Persons with special needs in the Western province have been empowered to contribute to the development of the districts and province at large. This was made possible through a five- day Organization of Persons with Disabilities (OPD) capacity development and sensitization workshop that was held at the Peter Torot Centre in Kiunga in North Fly District last week, which provided necessary skills for change in this area in the province. Participants who attended the workshop came in from Delta Fly, South Fly and North Fly districts. The Provincial Division for Community Development and Welfare Services organized this training supported by development partners, Australian Doctors International (ADI) and World Vision to support provincial Disabled People Organization (DPO). PNG Assembly of Disabled Persons (ADP) National Secretary and Master Trainer, Ross Tito, explained that the workshop covered modules on structure of government, OPD constitution on governance issues, roles and responsibilities of executives, literacy, accountability, transparency including framework, and implementation. “Workshop helped government officers upskilled their work programs to include persons with special needs," he said. He further said current leaders and those coming in the near future should include OPD in any development so that disability and disadvantaged citizens receive services in the province and respective districts. Community Development Officers have been urged to better understand their roles to interact with persons with disability in terms of health, education and other services to participate for change.

The 2024 Santos Cup Round 3 matches saw a lot of movements on the ladder as teams shifted into their 3rd consecutive week of play and travel. The Lae Snax Tigers have taken over the top spot on the 2024 Santos Cup ladder, proving too strong for the East New Britain Agmark Gurias in Lae with a 16 - 6 victor on Sunday 18th August. On Saturday 17th August, the Port Moresby Vipers caused an upset for the Central Dabaris, 16 -12, registering their first win of the competition. Dabaris were first to get points on the board five minutes into the game through a solo eighty meter run by Marie Biyama. Biyama followed through with another try early in the second half, with both tries successfully converted by Sherida Philip. However, this was not enough to keep the Vipers at bay who replied with three tries from Naomi Modowa, Joyce Hobert and Freda Waula, with two successful conversions from Lila Malabag. In Minj in Jiwaka province saw the first ever Santos Cup match held with the Goroka Lahanis ladies secure their first win in the competition after defeating the Mt. Hagen Eagles 12 - 10 in a close match, with tries by Egi John, Seroge Sabumei and Yolanda Taute. The Mt. Hagen Eagles, Tier 1 players, Lyiannah Allen and Talitha Kunjil (c) scored with Talitha continuing to register points as the competition’s current Top Try Scorer. Meanwhile in the Pawa Meri round, which celebrates and acknowledges the contribution of women to the game, the Port Moresby crowd witnessed another stellar performance from Lae-based female referee Jacintha Jack, officiating her third match this season at the Santos National Football Stadium, ably assisted by fellow female touch judge Anita Genia. Results and standings attached following Round 3 of the 2024 Santos Cup on Saturday 17th August in Port Moresby are listed below:

The Somare Institute of Governance and Leadership on Friday presented a cheque of K350,000 to the landowners of Kagamuga of Western Highlands Province who have held off their land for the purpose of service delivery to establish the first ever SILAG Highlands Regional Centre. CEO of SILAG, Mr. Michael Barobe thanked and acknowledged the landowners for agreeing to sell their land to SILAG, which will be used for a greater cause for the country. He said the management has been looking for land to permanently set up a SILAG campus in the Highlands Region, and it is a relief that they have finally secured land in Mt. Hagen. Mr. Barobe said the agreement to initially purchase the land took place back in 2006, however due to change of management and government, it took SILAG 18 years to finally pay off the landowners of the Yamka tribe in the WHP. “We have about four regional training centers and three of these have their centers up and running." "For the NGI region its up in Kokopo, for Momase region its in Madang and Southern is in Port Moresby." "But one that is missing is the Highlands region since 2006.” The Mt. Hagen Campus is the Highlands Regional Training Centre, where all the public servants in the Highlands are expected to undergo training at this campus. The main agenda is to bring SILAG to your doorstep, and that has been further made possible by the recent announcement of all SILAG programs to be delivered online. SILAG Chairlady Ms. Taies Sansan said there is a greater need for public servants at the provincial level and district level to be trained, and that is why SILAG is keen on setting up campuses throughout the country. She said government services are not reaching rural areas because public servants at the district levels lack the knowledge in proper planning and aligning district plans with the government’s plans. The Somare Institute of Leadership and Governance’s role is to provide training where there is specific need, and that includes proper planning at the district levels up to the national level of government. She said establishing the Highlands Regional Training Centre is part of the government’s plan to push public servants back into the districts and provinces to work, while only 20% of the public servants are supposed to be working in the urban centers. The Kagamuga Landowners representative, Mr. Willie Wanaga thanked the SILAG and its management for choosing to establish the Highlands Regional Training Centre on their land. He said his people and the community back home will be willing to help out and put things together on ground once construction phase starts. Though it a long time, he acknowledged the past and current SILAG management for coming through with the payment for their land. To conclude, the SILAG CEO called out to all the provincial governments of the Highlands provinces to partner with SILAG to deliver the long-term and short-term courses to their staff based on their needs. The programs offered by SILAG vary from long-term courses to short-term courses, which has contributed immensely to public sector capacity building. He further called on the people of the Western Highlands Province to work in partnership with the SILAG management during the establishment phase of the Highlands Regional Training Centre.

“As a woman displaced and living in a tent, I feel like my needs as a woman are SEEN when I go through the content of this Dignity Kit (DK).” This sentiment was shared by 25-year-old Josika Aron, an 8-month-old pregnant young woman who lost her family home during the Mulitaka Landslide that hit the area in May this year. The Dignity Kit contained sanitary pads, towel, slippers, bath soaps, underwear, flashlight, toothbrush and toothpaste, and a waist cloth also known as a laplap. All these items are to help women and girls maintain their dignity during a humanitarian crisis. “I am due to give birth soon and sanitary pads and underwear are important items for me. But I cannot speak up about my needs because it is taboo in my culture.” “I am grateful for my DK.” UNFPA with the support and partnership from Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) successfully distributed 174 Dignity Kits to young women and girls between the ages of 15- 29 years old. Prior to this distribution, 90 DKs were distributed at the end of May 2024 by the Enga Provincial Health Authority to women and girls affected by the landslide in Mulitaka and 12 DKs on 5 August to those living in Pokalip. In this recent distribution, six women were pregnant, including Ms. Josika Aron and there was one young girl by the name Christie Lara who was a person living with disability. Local women community leader Ms. Annette Jack who helped facilitate the distribution expressed her gratitude and appreciation to DFAT and UNFPA on behalf of the affected women in the community. “During this tough time in my community, our focus has been more on food and shelter, and as a woman, I have forgotten that I have basic needs too and I have a responsibility to take care of myself and my dignity.” “The nearest shops for a woman to go to get supplies especially like menstruating pads is in Wabag town, a three-hour ride away and bus fare that will cost PGK60 to go and return.” “This DK makes me happy, and I know it has put a smile on the faces of all the women and girls who have received it.” “Thank you UNFPA and DFAT.” UNFPA also supported the Mulitaka Health Center and Pokalip Aid Post with five DFAT-prepositioned Reproductive Health Kits to ensure safe deliveries of babies during this time of crisis.

The Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH) has taken a significant step forward in improving maternal care with the purchase of 101 new beds, which consists of 25 electric delivery beds and 76 standard hospital beds. This investment was made possible through CPL and marks a notable advancement in the hospital's efforts to provide quality care for mothers and newborns. The beds were officially issued to PMGH on July 31st and have since been installed by the hospital's biomedical (Biomed) team. Nurse Unit Manager for Labour Ward, Sr Mary Sitaing, said that 13 of the electrical delivery beds are currently in use. The remaining will be installed soon, while the 76 ordinary hospital beds will be distributed to the different sections of the hospital accordingly. The introduction of these electrical delivery beds is a significant upgrade as this is the first time for such beds to be used in PMGH's labour ward. These beds are rechargeable with a handheld control and can be adjusted to provide optimal comfort and support during labour and delivery. Other features include height adjustment, attached IV pole, removable waste bin, and many more. Sr. Sitaing mentioned that the labour ward had been using wooden beds for the past 3 years. The installation of these new beds marks one of the many milestones in achieving PMGH's ongoing journey to enhance quality patient care.

The Department of Education recently hosted the Provincial Education Advisors (PEA) Consultation Conference, a pivotal event in the lead up to the Regional Public Consultations for the Papua New Guinea Education Transformation Vision 2075 (PNGETV 2075). These consultations will be held around the country from the 17th of September to the 1st of October 2024. The workshop brought together 22 PEAs to discuss and refine the strategic roadmap for transforming education in PNG for the next 50 years. The PNGETV 2075 is a comprehensive 50-year plan aimed at overhauling and reconstructing the general education system to ensure that by 2075, PNG will have qualified, educated and smart population. This vision aligns with the National Goals and Directive Principles of the National Constitution, PNG Vision 2050, and the Medium-Term Development Plan IV (MTDP IV), focusing on quality education and skilled human capital. The key objectives of the workshop was to engage stakeholders and partners by facilitating meaningful discussions among the PEAs, educators, policymakers, and other stakeholders to gather insights and feedback on the PNGETV 2075. The workshop also provided a platform for strategic planning where they reviewed and refined the strategic initiatives outlined in the PNGETV 2075 document to address prevailing challenges and leverage opportunities for educational reform. The one-day workshop was also aimed at preparing the PEAs for the upcoming regional public consultations in September, ensuring a cohesive and inclusive approach to gathering public input. Speaking ahead of the start of the workshop, the Secretary for Education, Dr. Uke Kombra said, “The Provincial Education Advisors Consultation Workshop is a crucial step in our journey towards transforming education in Papua New Guinea. By bringing together diverse perspectives and expertise from our people in the provinces and regions, we are laying the foundation for a more inclusive, equitable, and high-quality education system that will benefit future generations.” The PNGETV 2075 is committed to cultivating a dynamic and inclusive educational ecosystem that reflects the aspirations and needs of all Papua New Guineans. The PNGETV 2075 regional public consultations are a vital step towards realizing this vision and ensuring that the education system evolves to meet the challenges and opportunities of the 21st Century.

Team PNG’s Taekwondo team of two athletes arrived safely yesterday afternoon Wednesday, 14th August, at the Jacksons International Airport after representing the country at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Both athletes, Gibson Mara and Kevin Kassman debuted in their divisions with Gibson being the first Papua New Guinean to win a round in his division. Kevin Kassman said representing the country at an Olympic level was nothing he had ever experienced before and meeting some of the top athletes from other countries and being amongst them was a very good experience and exposer for him. “It was like nothing I’ve ever experienced before, and I had fun and most of the time spent there was just fun. Getting to know athletes from other countries and just being around them.” Kassman said that being up on that big stage and seeing a big crowd watching him made him nervous but knowing that his fellow countrymen and family were backing him, gave him the courage to stand and represent his country with pride. Meanwhile, Gibson Mara expressed amazement at the high-level of standards at the Olympics and said that with their hard work and preparations put in to get them ready for the Olympics, really paid off. “One challenge too that I faced was knowing that everyone is watching us and that they put their trust that we can make it. And yeah, we did our best and we fell short and that’s maybe with our experience, but we made it.” Upon their arrival, both athletes expressed how grateful and thankful they are for all the support to represent the country at the Olympics and encouraged the upcoming young athletes to keep pushing and striving and to never give up on training. “For up-coming athletes, keep pushing, keep striving. Nothing is impossible, use the negatives and turn them into positives. Cause that’s what you need. They are like steps for you. It took us 2 years and now look at us, its mind blowing,” said Kassman. Mara also expressed similar sentiments. “They must not wait for the competition to come and then start training after a week. Always keep their heads high and keep training hard.”

People in the Milne Bay province travelling to and from Esa’ala Island and back to the mainland don’t need to worry about sea piracy with a recent signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the Esa’ala District Development Authority (EDDA) and the Rural Airstrip Agency (RAA) of PNG Limited for the provision of rural airstrip services in the district. The MOA was signed in Port Moresby on Wednesday, August 7, 2024, and shall be in force and effect for a period of five (5) years from the commencement date. The MOA was signed by the Acting District Administrator for Esa’ala District, Mr. Sale Nop, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Rural Airstrip Agency of PNG Limited (RAA), Mrs. Kim Opiti and witnessed by the Chairman of the EDDA and Member for Esa’ala, Jimmy Maladina and RAA Legal Officer, Ms. Bernadette Cherake. Mr. Maladina said it is important to partner with the RAA to re-construct and re-open the Salamo and Sehulea airstrips so that the flying doctors and people have access to these vital airline facilities and service. EDDA will provide an initial funding of K135,000.00 for RAA to conduct the airstrip survey, design, and scope of works. Additional funding and support will also be provided by the EDDA for the subsequent airstrip works which includes restoration and maintenance upon invoices by RAA and the presentation of survey reports and scope of works of the airstrips. “We look forward to re-opening this important mode of transport for the people of Esa’ala District because of the remoteness of the islands from the mainland Milne Bay and Alotau town,” Mr. Maladina said. “As the Member for Esa’ala District, I see this as a vital initiative that supports our strategies and vision to boost agriculture, access to health services (faster way to Alotau General Hospital), education and tourism development in the Esa’ala District.” “RAA looks forward to working with Esa’ala District in rehabilitating its prioritized airstrips." “Such partnership and collaborative approaches are important in achieving our shared goals and ensuring our people living in the rural communities have equal opportunities to essential government services and economic opportunities,” the CEO of RAA said.

Transparency International Papua New Guinea (TIPNG) marked International Youth Day with the relaunch of the Youth Against Corruption Association (YACA) at Jubilee Secondary School in Port Moresby. The YACA is a youth-led organization that nurtures values of honesty, integrity and good citizenship in young people. Founded in 2002 by Fr John Glynn, YACA provides a platform for young people to voice their concerns, develop leadership skills, and become positive influences in their communities. “"We are enthusiastic about the relaunch of YACA and the opportunity to cultivate a new generation of youth leaders dedicated to combating corruption,” said Arianne Kassman, CEO of TIPNG. “YACA focuses more on change within oneself, starting off with the right mindset and embodies the core principles of honesty, integrity, and good citizenship, which are fundamental to the establishment of less corrupt and prosperous nation.” “The YACA envisions a Papua New Guinea where young people are empowered to challenge corruption and drive positive change.” The organization will focus on building the capacity of young people to become anti-corruption advocates, while also promoting awareness and education on the detrimental effects of corruption. Schools and young people are encouraged to join YACA and start a group in their schools. In the coming months, TIPNG will be inviting schools in the country to generate interest in YACA and facilitate its activities. Schools can contact TIPNG on how to get involved.

The Kina Bank staff from the Department of Banking Operations recently visited the Port Moresby General Hospital’s Cancer Ward and donated toys, beddings, water bottles, and merchandise items to children at the Cancer Ward. The team visited the children and their parents and guardians in July as part of the bank’s Corporate Social Responsibility initiative. Hahui Fairi, Kina Bank’s Senior Manager for Banking Operations explained they chose the Children’s Cancer Ward after learning it was the least visited ward in the hospital. “We were informed by hospital staff that the Children’s Cancer Ward rarely receives visitors because most of the children are referrals from outside the National Capital District and have no family in Port Moresby.” “The joy on the faces of the patients and their parents was priceless.” “Their excitement was the highlight of our visit.” When the staff visited the ward, there were 11 children along with their parents. Sister Lucy Haoda, the Nurse-In-Charge, thanked Kina Bank for the donation. “These children undergo numerous treatments; some have been at the ward staying here for nearly two years.” “We do not have visitors often, so when we do, it means the world to them.” “We strive to make the ward a cheerful place, and your visit truly made everyone’s day.”

The Government is committed to the welfare of public servants, through the introduction of the National Health & Life Insurance Policy. Department of Personnel Management Secretary Taies Sansan calls on all public sector agencies to take ownership of the National Health & Life Insurance Policy and implement it for the benefit of all public servants in the country. Secretary Sansan stated this when welcoming all government agencies during the consultation session on the Draft Nuicare Bill 2024 held on Friday 9th of August at the APEC Haus. Ms. Sansan said, DPM is committed to the welfare of the public service workforce and acknowledged the critical importance of introducing appropriate and relevant policy initiatives that address the needs of public servants. “The policy is focused on the wellbeing of public servants that will add value to the lives of their family members.” Secretary Sansan stressed that the policy initiative stands out as another significant milestone for the Public Service under the Marape-Rosso Government. This policy is amongst other relevant policy initiatives that the department has introduced such as the 30-year long term plan for the Public Service in the Human Resource Development Strategic Plan 2020-2050, the SILAG Public Sector Training Policy, Public Service Housing Initiatives and the Performance Management System. These initiatives are all aimed at enhancing the performance of public servants and improving the public service delivery mechanism. Ms. Sansan said, the essence of establishing this policy is to ensure that the welfare of our public servants and their families is covered in the event of sickness, accidents and deaths. “I am deeply grateful for this policy as it is the first of its kind in the public service.” “Its operations and benefits will provide financial security for public servants and the state.” “This policy is fully mooted by the state and public servants must take pride in embracing the ownership of this policy for their long-term benefit.” “I encourage my fellow Heads of Agencies to commit to implementing this policy with dedication.” Secretary Sansan thanked and acknowledged all the hardworking staff of the Department of Personnel Management, the Central Agencies Coordinating Committee, the Office of the State Solicitors, Department of Treasury & Finance, PNG Investment and Promotion Authority, Public Employees Association, Salaries and Renumeration, Commission Secretariat, Nambawan Super Ltd and all other agencies that contributed one way or another to the consultation process and formulation of this policy. The consultations were aimed at gauging views from across the public service on the National Health & Life Insurance Bill. The National Health and Life Insurance Policy was approved following a National Executive Council decision (NEC) N0: 178/2022 on the 4th of May 2022, which represented a pivotal moment in the public service history that will ensure that public servants have ownership of a policy designed to benefit them in the long term.

The U.S. Ambassador Ann Marie Yastishock visited Enga Province in her first ever trip to the Highlands of Papua New Guinea. This trip is not just a first for Ambassador Yastishock, but the first time a U.S. Ambassador has ever visited the province. First, she visited the site of the Mulitaka landslide to pay her respects to the victims and those affected by the disaster. While there, she spoke with local officials about aid efforts and met representatives from the International Organization for Migration, who serve as the implementing partners for USAID assistance. The Ambassador expressed her condolences and expressed the importance of USAID support. In the Provincial Capital, Wabag, Ambassador Yastishock joined the Governor of Enga, Grand Chief, Sir Peter Ipatas to celebrate Enga culture and to highlight more than 70 years of partnership between the Enga and American people. At the Take Anda Museum, Governor Ipatas and Provincial Administrator Sandis Tsaka highlighted Enga’s history, ceremonies, and rituals as described by local oral historians, in partnership with an American anthropologist. The Ambassador then celebrated those rich cultural traditions and ceremonies at the 30th annual Enga Cultural Show in Wabag. “I was absolutely captivated by the vibrant dances, intricate artwork, and music that brings together, and the life and stories of your people and your ancestors,” said Ambassador Yastishock after the show. “By understanding and appreciating each other’s cultures, we not only enrich our experiences, but also strengthen the ties that bind us.” Highlighting the long partnership between American and Enga educators, Ambassador Yastishock visited the Innovative University of Enga (IUE) campus at Irelya, where she met with teachers and students to learn about how they are educating the next generation of teachers. Teachers often travel from across PNG to attend IUE. She then visited Highland Lutheran International School, established by American missionaries in the 1950s, and now operated entirely by Papua New Guineans. Ambassador Yastishock greatly appreciates the warm welcome she received from the people she met across Enga Province and the significant investments made by Governor Ipatas in the future of Enga. She looks forward to working with Governor Ipatas and the people of Enga Province to strengthen ties between Enga and the American people.