The National Government has pledged continued financial support for students or recipients of the government’s Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) curriculum scholarship program. Prime Minister James Marape said this when fare welling 76 students from the country’s Schools of Excellence who received STEM scholarships to study at selected universities in the United States. The farewell event took place on Sunday night (11/08/24) at the Hilton Hotel in Port Moresby. PM Marape said Papua New Guinea needs a highly qualified and educated populace and a workforce as the world is becoming revolutionized with innovations in science and technology, engineering, and fields related to mathematics. PM Marape said the STEM scholarship initiative will create space for other Grade 12 school leavers in the country as the National Government embarks on sending top performing students in these fields overseas for further studies. The Schools of Excellence was initiated by PM Marape when he was the Minister for Education in 2009 as spaces in tertiary institutions and colleges were less than 6,000 when over 10,000 students were graduating and leaving school every year. PM Marape encouraged the 76 STEM scholarship recipients to do their best in their studies and be good ambassadors of PNG. “The first batch of 43 students who went to certain universities in the US have done well in their first semester examinations with some receiving the President’s awards, this is good news for our country’s education system and the STEM scholarship program. “This second batch to the US, we are looking forward to the same success.” “We will stay with you every step of the way and continue to support you.” “The government will increase the support via the annual national budget.” “I encourage you all as your Prime Minister to abstain from drugs, going out to parties but study hard. I appeal to you all not to smoke and consume alcohol but to focus on your education.” “This is a golden opportunity, and it comes once in a person’s lifetime, so I encourage you all to embrace it.” “I also want to encourage the Education department to continue with this program. I encourage you to never leave your God," said Prime Minister Marape. The PM advised the recipients that they carry the hopes and aspirations of PNG and their tribesmen and women. “I want you to complete your studies well and either find employment opportunities back in the States and/or come back with an open mind as Papua New Guineans.” “Our first 43 students in the US did well and have set a benchmark for us all already. We encourage you to follow their footsteps and do better.” The National Department of Education’s Measurement Services Unit (MSU) does the selection based on individual student’s performance and their final national examination results. They are selected from all the national schools of excellence offering STEM courses. Thus, the chances of bias are eliminated. Secretary for Education Dr Uke Kombra, when speaking at the farewell, said the scholarship program takes students from right across the country purely on merit and not from well to do and or rich parents. He said that as long as the child has the talent, the department sends them with the aim to "make anybody somebody". Meanwhile, Education Secretary Dr Kombra thanked the Marape-Rosso Government for supporting and funding the STEM Program, adding that the program is second to none. “Prime Minister Marape, let me on behalf of the Education Department and the scholarship recipients, teachers, guardians, and parents say that your funding for TESAS is over K600 million and your commitment is well honored. Let me, on behalf of all in Education, say thank you.” “The National Government funding covers airfares, accommodation, course fees and living allowances to the recipient’s worth over K20 million," said Secretary Kombra. The Education Department says in the first batch, 30 students went to India, 43 to the US, and this time now 76, with another 50 being processed for studies in China soon. Prime Minister Marape, on a very positive note, said Australia also has the STEM curriculum at its schools in Australia. “That is a plus, and for the first time ever for any other foreign developed country to copy the curriculum developed by Papua New Guinea for its school is great news.” PM Marape said, that shows that the PNG STEM curriculum is top class and at a very high international standard and benchmark.

A newborn’s life was saved three months ago through the dedicated efforts of the medical team at the Port Moresby General Hospital’s (PMGH) Special Care Nursery (SCN), highlighting the critical role of timely intervention and teamwork in healthcare. Around 8am on April 13th, the neonatal medical team including Dr. Liu Yin, a neonatologist and member of the 13th Chinese Medical Team, commenced their daily rounds at the special care nursery. During this time, they noticed a newborn who had been transferred to the special care nursery due to respiratory distress shortly after being born at 38 weeks. Despite prompt administration of oxygen via the face mask, the baby still had shortness of breath and grunting. Baby was also cyanosed and poorly responsive. After a quick assessment, the team made the decision that the newborn baby was in a very critical condition with respiratory failure and needed intubation and respiratory support. Upon further examination of the chest, a clinical diagnosis of congenital diaphragmatic hernia was made based on the presence of bowel sounds in the left chest wall and displaced heart sounds to the right sternal border. The team immediately prepared all the equipment, intubated the newborn and commenced on the ventilator providing respiratory support (invasive). The baby’s condition began to stabilize, with improved skin color and responsiveness. A subsequent chest X-ray confirmed that the baby had a diaphragmatic hernia, a condition that required surgery and breathing support after the operation to ensure survival. Following the diagnosis, the SCN team led by Dr Gamini Vali and Dr Liu immediately coordinated with the Paediatric surgical and anaesthetic team to formulate a comprehensive treatment plan. The surgery was successfully performed the next day, and the baby was returned to the ward for ongoing respiratory support. The pediatric team monitored the baby’s progress and on the fifth postoperative day, a chest X-ray showed satisfactory re-expansion of the left lung. By the eighth postoperative day, the newborn was switched to non-invasive respiratory support allowing the mother to see her baby for the first time. On the 11th postoperative day, the baby was taken off the ventilator and switched to intermittent oxygen via nasal cannula. Two weeks after the surgery, the baby’s wound had fully healed. By the twenty-first postoperative day, the baby was healthy enough to be reunited with the mother. Coordinator of the Paediatrics Department, Dr Gwenda Anga described this as an example of collaboration across medical teams and the use of new technology in improving neonatal outcomes. “We are appreciative of the expertise of the local neonatal, paediatric surgical team led by Dr Jack Mulu and Dr Beena Dagam and paediatric anaesthesia led by Dr Keno Temo together with the support of Dr Liu and the 13th Chinese Medical team,” she stated.

The PNG Fashion Week has announced that the Paradise Runway will now take place at the iconic APEC Haus on 15th September, 2024. With its highly successful previous shows, Ms Philma Kelegai, PNG Fashion Week Managing Director, anticipates the change in venue will be inspirational. “The APEC Haus is a magnificent symbol of the Future of Culture and we cannot wait to be in awe of what we will see at the Ascension,” she said. The Paradise Runway is PNG Fashion Week's signature event and PNG’s national fashion event and is hosted every year during the independence weekend. Fashion designers and cultural creatives from around the nation and abroad are asked to imagine and explore the theme for 2024, Ascension, through their collections. This year, these collections will be exhibited and celebrated at the magnificent Apec Haus. Designers who have participated previously included Anna Amos, Tabu, Elizabeth Omeri, Natasha Tamanabe to name a few and each year, the talent keeps getting better and better. Ascension is scheduled for Sunday 15 September, 2024 during the independence weekend and will feature 13 local designers and two international designers. Tickets will be on sale by the end of the week.

The Member for Abau (MP) Sir Puka Temu has welcomed the news of a new hospital for Mt Hagen, Western Highlands Province (WHP), but reminded Health Minister Dr. Lino Tom of the outstanding government commitment to build Central Province’s hospital. Sir Puka stated that Dr. Lino’s announcement to build a new hospital for WHP is timely and much needed since it serves the entire Highlands region and is the second busiest hospital in terms of activity. However, Sir Puka urged Dr. Lino to update the country on Central province’s promised hospital, which has been outstanding since 2021 when Prime Minister James Marape officiated the groundbreaking ceremony. "Central Province and its people rely solely on Port Moresby and Gerehu General Hospitals for referrals and treatment.” “PMGH cannot cope with the load, and it needs Central, Gulf and Gerehu hospitals to be functioning to allow it to focus on its level 7 role.” “Now that Wabag has been delivered, I believe it’s time to serve the people of Central and their need for their own hospital.” Sir Puka further added that all provinces have fully fledged provincial hospitals except Gulf, Central and NCD. “I appreciate the work Dr. Lino is doing to deliver greater health services for our country, but I urge him to provide political will required to enact this much needed project for Central.”

Lesley Nala, a 35-year-old electrician living in Sawarin Village, Wewak District of East Sepik Province, is setting the path to transform his family's life by venturing into fish farming with support from the EU-STREIT PNG Programme. His success in fish farming has not only improved their diet and income but also inspired his community through his determination and vision. Lesley's story begins in the village of Kwarin in Maprik District, where he grew up among many siblings. Seeking better opportunities and access to education, he moved to Wewak and completed Grade 10 and some technical-vocational short courses there. In Wewak, he met his wife, Linsay Kiang, through a shared love for volleyball. They married and settled in Sawarin Village, buying land from the traditional owners, where they started their own family, now blessed with a five-year-old daughter. Initially, life in Wewak was challenging. Both Lesley and Linsay worked hard to support their family. Lesley, who had trained as an electrician, found work with a private enterprise, while Linsay served as a nurse at a local hospital. Despite their efforts, relying solely on their paychecks made it difficult to provide for their growing family. To supplement their income, Lesley tried his hand at planting peanuts and vegetables on their land, but the results were not as fruitful as they had hoped. "I got involved in planting peanuts as my first project on the block I purchased.” “I harvested and sold them in the market, but the income wasn’t enough to make a significant difference.” Lesley's journey into aquaculture began with a simple yet reflective moment of inspiration. One night, in February 2023, while listening to the radio, Lesley heard an aquaculture officer from the EU-STREIT PNG Programme speaks about fish farming and the support being provided by the Programme to promote aquaculture in the region. The concept sparked a new interest in Lesley. "I was listening, and it really inspired me," Lesley recalls. "I shared the idea with my wife, and we decided to dig some fishponds." Armed with a spade and a vision, he began transforming his land. Afterwards, Lesley reached out to the EU-STREIT PNG Programme for support and guidance. "I went to the EU-STREIT PNG Office, in March 2023, just to get information on requirements to get some support," Lesley explains. "I also didn't know specifics of a fishpond, so I went to get this info and details from the aquaculture officer." He received valuable advice and support from the EU-STREIT PNG Programme, including information on pond construction, fish husbandry, and feed management. The Programme also provided Lesley with 100 fingerlings to kick-start his aquaculture venture, along with guidance on obtaining official SME registration certificate. Thanks to the support and his hard work, today, Lesley has six fishponds of varying sizes, home to over 1,000 super tilapias. His efforts have not only provided his family with a nutritious source of food but have also created a sustainable income. "We now have fresh fish on our plates twice a week," Lesley shares with a smile. "My wife and I are very happy with these fishponds because it is helping all of us including my family and neighbours. My child enjoys every meal so as my wife." The family now enjoys freshly harvested fish with their staple foods like taro, banana, or kaukau. "Compared to the past, our meal today tastes better and sweet. We enjoy harvesting fish straight from the pond and we fish our food because it is super tilapia and taste good." The difference in their diet and well-being is clear. “The fishponds have helped to reduce the cost of buying food, especially protein, from the market and stores. The protein now comes from the pond, which is like free to us, and we are very happy for coming into a new life,” added Lesly. Last Christmas alone, he sold over 1,000 fish at PGK 2, 2.50, and 3. Since then, he has continued to sell fish regularly, saying, "These days, I sell fish every 2 months about 70, 80 or 100 plus fish. Neighbours also come to the house to buy fish, so I sell at PGK 10 per kilogram. At the house, I have sold between 200 and 300 kilograms already." This income has not only helped cover household expenses but also allowed them to buy better quality food and save for future endeavours, such as clothing and other household needs. This additional income has allowed Lesley and Linsay to modestly improve their living conditions. Lesley's success is not just a personal triumph; it's a story that resonates throughout Sawarin Village. He involves 15 local youths who assist in managing the fishponds, providing them with not just work but also valuable skills and a fair share of the profits. "When I sell fish, I share the earnings with the boys. It's a group effort, and everyone benefits," Lesley explains. He divides the earnings equally between himself and his wife, and the group of boys who help him. "If we earn PGK 500 from the sale of fish, my wife and I get PGK 250 and PGK 250 we gave to the boys." The impact of the EU-STREIT PNG Programme on Lesley's life is visible. It has provided him with the knowledge and resources to succeed and the motivation to keep expanding. "I plan to expand my fishponds this year," Lesley says. "The support and advice from the EU-STREIT PNG Programme have been invaluable." His determination to improve his family's life and his willingness to share his success with his community exemplify the transformative power of the Programme. Lesley’s story is a testament to how vision, hard work, and the right support can lead to remarkable change. His journey from an electrician to a successful fish farmer and a future fish-business operator is an inspiration, showcasing the potential for growth and prosperity in Papua New Guinea’s rural communities. As Lesley continues to expand his business, he dreams of an even brighter future, not just for his family but for all those around him.

BSP PNG | BSP Financial Group Ltd (BSP), the Pacific’s leading financial institution, have announced changes to its Leadership team. The BSP Financial Group Limited today announced the appointment of two new roles within the Executive leadership team to further support the Bank’s Modernisation for Growth strategy. These changes were announced earlier on Wednesday 7th August 2024 on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) as well as the Port Moresby Exchange (PGX). Group CEO, Mark Robinson announced the appointment of Peter Beswick, to the role of Deputy CEO. Peter Beswick has been BSP’s Group General Manager, Corporate Banking since 2011 having held executive positions in Corporate Banking, Audit, Risk Management and Business advisory across Australia and Southeast Asia. Hari Rabura has been appointed as Group General Manager Corporate Affairs & Community. Hari has served as BSP’s Group General Manager People & Culture, since 2016. This new appointment will support the Group’s commitment and investment across the communities in which it operates in across Papua New Guinea and the broader Pacific markets. As a result of these changes the following appointments within the current Executive leadership team have been made. • Daniel Faunt is appointed Group General Manager Corporate Banking; Mr. Faunt is currently Group General Manager Retail Banking. • Ronesh Dayal, currently Group Chief Financial Officer has been appointed Group General Manager Retail Banking. • Maryann Lameko-Vaai, currently Group General Manager Pacific Markets is appointed Acting Group Chief Financial Officer. • Paul Black is appointed Group General Manager Pacific Markets; Mr. Black is currently Deputy Group General Manager Corporate Banking. • Peter Komon is appointed Acting Group General Manager People & Culture until a permanent executive is appointed. Mr. Komon is currently Head of Payments. These changes are effective from the 19th of August 2024. The remaining executive leadership positions remain unchanged: • Nuni Kulu, Group Chief Operating Officer. • Rohan George, Group General Manager Treasury & Markets. • Mike Hallinan, Group Chief Risk Officer. • Vandhna Narayan, Group Chief Compliance Officer. • Richard Nicholls, Group Chief Information Officer. Mr Robinson said the appointments all came from within BSP’s current executive & senior leadership team, and he was pleased that BSP had the depth of experience to fill the new leadership roles and further develop senior talent. “All the executives are experienced leaders, deeply familiar with the South Pacific region in which we operate” “Their appointments show the depth of banking experience at BSP and will enhance the execution of our modernising for growth agenda.” The appointments are subject to the relevant regulatory approvals.

The National Capital District Commission (NCDC) will host a first of its NCD Youth Summit and Expo, led by visionary Governor Powes Parkop. A first of its kind for youths in the Capital as they gear up for the inaugural NCD Youth Summit and Expo, led by the visionary Governor Powas Parkop with the theme: "Empowering youths for better and progressive NCD". The NCD Youth Summit and Expo, theme: "Empowering youths for better and progressive NCD", will take place from the 10th to the 14th of August, in Port Moresby city. The Exo and Music Festival will kick off first at the Sir Hubert Murray Stadium from the 10th-11th of August and the Summit to follow suit at the APEC Haus from the 12th-14th August. Governor Parkop said the mission is to showcase pathways to success in education, sports, youth empowerment, life skills, health and the arts, and encouraging social, moral and spiritual growth while fostering innovation and leadership, addressing pressing issues and creating opportunities for their development. "We aim to direct the incredible energy of our youths toward positive activities, addressing pressing issues and creating opportunities for their development," said Governor Parkop. The event will feature the prime minister as the guest of honor, VIPs such as the Minister of Youth and the UN Resident Coordinator. It will also include the US Ambassador, Australian High Commissioner, and various other national and international dignitaries. Collaborators include prominent organizations like the UN, UN WOMEN, UNFPA UNICEF, National Youth Development Authority (NYDA), US Embassy, DFAT, NCDC TIPNG, PNG Scouts Association and the National Government. "Over the course of five days, we will bring together 200 youths from NCD electorates, 50 national and international speakers, 10 political leaders. We have so far registered 40 booths, 20 SME stalls, 100 volunteers and working team, and 30 service providers." Governor Parkop said the Youth Sumit's theme aligns with the international theme, "From Clicks to Progress Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development. This dual focus highlights the transformative power of digital technology in creating sustainable development opportunities and underscores the importance of collaboration and mutual support across generations. This summit aims to connect various agencies, provide information on opportunities for youth progress, and foster networking and collaboration. It offers a platform for youths to meet peers and stakeholders, exchange ideas, and build lasting connections. It's a space for showcasing talents and aspirations, where young people can share their skills, dreams, and plans for the future. "We are committed to skill-building and leadership, offering workshops, training, and educational sessions to empower our youth. Our goal is to inspire change, encouraging youths to become agents of positive transformation in their communities and beyond, aligning our efforts with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Papua New Guinea's Medium Term Development Plan IV (MTDP-IV) goals."

The Society of Anaesthetists of PNG (SAPNG) recently hosted a five-day training course on SAFE Obstetrics and Paediatrics Anaesthesia, a refresher training designed for both physician and non-physician anaesthetists. With the support of the School of Medicine and Health Sciences and Port Moresby General Hospital, this invaluable training was part of the Safer Anaesthesia from Education (SAFE) Courses, which was jointly developed by the Association of Anaesthetists and WFSA back in 2011. The program ran from 29th July to 2nd August and emphasized basic principles of safe care of the pregnant women and children in particular, assessment, vigilance, and competence in essential skills. According to one of the five facilitators and Pediatric Anaesthetist, Dr Keno Temo, PNG like the other Low-Middle Income Countries (LMICs) have a high Peri Operative Mortality Rate (POMR) and these group of patients (Obstetrics and paediatrics) contribute largely to this health indicator. “Providing anaesthesia and basic critical care for essential surgery in children requires a trained workforce. In PNG, there are few specialist surgeons and anaesthetists, and pediatric surgery and anaesthesia are, of necessity, the work of the general surgeon and non-physician anesthetist in the district hospital,” she stated. “Children present particular challenges to surgeons and anesthetists and, not surprisingly in many settings, peri-operative morbidity and mortality is high compared to developed world standards. Likewise, it is recognized that, worldwide, 15% of all births result in complications. Globally, the major causes of maternal death are hemorrhage, sepsis, and pre-eclampsia and eclampsia.” “Access to safe surgery and anaesthesia is an essential requirement in the management of these patients and other complications of pregnancy. However, poor practice of anaesthesia can result in death. Therefore, as anaesthetists, we would like to address these problems in our space to see how we can help make a difference.” The first three days focused on SAFE Obstetrics Anaesthesia and had twenty-four participants from the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department made up of SMO’s, registrars, midwifes, and nurses. Dr Temo said that the course addressed the major causes of maternal death, important skills in obstetric anaesthesia, and the immediate resuscitation of the newborn. The final two days of the training highlighted the SAFE Paediatric Anaesthesia course, which addressed the special needs of children who require surgery and the particular differences between paediatric and adult practice. It had the participation of 23 registrars, SMO’s, ASO, and nurses from Anaesthesia, Paediatrics, and Surgery. In conclusion of the program, participants from both trainings were awarded certificates. The SAPNG hopes the SAFE courses have successfully refreshed or taught participants the importance of mastering the basics when attending to these patient groups. They believe that in critical or emergency situations, the participants will now know how to respond in a structured, systematic way to help save lives.

The much-anticipated Coke Studio Pacifika Tour will feature live performances from the Solomon Islands and PNG’s very own local talents, set for centre stage in Lae at Club 99 on the 9th of August and Port Moresby on the 10th of August, at the Lamana Gold Club. The Coke Studio Pacifika Tour is a musical event which Coca-Cola through their music platform Coke Studio is hosting in collaboration with Makasi Sound & Entertainment to promote music in the pacific region. Makasi Sounds & Entertainment Events Planner Terence Rini said their goal for this event is to bring together pacific island music artists to showcase their talents in PNG and the region. “Partnering with a global brand like Coca-Cola through their music platform Coke Studio, we will definitely achieve that goal.” “We are growing slowly in the Melanesian region firstly with SI and PNG artists.” “We have plans to reach out to Fiji, Vanuatu, and New Cal with up-and-coming events,” said Mr. Rini. Artist from the Solomon Islands to perform on the two nights are JahBoy, Joe Briz, Cottsii and Devande while from PNG, the local talented vocalist Mereani Masani, the ‘Riah’ singer Tarvin Toune & PNG’s young artist Jnr Vigi. Meanwhile, Coca-Cola Europacific Partners Head of Brand and Channel Management Gabriel Manoi said, they are proud and excited to be part of this journey. Through their brand Coca- Cola and its platform Coke Studios, they are proud to support SI and PNG artist and at the same time, partner with Makasi to bring artists from the Solomon Islands to perform alongside PNGs’ artist. Representing the PNG artist, the ‘Eh Vivi’ singer Jnr Vigi, acknowledged Makasi & Coca-Cola for creating the platform for artists to share their talents not only with their fans but with artist from other countries. He also encouraged upcoming artists to focus on their goals and never let critics diminish their self-worth and aspirations.

Prime Minister James Marape has commended Police Minister Peter Tsiamalili Jr, Police Commissioner David Manning and the Police Force for their dedicated efforts in addressing the series of murders, rapes, and property destruction that occurred in East Sepik Province during July. Following the arrests of 10 young men by police, with further arrests expected as the authorities close in on the gang responsible for the terror in Angoram, East Sepik, and Prime Minister Marape praised the ongoing police operations. “I commend Police Minister Tsiamalili, Commissioner Maning and the Police Force for their efforts in curbing the reign of terror by an armed gang in Angoram, East Sepik,” Prime Minister Marape said. “Those who commit serious crimes and believe they can evade justice are mistaken; they will not escape the long arms of the law.” The Prime Minister highlighted his government’s commitment to revitalising the Police Force after years of neglect. “Our government is working to rebuild the Police Force after a period of decline. When we assumed office in 2019, the Police Force was ageing, with no new recruits trained in over a decade. We are working to restore the force to full capacity, aiming for a total of 10,000 officers, and establishing a Domestic Anti-Terrorism Unit,” he said. He further emphasised the importance of a strong police force in ensuring a safer and more peaceful Papua New Guinea, which he views as essential for the country's economic and social development. “A safer and more-peaceful Papua New Guinea will be a catalyst for economic and social development, leading to a better society. In light of the criminal activity surrounding us, we are committed to strengthening our Police Force,” the Prime Minister added. Marape also urged all Provincial and Regional Police Commanders to fully support Commissioner Manning, noting that police officers now work with improved pay and conditions compared to the past. “I have instructed Commissioner Manning to implement an electronic police complaint system in all police stations nationwide to better track criminal complaints and activities for arrest and prosecution.” Prime Minister Marape concluded by expressing gratitude to the Australian Government for its continued support of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary.

The National Written Expression Examination for grade 12 students will see a total of 34,360 students from 231 Grade 12 schools including the six National Schools of Excellence, private and permitted schools have nominated to sit the exam on Monday, 5th August 2024. Education Secretary Dr. Uke Kombra said, he is confident that their students and teachers have prepared well for this exam. "I call on all the Provincial Divisions of Education, school administrations, parents and communities to support our students give their best." "I also call on the general public to respect our students and support them in every way possible to do the exam next week Monday." "I confirm that the Department through the Measurement Services Division has already dispatched all the materials for the Grade 12 Written Expression Examination on time to all Provinces." "Students were issued with the Booklets by their nominated schools on Monday, July 29th." "The reading was for one week in preparation for the actual exam." Dr. Kombra said, all the Provincial Education Advisors (PEAS), Provincial Examination Supervisors. Senior Secondary Inspectors, Guidance Officers, Principals and Governing Councils are asked to be vigilant and security conscious with the security of the Examination Materials through to the actual administration by following the rules enforced by the Measurement Services Division. "I advise everyone involved in the examination process to prevent all tendencies towards any mal practices that may compromise the results." "I would like to remind everyone that the penalty for cheating or assisting to cheat in the national examinations is non-certification and request all citizens to support fair examinations to all which is in our national interest." Meanwhile, the marking of the Written Expression Exam is scheduled for Monday, August 19th in Port Moresby. The Secretary has advised students to study hard for the final examinations which are coming up in October. These exams are scheduled as follows: 1-Grade 10 (October 7th-11th) 2-Grade 12 (October 14th-18th) 3-Grade 8 (October 21-24) 4Grade 12 STEM (September 2nd-6) "I wish all students in Grade 12, all the very best in their Written Expression Examination".

TB patients in NCD seeking treatment at the St Therese TB Clinic will not have to worry about their supply of medicines as the clinic is stocked up on medical drugs. St Therese TB Clinic Officer in Charge Mr. Delvin Robin told PNG HAUSBUNG that they have stocked up on drugs and are not experiencing a shortage at this time. All 228 of their registered patients at the clinic have their own TB Kits. “We already have our drugs from the shipment that was cleared already and is at the Area Medical Store and are waiting for distribution.” “For St Therese Clinic, we have enough drugs to supply it to our patients as per their review dates.” Mr. Robin stated that of their 228 registered patients, the number of new patients accumulates from three (3) to four (4) patients a day. “Like any other clinic, we do the full checkups and collect sputum’s and we send them for X-Ray.” “We also do other test and send them and wait for the results.” “But in doing that, we also put the patients on antibiotics because we don’t have the evidence yet and to help suppress the illness.” With NCD having some of the highest rates of TB in the country, Mr. Robin is encouraging everyone, especially in communities to work collaboratively. “For those who have TB, you must be on treatment, and the community should be the watchful person.” He said, as clinicians they do not always have the time to be watchful of people. One must know their status, seek medical treatment and practice health safety measures to prevent the spread of the bacteria that spreads through the air when infected people cough, sneeze or spit. He further stated that, when people don’t take their medication for up to a month, the bacteria grow and becomes resistant. “The dangers is that the patient develops resistant TB. It is still curable, but the treatment is very high, sensitive and has high side-effects.” “But as clinicians, we don’t want our patients to reach that stage so we always balance (or ration) our supply.” Mr. Robin is making a call for everyone to do more awareness or conversations with peers is one way of spreading the word to help stop the spread of TB. Some of the common symptoms include: 1. A cough that lasts more than 3 weeks – you may cough up mucus (phlegm) or mucus with blood in it. 2. Feeling tired or exhausted. 3. A high temperature or night sweats. 4. Loss of appetite. 5. Weight loss. 6. Feeling generally unwell “Once you see this type of signs, send the patient to a clinician or clinic to get checked and be on treatment.” “I think this type of awareness is good that we do it for free.” “Like through the media to help our country bring zero TB down.”