Even with financial struggles, Valeska Matbob proved that success can be achieved with patience, faith, and hard work.The Bachelor of Business Accounting Bronze Medal recipient Valeska Matbob was part of the 793 graduates from the 44th graduation ceremony at Divine Word University held on Friday, 6 March. Her quiet determination earned her an impressive Grade Point Average of 4.5, representing something deeper than just academic performance but the culmination of a journey shaped by hardship, patience, and resilience. At 25, Valeska traces her roots to Madang, Simbu, Oro Province and Germany and credits her upbringing to the strength of her family, particularly her mother. Raised by a single parent, she grew up in a home where faith, resilience, and perseverance were constant lessons. Her mother’s words stayed with her through every stage of her life. She often reminded Valeska that patience would one day bring its reward. “They can all have their laugh now, but when your time comes, you will laugh the longest and the loudest,” her mother’s words. It was a simple message, but one that would guide her through some of the most difficult years of her life. After completing Grade 10 in 2017, Valeska’s path to higher education was suddenly interrupted as financial challenges and family responsibilities forced her to step away from school. While many of her peers moved forward with their education, she spent the next two years in 2018 and 2019 out of the classroom. Those years were not easy. She took on small part time jobs in local shops around Madang Province, doing whatever work she could find to help support herself and her family. The experience tested her determination, but it also strengthened her resolve. Rather than abandoning her dreams, Valeska chose patience. Reflecting on those years, she said the struggles became lessons that kept her focused on her goals. “During those times I learned to be patient, and that patience kept me focused on my goals and eventually saw me through my studies,” she said. When she eventually returned to continue her education, she approached her studies with renewed purpose, making it all the way to Divine Word University. There she enrolled in the Bachelor of Business Accounting program where university life proved demanding with academic pressures, deadlines, and the intensity of coursework requiring discipline and commitment. Through it all, Valeska learned one of the most valuable lessons of her university years was the importance of living a balanced life. Even in the busiest moments of academic life, she discovered that maintaining balance between studies, personal wellbeing, and faith was essential to sustaining success. Her dedication steadily translated into academic excellence. Semester after semester, her results reflected not only intelligence but also the discipline forged during the years she had spent outside the classroom. By the time she reached the end of her program, her hard work had produced an outstanding 4.5 GPA, placing her among the top performing students among the 44th DWU graduating class. Yet even on graduation day, the recognition came as a surprise as she missed the rehearsal the day before and had no idea she would be receiving the Bronze Medal. It was only after she took her seat inside the graduation hall and began flipping through the ceremony program that she discovered her name listed among the award recipients. The realization filled her with pride and gratitude as the medal represented more than academic success as it symbolized the long journey from uncertainty to achievement. Behind that achievement stood the support of many people who believed in her along the way. Her parents, her uncles particularly her father’s younger brothers and several mentors and supporters outside her family all played a role in helping her reach this milestone. Their encouragement, along with her strong faith, helped sustain her during difficult moments. Today, Valeska has already begun the next stage of her professional journey. She is currently working with one of the Big Four accounting firms where she hopes to continue developing her skills while building a meaningful career. But her ambitions extend far beyond personal success. Valeska hopes to use her knowledge to serve communities, particularly those in rural areas. She believes financial literacy and business knowledge can help ordinary people improve their livelihoods. Her long-term goal is rooted in service. “I would certainly like to help local communities and the rural population through financial literacy programs and entrepreneurship education,” she said. The story of Valeska Matbob is a reminder that success is rarely immediate. Sometimes the journey includes pauses, setbacks, and years of quiet perseverance. Yet with patience, faith, and determination, those difficult seasons can become the very foundation of future triumph. For Valeska, the applause that echoed through the graduation hall that morning was not just for a medal or a degree. It was for a journey defined by resilience and proof that patience, in time, can turn hardship into achievement.

Central Governor Rufina Peter has proposed expanded rural economic programs as a pathway for displaced Goilala families to return home, arguing that sustainable development in their districts must come before any lasting relocation solution in the city.Her remarks follow the recent eviction of Goilala settlers from the 2 Mile area in Port Moresby. The affected families are currently staying in parts of the capital while awaiting further clarity on relocation arrangements. Speaking at Kassman, Governor Peter acknowledged that eviction decisions within the National Capital District fall outside her jurisdiction. However, she said the Central Provincial Government has a responsibility to strengthen economic opportunities in rural areas under its mandate. “I would like to say, there is hope. There are opportunities back home,” she said. The Governor pointed to existing partnerships between the provincial government, private sector operators, and air transport service providers aimed at supporting agricultural trade in remote parts of Central Province. She cited a recent freight subsidy initiative in Ononge, Goilala District, where local farmers were supported to transport fresh produce to market, generating significant cash flow within a short period. “That’s the possibility that’s out there,” she said, referring to the economic potential of structured rural support programs. Governor Peter said discussions are underway to scale up similar initiatives, linking road rehabilitation, freight access, and private sector investment to stimulate agriculture and small-scale trade. “We were discussing implementation, and within March we should be starting. That’s how serious we are,” she said. She emphasized that while she cannot intervene in city-level decisions affecting settlers in NCD, her focus remains on creating viable conditions in Central Province, so families have the option of returning to their villages with sustainable livelihoods. “For you now, there is hope in the village. I am speaking especially to the youths. If you want to go back, there is opportunity,” she said. The Governor also highlighted the importance of maintaining the Mona corridor and provincial road networks, stressing that infrastructure reliability is central to rural development. In Parliament, she said she supports the national Connect PNG initiative but has consistently called for stronger support toward maintaining existing provincial infrastructure before expanding connectivity. “If we maintain our provincial roads, we reduce the pressures that push our people into the city,” she said. While no formal relocation framework has been announced, the Governor’s proposal shifts the focus toward long-term rural investment as a development-based response to urban displacement.

The Kokoda Track Foundation (KTF) has graduated 12 young leaders from its 2025 Archer Leadership Program and announced a new cohort of 12 participants for 2026, reinforcing its long-term investment in leadership development across Papua New Guinea.A Kokoda Track Foundation Archer event held in Port Moresby city this week that brought together government officials, corporate partners and development agencies, celebrated the outgoing cohort and formally welcome the new Archer leaders. Now in its 16th year, the Archer Leadership Program has built an alumni network of 140 young professionals working across sectors including education, law, health, business and community development. KTF Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr Genevieve Nelson said the program extends beyond financial support. “The Archer program is not just a scholarship program; it is a holistic program filled with mentoring, community development projects, work experience and a life changing exchange program,” she said. The 2025 cohort completed a year-long leadership journey that included professional mentoring, adaptive leadership workshops, work placements and an exchange program to Australia. Dr. Nelson emphasized that leadership development requires sustained commitment. “Leadership development does not happen in 12 months, it happens over time in community and with accountability,” she said. During the event, KTF also highlighted its broader impact in 2025, including support for more than 3,000 students through second-chance high school education programs and measurable literacy and numeracy improvements for 43,000 early childhood and primary students. Last year, the foundation installed 20,000 solar lighting systems, bringing its nationwide solar lighting total to 50,000. Dr Nelson acknowledged the role of partners supporting the initiative. “You are not simply supporting a scholarship. You are backing a disciplined, long-term investment in PNG’s leadership capacity,” she told supporters. The Archer Leadership Program is supported by partners including Kina Bank, the Australian Government and the Fred P. Archer Trust, with additional funding this year from the Canadian Government through the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives. The newly selected 2026 cohort will begin their leadership journey later this year.

Miss Bird of Paradise Iampela Popena has returned home with a renewed call for youth empowerment, using her welcome-back ceremony at Port Moresby Jacksons International Airport to challenge young Papua New Guineans to rise, lead and give back to their communities.Speaking at a reception hosted by Powes Parkop, Governor of the National Capital District, Popena reaffirmed that youth empowerment — the central theme of her campaign at the Miss Pacific Islands Pageant — goes far beyond slogans and formal programs. She described youth empowerment as a continuous cycle: gaining skills, knowledge, values and experience, and then returning to share those lessons within the community. “Coming out, learning something — skills, knowledge, values, morals — and then going back and giving them to your community. That is the cycle of youth empowerment,” she said. Popena also acknowledged the support of her chaperone, Tyla Singirok, describing her guidance during the pageant as a practical example of empowerment in action. Competing against representatives from across the Pacific region was not easy, she admitted, noting the diversity of cultures and experiences on display. However, she said the support system around her made a significant difference. “It’s not easy when you compete with other islands. They come with different cultures, and sometimes it can be intimidating. But we stood our ground. My chaperone guided me and gave me strength and support — and this is what youth empowerment is,” she said. Drawing from her own journey in dance, including overseas performances, Popena encouraged young people to pursue their passions with seriousness and commitment. She reflected on representing Papua New Guinea in Japan as part of a dance group, describing the experience as eye-opening. “You may think dancing is small, but with passion and commitment, it can take you places,” she said. “Last year, I joined a beautiful dance group, and that opened my eyes when we went to Japan to perform on stage, representing our beautiful country, Papua New Guinea.” Popena urged young women and men not to wait for government agencies, non-governmental organisations or outside assistance to create opportunities. “Youth empowerment is not about waiting for the government or NGOs or anyone else to come and give you something,” she said, emphasising that real change begins with individual initiative and a willingness to uplift others. In closing, she posed a direct challenge to the nation’s youth. “What do you have to offer? What do you have within you that can change the country or make it better? That is my message to you.”

Port Moresby came alive as Miss Bird of Paradise Iampela Popena touched down at Jacksons International Airport, greeted by cheering supporters, family members, and Governor Powes Parkop.Fresh from her success at the Miss Pacific Islands Pageant, where she was crowned 2026 First Runner-Up, Popena returned home to a hero’s welcome. Though narrowly missing the crown, she captured regional attention and brought pride to Papua New Guinea with her outstanding performance and special awards. “We may not be crowned, but we won the hearts of many and showed them what PNG can do!” Popena said proudly. Governor Parkop praised her achievement, declaring that while she may officially hold the First Runner-Up title, “to us, you are the winner — our queen of PNG.”Supporters packed the arrival hall, waving flags and bilums as cheers erupted when she walked through the gates. Emotional family members embraced her, while young fans eagerly lined up for photos with the returning beauty ambassador. Popena expressed heartfelt gratitude to Papua New Guineans for their unwavering support. “I was scared at times, but it was your support that gave me the confidence to win the Best Traditional Dress,” she said. She also shared an encouraging message for the nation’s youth: “You can do anything — you just have to believe in yourself and keep going.” Her arrival transformed an ordinary afternoon into a celebration of culture, resilience, unity and national pride — proving that sometimes, the true queen is the one who wins the hearts of her people.

As displaced families from the 4-Mile Works Compound face uncertainty following a court-ordered eviction, local businessman Joe Tonde has pledged to offer his own land as a resettlement option if the court rules against the settlers.Mr. Tonde made the commitment on Friday 13th February 2026 during his third day of visitation to the affected families in the Moresby Northwest area. “I will offer my land to you all if the court rules against the settlers in the 4-Mile Works Compound,” he said. He clarified that the eviction was carried out under a lawful court order obtained by titleholders, and not by police or National Capital District Members of Parliament. During his visit, Mr. Tonde donated canvas materials to assist families in building temporary shelters while awaiting further legal proceedings. He stressed that his actions are not intended to challenge land ownership, but to ensure families are given time and dignity should relocation become unavoidable. “I want you to temporarily build shelters and stay here while we appeal to the property owner and the government to extend the time, with the help of a human rights lawyer,” he said. A known community figure in the area, Mr. Tonde said he has long supported residents of the 4-Mile settlement through essential services. “I have been helping and providing community essential services over time. Politics is not new to Mr. Tonde, I was born into a leadership family, and I am a leader of the people of Enga,” said Mr. Tonde He cited previous efforts including repairing sewage systems, constructing public toilets, assisting with water payments, and helping resolve community issues. In a broader appeal, Mr. Tonde called on other business leaders to support vulnerable communities. “You are blessed among many to look after the people who are in need. If the political leaders are failing in their roles, we have to step in to keep our people living in a good environment with essential services,” he said. He also urged young people in the affected community to avoid illegal activities, particularly alcohol abuse, during this period of uncertainty. Families expressed appreciation for the support, describing it as timely assistance during a difficult chapter. The matter remains before the court, and its final ruling will determine whether Mr. Tonde’s land offer proceeds.

Three new members were officially sworn into the National Volunteer Service (NVS) Council today at the Gateway Hotel – De’Vous Private Event Venue as the organization aims to strengthen volunteerism across Papua New Guinea.The swearing-in ceremony, conducted by Magistrate Sandy Tiankin, formally inducted AMB. Ivan Pomaleu, OBE, Chief Secretary Mr. Jerry Ubase, Secretary, Department of Community Development & Religion Mr. John H. Akipe, Secretary, Department of Defence The event was presided over by NVS Chairman David Wissink, who welcomed volunteers and council members alike, highlighting the critical role of volunteer services in national development. “National Volunteer Service has been around for over 35 years and continues to grow from strength to strength,” Mr. Wissink said. Mr. David than gave an indept by highlighting the future of the organization and the number of volunteers the organization seeks to engage the coming year  “This year, we aim to engage 900 volunteers, and next year, the target increases to 2,900. It is our duty as council members to work collaboratively to achieve these ambitious goals, particularly in addressing the roles of youth in our communities.” During the ceremony, council members pledged to uphold the principles of professional volunteerism, transparency, accountability, and ethical conduct in all NVS activities. Mr. Pomaleu, Mr. Ubase, and Mr. Akipe each recited their oaths, committing to promote collaboration, innovation, and the welfare of volunteers nationwide. The ceremony underscored the significance of volunteerism in fostering civic responsibility, community development, and youth engagement. With a growing national focus on harnessing volunteer energy, the NVS Council hopes to expand opportunities and ensure volunteers are supported and recognized for their contributions. “Volunteerism is not just service; it is a platform to empower young people, build skills, and strengthen communities. Our council will continue to guide and innovate programs that provide meaningful opportunities for all Papua New Guineans” Mr. Wissink added. The NVS Council plans to meet regularly throughout the year to monitor volunteer recruitment, develop programs, and track progress toward the ambitious national targets.

The ballroom shimmered with purple, gold, and white lights, laughter, and heartfelt applause as Sir Mick Nades, the founder of what is now IBS University, celebrated his 80th birthday at Stanley Hotel Port Moresby on Saturday, 14th February 2026.The air buzzed with excitement, old friends and students sharing stories, while dignitaries stood in admiration of a man whose life has shaped the nation’s education. “I take this wonderful opportunity to show my heartfelt gratitude to all those who have helped me serve the people and country I have fallen in love with,” Sir Mick told the crowd, his eyes sparkling with humility and joy. Also in attendance was Governor-General Sir Bob Dadae, who praised Sir Mick’s tireless work in training accountants and equipping students with practical business skills. “Thank you for your immense contributions to education and the training of accountants,” he said. Prime Minister James Marape was also in attendance, adding excitement to the evening with a major announcement that IBS University will now be officially recognized as a university. “This upgrade opens new pathways for students completing Year 12 and strengthens private-sector education in PNG,” Marape said. Guests marveled at Sir Mick’s journey, from his early years between 1976 and 1980 to building IBS from a small training institute into a full-fledged university producing over 2,000 qualified accountants and thousands of graduates leading in both public and private sectors. The Nadesalingam Foundation for Education, which supports scholarships, sports programs, and TVET pathways, also received warm applause. International honours, including CBE, MBE, and Belgian orders K.L. and O.C., decorate a career that is both inspiring and humble. Sir Mick’s “student-first” approach, his laughter, and genuine care for people made the night feel less like a ceremony and more like a family reunion. As the night drew to a closer, the room hummed with stories, gratitude, and hope. With IBS now officially a university, Sir Mick Nades continues to light the way for PNG’s next generation of leaders, one student at a time.

Prime Minister James Marape has assured the country that Papua New Guinea will move swiftly to address deficiencies identified after the nation was placed on the grey list by the Financial Action Task Force.Speaking when questioned on the matter during his attendance at an event at the Stanley Hotel & Suites last night, the Prime Minister described the development as an opportunity for reform rather than a setback.“Well, it means we have to work on those areas identified that are needing improvement,” he said. “For me, I see it as an opportunity to correct some of the errors and inefficiencies we have been carrying.”Mr. Marape said work to strengthen Papua New Guinea’s anti-money laundering framework had been ongoing since 2017 and 2018 but was disrupted during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021.He acknowledged that approximately eight to nine areas require improvement, including stronger prosecution of suspected money laundering cases.“From what I’ve been advised, one of them is prosecution of possible money launderers in our country,” he stated.The Prime Minister pointed to recent enforcement action, including the freezing of K214 million held in a trust account as announced by the Police Commissioner, describing it as part of ongoing compliance efforts.He stressed that Papua New Guinea is not predominantly identified as a terrorism financing risk but that concerns raised relate largely to money laundering oversight.“The spotlight is on money laundering in our country, so I want to give assurance to the country that we will work at the earliest,” he said.Mr. Marape confirmed that instructions have been issued to law enforcement agencies and relevant authorities to take firm action where suspicious financial transactions are identified.“If there are shady accounts and financial transactional accounts, by all means prosecute,” he said.He added that as an economy, Papua New Guinea must “step up” to meet international standards and restore full confidence.

Central Governor Rufina Peter visited displaced Goilala families now sheltering at Kassman Residence in Badili, following their recent eviction from 2 Mile in Port Moresby city. During her visit, the Governor questioned the handling of the eviction and drew comparisons to a similar exercise at Baruni last year.“Back in the previous eviction in Baruni, the incident happened but the police did not carry out thorough investigation and used the opportunity to go and destroy the place and within a week they let private sectors fence up the place,” she said.“What is the motive there, are we waiting for an opportunity? And it’s exactly the same situation that is happening here.”Governor Peter also raised concerns about resettlement.“In the way that it is treated and the way the resettlements are done and with no Goilala people from Rabiagini given places to resettle — it’s an evident of deliberate target discrimination,” she stated.However, she acknowledged limits to her authority.“It’s not my jurisdiction, that is why I didn’t come out to speak on the matter.”Community leader Atu Laian also appealed to authorities.“So, that is why I am asking the national government to seriously look into this, because I am 54 years old, and I was born here, I was educated here and I never know Goilala and how it looks like because I don’t have a place in Goilala and I understand the fact that I belong to Rabiagini and this is where I’m going to stay and going to die,” he said.He questioned whether relocation plans exist for affected families.Governor Peter urged calm and responsibility within the community, encouraging peaceful coexistence as discussions continue.No formal relocation plan has yet been announced by the city authorities.

Forty government officials have completed a week-long procurement and contract management workshop hosted by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), reinforcing Papua New Guinea’s push to improve governance and project delivery standards.Held at the Hilton Hotel from Monday 9th to Thursday 12th February 2026, the training covered procurement processes under ADB-financed projects, contract management rules, and internationally recognized FIDIC contract conditions; this is a global standard widely used in major infrastructure works. Participants from the Department of Works and Highways, PNG Power Ltd and the National Airports Corporation were awarded certificates covering updated ADB procurement guidelines and contract management frameworks. The workshop forms part of ADB’s broader support to Papua New Guinea in strengthening public sector governance and improving implementation of development projects. PNG currently hosts a significant portfolio of ADB-financed programs across transport, energy, finance and public sector reform, where strong procurement systems are critical to preventing delays, cost overruns and mismanagement. Speaking on behalf of participants, Mr. Terry Nimp from the Department of Works and Highways thanked ADB for the opportunity and called for the training to be extended to field officers directly managing contracts. “I’m a field supervisor of contracts, and it’s a privilege for me to attend. As it’s my first time attending such a workshop, that is why I am asking if this workshop can be extended, especially for officers who are managing contracts in the field.” ADB’s Country Head of Operations and PNG Resident Mission, Mr. Soon Chan Hong, commended the strong participation and commitment shown by government agencies. “I flew all the way from Manila to have this session, so thank you all very much for the active participation. The room is still full because as time goes on, the room usually starts to get empty, but I see a strong commitment from our government agencies.” With development financing expanding across key sectors, strengthening procurement expertise is seen as a practical step toward ensuring projects are delivered transparently, efficiently and in line with international standards.

The National Information and Communications Technology Authority (NICTA) has launched its International Law in Cyberspace Training in Port Moresby city today, bringing together key government and critical infrastructure stakeholders to strengthen Papua New Guinea’s legal readiness for cyber incidents.The week-long training, which began on Monday, 9th February, is being held at the APEC Haus and is delivered by professionals from the University of Reading in England. The program is conducted in partnership with Australian Aid and focuses on the international legal regimes that regulate state conduct in cyberspace. A total of 37 participants from 18 organizations are taking part in the training, divided into two groups. Participants include representatives from critical infrastructure and service providers such as Air Niugini, as well as national security agencies including the Office of the Public Prosecutor. The training was officially opened by NICTA Board Chairman Brian Riches and Australian High Commission Minister Counsellor for Economics, Health and Infrastructure, Dr Cate Rogers. In his opening remarks, Mr Riches thanked the participants and acknowledged the support of the Australian High Commission through Australian Aid. He reaffirmed NICTA’s mandate to regulate the nation’s ICT sector in the public interest. “Our mandate is to regulate the ICT sector in the public interest through licensing, oversight, consumer protection and compliance. Cyber incidents now touch the very networks and services we regulate, affecting public trust, national security and the economy.” said Mr Riches He highlighted the importance of the training in strengthening Papua New Guinea’s legal preparedness and coordination in responding to cyber incidents. “This week is about strengthening our legal readiness and coordination so that when difficult cyber decisions arise, PNG’s response is lawful, credible and practical,” he said. Dr Rogers said Australia’s collaboration with Papua New Guinea reflects its ongoing support for the country’s digital policy and governance frameworks. “Our partnership has supported key developments such as the Digital Government Act 2022, the National Data Protection Policy and the National Cyber Security Policy,” she said. She added that the training complements Australia’s broader support to Papua New Guinea’s law and justice sector. “This program helps to build strong, resilient institutions that underpin stability, accountability and the rule of law,” Dr Rogers said. The capacity-building program brings together NICTA, Australian Aid, Cyber Law International, government leaders and partner agencies to strengthen Papua New Guinea’s ability to respond to cyber incidents. Through expert-led training and cross-agency collaboration, the program focuses on why cyber law matters, what legal frameworks are required, how agencies can coordinate lawfully, and who is responsible while ensuring PNG’s response to cyber challenges remains credible, practical and in the public interest.