The Consultative Implementation and Monitoring Council (CIMC) Natural Resources Sectoral Committee has brought together government agencies, development partners and industry stakeholders to review progress and identify concrete actions aimed at strengthening Papua New Guinea's natural resources sector.The meeting, held today at Lamana Hotel in Port Moresby, marked the Committee's fourth sectoral meeting since its restoration in 2025 and focused on reviewing action items from previous meetings while addressing emerging priorities across forestry, fisheries, land administration, biodiversity conservation and climate change.Speaking at the opening, CIMC Executive Officer Wallis Yakam said the meeting provides an opportunity for stakeholders to strengthen coordination and ensure agreed priorities are translated into practical outcomes."The meeting is a vital mechanism for stakeholders to align, review current action items and address the coordination gaps that hold the natural resource sector back. By strengthening collaboration across government, industry and civil society, we can modernise our laws and deliver balanced economic, environmental and social outcomes for our country," Mrs. Yakam said.Among the key presentations was an update from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), highlighting its work to accelerate sustainable community development and renewable resource management across Papua New Guinea.UNDP Assistant Representative for Environment and Climate Change, Joshua Sam, said collaboration remains central to achieving long-term sustainable development."Our approach is very similar to the same commitment that this committee has already made. We want to work and collaborate with everyone who is working in the sector, and we hope we can have an impact from policy right down to very remote communities across the country," Mr. Sam said.The Climate Change and Development Authority (CCDA) also presented updates on Papua New Guinea's REDD+ program and climate finance priorities, outlining ongoing work to strengthen policy frameworks, carbon market readiness, international reporting and institutional capacity to support sustainable forest management and climate resilience.CCDA Manager for REDD+, Terence Barambi, said continued collaboration across government agencies will be critical as Papua New Guinea advances its climate finance and forest conservation agenda.The meeting is expected to conclude with stakeholders agreeing on concrete actions to guide future work across forestry, land administration, fisheries, biodiversity conservation and climate change.

On Sunday, July 19, Spain became FIFA World Cup 2026 champions after defeating defending champions Argentina but for football fans around the world, it wasn't just the result that captured attention.It was a remarkable series of "19" connections surrounding Spain's young star, Lamine Yamal. Yamal who just turned 19 years old, wore Spain's number 19 jersey, and lifted the World Cup on July 19. Even more remarkably, 19 years earlier, he had appeared as a baby alongside Lionel Messi in a UNICEF charity photoshoot.What began as an ordinary charity campaign in 2007 has since become one of football's most talked about stories.At the time, Messi was a 20-year-old Barcelona star with a bright future ahead of him. No one could have imagined that the baby in his arms would one day become one of football's brightest talents and help Spain win the World Cup against Messi's Argentina nearly two decades later.Across social media, football fans highlighted the remarkable "19" coincidences, with many describing them as an extraordinary example of synchronicity and the symbolic passing of the torch from Lionel Messi to Lamine Yamal.Supporters pointed to the unusual alignment: the charity photo was taken 19 years before Spain's triumph, Yamal wore number 19, Just turned 19, and the final was played on July 19. Whether viewed as coincidence, synchronicity or simply an extraordinary sequence of events, the pattern has fascinated football supporters worldwide. Beyond the numbers, however, the story reflects one of football's greatest traditions with the passing of generations. Lionel Messi defined an era, winning almost every major honour in the game, including the FIFA World Cup in 2022. Lamine Yamal now represents the emergence of a new generation, carrying the hopes of Spain and millions of young football fans around the world. The photograph of Messi holding baby Yamal has since evolved from a simple charity image into a symbol of football's unpredictable journey.No one can say whether the connections mean anything beyond coincidence.But football has always been about more than trophies and statistics. It lives through emotion, unforgettable moments and stories that become part of the game's folklore.For many football fans, the story of Lamine Yamal, the baby once photographed with Lionel Messi who returned 19 years later as a World Cup champion, has become one of the most remarkable narratives to emerge from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

What looked like a day of games and friendly competition at IBS University was, in reality, a practical lesson in business, giving secondary school students a chance to experience the skills needed beyond the classroom.Ten (10) secondary schools from the NCD and Central Province gathered for the 3rd IBS University Management Fest, an initiative designed to build leadership, confidence, critical thinking and entrepreneurship through interactive business challenges.Held on Friday, July 17, students stepped away from their classroom learning and into real world business scenarios through activities including Business Pitch, Business and Math Quiz, Map Wizard, As Manager, Recycle Mania, Selfie Reel, Minute to Win It and Ramp Walk.The event was organised by students from the School of Business Management (SOBM) and members of the IBSU Business Entrepreneurs School Association (BESA) under the leadership of SOBM Student President and BESA CEO Daniella Katu.Months of preparation went into organising the festival, beginning with invitations sent to around 20 schools across NCD and Central Province. Eleven schools accepted the invitation, bringing together hundreds of students eager to test their abilities outside the classroom."We started by inviting around 20 schools and received responses from 11," Daniella said."Our team handled everything, from sending invitations and organising decorations to assigning facilitators for every activity."Daniella said every challenge was carefully designed to help students develop practical skills required in business and everyday life."Anything you think a businessperson should have, we're trying to develop through these activities."Rather than focusing solely on competition, the organisers wanted students to discover their strengths while encouraging teamwork, communication and problem solving.Daniella said the greatest success of the festival would not be measured by trophies, but by the confidence students take back to their schools and communities."We want our students to become more confident so they can return to their schools, lead their communities and create positive change," she said.She added that he hopes many participants will one day continue their education at IBS University and pursue careers in business and entrepreneurship.For many students, the event provided their first opportunity to experience business beyond textbooks.And speaking with PNG Haus Bung is a group of students from Koiari Park Adventist Secondary School, that participated in the Selfie Reel challenge, they said the activities were both enjoyable and educational."The experience was really good. At least now we have a better idea of how to promote our products in the future."While the Management Fest concluded with prizes and celebrations, its greatest achievement may have been inspiring students to think differently about leadership, innovation and entrepreneurship.

NCDC Social Development Directorate has donated K50,000 worth of musical instruments and PA system to Bomana CS Prison to strengthen one of the institution's key rehabilitation programs that helps inmates reconnect with communities through the prison ministry outreach and awareness activities within Port Moresby.While receiving the instruments on July 16th 2026, Bomana Prison Commanding Officer Chief Superintendent Yelly Oiufa thanked NCDC and said the donation would significantly strengthen the prison ministry and noted that ministry has changed a lot of inmates in Bomana and as become a key activity in rehabilitating inmates.He said rehabilitation is about more than serving a prison sentence.It is about helping inmates reflect on their actions, change their behaviour and prepare for life after prison and the ministry has played a significant role in that.Chief Superintendent Oiufa said the prison ministry gives inmates an opportunity to share their testimony with communities through outreach, awareness programs in the city."We have to play our part in making the city a better place to live because many of the inmates who have come in here have already changed," he said.He said one of the biggest challenges facing the ministry has been the lack of reliable musical equipment, with ageing instruments requiring constant repairs while transport and operational costs have limited outreach activities."There are many talented musicians inside but one thing that we needed badly was musical instruments because when live music is played during outreach programs in public areas, it attracts people and that's when the message can be shared with the wider community," he said.Chief Superintendent Oiufa said the new equipment will now allow inmate rehabilitation teams to independently conduct outreach and community awareness programs across Port MoresbyRepresenting NCDC's Social Development Directorate, Director Benson Hahambu described the donation as another important step in the MOU between NCDC and Bomana Prison "This presentation follows the dialogue that we have started as we move towards a solid partnership. The MOU is currently with our legal team for final vetting," he said.Mr Hahambu said once the MoU is finalised, it will provide a framework for additional rehabilitation pathways These include support for inmates who wish to continue their education through Flexible Open and Distance Education (FODE), as well as opportunities under NCDC's Community Development Directorate to help former inmates transition into community-based contract work after their release."Within one of our divisions, we have pathways to support education. For inmates who want to continue with school, we can support them," he said.The donation, made through the directorate's Family, Gender Equality and Women Empowerment (FGEWE) Branch.Acting Manager for the Family, Gender Equality and Women Empowerment Branch Lucia Komatep said the donation reflects NCDC's commitment to building safer communities through rehabilitation.She said the musical equipment will strengthen inmate outreach programs that promote respect for women and girls, peaceful communities, and responsible citizenship.Ms Komatep said inmates' personal experiences carry powerful messages that can discourage crime and inspire positive behavioural change, particularly among young people.She encouraged inmates to use the equipment responsibly and continue serving as ambassadors for rehabilitation within the community.For Bomana Prison, the donation represents more than new musical instruments.It strengthens one of the institution's key rehabilitation programs, using music, faith and community engagement to help inmates rebuild their lives while encouraging safer and stronger communities in Port Moresby 

With Papua New Guinea's 2027 National General Election drawing closer, concerns over election security, violence and the credibility of the electoral process are once again taking centre stage.This week on the Yu Stori episode produced by PNG Hausbung, we asked a simple but important question: Can authorities guarantee a safe and secure 2027 election?Many listeners said increasing police recruitment would help improve security, while others called for stronger deployment of all three Joint Security Forces, the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC), Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) and Correctional Service (CS), at polling stations across the country to maintain peace, security and neutrality throughout the election period while some stressed that the government should make it known to the general public that everyone understands Civil education as it is essential to the national elections.The discussion highlighted one common expectation from the public that authorities must be better prepared than they were in previous elections.As part of the discussion, we also heard from Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary Commissioner David Manning, who reaffirmed that providing a safe and secure environment for elections remains the Constabulary's core responsibility.Speaking during the 2027 RPNGC National General Election planning meeting, Commissioner Manning said election security was not a new responsibility for the police but acknowledged that preparations for 2027 would be more demanding than previous elections.He said Papua New Guinea's growing population, increased number of electorates and greater logistical challenges would require stronger planning and leadership."Our policy is to provide an environment that is safe and secure to conduct elections. It is our responsibility to allow an opportunity or enable people to exercise their rights to cast their votes."Commissioner Manning reminded police officers that the role of the Constabulary is to remain neutral throughout the election process."It is not for us to determine outcomes. It is not for us to determine how elections should be conducted. Ours is a neutral and enabling partnership with the Electoral Commission."Reflecting on lessons from the 2022 National General Election, Commissioner Manning said police must openly examine previous challenges and strengthen coordination with the Papua New Guinea Electoral Commission to avoid repeating past mistakes.He also warned that election operations would place significant pressure on police resources, including personnel, logistics and funding, adding that accountability and strong leadership would be critical throughout the election period."One bad decision by one of you in this room can have catastrophic results."The discussion then turned to an international perspective.Speaking following the Joint Election Security Workshop, International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) Senior Country Director Michael Yard said Papua New Guinea's election security challenges reflect a growing global trend where political leaders refuse to accept election results, often contributing to unrest and violence.Drawing on his experience supporting elections in more than 50 countries, Mr. Yard said peaceful elections depend not only on good planning, but also on political leaders accepting legitimate election outcomes."Unfortunately, over the last decade or longer, I've seen a trend towards politicians never accepting the outcome of an election."Mr. Yard said another major challenge is funding.While acknowledging the importance of planning between the Electoral Commission and security agencies, he said those plans cannot succeed without adequate financial support."Funding for both institutions is absolutely critical. No matter how much planning the institutions undertake, if they don't have the funding to implement those plans, then it's impossible to provide adequate electoral security."He noted that during the recent Local Level Government elections, both the police and the Electoral Commission experienced operational challenges because of limited funding and resources.The three-day Joint Election Security Workshop brought together senior officers from the RPNGC and PNGEC under IFES' Enabling a Peaceful Environment to Administer Credible Elections (E-PEACE) program to strengthen security coordination ahead of the 2027 National General Election.As this week's discussion showed, delivering a peaceful election is not solely the responsibility of police, election officials or the Government.Authorities have a duty to provide security, maintain neutrality, and ensure the electoral process is conducted fairly. However, political leaders, candidates, supporters, and voters also have an important role to play by respecting the democratic process and accepting legitimate election outcomes.A safe and credible election cannot be achieved through security operations alone. It requires adequate planning, enough funding, strong leadership, responsible political conduct and the cooperation of every Papua New Guinean.As the country moves closer to 2027, one message remains clear: the integrity of the election will depend not only on the institutions that manage it, but also on the choices made by every citizen.

Government accountability came under scrutiny in Parliament yesterday after Opposition Leader and Chuave MP James Nomane questioned the delay in the release of the 2025 Financial Budget Outcome (FBO), a key report that outlines how public funds have been spent and allows Parliament to scrutinise the Government's financial performance.Raising the matter during the second day of the Third Sitting of Parliament on Wednesday, July 15, Mr. Nomane said the report should have been presented by March 31 in accordance with the Fiscal Responsibility Act 2006 but had still not been tabled four months later.The Financial Budget Outcome is an annual report that compares the Government's approved budget with its actual revenue, expenditure and fiscal performance, providing Parliament and the public with an opportunity to assess how public funds have been managed.Questioning Treasury Minister Ian Ling-Stuckey, Mr. Nomane asked why the report had not been presented to Parliament."Where is the 2025 Financial Budget Outcome that clearly outlines to the people of Papua New Guinea how the Executive Government has spent the people's money? When is it going to be published?"Mr. Nomane said Parliament was already approaching August and called on the Treasurer to explain when Members of Parliament would have the opportunity to debate the report."We want the Treasurer to explain to the House when we could expect him to bring the report to the floor for debate, discussion and deliberation."Responding to the question, Treasurer Ian Ling-Stuckey acknowledged the concern raised by the Opposition but did not explain the reason for the delay."I thank the Opposition Leader for his prudent question."Mr. Ling-Stuckey told Parliament the Financial Budget Outcome is expected to be tabled during the next sitting of Parliament, scheduled for August or September."The FBO will be tabled at the next Parliament session in August or September this year."The Financial Budget Outcome is one of the Government's key fiscal accountability reports and plays an important role in ensuring transparency over the management of public finances by allowing Parliament to examine whether government spending aligns with the approved national budget.

The Department of Finance is pushing to modernize the way public money is managed by training government agencies to transition from paper cheques to Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) as part of broader public financial management reforms under the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA).Speaking during the awarding presentation of certificates for the Department of Finance's Public Finance Management Act Training attended by officers from the Office of Censorship, Finance Secretary Samuel Penias said the Government is working towards phasing out cheque payments by 2027 while strengthening compliance with the PFMA across the public service.He said the reforms are aimed at improving accountability, transparency and efficiency in the management of public funds."All the private sector has gone cheque less, except for us," Mr. Penias said.The Department has already begun rolling out Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) systems in the provinces, with the latest rollout taking place across the Momase Region.Mr. Penias said he wants all government agencies to ensure payments and repayments are processed electronically by 2027."I'd like to see all agencies of government ensure repayments are done online or through the EFT process by 2027," he said.Mr. Penias said the long term goal is for government agencies to completely move away from cheque payments, adding that once the transition is complete, government cheque printing is expected to cease."Bank of Papua New Guinea will not allow any more cheque printing in government."He acknowledged the transition would take time as government agencies continue upgrading their systems and adapting to digital payment processes."We need to start slowly and get EFT done."Alongside the digital payment rollout, the Department has introduced a new seven volume Financial Management Manual, designed to help public servants correctly apply the Public Finance Management Act and strengthen financial governance across government agencies.Mr. Penias said departmental reviews have identified instances where government agencies have incorrectly applied financial laws and procedures."We're running reviews in the department, and we've found that many agencies are misusing and misapplying the law."He said one contributing factor has been the absence of financial management training over the past five years."Training stopped for five years. That's why we want to start that again."Mr. Penias said the Department will continue delivering training programs to strengthen the knowledge and capability of officers responsible for managing public funds."We'll continue to train people and continue to build that knowledge so everyone responsible for applying the Public Finance Management Act continues to improve."The reforms are intended to modernize public financial management by digitizing government payment systems while strengthening compliance with the Public Finance Management Act, improving accountability and building financial management capacity across the public service.

For many Papua New Guineans injured in road accidents, receiving compensation can often be delayed by incomplete paperwork, lengthy verification processes, or even fraudulent medical reports.A new partnership between the National Capital District Provincial Health Authority (NCDPHA) and Motor Vehicles Insurance Limited (MVIL) aims to change that by creating a more transparent and efficient system for processing motor vehicle accident claims.The two organizations have signed a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen the verification of medical reports used in Compulsory Third Party (CTP) insurance claims.The agreement is expected to improve claims processing for genuine victims while tightening measures against fraudulent claims.Under the agreement, NCDPHA will provide MVIL with verified medical reports, injury assessments, and clinical information relating to motor vehicle accident victims treated at health facilities across Port Moresby.MVIL will use the verified information to assess and process claims under its statutory Compulsory Third Party insurance scheme, ensuring that only legitimate claims supported by credible medical documentation are approved.The MoU also establishes standardised procedures requiring complete medical documentation, confirmation of patient identity, assessment of injury severity, and verification of treatment details before claims are processed.To facilitate this, both organizations will establish secure information-sharing channels to enable the timely exchange of medical reports while protecting the accuracy and integrity of patient records.MVIL Chief Executive Officer Bafino Koi said the partnership is the first of its kind and will eventually be expanded to provincial hospitals throughout the country."NCD is the first one that we are doing, and we will roll out to other major hospitals in the country," Mr Koi said."Our team is already talking to the respective CEOs of provincial health authorities so we can establish similar MoUs and assist claimants in other parts of Papua New Guinea."Beyond improving claim verification, MVIL has committed to supporting NCDPHA through capacity building, equipment, and training.Mr. Koi said the company will provide computers and printers needed to process claims, while also helping medical staff improve report writing to meet insurance requirements.The support will also extend to training doctors in accident reporting, injury assessments, and proper treatment documentation.MVIL is also considering assistance for NCD-managed clinics, including facilities at Tokarara, Morata, and Six Mile, recognizing that these centers are often the first point of treatment for road accident victims.Mr. Koi said one of the main reasons behind the agreement was the increasing number of fraudulent medical reports being submitted with insurance claims."There are fake medical reports circulating where people try to capitalize on accidents by fabricating documentation," he said."With this MoU, we will know which hospital or clinic prepared the report and whether the doctor is officially employed by NCDPHA. That allows us to properly validate every medical report that comes through."NCDPHA Chief Executive Officer Dr Robin Oge said the agreement strengthens accountability while making the claims process more transparent for everyone involved."The MoU ensures that we take on some responsibility while, at the same time, improving transparency in the claims process," Dr. Oge said."It creates trust between the parties because we know the reports are coming through an agreed process, prepared by doctors recognized by both organizations. That allows claims to be accepted and verified much more efficiently."For road accident victims, the partnership represents more than an administrative agreement.It is an effort to ensure that those who are genuinely injured receive timely compensation while protecting the integrity of Papua New Guinea's Compulsory Third-Party insurance system.As MVIL prepares to expand the model beyond Port Moresby, the collaboration could become a national benchmark for improving trust, accountability, and service delivery in motor vehicle accident claims.

What began with income from cocoa farming has grown into a community movement while slowly transforming young lives in South Bougainville.The newly established youth-led organization, CARE Bougainville, has donated more than 500 books to Ameno Primary School in Baba Constituency, Bana District, through a partnership supported by the Australian Government. The books, sourced from Brisbane, will benefit more than 700 students by providing much-needed reading materials and learning resources.Speaking to PNG Haus Bung, CARE Bougainville Founder and Chairman Starford Gami said he refused to wait for opportunities and instead created his own, not only to support himself but also to help young people and communities across Bougainville."As a young man, it is hard to find a job these days. I decided to create my own opportunity, not just for myself but to help the youths, my community, South Bougainville and Bougainville as a whole."In 2025, Gami established CARE Bougainville after successfully securing funding through the Australian Government's Pilai Long Stap Wantaim Fund. The organisation was one of only 23 groups across Papua New Guinea selected to receive support.Before turning its attention to education, CARE Bougainville used the funding to host the Saburuka Unity Sports Festival from June 29 to July 3, bringing together young men and women through soccer and volleyball while promoting unity, peace and positive community engagement.Building on that momentum, the organisation expanded into education on July 13 by delivering more than 500 books to Ameno Primary School.Gami said books have the power to shape a child's future."Books are more than just pages filled with words. They are the foundation of learning, imagination and opportunity. They help children improve their reading, writing, vocabulary, critical thinking and confidence. Every book gives a student the chance to discover new ideas, dream bigger and build the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in school and in life."He said CARE Bougainville believes every child deserves access to quality reading materials and that investing in education today will help build a stronger and more prosperous Bougainville.Despite its growing impact, CARE Bougainville is run by a small volunteer team consisting of Gami, his brother and another young man from the community. Although all three are educated, they remain unemployed and have relied on income from cocoa farming to fund transport, communication and community activities before receiving Australian Government support.Looking ahead, Gami said the organisation plans to involve more young people in income-generating projects, including poultry, piggery and farming, to create sustainable opportunities within local communities.He also revealed that the Unity Sports Festival will be expanded in August to include participants from all three constituencies in Bana District.Gami thanked the Australian Government, Books4Kids PNG, Cherish Foundation and Annmarie Kira for supporting the book donation initiative."Together, we are not just donating books. We are opening doors to knowledge, creating opportunities and inspiring the next generation of leaders. Our mission is to build Bougainville's future, one book at a time."

The Commanding Officer of Bomana Correctional Institution, Chief Superintendent Yelly Oiufa, is encouraging businesses, government agencies and the wider Port Moresby community to support rehabilitation programs that help inmates prepare for life after prison.Following last month’s donation of musical instruments to the Bomana Men’s Christian Ministry, Chief Superintendent Oiufa, in an interview with PNG Haus Bung, said rehabilitation programs play an important role in helping inmates develop positive change and prepare for reintegration into society.He said inmates regularly take part in community restoration activities, including clean-up campaigns, law and order awareness programs and Christian outreach as part of their rehabilitation.“They come here after committing crimes, they serve their sentence, and then they have to go back to the community. Part of the restoration program is to help the community by doing clean-ups or whatever they can do to support the community, showing that they are rehabilitated, they have changed, and they are ready to go back.”Chief Superintendent Oiufa said Bomana Correctional Institution continues to work with the National Capital District Commission on community restoration programs, with plans for a citywide clean-up involving police, firefighters, correctional officers and inmates.He said inmates are also involved in community awareness programs, including law and order awareness in schools and crime hotspot areas, as well as Christian outreach activities.“Besides this, we go out to do law and order awareness programs in schools and public areas, mostly in those red zone areas where people don’t want to go because they are affected by crime. We go there to do community awareness and preach the good news.”The Bomana Correctional Institution Commander also clarified that the newly donated musical instruments will only be used for Christian ministry activities and spiritual outreach programs.“The instruments will specifically be used for church activities. If they go out for awareness programs, it will be for spiritual ministry outreach. We don’t allow them to be used for entertainment purposes such as school functions or social events.”The musical instrument donation to the Bomana Men’s Christian Ministry adds to previous support from organizations including Kina Bank, which donated lawn mowers and brush cutters to assist inmates with maintaining prison grounds and supporting community clean-up activities.Chief Superintendent Oiufa said partnerships with private sector organizations and community groups are important in strengthening rehabilitation efforts, as government resources alone cannot meet every need.“We need community help. Sometimes the government cannot stretch that far to assist. When organizations come into support, it shows that you care for those living behind the bars.”He encouraged more businesses, churches and organizations to support programs that help inmates develop skills, rebuild confidence and prepare for life after incarceration.“Come in and support them. Show them that you care. These are people who will eventually return back into the community.”

The Office of Censorship has held a media information session today to clarify the respective roles and functions of the Office and the National Censorship Board, while improving understanding of the country's censorship framework.Held at the Gateway Hotel on Thursday, 9 July 2026, the session brought together 18 participants of journalists, editors and media operators from various media organizations to discuss the responsibilities of both institutions under the Classification of Publication (Censorship) Act 1989 and National Censorship Policy No. 2.The session was organized to address misconceptions surrounding the different mandates of the National Censorship Board and the Office of Censorship, particularly as digital communication platforms, social media and online content continue to expand.Opening the session, National Censorship Board Chairperson Karen Haive explained that the Board serves as the highest policy and strategic decision-making body, while the Office of Censorship functions as the administrative arm responsible for implementing decisions and carrying out regulatory responsibilities."The Censorship Board is the highest policy and strategic decision-making body of the Office of Censorship in Papua New Guinea. The Board directs the Office, as the administrative arm, to implement."Ms Haive said the work of censorship authorities is aimed at protecting communities from content that may contribute to harm, social disorder or disrespect while maintaining the values and dignity of Papua New Guinea."Anything we do is for the best interest of our people, to uphold the integrity, the dignity of our country as a nation, and the integrity and dignity of our people."Chief Censor Jim Abani provided an overview of the Office of Censorship's mandate, roles and functions, explaining the importance of media understanding the distinction between the Office and the National Censorship Board.Mr Abani said misunderstandings about the two institutions remain common, including among media professionals."I have noticed that many people, including journalists, misunderstand the difference between the National Censorship Board and the Office of Censorship. Therefore, this session provides an important opportunity to clarify the respective roles of the Office of Censorship and the National Censorship Board, address misconceptions, and strengthen collaboration with the media and the wider community."He said the Office has also received complaints from members of the public regarding disturbing content being published and shared, particularly material that may affect children."We have been receiving complaints from the general public that this kind of publicity is very disturbing, especially for our children."Mr. Abani reminded journalists that media professionals also play a role in considering the impact and responsibility involved in publishing information."You are a journalist, but you are a censor also. You are a censor to help us."He encouraged stronger cooperation between media organizations and the Office of Censorship to promote accurate, balanced and responsible dissemination of information.While representing the media industry, Media Council of PNG President Neville Choi, who is also a member of the National Censorship Board, acknowledged that the term "censorship" can have different meanings within the media profession."When the media hears censorship, we hear something else. We hear a threat rather than a responsibility or obligation to country."Mr. Choi said the media and censorship authorities share common values despite having different roles and responsibilities."Where we converge is on a platform of values, values like integrity, dignity and identity. Those are things that both the Censorship Board and the media are trying to protect."He said the rapid growth of digital technology and social media has created new challenges for information management, with more people now able to publish content through online platforms.Mr. Choi said professional media organizations continue to rely on editorial processes and ethical standards to assess information before publication.The Office of Censorship said the session is expected to improve media understanding of censorship governance, strengthen stakeholder engagement and support ongoing awareness on digital safety and responsible media use.

A total of 77 inmates from Bomana Penitentiary in Port Moresby have received certificates after successfully completing a 13 week Literacy and Alpha Bible School program aimed at supporting rehabilitation and personal development.The participants came from the Bomana Female Wing, Minimum Security Unit and High Security Unit.Of the 77 participants, 22 inmates received certificates in the Literacy program, while 56 inmates completed the Alpha Bible Program, with one male inmate participating in both programs.Commanding Officer of Bomana Prison Camp, Chief Superintendent Yelly Oiufa, acknowledged the support of 4th Man Ministries in partnership with One Tribe Ministries for delivering the Alpha Program and other rehabilitation activities at the institution.Chief Superintendent Oiufa said the partnership has continued through a Memorandum of Agreement established around 2020, allowing regular rehabilitation programs to be provided for inmates."I am here today to attend the graduation of participants from the Alpha Bible School program, along with other programs. Since around 2020, we have had a Memorandum of Agreement with them. Under this agreement, they regularly come here to provide rehabilitation programs, including Bible school and other rehabilitation activities."He said he has observed positive impacts from the programs, noting that they provide inmates with opportunities for personal growth and positive change.The Alpha Program was delivered by One Tribe Ministries, an Australian-based organization, in partnership with 4th Man Ministries, a Papua New Guinea-based ministry, through an initiative supported by the Bomana Correctional Service Chaplaincy Office.The program forms part of ongoing rehabilitation efforts at Bomana aimed at equipping inmates with knowledge, values and skills that can support their reintegration into the community.