Pope Francis arrived at Sir John Guise Stadium this morning at approximately 9:30am, greeting the enthusiastic crowd of young people swarming the stands and track. PNG Catholic Youth representatives took to the stage, speaking on the challenges faced by the young people, highlighting problems such as unemployment, broken families, abuse and poverty. "These issues prevent our young people from living their hopes and dreams." "We believe our purpose on this earth is to live in obedience to the Father, as Jesus did." Prior to his arrival the stadium erupted in joyous singing and dancing, as young people praised and worshipped God.

Pope Francis has just arrived at the Sir John Guise stadium here in Port Moresby city to commence his final engagement on his trip to PNG, and that is to speak to the Catholic youths. Gathered here this morning are Catholic agencies school in Port Moresby city along with youth groups from the outside Dioceses that came for the Pope's visit. Over 20, 000 Catholic youths are present here at the stadium. The event started with performances from the people of Kairuku in Central province and youths.

Title: Beetlejuice Beetlejuice (2024) Director: Tim Burton Rating: PG-13 Genre: Horror/Comedy Duration: 1hr 44mins Stars: Michael Keaton ∙ Winona Ryder ∙ Catherine O’Hara ∙ Jenna Ortega After the passing of Lydia Deetz’s (Winona Ryder) father, three generations of the Deetz family return home to Winter River. Things take a turn for the worst when, Lydia’s teenage daughter, Astrid Deetz (Jenna Ortega) accidently discovers the portal to the afterlife. Faced with no choice, Lydia must summon the one person for help that’s been haunting her for so long – Beetleguese (Michael Keaton). Tim Burton once again delivers with his signature style, artfully blending gothic horror and whimsical fantasy. Complete with low lighting, impeccable song choices, CGI, and eccentric costumes and makeup, the Beetlejuice sequel like other Tim Burton movies is weird, wacky and wonderfully entertaining. The sequel no different from the first movie, requires parental guidance as certain scenes contain sexual innuendos, mild adult jokes, references to the occult as well as blood and gore. Themes of grief, death and family are prevalent throughout the film. In the movie, all three Deetz process grief over the loss of family members differently. Lydia Deetz whose ex-partner passed away, took steps to recover by going to a therapy camp and eventually meeting her fiancé. Astrid Deetz, takes out her anger on her mother Lydia, while Delia Deetz uses her husband, Charles Deetz’s death as inspiration for her next art piece. Exposition was long and tedious due to multiple characters being the focus. Even though Lydia Deetz is one of the main characters, her story is rather bland and only gets interesting once it intersects with another character’s. For instance, after Astrid enters the afterlife, this prompts Lydia to make a risky decision to summon Beetleguese – a decision which almost costs Lydia her own life. Additionally, there’s the subplot of Beetleguese’s ex-wife seeking to reunite with Beetleguese in the afterlife, which despite being successfully woven into the main plot of the story drags on the exposition making it almost skip worthy. It is unlikely that Tim Burton wanted Beetlejuice Beetlejuice to become a box office hit, but indeed it has become that thanks to his directing and the nostalgia that comes from seeing past films. I’d recommend it for all Tim Burton fans except for young children due to the nature of the material.

Papua New Guinea is joyously anticipating the 49th anniversary of its independence, and the thriving village of Hiri-Koiari is looking forward to the events that will take place from September 14th to September 16th. This auspicious occasion marks the start of the Hiri-Koiari Trade and Cultural Festival, which will be hosted in Edai Town on the outskirts of Port Moresby city. The objective of this festival is to pay honor to the deep-rooted tradition of the Hiri trade while also promoting economic prosperity and cultural interchange within the prestigious Hiri-Koiari District. Amidst the colorful array of events, the festival will offer a notable trade fair dedicated to modern business methods, as well as a beautiful cultural showcase. This platform not only promises unrivaled business opportunities, but it also aims to foster a better awareness of the district's unique past. Furthermore, the festival has placed a strong emphasis on empowering women through the strategic growth of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME). The event envisions a future in which women-led SMEs can not only prosper, but also benefit from critical safety nets and vital learning opportunities. This comprehensive strategy symbolizes the festival's main purpose of inclusive economic and cultural progress, ensuring that all participants are prepared for success and collaboration during these transformative times.

South Pacific Brewery is proud to announce its support of K10,000 for the 68th Goroka Show scheduled for the 14th – 15th September in Goroka. Aaron Japu, Highlands Region Sales Manager at SP Brewery, expressed the company's support for cultural activities that celebrate tradition and bring communities together. "SP Brewery has maintained a long-standing partnership with the Goroka Show since 1975, as it is the biggest cultural show in the Highlands region." Keryn Hargreaves, the Show's Chairlady, accepted the sponsorship on behalf of the Organizing Committee. "We are pleased to welcome SP Brewery as one of the Goroka Show's longest-standing partners. SP Brewery's ongoing funding helps keep cultural events like the Goroka Show running. "We thank SP for recognizing the efforts of the Goroka Show executives and look forward to delivering another successful Goroka Show." Japu concluded by announcing that SP Brewery will have a booth at the showground on the 14th – 15th September and will conduct responsible consumption of alcohol awareness emphasizing the importance of moderation and responsible drinking. “As part of our show day activation, we aim to advocate and raise awareness on responsible alcohol consumption and emphasize our commitment to social responsibility.” SP Brewery invites all showgoers who are +18 years old to visit their booth.

Catholic students will not be having classes on Monday as they will be participating in a Youth Festival as part of celebrations for Pope Francis’ visit to the country. Principal for Don Bosco Technical Secondary School, Mr. Martin Dai clarified activities that not only students from DBTS but also other Catholic Schools who wish to participate will be attending. “This occasion is very significant to us, because our Pope will be here and he would like to meet the youths.” “He wishes to speak to the young people and offer encouragement – that is one of his intentions of visiting the country.” “Participating youths are there to listen to him speak.” “Most of our country’s population consists of youths, therefore it is important that we give this opportunity to our youths.” According to the Vatican, Pope Francis is scheduled to meet the youths as follows: Monday, Sept. 9 (Port Moresby) — 9:45 a.m is his meeting with young people at the Sir John Guise Stadium.

Throughout August, Bucket of Love Foundation in Kimbe, West New Britian have distributed essential resources to local villages through donors. The team consisting of founder Tiana Reimann and with logistical support from: Liamo Reef Resort and Baia Sportfishing PNG, who provided transportation from Kimbe to Kove villages during a liveaboard sportfishing expedition with Australian tourists and Kimbe Bay Shipping Agencies, who handled shipping from Australia to Kimbe Port. Over 500 students on various islands in the Kove & Gloucester region, including Potne Village, Kilenge Village, Tamuinai Island, Lagoon Point received buckets (donated by Ballina Memorial Pool and Waterslide), sporting equipment (donated by Somerville House and purchased in Kimbe Town), reading books (donated by BOOKS 4 PNG KIDS) and various stationery (purchased in Kimbe Town). When asked what prompted these donations, Reimann responded that these villages have a disadvantage when it comes to accessibility of such resources. “One of the primary struggles for students is obtaining basic stationery items like pens and exercise books, hindering their ability to learn and succeed.” “Furthermore, the scarcity of water on the islands poses a significant threat to the health and well-being of the villagers. “Retrieving fresh water from the mainland requires a laborious canoe ride, making our donated buckets a vital lifeline.” Reimann further explained that the benefits of buckets go beyond just storing fresh water. “These buckets can also be used for laundry and dishwashing, waterproofing valuables and safely storing food from rodents.” She added that since receiving the donated items there has been significant improvement in the villager's livelihood. “The exercise books and stationery directly improve their classroom learning, while the buckets indirectly help them with their domestic chores by offering a stable way to store water and other necessities.” “Furthermore, the sporting equipment promotes a sense of community and social connection, encouraging students to participate in physical activity, form new friendships, and develop a lifelong love of sports, which in turn, encourages healthier, more active lifestyles and strengthens communal relationships.” “By addressing both academic and extracurricular needs, our donations create a positive ripple effect that reaches well beyond the classroom, encouraging students to excel in all parts of life.” Reimann thanked the organizations that assisted in making these donations possible and adds that the foundation is seeking like-minded individuals and partnerships to collaborate and make an impact in communities. “Before discarding items, consider the potential value they could bring to others.” “Your thoughtful donations can bridge the gap for marginalized communities, empowering them to thrive.” “Every individual has the power to create positive change.” “By donating, volunteering, or spreading awareness, you can be a force for good.”

As part of its Climate Change and Environmental Diplomacy Project, entitled "Love Your Nature Park, Protect Our Biodiversity," Port Moresby Nature Park has been carrying out tree distribution within the city since August 15th, to selected schools, churches and communities. A total of 701 trees have already been distributed in NCD. Locations include Waigani Primary School, Paradise College, University of Papua New Guinea (Demography & Population Studies Association), First Steps School of Tomorrow, Don Bosco Technical Institute Residents, Jubilee Secondary School, Bomana Primary School, Port Moresby Business College, Metago Theological Bible College and Porebada Primary School. According to POM Nature Park, their goal is to encourage social and behavioural changes that promote biodiversity conservation and build a more environmentally friendly Port Moresby. "We want to promote reforestation and afforestation (planting new trees or sowing seeds in areas where there were no trees before), raise environmental awareness, and enhance the beauty of our capital city through the distribution of trees." "Our mission is to inspire individuals, families, and children to embrace sustainable practices, with the goal of fostering a greener and more sustainable future." "We aim to engage more children, communities, and organizations in tree planting activities and tree justice dialogues to promote social cohesion and environmental stewardship." POM Nature Park is striving to achieve NCDC’s goal of planting 1 million trees in the Nation's Capital.

The 19th Garamut Na Mambu Festival under the theme: “Promoting and Preserving Our Diverse Cultural Heritage”, is set to take place from September 12th to 14th, 2024 at Sir Michael Somare Stadium in Wewak, East Sepik Province. The festival which celebrates two of the most iconic traditional instruments in the Momase Region: the Garamut (slit drum) and the Mambu (bamboo flute) will alos feature spectacular arts displays, traditional dances, singing and include various other cultural activities performed by children. Invitation for participation have been sent out since early August to cultural groups, contemporary art groups, tertiary institutions, schools, traditional artists and craftsman in the Momase region to showcase any of the following activities: Painting exhibition Fashion display Floral display Traditional dishes String band Theatrical performances Traditional dances The Garamut Na Mambu festival brings together people from across the region to highlight and promote these cultural assets.

The National Department of Education, Teaching Service Commission, Department of Higher Education, Research, Science, and Technology, and the Australian High Commission will hold a Teacher Expo in Port Moresby's Sir John Guise Stadium on September 19 and 20. The Expo intends to address the issue of a qualified teacher shortage in Papua New Guinea, where, as in many other nations, the number of teachers has not kept up with the expanding student population, posing a challenge to the country's education sector. The future prosperity of all Papua New Guineans is inextricably tied to educational performance, and motivated and skilled teachers are critical to achieving great educational results. To attract more people to the teaching profession, the value of teachers needs to be recognized with opportunities for professional development. The Expo will bring together education institutions, training providers, professional bodies, programs, and organizations that support PNG's teaching staff and education sector to promote teaching as a noble vocation and emphasize the necessity of investing in the teaching workforce. The Teacher Expo will inspire school leavers to seek a teaching career while also providing current teachers with information on how to improve their teaching credentials. High school and university students, teachers, and anyone interested in a teaching career should attend the Expo to get information and resources from around 30 stalls representing education-related organizations, as well as attend a series of presentations, masterclasses, and panel discussions. Australia is supporting the Teacher Expo alongside the National Department of Education, Teaching Service Commission, Department of Higher Education Research Science and Technology through the Partnerships for Improving Education program.

Coca-Cola Europacific Partners (CCEP) continues to provide a starting platform for young Papua New Guineans by engaging 15 youths to work in its operations. CCEP are the latest partners to sign up with the Urban Youth Employment Project II (UYEP II) by providing an internship program. The 15 interns are registered with UYEP II and started this week working at CCEP’s plant sites in Lae and Port Moresby. Head of People & Culture Adlyn Nagwi said this three-month internship program is a win-win case for both parties with CCEP committed in providing short term work experience for young Papua New Guineans. “We firmly believe that by investing in people and providing short term employment opportunities, we help to lay the foundation by giving them exposure in working in a global company like CCEP.” Nagwi said ten interns will be based in Lae and five in Port Moresby and will be attached to the Supply Chain and Commercial departments. “This is the first time CCEP has signed on to this program and we were impressed with UYEP’s detailed training module that covers all aspects of this short-term employment by grooming these candidates to meet the basic standards of any employer.” UYEP II Internship Coordinator for NCD, Vivian Ningis said the partnership with CCEP is a significant step towards empowering the next generation. “I thank CCEP for coming on board to provide meaningful job opportunities and skill development as we are not just investing in the youth but also in the future of our communities.” Ningis stated that prior to the 15 interns starting with CCEP, they were required to complete a 50-day work readiness training. UYEP II Internship Coordinator for Morobe, Fred Firinu said that CCEP’s commitment to this initiative marks the beginning of a partnership as these youths embark on their three-month work experience. This opportunity is a crucial component of the UYEPII project. “We ensure that all our youth undergo this mandatory training which includes physical fitness, basic life skills and urban work services before they are shortlisted to work.” The UYEP is a World Bank-funded initiative aimed at increasing youth employability opportunities through training, job matching assistance, placement and wage subsidy. The Project aligns with the Government’s GoPNG key strategies for human development, wealth creation, and poverty reduction.

The Papua New Guinea Olympic Committee (PNGOC) is aiming to officially open nominations for the 8th PNG Sports Hall of Fame today (04/09/2024), to give Papua New Guineans an opportunity for their favorite accomplished athlete to be recognized for their performance in their respective sporting codes. To be considered for nomination, candidates must meet the following criteria: Have been retired from competitive sports for at least five years. Possess a distinguished record of achievements, including but not limited to, medals won, records set, and a notable career span. Have represented Papua New Guinea at an international level. Have demonstrated influence and made significant contributions to sports and communities in various capacities. The PNGOC established the Hall of Fame in 2011 to recognize and preserve the legacy of PNG athletic greats. This yearly event recognizes those who have made outstanding contributions to sports in PNG and brought pride to our country. The occasion will be held on Thursday, October 17, 2024. Current inductees in the PNG Sports Hall of Fame include: -Sir John Kaputin (Athletics) -Edward Laboran (Athletics) -Nigel Cluers (Swimming) -Salita Pitpit (Athletics) -Tumat Sogolik (Boxing) -Jackson Seeto (Weightlifting) -David Seeto (Weightlifting) -Oe Ivaharia (Athletics) -John Kokinai (Athletics) -Raki Leka (Athletics) -Naomi Polum (Athletics) -Kenneth Hopkins (Boxing) -Kea Kapulu Schwarz (Netball) -Charles Martin (Swimming) -Iammo Gapi Launa (Athletics) -Geua Tau (Lawn Bowls) -Sibona Oka (Weightlifting) -Tau John Tokwepota (Athletics) -Joseph Turia (Soccer) -Veitu Diro (Basketball & Netball)