The Yangoru-Saussia District Development Authority (DDA) is building the new Kamatohu Primary School in the heart of the Sepik Plains. Member for Yangoru-Saussia District and Minister for International Trade and Investment, Richard Maru said this is the first time in 50 years the people in this area are getting a school for the education of their children. “Like I said many times, we are working hard since my election in 2012 to reach the unreached and to make sure no one is left behind.” He said, this new primary school and three other new primary schools in the district now completes the final effort to make sure every child in Yangoru-Saussia District has access to primary school, high school and secondary school education. “We have also built a road to this very remote village community and linking their surrounding communities.” “As we celebrate our 50th Independence Celebrations this year, we have a moral duty to deliver these remote communities all basic services like health and education so they too will have a reason to join our Independence Celebrations.”

Providing equal space for women and girls to thrive will contribute a lot to almost every aspect of development of this amazing city of Port Moresby and the nation as a whole. NCD Governor Powes Parkop alluded this during the first ever-official visit to Papua New Guinea by UN Women Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific, Ms. Christine Arab. Ms. Arab’s first engagement on Tuesday 28th, was at Gordons market which is the largest market ever built in the country and around the Pacific region. Upon her reception, Governor Parkop shared sentiments on issues and challenges women and girls in the city face and highlighted on the progress and efforts taken at different levels of government to create space, give women and girls equal opportunity to thrive. “Women and girls in our city and country have the potential and can contribute better to the success and development of this nation once they feel safe and are given the space to either succeed in doing business or participate equally in decision making at different levels of our government system, “said Governor Parkop. Being an active advocate of Gender Equity, and an advocate against Gender Base Violence at the National level currently as chair of the GBV Committee, Governor Parkop said a lot of effort has been done but not much has been achieved. “In the city, we are doing our best to improve where we can provide the space that our women and girls thrive, and Gordons market is a testament. We have built a world-class standard facility that is designed to allow our women and girls to feel safe when selling their goods to generate income,” Governor Parkop said. In partnership with UN Women through the Safe City Programme aimed at creating safe markets for women and girls, NCDC was able to collaborate with the New Zealand government to co-fund the redevelopment of Gordons market and was completed and reopened in 2019. UN Women as the global champion for gender equality is dedicated to gender equality and the empowerment of women all around the world. They deliver programmes, policies, and standards that uphold women's rights and ensure that every woman and girl live up to their full potential. As the Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific to Papua New Guinea, Ms. Arab’s presence in the country signifies the urgency to invest more efforts towards women and girls in the country. “Through my visit here, I realized that women and girls in Papua New Guinea are vulnerable most of the time but, most especially mothers, are leaders either in their communities or in associations and groups such as markets vendors associations or women’s groups,’’ Ms. Arab said. She said, when given the space for equal participation and the platforms to harness their potentials, women can contribute better to the greater outcomes for this country. “UN women stand ready to work together with the Governor, National Capital District Commission and other developing partners in the space of Gender Equality and Women Empowerment to explore opportunities for women and girls to succeed,” she added. City Manager Ravu Frank when acknowledging the UN Women on their work in the country stated that NCDC will continue to collaborate with them including the developing partners such as New Zealand Government to create a city that is not only safe, but clean healthy and planned for women and girls to thrive. New Zealand High Commissioner to PNG, His Excellency Peter Zwart expressed his gratitude towards the management of Gordons markets since it was re-opened in 2019. “I come to Gordons market every Saturday to buy fresh produce and to see and hear success stories from mothers and women vendors is great,” Zwart said.

During the high-level delegation with TotalEnergies to discuss the progress of key LNG projects in Papua New Guinea, including the flagship Papua LNG project, a new exploration opportunity at Mailu in Central Province, Prime Minister James Marape stressed that employing Papua New Guineans is non-negotiable. The delegation included Mr Mehme Celepoglu – Vice President Oceania and Southeast Asia, Mr Daniel Domine – Managing Directo of Marketing and Services PNG, and Mr Arnold Berthet – Managing Director of Exploration and Production for Papua LNG. The meeting centred on project timelines, workforce development, and the significant economic benefits these initiatives are expected to deliver for the country. During the discussions, TotalEnergies provided an overview of their operations and outlined their strategic roadmap for advancing LNG production in PNG. Four key work streams were highlighted: securing competitive contractor offers, marketing LNG, finalising project financing, and obtaining regulatory approvals. Substantial progress has already been made, including optimising project designs, encouraging competition among contractors, and securing supply agreements with LNG buyers. The delegation detailed specific design optimisations that have helped reduce project costs. These included reducing the diameter of gas pipelines to attract more competitive bids, replacing condensate pipelines with an FSO (Floating Storage and Offloading) pipeline system, and implementing horizontal drilling to minimise environmental impacts. These measures have not only lowered costs but also ensured alignment with global sustainability standards. PM Marape used the opportunity to underscore the importance of prioritising Papua New Guineans in the workforce. He stated, “I do not want 10,000 overseas workers to fill these roles. I want 10,000 Papua New Guineans—from Kikori, Gulf Province, and other communities across the country—trained and ready to contribute.” PM Marape delivered a strong message to TotalEnergies and its contractors, emphasising that employing Papua New Guineans is non-negotiable. “We expect at least 5,000 Papua New Guineans to be employed in these projects. This is imperative, and we will work closely with all stakeholders to make it a reality,” he said. The PM also reiterated his government’s commitment to creating a favourable investment environment. He offered access to land at reduced costs to facilitate operations, storage facilities, and long-term strategic developments. “Compared to Singapore or other regions, Papua New Guinea offers a more affordable and strategic location for investments.” “We are open to discussions about relocating parts of your operations to key project sites,” he said. Additionally, PM Marape addressed the need to reduce fuel costs and improve supply chain efficiency. He encouraged TotalEnergies to explore partnerships with local companies to develop integrated supply chains that reduce reliance on costly imports. The meeting underscored a shared vision for a sustainable and inclusive future for Papua New Guinea. Both PM Marape and the TotalEnergies delegation expressed optimism about the transformative potential of these LNG projects. The PM concluded, “Investing in Papua New Guinea is investing in a free market and a growing economy.” “Together, we can create opportunities that will benefit not only Papua New Guineans but the entire Pacific region.” The TotalEnergies delegation reaffirmed their commitment to working closely with the PNG government to ensure the success of these projects, further strengthening Papua New Guinea’s position as a key player in the global energy market.

With the start of another academic year students, parents and guardians are all geared up for registrations and orientation, especially for new students starting their academic journey at a new institution. The University of Papua New Guinea took time out to clarify its GPA and course combination in selection criteria during its orientation program on Tuesday, 28th January for new students. The University has affirmed that they can only deal with students selected already through the Department of Higher Education Research, Science and Technology (DHERST) National Online Application System (NOAS) and the National Online Selection System (NOSS). The Executive Management Committee led by Acting Vice Chancellor Dr Cecilia Nembou, PhD, said that the NOAS and NOSS are complementary online application and selection systems set up with specific entry requirements based on Grade Point Average scores from specific combination of courses. "This NOAS and NOSS are established to avoid nepotism, favouritism and other ills in both the application and the selection process.” "The university cannot make any changes to the selection done already through the NOAS and NOAS computerized process," said Dr Nembou, who is also Chair of the UPNG Senate (responsible for academic matters). "The required GPA from the approved combination of courses are set for all schools of the university.” “They are in the online application system and the portal allows students a timeline of seven weeks to ensure they check and re-check their entry qualifications before finalizing and submitting their applications online." Once the NOSS kicks in, neither the UPNG Executive Management Team nor Executive Deans of the schools are unable to make changes at their individual or even collective discretion. According to the EMT, any changes in the NOAS and the NOSS managed by DHERST will follow an established and rigorous process beginning at the UPNG which includes; 1) Recommendation by the School's Executive Dean. 2) Deliberation and approval by the School Board of Directors. 3) Deliberation and approval by the UPNG Senate; 4) Deliberation and approval by the UPNG Council, and 5) Submission to DHERST for entry into the NOAS and NOSS computers. As it stands now, the fixed combination of courses per school and the minimum grades and/or GPA used to select UPNG students are: School of Law: First Year Bachelor of Law B or better in Literature or Applied English B or better in Advance Mathematics or General Mathematics B or better in the social sciences courses: a) Economics, b) Geography or c) History B or better in any of science courses: a) Biology, b) Chemistry or c) Physics 3.0 Minimum GPA required for application for selection from above courses. School of Business and Public Policy: Business and Management Foundation Year C or better in Language and Literature or Applied English C or better in Advance Mathematics or General Mathematics C or better in any two of the following courses: a) Economics, b) Geography, c) History, d) Accounting, e) Business Studies, and f) Legal Services. C or better in any of the science courses: a) Biology, b) Chemistry or c) Physics 2.6 Minimum GPA required for application for selection from above courses. School of Natural and Physical Sciences: For entry into Science Foundation Year B or better in Language and Literature or Applied English B or better in Advance Mathematics or General Mathematics B or better in science courses: a) Biology, b) Chemistry or c) Physics 3.0 Minimum GPA required for application for selection from above courses. School Humanities and School Sciences entry requirements into two Arts Studies: A) Bachelor of Arts programme with majors in Anthropology and Sociology, History, Gender and Philosophy, Information and Communication Science; Journalism & Public Relations; Linguistics & Modern Languages, English Communications & Literature; Political Science; Population Studies & Geography; Psychology, and Social Work C or better in Language and Literature or Applied English B or better in Advance Mathematics or General Mathematics B or better in two or more Social Science courses: a) Economics, b) Geography, and c) History B or Science courses: a) Biology, b) Chemistry or c) Physics 2.75 Minimum GPA required for application for selection from above courses. B) Bachelor of Arts programme with majors in Creative Artis (Music, Art and Design) and Diploma in Language and Communications: C or better in Language and Literature or Applied English C or better in Advance Mathematics or General Mathematics C or better in two or more Social Science subjects. a) Economics, b) Geography, c) History; C or better in two or more Science courses: a) Biology, b) Chemistry, c) Physics 2.25 Minimum GPA required for application for selection from above courses.

Air Niugini (ANG) and the Rotary Club of Port Moresby have teamed up to provide free uplift services for vital life-saving medical equipment to Lae city, where it will be installed at the Tomodachi International Airport terminal in Nadzab. Two defibrillators, critical medical devices used to restore normal heart rhythms in individuals experiencing cardiac arrests, have been airlifted to Nadzab. These devices can effectively save lives by delivering an electric shock to the heart, correcting abnormal heartbeats. The Rotary Club of Port Moresby acquired this vital equipment and funded first aid training from St. John Ambulance at the costs of K100,000. Mr. Adam Hughes, Director of Community Services at the Rotary Club, explained that the initiative arose from the realization of a significant gap in lifesaving equipment in public spaces, including courthouses and airports. "During my involvement, I learned of lawyers collapsing in courthouses due to cardiac arrests, highlighting the urgent need for defibrillators," Mr. Hughes stated. "In response, our club purchased five defibrillators, which have now been installed in courthouses. Three lives have been saved so far, since this equipment were installed 12 months ago." Following the successful deployment at courthouses, the Rotary Club turned its attention to airports. Mr. Hughes noted, "As a frequent traveler, I noticed the absence of defibrillators in terminal buildings. We reached out to the National Airports Corporation (NAC) management for collaboration, leading to the purchase of six defibrillators, with four already installed at Jacksons airport in Port Moresby and two now to be installed at Nadzab airport in Lae." Mr. Hughes expressed gratitude to Air Niugini for its invaluable support. Although the equipment weighed in at only 7kg, they had to be transported with a lot of care and attention to ensure safety as they contain lithium batteries which are considered dangerous. “Air Niugini’s professional expertise was warranted in handling such cargo in accordance with global protocols and requirements, along with also ensuring they would be transported safely to their intended destination. “In doing so, the airline has contributed to potentially saving lives. Because of their generosity of transporting these devices FOC (Free of Charge) into Lae means the National Airport Corporation (NAC) staff can quickly treat a member of the travelling public in the event of cardiac arrest,” Mr. Hughes added. The defibrillators are fully automated and provide verbal instructions, simplifying their use during critical moments. Air Niugini Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mr. Gary Seddon said access to life-saving tools, such as defibrillators is important not just for passengers but also for airport staff and visitors. He said, "It's a vital step towards enhancing safety measures at the airport and Air Niugini is pleased to support this initiative and commitment to safety and wellbeing of everyone at the Airport." In addition to acquiring the defibrillators, the Rotary Club also funded first aid training for 160 staff members from the National Judicial Staff Services (NJSS) and NAC, ensuring that qualified first aiders are available to manage medical emergencies until professional help arrives. Looking ahead, the Port Moresby Rotary Club plans to expand this lifesaving initiative to other key locations in the country.

Sambio United FC put on an impressive display of football during round 10 of the Women’s Northern Conference Soccer League held at the Lae Football Association ground, decisively defeating Morobe Tulips with a resounding score of 6-0. This commanding victory allowed them to conclude the 2024/2025 season on a high note. The women hailing from Mumeng in the Bulolo District capitalized on Morobe Tulips' inability to field a full-strength team, showcasing their skill and teamwork throughout the match. In a thrilling first half, they netted three goals, exploiting defensive gaps and demonstrating their offensive prowess. The second half saw no let-up in their momentum as they continued to dominate the field, adding three more goals to their tally. With this emphatic win, Sambio United FC not only secured their victory but also left a lasting impression as they wrapped up the season in style. Meanwhile, FC Morobe Wawens held their second position on the Women's Northern Conference Soccer League ladder with a tense and hard-fought 1-0 victory over Bara FC. The decisive moment came shockingly early, just a minute into the match, when Shanty Baupew found the back of the net, giving the Wawens a swift and exhilarating lead. As the game progressed, tension mounted with both teams battling fiercely for control of the pitch. Opportunities arose for each side, yet neither could convert their chances into goals, adding to the nail-biting atmosphere. The Wawens, despite playing under pressure, managed to cling to their slender lead, ultimately securing the win amidst a flurry of near misses. Looking ahead, the Wawens are gearing up for a critical showdown against the league leaders, Lae City Dwellers, in a high-stakes one-off match next Saturday. This encounter will determine who will represent the Northern Conference in the Women's Conference Soccer League finals playoffs, making it a must-watch clash for soccer fans.

In the third round of matches for the Public Servants Netball Competition at the Rita Flyn Netball Courts in POM, the National Mari Time Safety Authority (NMSA) defeated the Department of Justice and Attorney General team one (1) (DJAG 1) 9-8 in a tight contest. Despite the scorching sun, the ladies heated it off on the courts much to the likes of team NMSA in the first match for division four (4). Team DJAG 1 had a number of good chances of goal shots but were unsuccessful. The ladies still pushed on in the first half to come back for a redemption with two changes made to relive the shooter, and we're only successful with three shots. Still in the lead, NMSA carried on with the same side to deliver despite a tough match. Meanwhile, the Public Servants Netball Association are urging all teams to bring in their team lists and to be early at the courts to avoid forfeits.

In recognition of K92 Mining Inc.'s noteworthy contribution to the nation's mining industry and economic development for Papua New Guinea, Minister for Mining Wake Goi praised the company for its record-breaking production performance in the fourth quarter of 2024. "I extend my congratulations to K92 Mining for achieving this historic milestone in production. This record-breaking performance not only demonstrates the company's operational excellence but also underscores the strength and potential of our mining industry to drive economic growth and create employment opportunities for our people.” Minister Goi also acknowledged K92 for several efforts which include advancing its exploration efforts, paying corporate tax, and consistently operating within PNG's mining laws, business and national laws. He urged the company to maintain these standards, and he called on other mining companies to fully comply with the country's legal frameworks while recognizing those that continue to uphold these regulations and laws. K92 Mining Inc. reported a gold equivalent (AuEq) production of 53,401 ounces in Q4 2024 at its Kainantu Gold Mine—a remarkable 37% increase from Q4 2023 and a 21% rise from its previous record in Q3 2024. The company also surpassed its annual production guidance, producing 149,515 ounces AuEq for 2024, marking a 27% growth from the previous year. Minister Goi further highlighted the importance of responsible mining practices and acknowledged K92 Mining’s commitment to environmental sustainability, safety, and community engagement. "K92 Mining’s continued growth reflects a balanced approach to mining—one that prioritizes both economic success and environmental responsibility. I commend the company for upholding these values while contributing to the country’s development goals," he added. Additionally, Minister Goi thanked the landowners and communities for continues cooperation. He made note of outstanding landowner and community grievances to be addressed in due course, with consultation with the government and relevant authorities to find the best way to address these grievances. He also acknowledged concerns raised by the Member of the District, “All grievances are equally important and will be discussed with the Government on how best the grievances can be addressed.” The Minister emphasized the government’s support for mining companies that align with PNG's long-term sustainable development objectives. "The government is committed to fostering partnerships with responsible investors like K92 Mining. Their success sets a positive example for the resource sector, and we encourage other companies to follow this path by investing in our country and empowering our communities," Minister Goi stated. K92 Mining’s record production was driven by higher-grade ore from the Judd and Kora deposits, enhanced metallurgical recoveries, and ongoing infrastructure development in preparation for the company’s Stage 3 Expansion. Approximately 70% of the required growth capital for this expansion had been spent or committed by the end of 2024, with commissioning of the new process plant expected to begin in late Q2 2025. Minister Goi expressed optimism that the Stage 3 Expansion would further boost production capacity and solidify PNG’s position as a key player in the global mining industry. He said, "As K92 Mining advances its Stage 3 Expansion, we anticipate greater economic benefits for the country, including job creation, infrastructure development, and increased revenue. This progress is vital for achieving our national development goals. We stand ready to support companies that share our vision for sustainable and inclusive growth.” The Minister also called for collaboration and clear information between both the Government and responsible authorities to the investors and companies on processes and requirements for the sake of convenience. He noted that time is of the essence and delivering efficiently on time is important in successful mining dealings. “We need to ensure the system works efficiently, by providing the necessary information needed, under strict regulations and clear processes for investors on time. The importance of working in collaboration with the company, landowners, the government, and authorities will result in the smooth operations and mutual benefits in 2025," he added. Minister Goi reaffirmed the Marape-Rosso government’s commitment to ensuring that the resource sector delivers lasting value to the people of PNG. K92 Mining’s record-breaking performance has been widely recognized as a significant boost to the country’s economy, reinforcing confidence in the mining sector’s ability to drive the country’s long-term development.

The Private Companies Netball Competition (PCNC) kicked off its second round of matches over the weekend on Sunday 19th January, at the Rita Flyn outdoor courts in Port Moresby city, much to the excitement of netball fans. According to PCNC President Julie Mai, the competition is made up of organizations right across the country with the goal to network, interact and bond and having a good time. “Although we work from 8-5, many times we are not interacting with each other (our own colleagues), so this is a fun space for us to network and bond with other organizations, with our colleagues. And through sports, it has helped us to work together as a team not only on the courts but on the field.” Mai acknowledged Voda Fone PNG for coming on board again as the golden sponsors of the 2025 PCNC with a sum of k15, 000. She said PCNC always sustained itself through its affiliation fees but with the sponsorship from Voda Fone PNG for this season, they were able to include service providers such as the National St John Ambulance and a physio on site to attend to any injuries during matches throughout the duration of the competition. “We had to bring in the services of the physio and the National St John Ambulance so that we can physically attend to injuries or issues and make sure that our workers are in good health before they take the courts.” With the finals to be played in March, Mai is urging all teams and players to adhere to the rules and regulations to avoid being penalized.

The Public Servants Netball Round 2 matches kicked off this Saturday (18th January) at the Rita Flynn Courts much to the excitement of netball fans. President of the Public Servants Association Mary Nauga said, the teams taking part in the tournament compromises of public sector departments in NCD. “The different departments in NCD form a team and come and compete every year. Our season starts in October and then ends in February depending on the number of teams that we have.” Nauga said, for this year, they are looking forward to wrapping up the games on a high note because the Public Servants Netball Association will be celebrating its 35th Anniversary. “This association has been around for the last 35 years. So, this time around, we want to make it bigger and better and invite the other departments to come on board and participate as well.” The focus for the tournament is to keep the working class and/or public servants fit and healthy and to create a space for them to let lose, relax and have a good time on the court before another working week. There’s a total of 37 teams and 47 clubs in each of the 7 divisions. Nauga mentioned that the teams compromise of not only the public servants but their families as well taking part in the competition, making it a more enjoyable getaway from office stress before another work period. The finals are anticipated to be played on the 1st of March which is likely to take place at the Sir john Guise indoor complex followed by the presentation night (a first of its kind) on the 8th of March and are most likely going to host it at Lamana Hotel. Nauga further stated that registration payments have been slow and today is the closing date. “Registrations quite slow. Most of the teams have paid up but we are just waiting for the other departments to pay because obviously the government departs have difficulties getting funds around this time of the year, so we’ve given them a grace period and today is the end of it. We are just hoping that all the teams have paid their fees by now.” “The competition runs on the revenue that come from the registration which is K1000 that covers the venue hire, we pay for our umpires and the balls and equipment’s.” So far, the turn outs have been good but are hoping to field more teams on the empty courts soon. Nauga is also calling for sponsors to come on board and support their competition in the next season going forward.

As Papua New Guinea nears its 50th anniversary of independence in 2025, Prime Minister James Marape has announced significant increases in teacher pay, reaffirming the government's commitment to the country's education. Speaking recently at the University of Goroka's (UOG) 28th Graduation Ceremony, the Prime Minister outlined his vision for a more powerful future powered by educators' empowerment. “Our teachers must be among the highest-paid public servants in our country,” Prime Minister Marape said. “It is simple rationale that teachers must be looked after. That’s why I come to you today, to tell all of you here—future teachers—and those already serving in the field, that on the 50th anniversary of our nation’s independence, teachers’ work conditions, and remuneration will be one of our key priorities.” Prime Minister Marape’s address was a powerful reminder of the critical role educators play in nation-building. As Papua New Guinea prepares to celebrate 50 years of independence, his message resonated with the graduating class and attendees alike—a call to action for the nation to uplift its teachers and, in doing so, secure a brighter future for all. The Prime Minister reflected on his tenure as Education Minister in 2008 and 2009, during which he pushed for teachers’ pay to reflect their qualifications—a policy now being implemented by the Teaching Service Commission (TSC) and the Department of Education. In a moment of inspiration, he emphasized the profound influence educators have on shaping the nation’s future. “It is logical. If we want to incubate a better Papua New Guinea, we must look after our teachers at all levels—from elementary teachers to university lecturers. I give this commitment as part of the reform strategies we will announce on September 16, 2025, our nation’s 50th anniversary. Teachers’ working conditions will be improved so you can serve our country without fear or favor, adhering to your code of conduct and ethics as patriots strengthening our nation through the students who pass through your hands.” Quoting Proverbs 22:6, Prime Minister Marape reminded the audience of the timeless wisdom in nurturing future generations: “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” In a major announcement, the Prime Minister committed to easing the financial burden on aspiring teachers. “I also want to announce to all students training to become teachers in our country that, from 2026 onwards, your government will pay your full tuition fees.” “Any Grade 12 school leaver who chooses to become a teacher can rest assured that your tuition will be fully covered by your government. Provincial governments, districts, or other sponsors can assist with boarding and lodging, but the full tuition cost will be borne by your government. This applies to those pursuing early childhood education, primary and secondary teaching, and even college and university lecturing.” The Prime Minister went on to outline key expectations for the teaching profession under the new reforms. “The Government is committed to improving the welfare of teachers by increasing their pay and covering their school fees for those who choose to pursue teaching as a profession. However, with this commitment comes a responsibility. The Teaching Service Commission will ensure that all teachers employed meet the highest ethical and professional standards.” “We do not want individuals with questionable character — such as gamblers, habitual troublemakers, or those engaged in unethical practices — influencing our children. We want to build a new culture within the teaching profession, one that prioritizes decency, discipline, and professionalism. Teachers must carry themselves in a manner that sets a positive example for their students, both inside and outside the classroom.” Drawing from his personal experience, the Prime Minister highlighted the impact of teachers on his own life. “I am a product of the teachers who instructed me from Grade 1. Their discipline, guidance, and example played a significant role in shaping my character and values, which I carry with me to this day. It is this same level of commitment and influence that we expect from today’s teachers.” Prime Minister Marape also called on the Education Department to collaborate with universities to fast-track teacher training programmes. “I urge the Education Department to work closely with institutions such as the University of Goroka, University of Papua New Guinea, and PNG University of Technology to quickly roll out programmes that will address the teacher shortage. For graduates in specialized fields, a one-year diploma in teaching can equip them with the necessary skills to enter the classroom quickly.” He concluded by reaffirming the Government’s commitment to increasing both the number and quality of teachers across the country. “We are committed to increasing the number of teachers in our country, but it’s not just about quantity — it’s about quality. We will ensure that teachers are well-trained, well-supported, and held to a high standard so they can give their best to the students and to the country.” “The teaching profession is a noble one, and we want to make sure that every teacher understands the critical role they play in nation-building. By investing in teachers, we are investing in our nation’s future. In return, we expect teachers to uphold the highest standards of conduct and professionalism to inspire the next generation of leaders.”

Despite major obstacles, such as the devastating earthquake in 2022 that destroyed important university infrastructure, Prime Minister James Marape has commended the leadership of the University of Goroka (UOG) for their outstanding efforts in raising student enrollment and reaching a record-breaking graduation turnout. Speaking at the 28th Graduation Ceremony of UOG on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, Prime Minister Marape acknowledged the resilience and commitment of the university’s Vice-Chancellor and Chancellor in adhering to government directives to expand student enrolment. He highlighted that since the government took office in 2019, UOG has significantly increased its graduating class, with over 1,009 students graduating this week — the highest in the university’s history. “When we took office in 2019, the University of Goroka had a graduating class of just around 400 students. Today, I am proud to witness the largest graduation in the university’s history, with more than 1,009 students receiving their qualifications this week,” Prime Minister Marape said. “This achievement warms my heart. It shows that despite the earthquake that destroyed classrooms and accommodations, the university leadership has steadily increased enrolment year after year. Their determination to comply with government policies and their ability to deliver results with limited resources deserve recognition and continued support from the Government.” The Prime Minister commended UOG for its unwavering commitment to expanding educational opportunities, noting that the university’s administrators have remained focused on growth, even in the face of adversity. “Results like this make us want to continue supporting public servants and administrators who implement central government policies and deliver tangible outcomes. The leadership at UOG is doing exactly that — translating policy into action and delivering results for the nation,” he said. Prime Minister Marape reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to supporting UOG and other educational institutions across the country. “We recognize that education is a critical priority for our nation’s future. The University of Goroka is an important institution that trains our future teachers, and it is our duty to ensure that they have the resources and infrastructure needed to succeed.” He also confirmed that the Government has allocated K30 million to UOG to complete several key infrastructure projects, including a seven-storey building and a new auditorium. “I look forward to returning later this year to officially open the seven-storey building and the auditorium, which are expected to be completed with the government funding already allocated. These new facilities will further enhance the university’s capacity to accommodate more students and provide a better learning environment.” Prime Minister Marape concluded by expressing his gratitude to the UOG leadership for their dedication to improving education in Papua New Guinea. “The university leadership is delivering results with the little resources given to them. Their efforts are contributing to building a stronger education system, and we are committed to supporting them as they continue to serve our nation by preparing the next generation of educators.”