Parents, guardians and family members witnessed over 260 students from the School of Humanities and Social Sciences (SHSS) graduate today at the Sir John Guise indoor stadium in Port Moresby in the forth day of the University of Papua New Guinea's (UPNG) 69th graduation ceremony this week. A total of 261 students graduated from various disciplines including 11 Honors recipients. Acting Vice-Chancellor Professor Cecelia Nembou in her address to the students congratulated the students on their successful completion of their studies while also highlighting difficulties they will face during post-graduation period. “Graduation day is the certification of the successful completion of your studies and the confirmation of your arrival in the adult world of many realities.” “Some of you were fortunate enough to secure a job after exams while others are still searching; there is the reality of professional standards in the workplace – of work attire, punctuality, discipline and the timing of receiving promotion but only if you work hard and impress your superiors.” “Additionally, there is the temptation to partake in immoral and corrupt practices.” “Whether or not you conduct your life according to a moral compass is the reality of personal responsibility and decision making – you are now in control of your life.” Also present at the ceremony as guest speaker was Ms. Susil Nelson-Kongoi, the Chief Executive Officer of the PNG Institute of Banking and Business Management (IBBM), who emphasized on the significance of humanities in society. “You have a unique perspective on how societies function, evolve and connect – you understand the importance of human relationships, cultural heritage and social justice, which are critical for building a sustainable and just world.” “Nation building requires more than just infrastructure and economics, it requires a deep understanding of people who make us a nation.” “Your education has equipped you to be leaders in these areas – you have the tools to bridge divides, foster understanding and advocate for positive change.” She also spoke words of support and encouraged students to embrace change, to be resilient and to be authentic in their lives.

The Sir John Guise Indoor Stadium in Port Moresby city was once again flooded with blue gowns for the third day of the 69th University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) graduation ceremony this week as 175 students from the School of Natural and Physical Sciences (SNPS) graduated today. Guest speaker, the Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science and Sports, Don Polye, acknowledged the students for their efforts and also the parents, guardians and sponsors involved in helping the graduating students develop their academic skills and eventually receiving their degrees. He proceeded to highlight the significance of such an event in the students’ lives calling it a journey full of dedication, perseverance and the relentless pursuit of knowledge. He also acknowledged the financial difficulties parents face in the process of getting their children to university. “For a person who attends graduations annually, this is a common occurrence, but for the students who studied and the parents who have worked tirelessly for their children to be here, this is a very crucial and long-awaited moment.” “As a parent myself, I am aware of the circumstances surrounding the process of getting children to university, the countless hours pondering whether or not you did the right thing in order to help your child graduate, the cost of a university education – which on average can cost up to K30, 000.” Graduand Respondent, Ms. Jemimah Makabe recognized the growth of her fellow students in their academic journey. “We demonstrated unrelenting knowledge seeking, a spirit of inquiry and a dedication towards solving some of the most pressing challenges facing society today.” “We have delved into the complexities of the natural world, explored the frontiers of scientific discovery and refined our skills as critical thinkers and problem solvers.” “Beyond the pursuit of academic excellence, we have also learned invaluable life lessons in resilience, perseverance and collaboration.” “We have navigated the challenges of higher education with grace and determination and developed an ability to overcome adversity and adapt to new circumstances.” Meanwhile, in his parting speech, Executive Dean of the School of Natural and Physical Sciences, Professor Simon Saulei encouraged the students to always treat everyone regardless of who they are with utmost respect. “Being a degree holder does not give you the right to look down on others who do not have the same privileges and opportunities as you – always be humble and respectful.”

Armed with a vision to transform Madang Province, this is not the first time that youth and community leader Kurere Matanzana initiated, took action and delivered to schools in Madang throughout early April, distributing school supplies, giving leadership talks and engaging with community members.  Matanzana visited a host of elementary, primary, and secondary schools in both rural and urban locations. Amongst those visited was his former school, Tusbab Secondary, where he was invited by Scripture Union to speak during their combined fellowship at the James Marape hall and subsequently addressed the Grade 11s and 12s. “I shared about my personal experiences, the choices I made in my life their outcomes, what challenges I faced and how I overcame in the hopes that the students who are in the similar situations can be encouraged.” “By listening to what I went through in my life, I trust they took away a few valuable lessons to remember and which may guide them in their own lives as young people.” During the fellowship he had spoken to about a thousand students including teachers, ancillary staff members and key stakeholders, emphasizing on the importance of being wise whilst referencing scriptures, specifically Luke 2:52 [“And Jesus increased in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and man.”] and 1 Samuel 2:26 [“Now the boy Samuel continued to grow both in stature and in favour with the LORD and also with man.”] “As a young person, how do you grow in wisdom, in stature and in favour with both God and man?” “How do you grow in such qualities while in class, in school, and in your community?” “Those were the questions posed and answered when referring back to scripture.” Matanzana also engaged in community dialogues with head teachers in other schools, key individuals like councillors and teachers who support early childhood education. “Apart from community talks, I assisted teachers set up plans on starting early childhood learning programs.” Stationeries delivered included exercise books, reading books, papers, charts, colours, and writing utensils.

Buk Bilong Pikinini’s (BBP) Lae, Unitech Library Learning Centre (LLC) and Manus Library Learning Centre were fortunate to receive new and refurbished ablution block facilities with support from BBP’s Platinum sponsor, Bank South Pacific (BSP). BBP’s Founder and Vice Chair, Anne-Sophie Hermann spoke on the circumstances surrounding the need for these facilities. “Lae Unitech LLC needed an entire new toilet for the children and team and the Manus LLC needed a renovation of the existing ablution block.” “BSP sponsored us through the BSP regional community funding pool.” “A total of K30, 000 was spent on the renovation of the ablution block and toilet each as part of the community funding in each location.” “This includes two toilets and two hand basins as well as a floor fully tiled with a 1, 000 litre water tank installed.” BBP’s children and staff in Morobe celebrated the donation of new toilets at their Lae, Unitech LLC. Meanwhile, the same amount of gratitude was expressed towards the renovation of the ablution block at BBP’s LLC at Manus. BBP thanked Roslyn Kanini and Lionel Kamiak from BSP Lae Eriku Branch, and BSP Lorengau Manager Donnie Paniu and team Kips Ponga and Mathew Yaru for being present for the opening of the new facilities at their respective locations.

The inaugural Highlands Regional Youth Games (RYGs) will take place at the National Sports Institute (NSI) in Goroka, Eastern Highlands province from July 1st to July 6th, 2024. This was confirmed by Highlands provincial and district representatives at the RYG Consultative Meeting in NSI Goroka last week. Ms. Siviri Lalave, the provincial administrator's Community Development Advisor, acknowledges that Easter Highlands province was awarded the bid to host the inaugural Highlands Regional Youth Games. She went on to say that the games will help address youth issues in the province through sports. The event will be hosted in collaboration with non-governmental organizations and churches. Mr. Joe Itaki, Chairman of the RYG Council, stated that the Regional Youth Games are a rural-focused sporting concept developed through a tripartite partnership between the National Youth Development Authority (NYDA), the PNG Sports Foundation, the Department of Community Development, and Religion. The goal is to bring sporting codes closer to rural youths by involving them in LLG trials, District champions, and ultimately competing at the regional level to be recognized as regional champions. It provides a pathway for rural youths to be exposed to mainstream sporting events, with the possibility of being scouted for future development. This program also includes a day of cultural activities and religious services for all denominations. Meanwhile, the Acting Provincial Administrator for New Ireland province, Mr. Richard Andia recently confirmed Kavieng to host the Inaugural Regional Youth Games for the New Guinea Islands (NGI) region after the bidding was approved by the RYG Council Chairman, Mr. Joe Itaki and PNG Sports Foundation Executive Director, Mr. Albert Veratau at the Kavieng Beach Resort. All provincial and district representatives agree with the decision; the games will take place between September 9th and 13th during the term three school holidays. The Council Chairman, Mr. Itaki emphasizes that resources are shared by the three agencies, as well as the host province. The two regions of Southern and Momase held theirs in 2022 and 2023, respectively, with over 5, 000 audiences, players, and officials congregating in Madang and Alotau, boosting the informal sector business space. Preparations are underway to host the Regional Youth Games this year in Goroka and Kavieng districts. Corporate support sponsors are welcome.

Kiwi great Adam Blair says securing James Fisher-Harris on a four-year deal is among the biggest signings the Warriors have made in their three-decade history. A triple premiership winner and the reigning Golden Boot recipient, Fisher-Harris will link with the Warriors at the conclusion of the current NRL season after being granted a release from the remaining two years of his contract with the Panthers. Blair said in picking up ‘JFH’, the Warriors have managed to swap one top-three prop for another, with the 28-year-old coming in to replace Sharks-bound Addin Fonua-Blake. “You lose one top-three prop at the end of the year and you gain one,” Blair told NRL.com. “The comeback of Shaun Johnson [in 2022] was quite big, but this one – given nobody would have thought it was happening in the background – it’s one of the biggest signings for the Warriors. You never would have thought you’d be able to get James Fisher-Harris back to New Zealand at this stage of his career. He’s in prime form. Adam Blair “It’s exciting for the Warriors and it just adds to the momentum they have already generated. “This is what you want for the Warriors, that top homegrown talent coming to the club. "The Warriors have gained a special player.” After falling short earlier this year in their pursuit of Braden Hamlin-Uele, who instead signed on for another two seasons with the Sharks, it looked like the Warriors may miss out on signing an experienced replacement for Fonua-Blake. But with Fisher-Harris now secured, the club has the majority of their top 30 squad for next year confirmed, with Jazz Tevaga and Shaun Johnson their only currently players without a deal in place beyond this season. And Blair says the arrival of JFH could now also be a crucial factor in whether or not Johnson opts to play on again in 2025. “When Shaun heard about Roger [Tuivasa-Sheck] coming back this year, that most probably made him want to play another year," Blair said. "Maybe it’s the case again and we will get Shaun for another year. "For most players when they get to the back end of their career, you’re wanting to know what’s coming and how that will suit you. “This is what players look for… it’s something Shaun will think about when he sits down to think about 2025.” Having worked alongside Fisher-Harris during his time as an assistant coach at the Panthers in 2021 and 2022, Warriors coach Andrew Webster said he’s looking forward to linking back up with the 183-game veteran. “I loved working with him at the Panthers and we really look forward to bringing him into our system from next season,” Webster said. “He’ll add terrific value to our roster, to the club overall and he’ll also be invaluable as a mentor for our young players coming through. "He’s one of the game’s elite players, a super tough forward who sets and demands the highest standards.” Source: NRL.Com

Buk bilong Pikinini (BbP) recently conducted its annual teacher refresher training at APEC Haus in Port Moresby for the organizations’ 50 teachers working in its Library Learning Centres around the country. The training was sponsored by ExxonMobil PNG (EMPNG) as part of a partnership, which also includes sponsorship for the BbP learning App as well as BbP’s Literacy Week program and celebrations. The training was opened by EMPNG representatives Belinda Gurra, the Planning and Contribution Supervisor, Public and Government Affairs Contributions Supervisor, and Sarah Llewellyn, the Community and Development Support Lead. The first two days of training focused on digital skills, internet safety, and classroom technology management. The BbP IT and Digital Learning team also taught teachers how to effectively teach children how to use tablets, navigate the BbP App, flipbooks, audio books, educational videos, as well as what not to do with technology to ensure the children's safety at all times. The training also included a session on observing children's behavior and learning characteristics in order to improve their behavior and facilitate their learning. The monitoring and evaluation session provided additional information about the skills required for accurate data collection and record keeping. BbP continually monitors the students enrolled in its Early Childhood Education program, and teachers must be able to collect adequate data about the children's progress. This includes BbP's popular After-School program, which has a high attendance rate. In addition, the teachers received updates on the organization's HR policies, Nasfund, NCSL, media events, and new program activities. Certificates of participation were presented to the teachers by EMPNG representatives Radley Gaksy and Dorcas Aula, attached to the Public and Government Affairs Department in EMPNG. BbP also took the occasion to thank ExxonMobil PNG for their sponsorship of the training. This was followed by a 17th birthday celebration for Buk bilong Pikinini. BbP was founded in 2007 and opened its first Library Learning Centre in 2008.

Six people have been killed and several others injured, including a nine-month-old baby, in a mass stabbing at a busy shopping mall in Sydney, Australian police said. Police were called to Westfield Bondi Junction on Saturday afternoon local time following reports of multiple people stabbed. Witnesses described scenes of panic with some forced to hide in shops as the attack unfolded. New South Wales (NSW) police commissioner Karen Webb said four women and a man died at the shopping mall, while another woman passed away at the hospital. She said that eight people are currently being treated for injuries in hospitals around Sydney, including a nine-month-old infant who has been in surgery. The suspect - who police said acted alone - was shot dead at the scene by a lone officer. NSW’s Assistant Commissioner Anthony Cooke said a senior police inspector was nearby when the attack unfolded. She arrived on the scene first and was alone when she engaged with the attacker. She shot the offender when he raised a knife at her. “She discharged her firearm, and that person is now deceased,” Cooke said. Webb told reporters that current elements do not point to a terror motive, but said that the investigation will be ongoing “for many, many days” and that it is “too early to say” what was behind the attack. According to Webb, police believe that the suspect was a 40-year-old man but as background checks remain ongoing, she could not provide further identification details. A law enforcement source briefed on the investigation told CNN the suspect had no prior contact with Australian counterterrorism officials, but had had at least one encounter with New South Wales Police in the past related to mental health issues. [caption id="attachment_51308" align="aligncenter" width="1015"] The attack sparked panic inside the mall. The motive was not immediately clear. David Gray/AFP/Getty Images[/caption] The officer who shot him was also seen in videos on social media administering CPR to those who had been injured. Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called the officer a hero who “no doubt saved lives.” The suspect encountered nine people after he entered the mall at 3:10 pm local time, according to police. He left and reentered the mall at 3:20 pm before carrying out his attack. ‘Pandemonium’ Videos shared on social media show shoppers running from multiple exits of the shopping center, while police helicopters can be heard overhead. CNN’s Australian affiliate, 9 News Sydney, spoke to an eyewitness who said people were running through the shopping center and falling over each other, describing the situation as “pandemonium.” Two male eyewitnesses told 9 News they saw a baby and mother stabbed. “We were holding the baby and trying to compress the baby,” one said. “Same with the mother, trying to compress the blood from stopping.” Another witness described seeing a man in a green shirt stabbing others “indiscriminately.” “[We just heard] screaming, screaming and it didn’t seem that long before we heard ‘boom boom boom’ of the gunshot and we thought, ‘We hope it’s the police,’” the witness told Australia’s state broadcaster ABC. “It was just carnage.” In a televised address, Prime Minister Albanese said the attack was “beyond words or understanding.” He continued: “Today Bondi Junction was the scene of shocking violence. But it was also witness to the humanity and the heroism of our fellow Australians. “Our brave police, our first responders, and of course everyday people who could never have imagined they would face such a moment.” Leaders and dignitaries from around the world expressed their shock at the attacks. Britain’s King Charles III, who is head of state in Australia, said he and his wife Queen Camilla are “utterly shocked and horrified” by the killings. Pope Francis said he was “deeply saddened,” according to a statement from the Vatican. Mass casualty events are rare in Australia. At least four people were killed and one injured in a mass shooting in Darwin, northern Australia in 2019. April 1996 saw a mass shooting which became known as the Port Arthur massacre – the deadliest in Australia’s modern history – when 35 people were killed in the tourist town in the state of Tasmania. Source: CNN News

The President of Gulf Music and Culture Association recently announced their official certification by the Investment Promotion Authority (IPA) of Papua New Guinea (PNG), making it a legal entity recognized by the National Government. The Association was founded with the mission of preserving and promoting Gulf Province’s unique music and cultural heritage. President of the Gulf Music and Culture Association, Mr. Alex Anthony expressed his delight over the successful certification of the Association. "This recognition validates our efforts to promote the music and culture of the Gulf Province and will open up new opportunities for us to further our mission." As a legally recognized entity, the Gulf Music and Culture Association will now be able to expand its reach to a wider audience. The association plans to collaborate with other organizations, artists, and institutions to create more opportunities for Gulf musicians and performers to showcase their talent on a global scale.

Students of Jame Primary School in Maprik, East Sepik Province have recently been granted essential support from BSP through its Wewak Branch’s Community Project, an initiative that showcases the corporation's commitment to uplifting local communities. BSP Wewak Branch Manager, Philip Solala, emphasized the dire circumstances facing the school, especially concerning the poor and unhygienic condition of the ablution block. Over the past 12 years, the school's 800 students have had to make do with inadequate Pit Toilets, resulting in heightened health risks not only for the students but also for the neighbouring communities. “Our Wewak Branch staff volunteered their weekends to help the school by building a new ablution block for both male and female students and also installed a new water tank for drinking and general use.” “The 4-week project saw our staff’s efforts assist eliminate health and sanitary threats the school and surrounding communities faced over the last 12 years; this is our way of giving back to the communities we operate in.” Head Teacher Michael Ginio, his staff, students, and the surrounding community thanked BSP for the timely assistance during the project handover last month. Maprik town Mayor - Paul Dingu, and LLG President Henry Ariro who were among attendees at the project handover were very pleased and acknowledged BSP’s effort in giving back to the communities.

Coca-Cola EuroPacific Partners PNG continues to provide several opportunities for tertiary graduates, including the Graduate Development program, Apprenticeship program, and Internship Program. Over the years, CCEP PNG has implemented an Internship Program during mid-semester breaks and at the end of the school year to provide selected students with technical hands-on experience relevant to their degree of study. Adlyn Nagwi, Head of People & Culture, stated that this program allows university graduates to gain experience working for a leading beverage manufacturing company such as Coca-Cola. “The three-month internship program recently started in December of 2023 and enabled four students to be attached at our Lae and Port Moresby offices, where they were able to learn and acquire technical skills on the job that complimented theories they learnt back in schools’.” The candidates were selected from a pool for tertiary students and were from the University of Technology and the Pacific Adventist University. “We believe that any opportunity we can provide to students that have graduated from any tertiary institution will assist in their growth as they pursue further employment, and this is continue to be an ongoing commitment from our business to build young talents”. CCEP PNG firmly believes that investing in people and providing opportunities for young Papua New Guineans contributes significantly to the company’s performance as well as to the individual

PNG youths have the chance to show their knowledge, comprehension, and writing skills as one of the world’s longest-running writing competitions opens up – the Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition. The competition opened on March 15th, and this year it is most significant as it marks 75 years of the Commonwealth, of which PNG is a member. Annually, thousands of young people participate in the essay competition which highlights and recognizes accomplishments, elevates youth voices, and develops critical skills through creative writing. It invites participants to reflect on how they deal with adversity, as well as how community and culture can be used to foster resilience and hope in a world affected by an increasing number of global issues. Categories are open for those born on May 16, 2005, to May 15, 20210 – this is the senior category for youths aged 14 to 18. The junior category is for those under 14 years of age – born on or after May 6th, 2010. Essays are based on four questions per category. Senior Category: 1. “It’s worth remembering that it is often the small steps, not the giant leaps that bring about the most lasting change.” – Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. What small steps can you take to help tackle the climate crisis? 2. Write a speech highlighting what you think is the most challenging issue facing the world today, and how Commonwealth values can be used to solve it. 3. At the heart of the Samoan way of life is ‘aiga’, meaning ‘family’ values including selflessness, hospitality, cooperation, respect, and dignity. What core values and ideas from your culture can be used to enhance cooperation and community in the Commonwealth? 4. The Commonwealth’s London Declaration aimed to strive for peace, liberty, and progress. Write a letter to your President or Prime Minister about how to achieve those aims. Junior Category: 1. What new habit could you adopt to positively contribute towards a greener Commonwealth? 2. Write a dialogue between yourself and a grandparent about resilience and hope. What can you share with the older generation, and what can you learn from them? 3. You are taking part in a beach clean-up and discover that you can speak to sea creatures. What are they saying, and how do you respond? 4. You’re on a school exchange in a Commonwealth country different to your own. How do you make friends with people your age? (Consider similarities and differences in culture that may unite you). Last year’s winners in the senior category were Annika Turon-Semmens, then 16, from Adelaide, Australia, and the runner-up was then 15-year-old Hiya Chowdhury, from Uttar Pradesh in India. In the junior category, the winner was Shreeya Sahi, then 12, from Panchkula, India, and the runner-up was Ariadna Sullivan, then 13, from British Columbia, Canada. For those who wish to take part this year, entries close on May 15th, 2024, and more information on how to enter the competition can be found at www.royalcwsociety.org. All successful entries receive a Certificate of Participation, and a number of entrants will receive Gold, Silver, and Bronze Awards for excellence in writing. The top two winners from each category this year receive a paid trip to London for a week of educational and cultural events, culminating in a special Awards Ceremony at the royal palace. www.royalcwsociety.org