitment to making homeownership more accessible for all Papua New Guineans. “We look forward to delivering another impactful event together in 2026.” BSP’s Head of Retail Lending, Ms. Arinola Adeleye noted that property investment is often the most significant financial milestone a person will achieve. “BSP is dedicated to guiding customers through every step of this journey—from achieving personal milestones to navigating the technicalities of property checks,” she stated. Ms. Adeleye also emphasised the long-term wealth-building benefits of transitioning from renting to owning and property. “Through years of assisting customers, we have seen how purchasing a home builds equity over time. Instead of paying a landlord, your monthly payments invest in an asset that appreciates.” BSP has funded over 2,000 first-homeowner loans through its specialised lending products. Recognising the challenges faced by new buyers, Ms. Adeleye emphasised that the bank understands the 'first home buyers' hurdle. “The critical first step in property hunting is awareness,” Ms. Adeleye added. “We can conduct pre-assessments to help you understand your borrowing capacity before you begin 'window shopping'. This saves time and gives our customers the confidence to negotiate a fair sale price.” BSP’s First Home Ownership Loan is specifically designed with lower interest rates and longer repayment terms to make this decision a reality. BSP is pleased to partner with Hausples for what promises to be a vital information gathering event for future homeowners. “Our goal is to ensure customers are financially prepared before they make the offer to buy a property,” Adeleye concluded. “We invite everyone - from first-time buyers to seasoned investors - to visit the BSP booth at the Sir John Guise Indoor Stadium this June.”

For the first time, the Department of Provincial and Local Level Government Affairs (DPLGA) now has a female appointed in the top position as permanent female Deputy Secretary. Mrs. Robyn Ata, who becomes DPLGA's first permanent female Deputy Secretary, taking up the position of Deputy Secretary– Strategic Policy and Digital Integration. She was among eight other female officers to senior management positions within the Department. Prior to her appointment, Mrs. Ata served with the Department of Prime Minister and National Executive Council for 18 years before joining DPLGA. Mrs. Ata acknowledged the leadership of Secretary Leo for installing a new wave of leadership by promoting Gender Equity and Social Inclusion (GESI) Policy through appointment of women leaders at the top decision-making table in the department. Mrs. Ata is not new to the public service and brings with her institutional knowledge on Public Sector Reforms, Strategic Planning and Public Governance and Central Government Administration. She conveyed her deep appreciation to be part of the Central department that connects Waigani to the village by operation of the Organic Law on Provincial Governments and Local-Level Governments. “I am looking forward to leading the Division and most particularly driving the National Framework for Ward Development and National Ward Records System through digital innovation,” Mrs. Ata proudly stressed. Since the establishment of the former Department of Development Administration and Native Affairs, now known as the Department of Provincial and Local Level Government Affairs, in 1977, no woman had previously been appointed to a permanent Deputy Secretary position within the Department; she is the first. Meanwhile, the appointments mark a significant shift in leadership within the Department and provide greater opportunities for women to contribute to policy development, decision-making and the delivery of government services throughout the country. The inclusion of more women in senior management positions also strengthens gender balance within the Department and reflects the Government's broader commitment to empowering women in leadership. DPLGA Secretary Mr. Philip Leo congratulated the newly appointed female executives and challenged them to excel in their respective roles. "The Department recognizes your contribution to the Independent State of Papua New Guinea. Your appointments to these important leadership positions place you in a position to lead, influence positive changes, and deliver effective government services to our people," Mr. Leo said. The appointments signify a new chapter for DPLGA as it continues to strengthen its workforce and promote inclusive leadership that reflects the diversity and capabilities of Papua New Guinea's public service.

Construction of new softball facilities at the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) is set to begin soon under a partnership between the Australian Government, the university, the PNG Baseball and Softball Confederation, and the PNG Sports Foundation. The Softball Facilities Development Project will deliver two competition-standard softball fields and essential amenities by October 2026. The project is funded through Australia's Economic and Social Infrastructure Program (ESIP). Australian High Commission Minister-Counsellor Elizabeth Le Bas said the project reflects the strong partnership between Papua New Guinea and Australia in supporting sport and community development. “We are very happy to be delivering this project in partnership with PNG and recognize the power of sport and the many benefits it brings to the community.” “I want to thank our partners who are working hard to realize this project, and we look forward to seeing the new diamonds come to life.” UPNG Vice-Chancellor Professor Ian Findlay welcomed the project, saying the facilities would benefit both softball associations and the university community. “The University is delighted to partner on this project and provide a location for these Softball facilities.” PNG Baseball and Softball Confederation President Jenny Paak said the new fields would provide a safe and secure venue for competitions while encouraging greater student participation in the sport. Meanwhile, PNG Sports Foundation CEO Micah James said the facilities would strengthen softball development and improve access to quality sporting infrastructure. The project supports PNG's National Sports Policy 2020–2030 and will prioritize local contractors, suppliers and tradespeople during construction, creating employment and skills development opportunities

The Department of Provincial and Local Level Government Affairs (DPLGA) has received eleven (11) new Senior Provincial Monitoring Officers (SPMOs) to carry out the duties of the department in the provinces. The 11 of twenty (20) newly appointed Senior Provincial Monitoring Officers (SPMOs) from the Department deployed to provinces, have officially signed their employment contracts. DPLGA Secretary, Philip Leo, announced that the officers are the first appointees to fill newly created positions established under the Department's recent organizational restructure. "The deployment of the SPMOs is a key initiative under the Reset@50 Agenda, aimed at strengthening governance, accountability and service delivery throughout the country. "Taking the Oath is a serious commitment to the Nation. Public officers must uphold transparency, accountability, and honesty, especially within a system that has historically faced governance challenges. "This oath is not merely an Administrative Act; it is a pledge to serve with integrity and responsibility. We have the power and the laws to make a difference. It is time to reset and rebuild trust with our people," Secretary Leo challenged them. He called for a renewed commitment to reorganize, rebuilding and upholding high standards in the public service, beginning with personal accountability. Secretary Leo reminded the officers that by signing their contracts and taking their oath, they were making a solemn commitment to the Nation. "Your commitment is built on transparency, accountability and integrity. Any breach of your contract or oath of office will result in immediate termination," he said. The responsibilities of the SPMOs are grounded in Section 110(3) of the Organic Law on Provincial Governments and Local-level Governments. The key responsibilities of the SPMOs include: Monitoring and overseeing the operations of District Development Authorities (DDAs), Local-level Governments (LLGs), Wards, LLG Special Purpose Authorities (SPAs), Town and City Authorities. Enforcing the timely submission of Annual Financial Statements, due on 31 March each year, and Provincial Performance Reports, due on 30 June annually. Conducting on-site verification and reliability audits of infrastructure projects to ensure that reported developments accurately reflect actual implementation. Monitoring the rollout of the DPLGA National Framework for Ward Development and ensuring that funds allocated to LLGs are invested in five priority development areas: Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), Early Childhood Education, Community Health and Hygiene, Community Peace and Order and Solar Energy initiatives. The 11 SPMOs also recently completed a one-week induction training program conducted by the Somare Institute of Leadership and Governance (SILAG). Among the 11 was Mrs. Dorothy Kisau Kukum- female officer deployed to the Enga Province.