The ongoing collaboration between PNG schools and India's Parul University has been praised by Prime Minister James Marape for facilitating a prosperous scholarship program for a select group of recent Grade 12 graduates from PNG. In a meeting with Parul University representatives earlier at Melanesia Haus, Prime Minister Marape expressed his satisfaction with the scholarship program's current state, citing information from local resource people and presentations from the Parul University team. Last month, 120 students from Hela Province schools departed for Parul University in India in a historic event. The majority of the successful students were selected from Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET) and Flexible, Open, and Distance Education (FODE) centers. Following Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent state visit to PNG, the PNG and Indian governments formed an education partnership agreement that made this feasible. Recognizing the collaboration, PM Marape urged more PNG students to enroll at Parul University in the future. “The number of Grade 12 students graduating every year in PNG is far greater than the quota or space available for them in tertiary institutions in PNG, resulting in a lot of them missing out.” “Since my government took office in 2019, our aim has been to create different pathways and avenues so that no child gets left behind in the education space of PNG.” “If there is no space for them in PNG, we can go overseas through partnership arrangements.” “In order to give some of our best students in the nation the chance to experience both the international working environment in a variety of professional fields and prestigious universities abroad, we developed the scientific, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) curriculum.” “We have sent groups of students to China, India, and the United States.” “Furthermore, we are creating avenues for PNG students to pursue higher education abroad through our bilateral ties with our friendly partners, such as India.” “I truly acknowledge Parul University for this partnership that has been fruitful with our students progressing well.” We look forward to expanding on this going forward.” Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science, and Technology Kinoka Feo was also present at the event. He thanked Dr. Devanshu Patel, the president of Parul University, and his team, and they talked about the different study programs that Parul University offers and that PNG students can pursue in relation to the country's development needs. Given that the provinces are located in key resource project areas, the scholarship agreement with Parul University will now be expanded. Meantime, Southern Highlands Province is considering supporting and joining the program. Southern Highlands Governor William Powi and Hela Governor Philip Undialu both attended the meeting. Prime Minister Marape also encouraged Parul University to partner with PNG universities such as Western Pacific University in Southern Highlands Province to deliver certain programs under the partnership, thus enabling people-to-people and knowledge-sharing between PNG and India to enhance greater cooperation between the two nations.

Title: Gladiator II (2024) Director: Ridley Scott Genre(s): Action, Adventure Rating: MA Duration: 2hrs 28mins Stars: Paul Mescal ∙ Denzel Washington ∙ Pedro Pascal ∙ Connie Nielsen “A gripping tale of how corruption can lead to societal collapse.” After his home is conquered by tyrannical emperors of Rome, Lucius (Paul Mescal) must fight as a gladiator in the Colosseum to survive. Although Gladiator II centers on Lucius getting revenge on his enemies, the film also carries heavy themes on colonization, corruption and its side effects. It demonstrates the palpable truth of how depravity within an empire can cause systemic and societal collapse leading to the possible end of even a powerful civilization. Denzel Washington’s character Macrinus, one of the villains in the story, is crafted in a way that makes it difficult to determine your stance – whether it be with the Romans or with the rebels. A captive from an African country who was sold into servitude with nothing and later rose to power, eventually ending the corrupt emperors’ tyranny, makes you want to root for him. However, he himself is not immune to corruption as demonstrated in the film. Macrinus’ deceitful methods of getting himself an influential position makes him no better than the depraved leaders running the empire. Additionally, Macrinus’ is a representation of the aftermath of colonization. When he finally gets ultimate control over the city’s affairs, he now has to deal with the chaos that ensues as a result of the former leaders’ corrupt rule as well as his own depravity – a striking image of the present-day situation of country’s who were once under colonial rule. No words need to be spoken about the movie’s rating, as the depiction of war, violence and brutality definitely earns its rating for matured audiences only. Audiences who did not watch the first instalment of Gladiator, may find it difficult to connect the story, otherwise director Ridley Scott has not fallen short of delivering a spectacular sequel to the beloved film.

The issue of gender equality and women's empowerment was discussed by Prime Minister (PM) James Marape on Wednesday, November 13th at the final day of the Women's Summit and Expo. He emphasized the significance of men's role in protecting and empowering women, starting in their homes, neighborhoods, and communities, as the solution to the gender equality problem. Drawing on his own experiences of avoiding domestic violence in similar situations, he utilized the platform to urge males in PNG to abstain from violence against women and domestic abuse. The Prime Minister was addressing the closing of the National Capital District Commission on Women and Girls' Empowerment's "NCD Women's Summit and Expo," a three-day summit and expo that started on Monday, November 11, 2024, and finished on Wednesday, November 13, 2024. Stakeholders from the public and business sectors, as well as the diplomatic community, convened for a three-day summit in the nation's capital to examine challenges that require government assistance. On behalf of the males, Prime Minister Marape then took the time to apologize to the nation's female residents for not doing more to protect and empower women and girls. He claimed that although women make up half of the population and contribute to the nation's progress, they are hindered by the male population's lack of support. In PNG, where matrilineal customs are prevalent and women are cultivated as leaders and hold title positions in land ownership, he emphasized the traditional responsibilities that women have played in society. Although they did not own land and were unable to speak directly at clan and tribe meetings, Prime Minister Marape also emphasized that women still held a position of authority in the patrilineal areas. "We have lost our way along the way, and we need to change that now as the 50 years of self-determination arrive." The Prime Minister emphasized that the safeguard and empowerment of women must start at home. "I call on all the men and boys whose families have grandmothers, mothers, sisters, nieces, and daughters to step up in their roles as the champions of women empowerment in their families." He continued by saying that the national government's efforts will only make the work of the international community obsolete with the help of the families, which form the foundation of society. He urged all boys and men in PNG to take the initiative and support the cause of women's empowerment in their households. The Prime Minister also promised the women of PNG that his government would continue to fund safety and women's empowerment initiatives in the nation, which they had initiated during the 2020 pandemic, and pledged to mobilize support from the National Parliament to address the recommendations made during the summit. In his appeal for harsher punishments for those who commit gender-based violence, Prime Minister Marape urged women to report such crimes to the police, let the rule of law take its course, and refuse to have their cases dropped when the offenders offer a compensation settlement.

With great pleasure, Hilton Port Moresby Hotel & Residences announces that on Sunday, December 15, 2024, the much-anticipated Christmas Under the Stars for Charity event will return for its sixth year. In celebration of the season of giving, this endearing evening is expected to unite families, local communities, and supporters of two outstanding philanthropic organizations. The occasion serves as a forum for the community to come together in support of those in need and is a component of Hilton's dedication to hospitality and corporate responsibility. Hilton Port Moresby will focus its efforts this year on assisting the Well Women's Clinic and the WeCare Foundation, two organizations that have significantly improved the lives of many people in the area. By providing essential programs in Early Childhood Development, Women's Empowerment, Special Needs assistance, and Educational Assistance, the WeCare Foundation has been a ray of hope for marginalized communities since 2007. The work of the foundation demonstrates the transformational potential of empathy and communal cooperation. The Well Women's Clinic has been giving women in the area vital medical care, education, and therapy for more than 15 years, giving them the tools they need to change their futures. Hilton is pleased to back these groups that keep improving people's lives. "Christmas Under the Stars for Charity" is a key component of Hilton's global CSR program, Travel with Purpose, which aims to make a lasting good influence on the environment and society. We are proud to support two groups whose work genuinely epitomizes the generosity and sense of community that this annual event produces. The public is welcome to attend the event, which will be held at the Hilton Port Moresby Amphitheatre from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM. The Hilton Hotel Reception and the WeCare Foundation office in Waigani are currently selling K5 raffle tickets, and guests are urged to attend by making a gift. A fantastic evening full of family-friendly entertainment is in store for attendees, featuring storytelling, magic displays, dance routines, choir performances, solo musical acts, and a special visit from Santa Claus. Everyone will find something to enjoy, fostering a joyous and cozy atmosphere that perfectly captures the spirit of the holidays. Ryan Mikkelson, General Manager of Hilton Port Moresby, shared his enthusiasm for the event. “We’re incredibly proud to host this event year after year.” “Over the past five years, we’ve raised over K100, 000 in cash and in-kind donations.” “This event has become a meaningful way for businesses, corporate partners, and individuals to give back to the community.” “We look forward to continuing this tradition in 2024 and making it an even more special occasion.” Hilton invites everyone in the community to join in this celebration of kindness, joy, and giving. Whether you're a local business, a family looking for a memorable holiday experience, or an individual eager to make a difference, we encourage you to come together and share in the spirit of Christmas with us. For more information or to learn how you can get involved, please visit Hilton Port Moresby at Wards Road, Hohola, or contact us via email at POMSM_FO@hilton.com or by phone at +675-7901-8000.

Friends of POMGen is no stranger when it comes to supporting patient needs at Port Moresby General Hospital. While it is commonly assumed that Friends of POMGen only takes care of the Labor Ward, in actuality, Friends of POMGen helps patients throughout the entire hospital. Speaking to the Operations and Communications Lead, Grace Roland expounded on its operations further stating that Friends of POMGen ‘provide a solution to patient care’. “While the hospital is focused on making sure patients receive medication and treatment, we are here to make sure the patients are as comfortable as possible.” “If a ward has patients that require certain care, or cannot afford basic supplies while admitted at the hospital, Friends of POMGen conducts these appeals to assist these patients.” She added that while appeals are usually done when patients have specific need, donations can be given any time. Items that can be donated include; Infant & adult clothes, food, infant formulas and toiletries. Roland states that Friends of POMGen wants to encourage more people to donate, which in turn benefits those in need. She also stressed the importance acting upon one’s conviction for the betterment of PNG and not just shifting the blame to those in power. “People like to blame the government for unfavorable circumstances but what are you as a Papua New Guinean - as an individual doing about this?” “If you’re so concerned about the country, what actions have you taken to help?” Recently, Friends of POMGen have sent an appeal on November 5th asking for donations of: Infant formulas Toilet rolls Baby soaps Baby wipes Bath soaps Colgate+ toothbrush Biscuits Juice boxes Tinned food New baby & adult clothes For more information you can call or message: 73946322.

The usual practice of Grades 8s not going back to school after sitting for their exams ceased with the students returning to classes. Under instructions from First Assistance Secretary Peter Kants, all Grade 8 students were to return to class as well as teachers, to continue teaching due to preparations of discontinuing Grade 8 National Examinations. Speaking to PNG Hausbung, New Erima High School’s Principal Mr. Yalo Kipungi, confirmed the preparations for the implementation of the education policy of 1+6+6 in which students will spend a year in early childhood education development, six years in primary school and six more years in secondary school, is progressing. “We are shortly coming into the period where Grade 8 exams will be discontinued, and students will simply proceed into Grade 9 in the education.” Currently, there is the 3+6+4 program in which children attend elementary school for three years, primary school for six years, and secondary school for four years, with exams in grades eight, ten, and twelve. When asked about the distribution of the Government Tuition Fee Subsidy (GTFS), Mr. Kipungi responded unsurprisingly that New Erima, like many other schools in the country, constantly faces delays when it comes to receiving funds and consequently many schools find it difficult to continue operating during the academic year. He further said that the responsible authorities should look into this matter and ensure that GTFS funds are distributed in a timely manner to all schools in the country going forward, as many schools rely on these fundings to function right throughout the year.

Title: Lea Tupu'anga/Mother Tongue (2024) Director: Vea Mafile'o Genre(s): Drama, short Duration: 17mins Stars: Luciane Buchanan • Albert Rounds • Mikey Falesiu “A simple yet powerful and thought-provoking film.” Lea Tupu'anga/Mother Tongue centers on a young Tongan/European speech therapist named Katherine (Luciane Buchanan) who is disconnected from her Tongan heritage. To secure a job, she lies about her Tongan language skills. However, she must find a way to communicate with her patient Siaosi (Albert Rounds) - an elderly gentleman who has lost his ability to speak English due to aphasia. This film explores themes of cultural identity and communication barriers. Sub-themes include family, grief and loss. The overall tone of the film conveyed was that of somberness. Cinematographer, Maria Ines Manchego does an excellent job establishing the seriousness and desperation of the situation Katherine finds herself in. The ubiquity of the color grey evokes a feeling of a sad depressed state. Director Vea Mafile'o alongside the film’s cast and crew does a splendid job showing the challenges of being culturally alienated and the struggles of learning a new language. Lea Tupu'anga was a simple yet emotionally triggering and thought-provoking film. I recommend this film for all Pacific Islanders regardless of whether you are Polynesian, Melanesian or Micronesian. Issues addressed in Mother Tongue are applicable to us who have experienced a disconnect from our indigenous identity through colonization, displacement, interracial marriages or similar circumstances that which have caused a compromise in our identity.

Student’s enrolled in Buk bilong Pikinini’s (BbP) Early Childhood Education program are currently in the process of sitting their final and second progressive test before graduating in December. The BbP Monitoring and Evaluation team at one Library Learning Center (LLC) is keeping a careful eye on the test outcomes. In collaboration with Sanitarium, Market 2000, and the Australian Export Consortia, BbP has been testing a breakfast program as part of its recently launched Nutrition Education program. The program's goal is to assess the learning impact of consuming a nutritious and high-fiber breakfast prior to class. The first trial began in September and will continue until graduation in 2024. A second, longer trial will take place from January to June in 2025. The benefits of early monitoring are already evident. Before class each day, the students are given a breakfast consisting of Weet-Bix cereal and oat milk. Martin Tawaheyana, BbP’s Monitoring & Evaluation, and Programs Coordinator observed the results. “Beyond the physical benefits of a healthy breakfast, the impact of the Sanitarium Breakfast Project is starting to show within the classroom environment.” “Teachers have noted a marked improvement in the children’s attentiveness and alertness following breakfast.” “This increased focus is contributing to higher levels of engagement and participation across various classroom activities.” “Many children, who were previously more reserved are now actively involved, showcasing greater energy and interest in learning.” “Teachers attribute this positive shift to the sustained nutrition provided by the breakfast program, which seems to be enhancing the students’ ability to concentrate and retain information.” Furthermore, the project is fostering a sense of community among the students. Before the official school day starts, students can engage with their teachers and each other in a casual setting by sharing breakfast together, which has turned into a bonding activity. By strengthening a sense of camaraderie and belonging that extends into the classroom, this shared time fosters an inclusive atmosphere. Absenteeism is currently extremely low as a result of this. The goal of the BbP Nutrition Program is to help parents and kids become "nutritionally literate" and recognize the value of eating a balanced diet for both learning and overall health. Through a collaboration with Trukai Industries, a picture book and a nutrition exercise and guidebook were released in 2024. In the academic year 2025, the program will be fully implemented across all of BbP's LLCs. Buk bilong Pikinini’s published Nutrition Education textbooks are available for purchase from Theodist and CPL outlets and also directly from Buk bilong Pikinini’s office and webshop: https://bukbilongpikinini.charity/.

Champy Maians has navigated a path from Graduate to Business Improvement Manager, in just four years, showcasing how determination and proactive learning can shape a remarkable career. Graduating in 2020 with a degree in Food Technology from the Papua New Guinea University of Technology, Champy joined Coca Cola Europacific Partners (CCEP) on May 2nd, 2020, as part of the Graduate Development Program. Management was immediately impressed by her ambition, work ethic, and desire to change things. "As a recent graduate, I worked my way through several departments, learning about the manufacturing process and the function of each area in the company." Champy was able to determine where she might contribute, particularly in production, thanks to these rotations. "The management encouraged me to take on business improvement initiatives after recognizing my production strengths." As a result, CCEP gave her a position as a Production Analyst, allowing her to make significant adjustments. In light of her quick development, Champy thinks her proactive strategy helped. "I always look for ways to help the team, even beyond my designated tasks; it's all about your attitude." “Contributing ideas, proposing solutions, and speaking up when I see areas that need improvement are key.” “Management appreciates when you’re not just focused on your job but on making things better for the business overall.” Champy is a firm believer in self-development, taking responsibility for her own growth and actively seeking opportunities to upskill. While her journey has been rewarding, she acknowledges the challenges she’s faced, particularly as a fresh graduate in a traditionally male-dominated environment. “Driving change straight out of school wasn’t easy; you’re trying to introduce new ideas, but it’s tough to be heard; respect and good communication are crucial.” Building relationships with colleagues was essential to her success, and she learned to handle setbacks thoughtfully. “If there’s resistance, I take time to reflect and then have one-on-one conversations with colleagues to understand their perspective.” “It helps to focus on our shared business goals, so everyone feels they’re working toward the same target.” Training received during her graduate rotations has been a significant factor in her growth. “The skills I learned—time management, presentation skills, advanced Excel, and root-cause analysis—were instrumental.” “They didn’t just help me perform in my role; they gave me tools to lead initiatives and drive meaningful change.” These experiences prepared her well when she took on more responsibility, eventually becoming a manager. Now overseeing a Business Improvement Analyst, Champy adopts an inclusive approach to leadership. “My team member’s focus is logistics, but I encourage her to expand into other areas of Supply Chain as well.” “Gaining a broader understanding helps her see the bigger picture and fosters her professional growth.” She finds that offering support and empowering others is as crucial to her role as meeting business targets. Champy believes that CCEP is an excellent place for graduates to grow, and she offers practical advice for those just starting their careers. “Take ownership of your career, know what you want to gain, and be proactive in reaching out for support.” “The opportunities at CCEP are there, but it’s up to you to make the most of them.” “Always build connections across different functions—you’ll learn so much from others.” Mentorship has also played a vital role in Champy’s journey. “Our coaching and feedback sessions provided structure and guidance that have been key to my development.” Her focus now is on gaining a well-rounded understanding of CCEP’s supply chain operations and how they drive the company’s success. “In the next five years, I want to be fully equipped with insights that contribute to CCEP’s growth and to be someone others look to for support and guidance.” Driven by strong work ethics, Champy constantly challenges herself to improve. “Every day, I aim to be a better version of myself - setting high standards is what keeps me moving forward.” Balancing work with personal life is essential, too. “During work hours, I’m fully focused, but after work, I value my family time. “Recharging over the weekend keeps me ready for the week ahead.” For Champy, family, faith, and career remain her anchors, and she’s eager to continue contributing to CCEP’s success while encouraging future graduates to embrace growth and learning along the way. CCEP is committed to local capability and creating a sustainable, locally led future for our business.

Markings for Grade 8 National Examinations have wrapped up, concluding the overall markings for all National Examinations in the country. The markings for grade 8 examinations began on Tuesday 29th October and ended on Wednesday November 6th, 2024. Unlike the Grade 12s, markings for Grade 8s (and Grade 10s) took place in NCD as well as in respective provinces. Speaking to PNG Hausbung, Principal for New Erima High School Mr. Yalo Kipunigi, stated that examination results should be out withing three to four weeks' time. “Results should be out by late November, that’s within four weeks,” he said. “It really depends on how fast each province completes marking. If there are delays, we might see results out by early December.” In spite of the possibility of a delay, he was positive that results would be ready on time. Grade 8 National Examinations began on October 21st and ended on October 24th, 2024. The Grade 8 Examination Timetable was as follows: October 21st (Monday), Session 1: English Paper 1. October 22nd (Tuesday), Session 1: Mathematics. October 23rd (Wednesday), Session 1: Combined Subjects. October 24th (Thursday), Session 1: English Paper 2.

Gordons Secondary School’s Kokofa Athletics Club will be holding a fundraising walkathon on Saturday November 16th in order to support their 25 athletes who will participate in the Athletics PNG’s National Championships next month. Speaking to the contact person John Gitiri, he stated that the athletes also require new sets of uniforms. “Basically, we want to purchase new uniforms as well as other necessary equipment such as medical kits.” The club’s target amount is K3, 000, however, Mr. Gitiri believes the club may reach more than that due to overwhelming responses from interested parents and former students. He added that the inclusion of social media in spreading the message has helped greatly. The Walkathon will begin at Hunter Street at 6:30am and end at Ela Beach. K1, 000 for a group of 10 individuals and K5 or more for individual sponsors. Participants are to walk up and down Hunter St, turn right through Champion Parade, then turn left along Stanley Espalande around Bramell St (Paga Ring Rd), and finish at Ela Beach. The Kokofa Athletics Club was established in 2013 during the Inaugural Southern Regional Championships.

Tubusereia Primary School in the Central Province recently received 17 desks and chairs for its lower primary students with the assistance of Kina Bank through its Kina Bank Strongim Komuniti Grants (SKG) program. Small-scale initiatives that complement Kina Bank's sustainability and community service values are supported by the SKG program, which is only available to Kina Bank employees. Staff members are invited to apply for grants every three months to help them carry out a small community initiative in their local communities. One of the grant beneficiaries, Senior International Operations Officer Susanna Guru, applied for seats and desks for her community school. She expressed gratitude to Kina Bank for the support, stating that the school desks will be of tremendous service to both the Tubusereia community and the school. "I am grateful to my employer, Kina Bank, for this grant, which will support the education and growth of Tubusereia's children." As part of their community service project, Guru and her coworkers from Kina Bank's International Operations division also donated school supplies in addition to the desks. After accepting the donations, school principal Kwara Kwara thanked Kina Bank. "There are not enough desks and chairs at our school to accommodate the 937 students." “The majority of our pupils sit on the classroom floor, particularly those in lower primary school. These resources will enable our pupils to grow, learn, and achieve.” Through a number of community initiatives that prioritize issues including women's empowerment, environmental preservation, water and sanitation, education, and health, Kina Bank is committed to helping its local communities.