Prime Minister James Marape has commended the leaders of Bougainville for the completion and operation of the Arawa School of Nursing, an important milestone in the development of the health sector in Bougainville and its district of Central Bougainville. The Arawa School of Nursing is one of the two core priorities for the National and Bougainville Governments as they work at developing more functionality for Bougainville in line with its special autonomous needs. The prime minister said it was a “pleasant joy” to arrive in Arawa and see for himself the college up and running, and fully functional. For the other core health priority of a Level-5 hospital for Bougainville, to be built in Arawa, Prime Minister Marape committed the National Government to fully supporting the government of Bougainville get the project off the ground. He said he was pleased to note that the K70 million earmarked for the project is still available for the construction of the new hospital and encouraged the Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) to move the project into its implementation phase. “I want to advise for the procurement to run. We will continue to give support in the 2024 budget, the 2025 budget and in 2026. “Hopefully before we go to the next elections, the hospital is delivered. I look forward to ticking off this major project,” Prime Minister Marape said. Marape also acknowledged the contributions of the former Arawa hospital and the Arawa Technical School, describing them as “light bearers” for Bougainville before the crisis, and pledged to work with Bougainville leaders to get Arawa to regain its lost status. The prime minister made these remarks on Friday when he visited the Arawa Hospital and the newly constructed Arawa School of Nursing before launching the Central Bougainville Five Year District Development Plan.

The Mike Manning Youth Democracy Camp 2024 saw a total of 29 students selected from various secondary schools from all regions who underwent intensive training on democracy. Transparency International PNG (TIPNG) Deputy Director Mr. Yuambari HAIHUIE, told PNG HAUSBUNG that the program is organized by TIPNG and runs for 2 weeks. He said, the students engaged in activities such as drafting their own constitution, creating their own political parties and bills and learnt more about the legislature. “So it’s a really fantastic educational opportunity and we also invite guest speakers to come and speak about the different aspects of democracy.” He also stated that, many of the students have realized the machinery of how decision making happens in the country and what the different pieces that does this to legislature. Meanwhile, straight after his supreme court session on Friday 28th June, Opposition Leader Douglas Tomuriesa was humbled to grace the presence of the young Papua New Guinean leaders and gave some insight on how the Government works and how his side of the house operates. Tomuriesa explained to the young leaders the roles and responsibilities of the opposition in any democratic government system and Parliament. He told them that the opposition's primary role is to keep the government in check and ensure that all decisions made or policies implemented must be in the best interest of the wider population and not only a few people. He also urged the young aspiring student leaders that to become good democratic leaders of this country, one must teach themselves to respect the rules and laws of this country first. The session ended with a Question and Answer session in which the Opposition Leader took time to answer their questions and queries before their tour of the Parliament House and precinct.

When it comes to life in the rugby league spotlight, Jarome Luai and Latrell Mitchell have had their fair share of media attention and controversy, but it’s their similarities that are also driving their connection ahead of Game Two. The Blues duo often dubbed ‘polarising figures’, Luai and Mitchell have not only found a connection off the field but have rekindled the edge combination that helped steer the Blues to a series victory in 2021. “I guess what I've been through and what he's been through, I can relate to him off the field,” Luai told media on Monday. “I know people use the word ‘polarising’ and I think we're definitely in the spotlight of the media a lot and how we sort of hold ourselves, and I think that's why we get along so well.” “He's a big family dude just like me and at the end of the day, we just want to do what's best for our families.” “We've got the same management as well, so we see each other a lot, we do a lot for the community together as well. He's a good energy man and that’s what I love about him.” “I think our relationship will help that on Wednesday and you can't really hear each other, but you when you see each other you know it’s on.” It’s been three years since the pair lined up alongside each other in Game Two of the 2021 series, with Mitchell ruled out with injury in 2022 and '23. After shutting out the Maroons 26-0 in Brisbane to secure a series win in 2021, Luai knows what the South Sydney superstar is capable of in the Origin arena and the influence he can have on the Blues’ performance. “I think automatically if he's out there, you have to think about him and what he can do as an individual,” Luai said. “There’s only a few players as gifted as that and if he turns up ready to rock, we go.” “I'm next to him so I think that's a big responsibility of mine, is to unlock Latrell and what he can do.” “And I've done that before so it gives me confidence in knowing that I can do that for him and for our team.” “Whatever the defence is throwing at us, I’ve got a guy like Angus Crichton outside me as well and he's been playing crazy out there out there with the Roosters.” “So, I've got some weapons that I need to unlock, and I've got my own running game, so I’ll definitely have some options there.” When it comes to players generating headlines, Maroons fullback Reece Walsh has been a hot topic of conversation since being ruled out of Game One following a high shot from Joseph Sua'ali'i. Luai said despite the ongoing build-up surrounding the fullback’s return in Game Two, the target on the No.1 gun hasn’t changed ahead of Wednesday. “I know it's been spoken about a lot, the fact that they think we have a target on his head,” Luai said. “But being the type of player he is with what he can do on the field, we're going to have a target on him already.” “So, you can't go on half-arsed, you can't go out at 50 per cent, we've got to do what we've always planned to do which is just restricting with what he can do.” Source: NRL.com

The Yaralum Primary School, located in Wabag district in Enga province went up in flames this morning. Enga Provincial Education Director Mr. Was Rowatina told PNG HAUSBUNG in an interview today that this incident is linked with a previous incident in Wabag and the 2022 National Election political violence. He said, he will give a full status report of the incident once he gets a full report tomorrow, 25th June on what transpired. Mr. Rowatina described the burning down of the classroom as a ‘terrorist attack’. “Awareness is carried out and we are always telling them that we got the law-and-order operations team here, but these are terrorist actions.” “These fights are tribal fights and a spill-over off the elections in 2022.” He further stated that, once school resumes next week (1st July 2024), students will be relocated to other neighbouring primary schools like Wabag primary and 3 other schools to continue their academic calendar and learning.

The NCD Schools Rugby League competition’s second week of elimination round kicked off this morning at the Sir John Guise Stadium in Port Moresby. Moresby North East Coordinator Mr. Michael Anaya said, so far, a total of 9 schools remain in these elimination round and the finals to be held next weekend. The divisions for the boys are the U15, U17 & U19 boys team while the girls are U16 & U18. According to Mr. Anaya, the games played today (Saturday 22nd) are Fridays games which were pushed too today due to the field been occupied. Which means, the elimination round will see the last games played on Monday 24th June before they head into the finals over the weekend. Mr. Anaya said, this year saw around 20 schools in the North East area registered in this year’s NCD School’s Rugby League Competition. “That’s roughly around 50 plus kids playing from various registered schools.” He added that through this school’s rugby competition, they have seen positive changes in the students and want to continue to push talented young players into the Vipers Academy pathway program for international selections especially with the Hull Kingston Rovers in the UK. “From this level, we are preparing our students for the POM Vipers Academy which is a pathway program for the students taking part in these competition.” He added that, with the linked partnership with the UK Super League Club, 2 students who took part in the NCDSRL completion since 2021 and have been with the POM Vipers Academy have been selected in their scholarship program to study and play in the UK. “Two were selected and they’ll be playing for Hullkens and they are already in." "One is from Kilakila Secondary School and the other student is from La Salle Technical Secondary School." "This is a very good pathway for all our participating students.” Meanwhile, the first elimination round for the under 15s saw St Therese defeat Ted Diro 6-0.

The Autonomous Region of Bougainville Catholic Education Secretary, Mrs. Joyceanne Pinoko believes leadership starts at home. For her, raising good families helps to build a good community and, in turn, a robust nation. As the Secretary for the Bougainville Catholic Education Agency, it is a belief that she holds onto at home and in her work. “To be a leader one must demonstrate that they can take care of family, and this rolls out to the community and workplace,” Joyceanne said. One of 6 children of subsistence farmers, Joyceanne comes from Porubi village in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville. She credits her father with teaching her early on the importance of effective leadership. His ability to manage their farm with limited resources left a mark on her, shaping her belief that leadership is about caring for family, community, and the workplace. Joyceanne went on to have 6 children of her own, and when her husband passed away in 2011, the leadership qualities exhibited by her father came to the fore. “I was devasted, my emotions deeply impacted my mental state, I thought this was it for me and my kids, our dreams of seeing our children through to tertiary institutions was not going to happen,” she said. “I used to be too dependent on my husband but, after his death, I had no choice but to take up the responsibility of a father and a mother, I was able to pull through with the support of my family and colleagues,” Joyceanne said. She was determined to see her children complete their education. Her commitment to her late husband’s legacy bore fruit when her 2 eldest children completed college and obtained employment. It was the proudest moment of her life. At the time, Joyceanne was a teacher, a profession she had pursued since primary school, but she realized if she was going to give her children the best education opportunities she could, she needed to do more as a single parent. She strived in her teaching and other additional leadership responsibilities given to her by the school board and head teachers. A passionate educator, she was not afraid to challenge decisions made by head teachers and school board members when she felt the decisions were not beneficial to students and teachers. “I believe education is the way forward for our children." "We need educated people to work and develop our communities and the country. I believe in education for all, so I continue to be very vocal about education." When Joyceanne’s eldest children completed college and found employment, she was inspired to continue her own studies and enrolled in a Master of Educational Leadership at Divine Word University. In 2022, after 34 years of teaching, Joyceanne embarked on a new chapter as Catholic Education Secretary, entrusted with overseeing educational programs and teacher appointments across Catholic agency schools. Her leadership extends beyond administrative duties; she champions education as a catalyst for societal change, working tirelessly to ensure equitable access to quality education for all children in Bougainville. “After teaching for 34 years, there are some changes I hope to see and now, in my current role, I will work hard to deliver the best education to our children,” she said. Joyceanne has faced some challenges to her leadership roles over the years, including opposition to her appointments from male counterparts. “Men always ask what women can do in demanding positions? I have learnt that it is not about me, it is about what we can do together to bring the necessary education services into our communities,” she said. “I would like to encourage women in all walks of life not to give up on what you want to achieve. With a humble spirit, honesty, and commitment you will be successful in life." Joyceanne exemplifies the resilience and determination necessary to overcome challenges and has made a meaningful impact on her community. As she continues her mission to provide quality education for all, she remains steadfast in her belief that education is the cornerstone of a brighter future for Bougainville. With her leadership and dedication, she is paving the way for generations to come.

The ongoing fuel rationing in Port Moresby is unfortunately impacting some of Air Niugini’s scheduled domestic flights. Air Niugini’s Acting Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Gary Seddon while responding to public queries on flight disruptions said, safety is the airline’s outmost priority and will not be compromised. “The jet fuel supply chain is critical to Air Niugini’s operations." "It is highly regulated and we always ensure there is appropriate quantities of fuel to service our flight plan requirements before we operate any flight." Mr. Seddon said the dedicated men and women of Air Niugini are doing their best under difficult circumstances to provide a competent, safe air transport service and appealed for understanding from the traveling public. “Our team is doing its best under trying times and we do not tolerate unruly, abusive behaviour from certain disgruntled members of the traveling public.” Mr. Seddon said “Whilst the issue of fuel supply is entirely outside the airline’s control, we are committed to resolving the issue for the long term and we believe we are close to a solution, thanks to the support of the government, particularly Minister for State Enterprises, William Duma." “Ours is a complex industry, but vital to the development and growth of PNG." "Without a safe, successful, competent aviation industry, PNG would remain disconnected." “We must as a country tackle the fuel issues in the same way that we have been addressing issues of infrastructure and reliable aircraft-with innovative, transparent and appropriate investment programs." Meanwhile, Mr. Seddon acknowledges the unwavering support of Minister Duma and the Marape/Rosso government for the fleet replacement program and the airport infrastructure program.

The SP PNG Hunters have announced an exciting partnership with K92 Mining for the 2024 and 2025 Hostplus Cup Season. This collaboration marks an exciting development for both organizations as they join forces to enhance opportunities both on and off the field. “We are incredibly excited to announce our partnership with K92 Mining,” said Hunters CEO Scott Barker. “As we embark on the business end of the 2024 Hostplus Cup season, this collaboration presents a wealth of opportunities for our team and supporters alike. K92 Mining’s commitment to excellence and community aligns perfectly with our values, and we look forward to achieving great things together.” To launch the partnership, premiership winning hooker and SP PNG Hunters current assistant coach Wartovo Puara, as well as players, Epel Kapinias and Valentine Richard have joined forces with the PNG NRL Bid to visit the town of Kainantu as well as the K92 mine site during their bye week. The group visited schools, conducted coaching clinics and passed on their valuable knowledge of how sports can be used to bring communities together. PNG NRL Bid Development Manager Joey Grima said, “This is the first time that the PNG NRL BID, and the SP PNG Hunters have undertaken a joint initiative to promote rugby league to schools and communities in the Eastern Highlands and Morobe provinces.” “The visit also provided updated information about how the NRL BID is creating pathways and developing programs for rugby league sustainability.” They were able to engage the Community Rugby League Board and stakeholders and held a discussion with over 200 staff from the K92 mine. Throughout the three days, students, teachers, community leaders, and mine staff were incredibly excited to meet the (Hunters). The honesty and diligence with which each Hunters member spoke to the students, teachers, and staff were incredibly refreshing. Grima said “These men are truly future leaders and wonderful mentors, and the entire rugby league community should be proud of them.” “Despite it being their bye round, they insisted on spending their time engaging with the community.” John Lewins, CEO of K92 Mining said “K92 Mining are extremely pleased to be able to partner with the SP PNG Hunters and support our premier QLD Cup Team in their quest for success in the Hostplus Cup, beginning in the 2024 season.” “It was important for K92 that the values of the SP PNG Hunters align so strongly with our own, with their strong focus on engagement with schools and communities through Papua New Guinea.” “We look forward to a long and successful relationship with the Hunters”. Marcus Bai, K92 Superintendent Community Affairs commented “As a former Rugby League professional, I am very excited to see K92 mining partnering with the SP PNG Hunters and supporting them to be as successful as they can be.” “I believe that the commitment which the SP Hunters have to reaching out to our schools and communities will be fundamental to their success on and off the field.” “It was great to see them interacting with our schoolchildren, communities and employees and I am looking forward to K92 continuing to be involved with the PNG Hunters for many years to come.”

As people of Mulitaka area of Porgera-Paiela District in Enga Province were still in a state of despair and sorrow from the natural disaster, Dr. Sam Yockopua, one of their own sons returned back home as a beacon of hope and source of strength as he donated medical supplies and spent time with them from 12th-14th June 2024. Dr. Yockopua donated 23 cartons of medical supplies weighing 260kg, estimated nearly K60,000 consisting of antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, pain killers, ointments and povidone-iodine, bandages and plasters, and other supplies. The donation was presented at Mulitaka Health Centre (MHC) witnessed by representatives of Enga Provincial Health Authority (PHA) and was received by HEO OIC Andrew Noho. While receiving the donation, OIC Noho said, "We have been struggling with medical supplies for some time, and when the disaster struck us, we were also faced a medical supplies disaster.” “Your generous help will go a long way, not only here but all those surrounding communities as far as Nete, Lyaim, Yalyaim, and even Porgera area because the roadblock has also affected them.” While handing over the much-needed supplies, Dr Yockopua requested the Enga PHA to distribute supplies to all the health facilities in the affected communities including those in Tumundan, Porgera and Paiela. He also requested for reopening of Porgera District Hospital and upgrading and revitalizing of MHC given this opportunity. Dr. Yockopua acknowledged those who assisted in making this humanitarian work possible, which included Borneo Pacific Pharmaceuticals (22 cartons), CS Pharmacy Limited (1 carton), Air Niugini for free air freight POM-Hagen, Enga Provincial Government and Enga PHA for logistics support. "Even with my willing heart and mindset to help those in need, without their support, it would not have been possible", Dr. Yockopua said. Dr. Yockopua also spent some time teaching health workers on some basic Disaster Management in Health and how to recognize secondary waves of health problems. He has also planned to return a few days later to run specific training in collaboration with the National Department of Health and other stakeholders in Health. During the time, as their own educated elite, Dr. Yockopua spent some time with the local leaders who were heading the disaster relief coordination to resolve matters amicably to find common grounds. The Chairman of the local affected community, former Council President Jaman Yandam thanked Dr. Yockopua not only for the much-needed medical supplies, but also mediating the process between his committee and Enga Provincial Government. "Many of these things, we did not know how to do it. As a result, we were hitting brick walls and frustrating ourselves.” “Now that our leader and doctor has intervened, the Provincial Government understands us, and we too understand them.” “We will find common grounds to meet the customary obligations as our number one priority before we allow the road to be re-opened and normalcy to resume", said Mr. Yandam. Dr. Yockopua is now preparing to return with second wave of medical supplies, health training, and attend the customary obligation of "haus-krai" removal, and mitigate solutions for the way forward.

In commemoration of World Blood Donor Day on the 14th June, the Sir Brian Bell Centre for Transfusion Medicine marked 20 years of blood donations as well as honour and appreciate donors who make blood transfusion possible. The event saw the presentation of certificates and merchandises to individual donors, to the Don Bosco Technical School and Port Moresby National School of Excellence and partners like Goodman Fielder and many more. Port Moresby General Hospital Director Medical Services Dr Kone Sobi, highlighted the importance of blood donation, the statistics overview in terms of blood donors over the years, the aims and objectives of blood bank and a call out to donors. “It is very encouraging to see our blood bank team who have been collecting blood in the various institutions." "We have a huge challenge, both the health institutions in the country, the public and the corporate organizations to drive the message." "We need more awareness given to the general public,” he stated. Dr Sobi made a call out to the general public encouraging more people to come forward to donate blood. Speaking on behalf of WHO was Mr. Asaeli Raikabakaba, the Technical Officer for Essential Medicines & Health Technologies who expressed appreciation to the organisers of World Blood Donor day. “Each year on 14th June, you celebrate this important day, using it as an opportunity to thank voluntary unpaid blood donors for the life-saving gift of blood and raise awareness of the need for regular blood donations to ensure that all individuals and communities have timely access to safe and quality-assured blood and blood products." "Voluntary donors are part of our community and considered to be the source of the safest blood and blood products for patients.” “Transfusions of blood and blood products saves lives." "This places donors in a unique position, demanding special respect and care." "Their commitment to regular donations depends on our efforts to ensure their safety and well-being.” He said that WHO has been at the forefront of the movement to improve global blood safety since 1975, as mandated by the World Health Assembly. Mr. Raikabakaba extended his deepest gratitude to the thousands of voluntary blood donors in PNG, who have positively impacted the health and well-being of countless individuals in the nation. PMGH Blood Transfusion Committee Chairman Dr Carl Kingston acknowledged and thanked the donors who have made time to donate blood. “On behalf of the committee and the Port Moresby General Hospital we want to say thank you to the donors who throughout the years have stood with us in providing the specialist services that this hospital envisions.” “We reflect over 20 years and applaud those amazing individuals, corporate entities, schools, churches, embassies, foreign missions, societies and even staff of Port Moresby General Hospital who have made time to donate blood,” he stated. He said that the committee is committed towards achieving its vision of creating a safe and sustainable blood supply to support the management and bringing better health closer to our people. Under the theme "20 Years of Celebrating Giving," the Sir Brian Bell Centre for Transfusion Medicine with the key deliver partner being the Sir Brian Bell Foundation, collaborated with several business houses to establish a mobile blood collection site at Vision City from June 10th to 14th collecting 100 bags of blood.

An official PNG delegation responsible for combating corruption has updated the United Nations in Vienna, Austria on the country’s progress along with exchanging best practices with international partners. With support from UNODC and UNDP under the PNG Anti-Corruption Project, a major project funded by the European Union, PNG made strong contributions to the UN Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) Implementation Review Group (IRG), Working Group on Asset Recovery and Expert meeting to enhance international cooperation, at the United Nations in Vienna last week. Secretary of the Department for Justice and Attorney General and PNG delegation leader to the IRG Dr. Erick Kwa said, “PNG aims through UNCAC to prioritize its strategic interventions and mobilize resources in addressing gaps within our preventative measures, legislative and policy framework, asset recovery, international cooperation and foster strategic partnership arrangements with key institutions and development partners domestically, regionally in the Asia Pacific region and beyond.” Dr Kwa informed delegates from the 190 member States to UNCAC that PNG has established a fully functioning Independent Commission against Corruption (ICAC) with preventative, investigative and prosecution powers and has recently endorsed the ratification of the United Nations Transnational Organized Crime (UNTOC). Addressing corruption and building an integrity system within the country is a strategic priority of the current Papua New Guinea Government. PNG continues to be an active contributor and participant to advancing regional anti-corruption initiatives such as the implementation of Teieniwa Vision under the 21 member states Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat (PIFS), Dr Kwa said. The delegation also received briefings on the Stolen Assets Recovery Initiative, the Global Operational Network of Anti-Corruption Law Enforcement Authorities, from the coordinator of PNG’s MOU with Open Ownership, investigators and prosecutors from other national integrity agencies, the Delegation of the European Union to the International Organisations in Vienna and bilateral meetings with delegations and the UNCAC Secretraiat involved in PNG’s own UNCAC Country Review and its engagement in current Reviews of Samoa and Japan. Meanwhile, Mrs. Josephine A. Pitmur, Deputy Secretary, Department of Justice & Attorney General, presented to delegates on a panel on Technical Assistance on International Cooperation and Asset Recovery. Papua New Guinea also included a civil society representative in its official delegation - Mr. Peter Aitsi, Transparency International Papua New Guinea Chairman, who will report to local civil society groups upon his return. Mr. Daniel Baulch, Deputy Commissioner, PNG Independent Commission Against Corruption, was also a member of the official delegation along with Mrs. Roselyn Melua and Mr. Jeffery Murley from the Department of Prime Minister & NEC. The delegation was supported by the PNG Anti-Corruption Project, funded by the European Union, and identified a clear pathway forward to apply significant learnings from the conference and study visits to strengthen integrity mechanisms in PNG.

Maroons coach Billy Slater said the decision to leave Game One 'super sub' Selwyn Cobbo out of the side for Game Two came down to the fact the Broncos flyer is 'not quite 100 per cent at the moment.' Cobbo played 73 minutes in the backline after coming off the bench in Sydney but will miss the clash in Melbourne with Kurt Capewell returning to the side instead as a bench utility. "Selwyn has been playing with injections and I thought it was best thing for him personally and best for the team for him to have a rest," Slater said on Monday. "The Broncos have a bye this weekend and I’m pretty sure if the Broncos were playing this weekend he wouldn’t be playing for them." "He has just turned 22 and sometimes we forget these guys are still young men developing physically, they are still developing their game and building that consistency in their game." "I felt this was the right thing for Selwyn to have a break and he’ll be playing in a Maroons jersey before we know it again." Capewell will make his first Origin appearance since Game 3, 2022, and brings a wealth of experience to the Maroons bench. "Kurt has great versatility in his game, he has never let Queensland down," Slater said. "He was playing extremely well before he hurt his calf a month ago and I love the actions and the habits he has in his game. He's had two games back [from injury] and he's nice and healthy and looking forward to Kurt getting back out there in a Maroons jersey." In a huge positive for the Maroons. superstar fullback Reece Walsh will return for Game Two, with Slater having no concerns about the 21-year-old having no game time since he was knocked out in the series opener. "Reece has got clearance, he’s good. There was no thought to staying with Hamiso at fullback," Slater said. "Reece is Queensland fullback right now, Hammer is Queensland centre right now." "I saw a fair bit of form in Reece’s preparation [for Game One] and I'm looking forward to helping him go after that preparation again." "There is plenty to come in Hammer's game and I’m excited about helping him get there. His teammates have a responsibility to bring him into the game and we’ve got 10 days to work out how we do that." Eels forward J'maine Hopgood is out with a back injury that kept him out of Parramatta's clash against the Roosters on Saturday, with veteran forward Felise Kaufusi set for his 16th Origin appearance after being named on the bench. "Felise is a wonderful player. I played in a premiership winning team with Felise, I played for Queensland alongside him, he makes his footy team better," Slater said. "He did a great job in Game One to come on the field and perform the way he did as 18th man. "He has been a big part of this Queensland team over a number of years and now he gets his opportunity to prepare knowing he is going to be playing and he has really earned that," Another Maroons stalwart Dane Gagai – who played 22 Origins between 2015 and 2022 – has earned a return to the representative arena as 18th man, while Heilum Luki and Trent Loiero have been named in the extended squad as reserves.