The welfare of employees of the National Gaming Control Board (NGCB) is being taken care of especially with staff accommodation, a roof over their heads.This was seen just recently when the NGCB held a groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of 21 new staff houses in Port Moresby city. Speaking during the ceremony, NGCB Chief Executive Officer & Registrar Ms. Imelda Agon described the initiative as a long-term investment in the welfare and future of employees and their families. “I recall a time when the office assistant shared with me the challenges of his living conditions in a settlement despite being hardworking, committed, and dedicated to his duties,” Ms. Agon said. “That experience opened my eyes to the reality faced by many employees who continued to report to work every day, deliver results, and serve the organization diligently despite facing difficult housing conditions and lacking access to proper homes for their families.” Those experiences became the driving force behind the establishment of the NGCB Housing Scheme. “From that concern and compassion came the vision for this initiative — a program designed not only to support staff welfare, but to restore dignity, stability, and hope for our employees and their families,” she added. The NGCB recognizes its employees as the backbone of the organization and remains committed to investing in their wellbeing and future, and the new 21 allotments demonstrate NGCB’s continued commitment to expanding opportunities for more staff to realize the dream of owning their own home. Ms. Agon concluded by encouraging all beneficiaries of the scheme to continue serving the organization with commitment, integrity, and excellence. The groundbreaking ceremony marks another important milestone in NGCB’s ongoing efforts to improve staff welfare and promote long-term social and economic stability for its workforce and their families.

A five-year-old girl from East Sepik Province is on the path to a normal childhood after receiving life-changing surgery through a specialist paediatric surgical mission in Wewak. For nearly five years, Danisha Seph and her family lived with the challenges of a congenital anorectal condition, a birth defect that affected her ability to pass waste normally. Born on March 3, 2021, in Miko village, Danisha's arrival brought joy to her family, but concerns emerged just weeks later when doctors discovered her condition. Her father, Daniel Seph, a load master with Frieda River Limited (FRL), said the diagnosis left the family facing an uncertain future. “She was very small when we found out. At that time, everything was confusing,” he recalled. To keep her alive, doctors carried out emergency procedures and several surgeries over the years. While these interventions helped manage the condition, they did not provide a permanent solution. An opening created on the side of her abdomen allowed waste to pass, but caring for her remained difficult and painful. “It was very difficult. Whenever we changed her, she would feel pain. Sometimes we had to use nappies because other methods were too hard,” Daniel said. As Danisha grew older, the physical and emotional challenges increased. Her family often kept her close to home to protect her privacy and spare her from unwanted attention. Seeking specialist treatment proved difficult. The family was referred from Kunjingini Health Centre to Boram Hospital in Wewak, where they learned that the surgery she needed was not available locally. Travelling elsewhere for treatment was beyond their financial means. “We were told doctors would come, so we waited,” Daniel said. That wait ended when specialist surgeons arrived in Wewak as part of a paediatric surgical mission supported by partners, including Frieda River Limited. The visiting medical team performed corrective surgery that significantly improved Danisha’s condition. “They did what other doctors could not do. They helped correct the way her body works,” Daniel said. The surgery marked a major milestone, creating a proper pathway for her body to function more naturally and offering hope for a healthier future. While at the hospital, Daniel met other patients living with the same condition, including teenagers and young adults who had also been waiting years for specialised treatment. “We saw many people like our daughter. They were also grateful for the doctors who came to help,” he said. FRL Country Manager Dr Joel Hamago said the company was proud to support initiatives that make a meaningful difference in people's lives. “FRL is proud to support this life-changing surgical mission, which reflects our ongoing commitment to contributing meaningfully as a responsible development partner,” Dr Hamago said. Although Danisha’s treatment is not yet complete, doctors say she is close to full correction. Following a recent review at Boram Hospital, they confirmed she requires one final adjustment. Her surgical wounds have healed, and she continues receiving care at home while awaiting her next review. For Daniel and his family, the transformation has already been remarkable. “Once everything is complete, her life will be normal. She will be a normal child again,” he said. For the first time since her birth, Danisha’s future is no longer defined by medical limitations, but by the opportunities and experiences that every child deserves.

National Capital District (NCD) Governor Powes Parkop has praised Marianville Secondary School for its six decades of excellence in educating and empowering young women in Papua New Guinea (PNG). Governor Parkop joined Catholic Church leaders, staff, parents, alumni and students on Saturday May 30th to celebrate the school's 60th Diamond Jubilee Anniversary, marking a significant milestone since its establishment in 1966. In his keynote address, Governor Parkop described Marianville as more than just a school, saying it has served as a place where generations of young women have been shaped by values of discipline, respect, compassion and faith. “For six decades, Marianville has grounded girls in strong, positive values. In a world that changes fast, those values are the anchor. Marianville didn’t just prepare students for tests. It prepared them for life,” he said. Governor Parkop highlighted the school's long-standing academic achievements, noting that Marianville has consistently ranked among Papua New Guinea’s top-performing schools at both Grade 10 and Grade 12 levels. He attributed its success to the dedication of teachers, the commitment of students, and the strong support of parents and guardians. He also acknowledged the contributions of Marianville graduates, many of whom have gone on to become nurses, teachers, lawyers, judges, engineers, entrepreneurs, public servants, and community leaders. “When you educate a girl, you strengthen a family. When you strengthen families, you strengthen Papua New Guinea,” Governor Parkop said. Reflecting on the school's beginnings, he commended the Catholic Church and the Sisters of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart for establishing an all-girls secondary school at a time when educational opportunities for girls were limited. He noted that Marianville was founded during a period when Papua New Guinea had only a handful of senior high schools as the country prepared for independence. Looking to the future, Governor Parkop challenged the school to continue leading in key areas such as digital literacy, science and technology education, mental health and wellbeing, and leadership development. “As we celebrate this 60th Diamond Jubilee Anniversary, Marianville Secondary School must set the vision for the next 60 years — to train young women to set goals, develop plans and implement them, not only for their own lives but also to help shape the future of our nation,” he said. The Governor also stressed the importance of strategic planning and effective implementation to help achieve Papua New Guinea’s long-term development goals, including Vision 2050 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. He expressed gratitude to the Sisters of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart, the Catholic Church, missionaries, principals, teachers, staff, parents and alumni whose contributions have helped build Marianville’s legacy over the past six decades. To support the school's continued development, Governor Parkop announced a commitment of K200,000 towards the construction of a security boundary fence and an additional K60,000 for other school development projects. “Marianville remains a beacon for young women and a proud contributor to Papua New Guinea’s future,” Governor Parkop said as he congratulated the school on its 60th anniversary.

Prime Minister James Marape has reflected on the achievements of his government ever since taking office seven (7) years ago and is content with the results in all the sectors so far. Prime Minister Marape described the period since taking office on the 30th of May 2019, as a Journey of Economic Recovery, Institutional Reform, Nation Building, and laying strong foundations for Papua New Guinea's future despite significant Domestic and Global Challenges. Marking the Seventh Anniversary of his Election as Prime Minister over the weekend, Marape thanked the People of Papua New Guinea (PNG), Coalition Partners, Members of Parliament, Provincial and Local-Level Governments, Public Servants, Churches, Development Partners, and ordinary citizens who have contributed to the country's progress over the past 7 years. “It has been my privilege to be given the opportunity to lead our Country for the last Seven years. I thank all who have assisted in Government and Nation-Building during this period as we worked together for Papua New Guinea,” Prime Minister Marape said. “When we took Office on 30th May 2019, the challenges before us were substantial. The Economy was in Recession, Foreign Exchange Shortages were severe, Business Confidence was affected, and National Interest had too often been overtaken by Personal Interest. We set out to place our Country back on a path where no place, no person, and no child would be left behind.” Prime Minister Marape noted that his Government subsequently faced additional Challenges, including the COVID-19 Pandemic, Global Inflationary Pressures, Supply Chain disruptions, Geopolitical tensions, and Commodity Market volatility. “Seven years on, we may not have achieved everything we set out to do, but we have achieved much and established strong foundations for future Growth and Prosperity.” Looking ahead, Marape acknowledged that challenges remain but expressed confidence in the country's future. “The work of Nation-Building never ends. There is still much to do, but the foundations have been laid. Our Vision remains to build a wealthy, healthy, educated, safe, and united Papua New Guinea where every citizen has the opportunity to succeed. I remain optimistic about our Nation's future. Together we have overcome challenges, and together we will continue building a stronger Papua New Guinea for future generations.” Prime Minister Marape concluded by thanking Papua New Guineans for their trust, resilience, patience, and continued support over the past seven years. “Papua New Guinea’s best days are ahead of us. Let us continue working together to build the country our children and grandchildren deserve.”

Twenty-four police officers from the Northern Command provinces of Morobe, Madang, Eastern Highlands and the Lae Metropolitan Command, have graduated after successfully completing an Intelligence Training Program in Lae, Morobe Province. The officers received their certificates on Friday, May 29, after completing an intensive four-day practical workshop aimed at strengthening intelligence capabilities within the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary. The training was delivered with support from the Australian Federal Police and the PNG-Australia Policing Partnership, which continue to assist with capacity building and professional development within the country's policing sector. Morobe Provincial Police Commander Chief Superintendent Samson Siguyaru, officially closed the program and congratulated the officers on successfully completing the training. He commended participants for their commitment, discipline, and active participation throughout the workshop and encouraged them to apply the skills and knowledge gained in their respective commands and police operations. He said the training equipped officers with practical skills in intelligence processes, intelligence-led policing methodologies, intelligence report writing, fact checking, open-source assessments, and intelligence analysis. “Participants were also introduced to the intelligence cycle, the differences between strategic, tactical and operational intelligence, as well as practical techniques in information collection, reporting and developing intelligence products, including criminal profiles,” said PPC Siguyaru. He also stated that the workshop focused heavily on practical learning through scenarios, case studies, and group exercises to ensure officers can apply intelligence-led policing strategies to real-world policing situations. In addition, the intelligence remains a critical component of modern policing and enabling law enforcement agencies to make informed operational and strategic decisions, prevent crime, identify criminal networks, assess risks, and respond effectively to emerging security threats. Commander Siguyaru said the officers are expected to apply the knowledge and skills gained from the training to support police operations across the country, particularly in preparation for National General Election (NATEL) 2027 security operations. He added that the ongoing partnership between the Australian Federal Police, PNG-Australia Policing Partnership, and the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary continues to strengthen policing capabilities, promote professionalism and enhance community safety and national security throughout the country.

National Capital District (NCD) Governor Powes Parkop has strongly reaffirmed his commitment to protecting Papua New Guinea’s endangered tree kangaroos during a recent government caucus meeting at the Parliament House. Highlighting the species' vital role in national biodiversity, Governor Parkop used the occasion of World Tree Kangaroo Day on May 21 to advocate for innovative fundraising initiatives. During the meeting, he spotlighted initiatives and unique community-led projects such as Tree Kangaroo Conservation Coffee and Malomalo toilet paper. These initiatives are designed to direct consumer proceeds straight into critical wildlife preservation and breeding programs. To mark the event and drive support at the highest level of leadership, the Governor presented these branded coffee products to Prime Minister James Marape and other key state ministers. Looking ahead to World Environment Day on June 5, Governor Parkop reminded all citizens of their collective responsibility to protect the nation's natural heritage. He concluded by emphasizing that safeguarding Papua New Guinea’s unique wildlife is not just an ecological priority; it is a deeply rooted cultural and national duty.

The Bulolo District Development Authority (DDA) has provided K50, 000 in cash assistance and food supplies to support the Lutheran Women’s Conference of the Buang Lutheran Circuit held in Buang in Morobe province. Member for Bulolo and DDA Chairman Sam Basil Jnr, led a district delegation to the event where the DDA presented 50 bags of rice, cartons of meat and the cash contribution to help ensure the success of the conference. During the visit, Basil announced that the DDA would fully fund the travel and participation of women representatives from all 20 wards in the Buang LLG to attend the National Lutheran Women’s Conference in Port Moresby in September. Similar support will also be extended to women representatives from Bulolo Urban, Watut and Mumeng LLGs. The Bulolo DDA also committed to several infrastructure projects aimed at improving rural connectivity. These include the construction of a new road into Kwasang Village, the host site of the conference, as well as maintenance and upgrading works on key roads in Mumeng and Watut. Basil said the district was also engaging with leaseholders and developers operating small-scale mining projects to ensure they contribute towards maintaining roads in mining communities. He said the DDA was taking action after years of poor road conditions affecting villagers and would work with developers to improve infrastructure and ensure communities benefit from resource development. “Under my leadership as Chairman, the Bulolo DDA remains dedicated to empowering our women and improving rural connectivity.” “By investing in our women and our local infrastructure, we are investing in the foundation of our district's future.”

Australia-backed infrastructure projects are not only improving schools in rural Papua New Guinea but also helping young tradespeople gain hands-on industry experience and secure employment opportunities. Ten final-year Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) students from Port Moresby Technical College are currently sharpening their practical skills at the construction site of new facilities at Vesulogo Primary School in Sogeri, Central Province. The students joined the construction team as part of their compulsory apprenticeship program under a project funded through Australia’s Kokoda Initiative Partnership under the Papua New Guinea-Australia Partnership. Local construction company LNM Building and Construction engaged the students for a three-week placement at the school site, giving them the opportunity to apply classroom learning in a real working environment. Building Manager Michaeline Pondros said the company was committed to helping students complete the practical requirements needed for graduation. “They have specific hours to complete before graduation, and on-the-job training is where they demonstrate how they apply what they learn.” The construction project has also contributed to the local economy through the engagement of local contractors, suppliers, and laborers while creating valuable opportunities for youths entering the workforce. Among the apprentices were Ms. Dambe Dulunga and Ms. Ovin Waima, the only two female students on the site, specializing in carpentry and plumbing respectively. Ms. Dulunga said working in a male-dominated trade had motivated her to push harder and prove herself in the field. “This trade is dominated by men, but that has not discouraged me from working with them.” Meanwhile, Ms. Waima said the experience exposed her to a wide range of construction tasks and strengthened her confidence. “I helped with mixing concrete, raising cement posts, and I even did some welding. I enjoyed working with the team and I’ve really gained a lot of experience.” Following the successful completion of the placement, all 10 students were offered employment by the company as trade assistants. Australia’s support for TVET and workforce development aligns with PNG’s Vision 2050 and reflects commitments under the Joint Statement of Intent on TVET renewed in 2024, recognizing the importance of skills training and employment in driving national development.

The Kutubu Secondary School in the Southern Highlands province has reached a significant milestone following the official handover of three community infrastructure projects delivered by Santos, representing an investment of nearly K600,000 aimed at improving education, water access, and sanitation services.The projects were formally handed over during a ceremony held at the school earlier this year, attended by students, teachers, and community members. The event was led by Santos Regional Manager Vagi Tamari, who emphasized the importance of investing in facilities that support education and long-term community development. “These projects are about investing in people—particularly young people—by creating a safe, healthy and enabling learning environment,” Tamari said. He encouraged students to take responsibility for maintaining the new facilities and to pursue academic excellence in return for the investment. According to Santos Sustainable Development Supervisor Philip Makari, the works were delivered under the company’s Sustainable Development Program and included upgrades to the school’s rainwater catchment system, improvements to the student dining hall, and the installation of new water storage infrastructure. Six 9,000-litre water tanks were provided alongside upgraded dining facilities. The projects also included the construction of a new female ablution block featuring six shower rooms and six septic toilets—an improvement school leaders say will have a significant social impact. Principal Bai Irabo welcomed the investment, noting it comes as the school marks its 27th anniversary. He said the school had long struggled with limited infrastructure and that the new facilities would significantly improve daily conditions for students. “These facilities—particularly the water tanks, dining hall upgrades and new female ablution block—will make a lasting difference to our students,” Irabo said, adding that improved sanitation is especially important for supporting female students’ continued education. Student representative Samantha Mora also expressed appreciation on behalf of the student body, acknowledging the positive impact the upgrades will have on learning conditions. Kutubu Secondary School currently serves 553 students, including 137 female students, and is supported by 24 teachers. The school caters to communities across districts in the Southern Highlands region. Delivered in close partnership with the school, the projects are designed to be managed locally, strengthening community ownership and building long-term operational capacity. The handover reinforces Santos’ ongoing commitment to community-led development and sustainable investment in local infrastructure.

Students and teachers at Markham Bridge Primary School in Wampar Local Level Government (LLG) now have improved learning and living facilities following the official opening of a new double classroom and teachers’ house by the Huon Gulf District Development Authority (HGD-DDA).The project was delivered under the Bottom-Up Planning (BUP) Initiative championed by Huon Gulf MP and Minister for Community Development, Youths and Religion, Jason Peter, which aims to fund and implement development priorities identified by local communities. Speaking during the opening ceremony, Minister Peter repeated his commitment to ensuring schools across the district receive the infrastructure needed to improve access to quality education. “Education is the foundation of our future. Every classroom we build and every teacher’s house we deliver is an investment in our children, our communities, and the future development of Huon Gulf District.” The HGD-DDA has so far funded and delivered 48 teachers’ houses and 30 double classrooms across the district’s 64 primary schools. The district is also supporting the establishment of junior and secondary schools, including the construction of facilities at Wampar Secondary School and Salamaua Secondary School. Minister Peter said the district is addressing a long-standing gap in secondary education, noting that for more than five decades after Independence, Huon Gulf District did not have its own secondary school.

Representatives from Australian employers and the PNG Labour Mobility Unit recently visited Divine Word University's St. Benedict Campus in Wewak to strengthen partnerships supporting the Sepik Labour Mobility Program.The delegation was welcomed by staff and students and attended presentations highlighting the university’s academic programs and training capacity. Campus Administrator Peter Paul Kaiyeke said the visit reflected a growing partnership aimed at creating education and employment opportunities through labour mobility pathways. The Campus Administrator went on to say that the university was privileged to host the delegation and valued the growing partnership with labour mobility stakeholders. “We are honoured to host our partners at the St. Benedict Campus. This visit reflects the strong relationship we are building and our shared commitment to expanding opportunities through education and labour mobility pathways.” DWU Partnership Director, Melissa Anzu outlined the university’s commitment to developing workforce-ready graduates through strong industry and government collaborations. “DWU is committed to building meaningful partnerships that strengthen training outcomes and create real opportunities for students, particularly in areas that support national and regional workforce needs.” Visitors also toured the Nursing Simulation Laboratory, where students demonstrated practical clinical skills and patient care procedures. The delegation praised the quality of the facilities and training provided at the campus. The visit concluded with a showcase of local crafts and culture, with East Sepik Provincial Government representatives expressing appreciation to DWU for supporting initiatives that promote skills development and employment opportunities for Papua New Guineans.

The people of Ward 14 in the Salamaua Local Level Government (LLG) in Morobe province, have welcomed the official reopening of the Buakap Clinic and Community Health Worker (CHW) house by the Huon Gulf Member of Parliament (MP) and Minister for Community Development, Youths and Religion, Jason Peter.The clinic, which was originally donated by Lions Club International in 1987, had fallen into disrepair and was closed in 2021, leaving surrounding communities without access to basic healthcare services. Through funding support from the Huon Gulf District Development Authority (HGD- DDA), the clinic and CHW house underwent rehabilitation and maintenance at a total cost of K100,000. The restoration project also included the extension of additional health service facilities such as a Labour Ward, Tuberculosis (TB) Wing, and an HIV & AIDS Wing to improve healthcare delivery for people living in the area. Speaking during the reopening ceremony, Jason Peter repeated his commitment to strengthening rural health services throughout Huon Gulf District, saying healthcare remains one of the district’s top priorities. “This clinic will now continue serving our people and ensure that mothers, children and families have access to proper healthcare services closer to home.” Team Present Manager for Salamaua LLG, Mr. Cliff Wembivong, thanked the HGD- DDA for restoring the facility and urged communities in Buakap and surrounding villages to take ownership of the clinic by maintaining and protecting it for future generations. HGD Health Manager Mr. Pendeck Sitong also announced that a new nursing officer will soon be deployed to support the current CHW officer in delivering healthcare services to the communities of Tabola, Wamasu, Asini, Buakap and nearby inland wards. In support of the additional staffing, the MP also committed funding towards the construction of a new health officer’s house to accommodate the incoming nursing officer. The reopening of the Buakap Clinic marks another milestone under the HGD-DDA Bottom-Up Planning and rural service delivery program, which aims to restore and improve essential government services in remote communities across the Huon Gulf District.