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.

Central Province marked a historic milestone on Thursday 6th February with the opening of the long-awaited Bautama infrastructure projects, nearly two decades after plans were first proposed. The commissioning ceremony, attended by Acting Prime Minister John Rosso and provincial leaders, signals a new chapter of development for the province and its communities. The projects include the Bautama Boom Gate, a new market facility, and residential housing developments. They aim to provide essential infrastructure, stimulate local commerce, and improve the livelihoods of Central Province residents. Central province Governor Rufina Peter welcomed the Acting Prime Minister and expressed gratitude to the national government for its support while acknowledging the province’s long history of delayed development. “However, today also calls for honest scrutiny. For too long, Central Province did not deliver as expected,” she said, highlighting missed opportunities despite the province’s proximity to the nation’s capital and available land. “Reforms were created, but outcomes fell short. The time for change is now.” Acting Prime Minister Rosso underlined the strategic importance of the projects. “This is a strategically important development, surrounding the National Capital District as the gateway between Central and the people of Port Moresby,” he said. He emphasized that effective planning is essential to harness development opportunities responsibly. “We have to plan; we can’t let development go unplanned,” Rosso added. The Bautama projects have a long history. Initial proposals date back to 1995, with subsequent announcements in 1998 and 2007. Each administration sought to establish a provincial capital city in Bautama, but progress was minimal. Reports indicate that while funding was allocated over the years, much of it remained unaccounted for, leaving the projects largely incomplete until the current provincial administration took office. With renewed governance and national funding, Governor Peter’s administration has transformed vision into reality. The projects are designed not only to provide infrastructure but also to empower local communities, create business opportunities for women and youth, enhance food security, and provide secure housing. “These projects demonstrate what is possible when national leadership, provincial governance, and community aspirations converge into a shared development mission,” the Governor said, reaffirming the province’s commitment to protecting ancestral land and ensuring development benefits are equitably shared. Rosso noted that the success of these initiatives depends on strategic planning, governance, and community collaboration.  The projects are expected to improve transport efficiency, road safety, and urban planning while reinforcing Central Province as a hub of economic activity. Decades in the making, the Bautama projects now stand as a testament to sustained advocacy, prudent leadership, and the province’s resilience.

The importance of strong business networks was emphasized as BSP Group Chief Executive Officer Mark Robinson addressed 19 small and medium-sized enterprises graduating from the YES GROW business development program on Wednesday, 4th February 2026.Speaking at the program’s 19th graduation ceremony in Port Moresby, Mr. Robinson told graduates that long-term business success depends not only on technical skills, but on the relationships, entrepreneurs build with suppliers, customers, advisers and financial institutions. “So much of the success of any business is having a network like suppliers, customers, advisors, bankers. These are people who can help you on your journey and if this program plays a small part in deepening and extending that network, that is a real benefit,” Mr. Robinson said. The YES (Your Enterprise Scheme) GROW program is a partnership between BSP Financial Group Limited and Australian Business Volunteers, providing six months of structured training and one-on-one mentoring to SMEs across the South Pacific. Mr. Robinson described small and medium-sized businesses as the backbone of the economy, noting that their role in job creation and livelihoods is just as critical in Papua New Guinea as it is globally. “Small and medium-sized businesses are, in fact, the lifeblood of the economy. And in every economy in the world, PNG is no different,” he said. He also highlighted BSP’s approach to engaging directly with business owners, saying meaningful support comes from understanding customers in their own operating environments. “We don’t sit behind our desks and wait for customers to come and see us. We got out of the office. We visit our customers at their places of business. That’s how you really understand what they need,” Mr. Robinson said. As the latest cohort completes the program, Mr. Robinson congratulated the 19 graduates and encouraged them to continue building strong relationships to sustain and grow their businesses. “We are incredibly proud of you and the passion you bring to your businesses not just for yourselves, but for your families, your communities, and PNG’s future,” he said.

Residents living along the Keavaga (Hanuabada) Bypass Road in Port Moresby city have raised urgent concerns over an active landslide, warning that lives are at risk as ground movement continues in real time in along the road and within the community.The Keavaga/Bypass Disaster Committee says cracks are widening, houses are tilting, and sections of the land have collapsed following the recent heavy rains experienced in the capital city. Committee Chairman Pastor Steven Gau said communities have waited nearly ten months for a coordinated government intervention. “Our people are living in danger. The ground is moving, and today a wall collapsed just hours before we met,” Pastor Gau said. A recent reassessment by the Department of Mineral Policy and Geohazards Management confirms the landslide remains active and classifies the area as high risk with boundaries expanding beyond previous estimates. Residents are now calling on the Motu Koita Local Level Government, National Capital District Commission, National Disaster Centre, and other authorities to urgently inspect the site and provide immediate assistance, including possible relocation.

Young gamers from across Port Moresby city took centre stage last weekend at Niugini Esports as Telecom Limited came on board as the official connectivity partner for the tournament that was held at APEC Haus from January 24th to 26th. The three-day championship brought together youth and young adults to compete in electronic sports, with a strong focus on Call of Duty Mobile, one of the largest gaming communities in Papua New Guinea and the Pacific. The event was organized by Niugini eSports, a local organization that has been running gaming competitions for the past four to five years. Founder of Niugini eSports, Ivan Ionagata, said the championship was created to give young people a positive and affordable outlet for their energy. “There’s a lot of kids. There’s nothing else to do in PNG other than getting up to no good and or everything else being really expensive. Gaming is pretty good. It’s a good way for youths and people from different ages to direct the energy towards and compete against each other,” he said. Ionagata said eSports also helps young people develop real-life skills. “It’s a healthy environment where you can practice skills that should apply in real life too, which would be leadership, decision making, especially under pressure,” he said, adding that the vision was to unite people and bring them together with gaming. Senior gamers in the COD space and fellow tournament organizers echoed the same message, saying the championship offered more than just competition. “This moment is not just about winning matches. It’s about building the future of the Call of Duty Mobile in PNG,” the organizer said. “It means so much to us as we’re finally given a platform in which we can come and display our skills, skills which can be then interpreted into real life.” Another organizer highlighted how gaming is often misunderstood by adults. “In Papua New Guinea gaming is deeply misunderstood. A lot of adults, especially parents, see it as a waste of time,” he said. “But this is a safe space for teenagers and young adults to come and belong, instead of being out on the streets.” Niugini eSports also acknowledged the role of sponsors in making the event possible, thanking Telikom, PNG Forward, Sanctuary Hotel & Spa, NICTA, Adfocus, Guardian Elite and Hilton Hotel, along with Tropicana, PG Gaming and Concept Management. Organizers said the support was an investment in youth confidence and potential, not just an event. As eSports continues to grow in PNG, organizers hope championships like this will help change perceptions, build digital skills, and offer young people a safe space to compete, connect and dream bigger in a fast-growing digital world.

Sir John Pundari has officially taken office as Papua New Guinea’s new Minister for Police with outgoing Minister Peter Tsiamalili Jr assuring him of the full support of the country’s police force, whom he described as the nation’s “Blue Angels”.The handover took place during a formal but brief ceremony at the Police Headquarters in Port Moresby city today, following a Cabinet reshuffle under the Marape–Rosso Government. Senior police leadership, including ACP NCD and Central Commander Benjamin Turi, attended alongside government officials and the media. Speaking at the ceremony, Tsiamalili, now Minister for Works, described the occasion as a ministerial transition rather than an operational one, stressing that the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) remains a constitutional institution. “Today is more a ministerial shift, not so much operational, because…the police force, they’re a constitutional office on their own,” he said. Tsiamalili acknowledged the challenges attached to the police portfolio but reassured Sir John Pundari that he would inherit a capable and committed force. “We may have our challenges, but I want to reassure you today, you have some of the finest policemen and women,” he said. “They truly are the Blue Angels of our country.” He credited the support of police leadership and rank-and-file officers for enabling him to perform his duties as minister, noting that systems and long-term strategies were already in place to guide reforms. Among these, he pointed to the Deloitte “true cost of policing” audit, which assessed the capacity, infrastructure and funding needs required to modernize the force. “We as politicians will come and go, but the systems are in place,” Tsiamalili said. During his address, the outgoing minister highlighted achievements under his tenure, including increased police recruitment, infrastructure upgrades, and partnerships with Australia and the Commonwealth. He said police numbers had grown from about 550 recruits to nearly 1,000 expected to graduate this year, while acknowledging the accompanying challenges in housing and welfare. Sir John Pundari in his first formal remarks as Police Minister, thanked Prime Minister James Marape and the Marape–Rosso Government for their confidence in appointing him to the portfolio. He also paid tribute to Tsiamalili’s leadership, describing the role as demanding and complex. “I can feel the weight of this new portfolio, and I must take my hats off for you. You have done really, really well,” Pundari said. He credited Tsiamalili with driving reforms, strengthening partnerships, and overseeing significant investments such as the upgrade of the police training college into a Centre of Excellence, now hosting trainees from across the Pacific. “This is indeed something that is significant in our contribution to regional security,” Pundari said. The incoming minister said his priorities would include police welfare, infrastructure development and community trust, stressing the importance of accommodation and support for officers as recruitment expands. “I look forward to working very closely with these brave officers, I want to work closely with our communities and our good friends and all other stakeholders” Sir Pundari concluded. A joint transition statement issued by the Ministry of Police confirmed that the 2023–2025 period focused on stabilizing operations, strengthening capacity and progressing governance reforms, with both ministers reaffirming their commitment to continuity, stability and public safety. As Sir Pundari assumes responsibility for law and order, the outgoing minister expressed confidence that the police portfolio had been handed to a much wiser, much more experienced leader, setting the stage for the next phase of reform within the RPNGC.

The University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) officially welcomed its 2026 new intake during the Orientation Program held at the Main Lecture Theatre (MLT) today, marking the start of the new academic journey for thousands of students. Opening the program, Vice-Chancellor Professor Ian Findlay outlined UPNG’s approach to higher education, emphasizing a blend of theory, simulation and real-world practice designed to prepare students for modern workplaces. “You will experience three types of education, the theory, where students learn the hands and whys of how things work. Simulated learning, where students use models, laboratories or simulated environments to learn real practical skills,” Professor Findlay said. “You'll also learn through practice in real life situations, by work placement to learn what is really like in the workplace,” he added Professor Findlay said the model reflects the university’s commitment to high-quality teaching and developing homegrown Papua New Guinean talent to meet national needs. “UPNG graduates are our ambassadors, not just in Papua New Guinea but around the world,” he said. “UPNG graduates showcase the best that Papua New Guinea can offer.” He highlighted what he described as UPNG’s “21st Century advantages,” including English proficiency, artificial intelligence, technology, critical thinking, employability skills and strong student support services. “English is, quite simply, the language of international success,” he said. “You know English, you know success. And at UPNG, you will improve your English.” “Your degree will get you a job. Soft skills will get you the promotion.” Professor Findlay also pointed to career readiness programs such as CV writing and mock interviews, saying these were aimed at ensuring graduates secure the best jobs with the highest salaries. He said UPNG aligns with international standards to give graduates opportunities locally and overseas. “UPNG is large enough to make a real difference, yet small enough to care and nurture every single student,” he said. “You are our pioneers. You are our ambassadors. You are Papua New Guinea's future. Make us proud.” Pro-Chancellor Goiye Gileng later introduced Co-Chancellor Roy Gawaine, who welcomed students and reflected on the university’s national significance and history since its establishment in 1965. He reminded students that entry into UPNG was a privilege earned through years of effort and sacrifice by families and communities, urging them to use their freedom responsibly. “Any country is as good as its people, any organization as good as its human resources,” he said, stressing the importance of discipline, responsibility and emotional intelligence alongside academic ability. Mr. Gawaine also encouraged students to be mindful of the rapid pace of technological change and the expectations placed on them as future leaders in a global society. The orientation program sets the tone for the academic year, reinforcing UPNG’s role in shaping graduates equipped with skills, values and confidence to contribute to Papua New Guinea and beyond.