A total of 338 grade nine students from Jubilee Catholic Secondary graduated under the leadership program under PNG Tribal Foundation yesterday in Port Moresby city.Jubilee Catholic Secondary Principal Mrs. Barbara Miles said a pilot school for Senisim PNG program by Tribal Foundation successfully completed the 11 weeks program and allowing 338 grade nine students to obtain the values as good citizens in the country. “You have explored essential values you’ve gone through the tools you will need build a meaningful life as you step forward.” “I urge you to apply these core values like integrity, respect, responsibility, empathy and resilience in your daily lives,” said Mrs. Miles. Tribal Foundation President GT Bustin said the students were privilege to undergo leadership program where directors, managers and CEOs of companies have gone through the same program to lead and inspire others in their leadership roles. Mr. Bustin challenged the students to make right choices in their lives if they want to be successful in life. Deputy Principal Janet Sengi said Education Department focuses more on academic curriculum and not value based programs to teach the young ones as agent of change for the country. Jamie Griffin, student representative said the two values stood out for him during the 11 weeks table session was empathy and resilience. “We forget to put ourselves in other situations and we turn to judge and that is empathy many of us lacked and resilience is the power of our mind how we think and behave reflects everything about decisions we have make,” Jamie said.

Buk bilong Pikinini (BbP) recently received a major boost from Credit Bank, one of its long-time partners – a dummy cheque of K25,000 to support the cost of warehouse space.This support was crucial, as having reliable warehouse facilities allows BbP to store more books and efficiently distribute them to schools and Library Learning Centres across Papua New Guinea. Buk bilong Pikinini Executive Officer, Leanne Resson, emphasized the importance of Credit Bank’s ongoing support towards BbP. “With Credit Bank’s support, Buk bilong Pikinini is able to securely store reading books, teaching resources and essential learning materials, ensuring they are well managed and ready for distribution to our library learning centres and schools across the country.” “This support strengthens our ability to continue delivering quality literacy programs and meaningful learning opportunities for thousands of children every day.” Credit Bank Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Danny Robinson, also shared remarks during the presentation. “Credit Bank is proud to continue supporting Buk bilong Pikinini and the incredible work they do to build strong foundations in early childhood education.” “We believe that every child deserves the chance to learn, grow and reach their full potential. “ “By supporting BbP, we are helping ensure that more children across PNG have access to books, safe learning environments and the essential resources they need to succeed.” Buk bilong Pikinini (BbP) expressed its gratitude to Credit Bank’s senior management team, including the Head of Group Strategy and staff, for attending the ceremony and supporting this important initiative. BbP thanked Credit Bank for their generous contribution and for joining in the celebration at the UPNG Library Learning Centre. With literacy rates in PNG still low compared to other Pacific nations, it's crucial for all stakeholders to collaborate in providing access to quality education, high-quality materials, and motivating teaching resources for children. Through partnerships with organizations like Credit Bank, Buk bilong Pikinini is able to offer high-quality early childhood education and robust after-school programs, ensuring thousands of children have daily access to learning opportunities that wouldn’t be possible without such support. This includes providing access to books, guided reading sessions, literacy activities, and creating supportive learning environments that inspire a love for reading and learning from an early age.

A financial literacy training ending today hosted by the Department for Community Development and Religion (DFCDR), has trained thirty-three women from the Kaugere JT Women’s Association.The program started on the 26th of November, aiming to empower participants with improved budgeting and saving skills also assisted in ensuring all 33 participants opened bank accounts. Deputy Secretary Warren Marape, speaking on behalf of Secretary Jerry Ubase, addressed the importance of financial discipline. “People with financial knowledge are people who have financial discipline in how they manage their money, both in spending and saving.” He also presented the account-opening fees to Evelyn Charlie, the Port Moresby Branch Manager of Mama Bank, to support all participants. Charlie and her team helped the women with registration and account opening, and a team from MiBank will also assist with this process. The main goal of opening accounts is to include the 80% of the unbanked population in the country's informal economy. Cecilia Wrondimi, Assistant Director of the Informal Economy Section, thanked the participants for attending and encouraged them to apply their new skills. On behalf of the JT Women’s Association, Rose Hagua expressed gratitude to the department for organizing the training and urged participants to fully utilize the opportunity. The retail training is being facilitated by the Informal Economy Section of the Department (DFCDR).

Five murder suspects in Wapenamanda are expected to surrender to the Mediation Team and security forces today at Wapenamanda district office, following their involvement in the killings during the height of Wapenamanda tribal clash. The mediation team carried out a successful negotiation with the warring tribes, led by acting Assistant Commissioner of Police (a/ACP) Western End Joseph Tondop and Special Operations Commander Anthony Wagambi Jnr. With maximum manpower and firepower from both police and PNGDF under the management of both acting ACP Tondop and Commander Wagambi Jnr, the team successfully confronted the battlefields of the two warring and armed tribes. Speaking to the Itoken tribesmen at Takaipus village outside Wapenamanda, Mr. Tondop pointed out that no one benefits from continuous fighting, killings and destruction of important government and church-run installations. “Your women and children do not have a future when you choose to fight, kill and destroy important government and church-run facilities in Wapenamanda.” a/ACP Mr. Tondop told Itoken tribe members. “Security forces comprising police and soldiers are here to protect installations that will benefit your women, children and yourselves today and into future. Take ownership of these important service installations,” he said. Meanwhile, Mr. Tondop informed the warring tribes especially the Itoken tribe that their inclusion in the National Court Peace Agreement Signed in Port Moresby, and the security forces deployed under the Special Operations led by Commander Wagambi Jnr, are here to enforce the new Anti-Terrorists Act. “The new law is targeting those who carry dangerous and high-powered firearms and persistently cause fear and terror in communities.” “The overall Peace Agreement signed by leaders Minister Miki Kaeok representing the Yangukim tribe and Danny Kati representing Yakuman tribe also covers your tribe and other neighbouring tribes,” a/ACP Tondop explained. The warring Itoken tribesmen agreed for peace on conditions that the opposing Yakuman tribe surrender suspects that opened up on them at the polling booth during the LLG elections. Moreover, Commander Special Operations Anthony Wagambi made it clear to all warring tribesmen that law enforcement under his command is here to enforce the new Anti-Terrorists Act recently passed by Parliament. “Only a unit of the special operations comprising Mobile Squad MS2 based in Mendi assisted by PNGF soldiers have been at Wapenamanda for a month providing security on government and church-run facilities,” Mr. Wagambi explained. Furthermore, he commended members of Mobile Squad MS2 and their counterparts from PNGDF for holding ground and maintaining control for the past few weeks.

The Sumkar Tertiary Students Union (STSU) has successfully concluded a six-day education awareness program across schools in Sumkar District, reaching more than hundreds of students and inspiring them to pursue higher education. The program, which began on 17 November 2025, brought together tertiary students from the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG), University of Goroka (UOG), Divine Word University (DWU), and the Papua New Guinea University of Technology (Unitech), who worked together as one team to mentor and motivate students. STSU Representative and DWU Madang student team leader, Nicholas Gamuna, described the program as a major success and praised the high level of student engagement.  “We are happy to say that this six-day awareness has been very successful. Students asked questions, participated actively, and showed strong interest in their future. This gives us hope for the next generation of Sumkar,” Gamuna said. During the week, the team visited Talidig High School, Mirap Primary School, Karkar Secondary School, Ilu Bangme Primary School, Anul Lutheran High School, and Dangsai High School. They delivered sessions on study discipline, career guidance, university life, scholarship opportunities, and course selection. Gamuna said the main aim of the initiative was to encourage students to take responsibility for their education and begin planning their careers early.  “We wanted students to understand that education is not just about passing exams but about preparing themselves to serve their district and country as future leaders and professionals,” he added. The union expressed its appreciation to Hon. Alexander Suguman for providing K5,000 in financial support, which helped cover transportation, materials, and logistical costs for the program. The team also thanked school administrations, teachers, and local communities for warmly welcoming and supporting the initiative. Allan Mulido, a third-year student from the University of Goroka, shared his hopes for the program’s impact.  “I hope this awareness will bring positive outcomes, and in the future, I hope to see more teachers, doctors, and engineers from Sumkar,” he said. Darius Wasida, a representative from the University of Papua New Guinea, also reflected on the experience.  “The six days were challenging because it was the first time Sumkar tertiary students came together to carry out an awareness like this, but we managed to complete it successfully,” he said. STSU described the initiative as an important step towards strengthening human resource development in the district and building a brighter future for the next generation. The union also announced plans to make the program an annual activity, with intentions to expand to more schools and include donation drives in the future.

Madang Provincial Police Commander Superintendent Robert Baim is urging everyone in Madang to celebrate Christmas safely, responsibly and with respect of the law. In his festive message, he conveyed warm greetings on behalf of all policemen and policewomen, noting that Christmas often comes with increased pressure on law and order. He appealed to families, students and businesses to stay alert, avoid unnecessary risks and support policing efforts across the province. Superintendent Baim also issued a public advisory to guide citizens during police interactions, saying it aims to protect people’s rights and prevent corruption. He reminded the public to remain calm when approached by police. Citizens are encouraged to ask for an officer’s name, rank and station, and request a clear explanation for any action taken. He warned against offering money or gifts in exchange for favours, stressing that all fines, bail and payments must be done through proper processes with official receipts. Baim said motorists must not pay cash on the roadside and should only accept documented traffic notices. He added that a driver’s license is personal property and can only be taken through lawful, recorded procedures. He urged people to report misconduct through official channels and keep basic details such as time, location and the officer’s name to help the command act quickly. While acknowledging that most officers serve with honesty and dedication, he said public cooperation is vital to keeping Madang safe. Superintendent Baim wished every household a peaceful Christmas and a brighter New Year.

A long-time Madang resident, Ms. Tahnee Ling, has donated K6,000 worth of equipment and support to three wards at Madang Provincial Hospital, using funds raised through her ongoing small fundraising activities. The donation, made this morning, was supported by the Friends of Madang Provincial Hospital and was distributed to the Physiotherapy Ward (K3,000), Labour Ward (K2,000) and Surgical Ward (K1,000). Ms. Ling said the decision to donate was driven by the need to improve basic equipment and create a more conducive environment especially for the physiotherapy department.  “I have split the K6,000 so that K3,000 went to physiotherapy for the items they listed, K2,000 to the labour ward and K1,000 to the surgical ward,” she said. She also highlighted that this was not her first contribution to the hospital, noting that last year she raised K4,000 and donated to the Pediatric Ward. Ms. Ling thanked everyone who contributed in cash and in kind, making the donation possible. Senior Physiotherapist Mr. Isaac Wamingi expressed his appreciation while receiving the items.  “On behalf of the Physiotherapy Department, we would like to thank Tahnee and the Friends of Madang Provincial Hospital for organizing the fundraising and supporting us with these much-needed items,” he said. Hospital Executive Manager Mr. Jeremiah Johnmark said the donation will go a long way in improving patient care and working conditions for staff.  “Madang Provincial Hospital has been facing many challenges that have affected service delivery. This donation will help create a better environment for both our patients and staff,” he said. Mr. Mark also acknowledged the long-standing support of the Friends of Madang Provincial Hospital in improving medical services and thanked them for partnering in the donation. The donation was witnessed by Dr. Jiuth Gawi, Director of Curative Health Services at Madang Provincial Hospital and staffs.

The PNG Women in Agriculture (WiA) Development Foundation is currently hosting its Annual General Meeting (AGM) at the National Agriculture Research Institute in Morobe Province.The meeting is supported by the National Agriculture Research Institute and the Pacific Islands Farmers Organization Network. The election of the new executives and reviewing of the organizations Constitution are amongst the agender for these two days meeting. The AGM was opened on Monday 24th November 2025 by Director General of NARI Dr. Nelson Simbiken who encouraged the participants to elevate the organization and align its goals with the National Agriculture Sector Plan, advancing from subsistence farming to commercialization. “With its network of women in the rural areas, PNG Women in Agriculture is in a strategic position to empower women right at the primary school level into adulthood. “Empowering women, allows advancement in all sectors of social and economic development, directly impacting a community. “NARI has supported Women in Agriculture since its inception in 2007 and will continue with this support, especially providing an office space in all NARI Centres throughout the country,” Dr. Simbiken said. Australian High Commission representative Rubie Yamuna encouraged the participants to embrace partnerships and work together. She said PNGWiA must take advantage of NARI’s support through the regional Centres and prepare to partner with donor agencies. Participants at the AGM are registered members of PNG Women In Agriculture from across the country. Vice President of PNGWiA, Jacinta Berra acknowledged NARI for facilitating the AGM and called on the participants to embrace this opportunity for change and advancement. The AGM also paid respect to the late founding President Mrs. Maria Linibi who sadly passed on in June this year, Mrs. Linibi has played a major role in bridging many women and youth farmer groups to external assistance.

A murder suspect who was on the run for some time now was captured this morning during a dawn raid in Tambul Nebilyer District in Western Highlands Province.Following a tip off, police from Kagua, Southern Highlands Province conducted a dawn raid this morning at Wamugl village in Togoba, Tambul Nebilyer District of Western Highlands Province, which resulted in the capture of a murder suspect who had gone into hiding there after fleeing from Southern Highlands Province. According to Constable Jonah Kosen from Kagua Police, they conducted the raid at 4:30am this morning and apprehended the main suspect of a recent murder case at Tiapili village, in Erave LLG of Kagua Erave District, Southern Highlands Province. Police say the suspect Mr. Solomon John of Tiapili village had gone into hiding in Togoba, Western Highlands Province after the brutal murder of late John Weinoko also from Tiapili village last month. The suspect now joins two others who were already in police custody. "To our people in Kagua Erave, if you run from your problems, you will only create more problems, and when you think you can run, you will never hide.” “To the Tiapili community and the immediate relatives of late John Weinoko, Kagua police has lived up to their promise, justice will be served," said Constable Kosen.

The Autonomous Bougainville Government’s Ministry of Education, through its Department of Education and in collaboration with other relevant ABG departments and agencies, has worked diligently to ensure the safety and well-being of Bougainvillean students studying at the University of Goroka in light of the security situation.The ABG Administration has been coordinating all response efforts by the Autonomous Bougainville Government to oversee all actions relating to the safety, support, evacuation, and repatriation of our students, led by the Chief Secretary Mr Kearnneth Nanei. "The safety, support, evacuation and repatriation of our Bougainville students at the University of Goroka have been made possible through the collaborative efforts of the ABG through the President Ishmael Toroama, Vice President Ezekiel Massatt, Members of the Bougainville Executive Council, and the National Members; Regional Member Peter Tsiamalili Jnr, Member for South Bougainville Timothy Masiu, Member for North Bougainville Francesca Semoso, and the Member for Central Bougainville Jimmy Miringtoro," the ABG Minister for Education Robin Wilson said. The ABG now provides the operational update on the repatriation exercise highlighting that the ABG Department of Education will complete the repatriation of the Bougainvillean students studying at the University of Goroka this week. The repatriation exercise has been conducted over a one-week period beginning on the 17th of November and the last lot of 9 students left Goroka yesterday Monday 24th November. A total of 68 Year One, Two and Three students have been successfully repatriated from Goroka and of the 68 students, 47 are on transit in Port Moresby awaiting their flights home to Buka this week, 21 students have been safely repatriated to Bougainville and are now with their families and communities. This repatriation program is being led by the Ministry of Education through the Department of Education, working in close collaboration with other ABG departments and agencies. The ABG reiterates that the safety and well-being of all Bougainvillean students remain paramount throughout this operation. “We want to assure parents, families, and the wider Bougainville community that the ABG has taken all necessary steps to bring our students home safely by the end of this week,” Minister Wilson said.

The Wapenamanda tribal violence between the Yakuman and Yangakuni tribes in Enga province remains ongoing despite the signing of Peace Agreement in Port Moresby Last week.The longstanding violence between the two rival tribes has prolonged from August to now November forcing Law Enforcement authorities to pursue and eliminate further conflicts and protect the innocent lives affected. Although the Upper Highlands provinces of Southern Highlands and Hela remain relatively quiet for the past few weeks, Wapenamada still remains intense despite the presence of Police and Papua New Guinea Defense Force (PNGDF) efforts to eliminate further violence. Heading into Wapenamanda yesterday Sunday 23rd November, reinforcements from both the Special Operations Contingent-Mobile Squad (MS) 2 and Wapenamanda-based PNGDF personnel were led by Commander of the Special Operations in the Upper Highlands, Anthony Wagambi Jnr. Despite the signing of the peace agreement with the Yakuman tribe who are from Wapenamanda station, the Yangukim tribesmen launched a surprise attack a day after on Saturday 22nd November 2025. Moreover, personnel from the security force, including police and soldiers based at Wapenamanda acted swiftly to protect government facilities and brought the situation under control. Tribesmen fired shots at the security forces who returned with warning shots to bring the situation under control. Reinforcements of security forces led by Commander Wagambi converged into Wapenamanda early Sunday morning and assisted to quell the situation between the two warring tribes. Commander Wagambi’s reinforcement team from the Special Operations remain the whole day at Wapenamanda and returned to their Command Base in Mendi last night.

The 2026 National Budget will be presented in Parliament tomorrow, but the prime minister has already hinted a budget mark that is more than K30 billion, and one that will maintain the government’s fiscal and service delivery focus. Prime Minister (PM) James Marape in a press statement said the 2026 National Budget, to be delivered on Tuesday by Treasurer Ian Ling-Stuckey, will maintain the Government’s steady fiscal direction, strengthen essential services, and reinforce the long-term development priorities under MTDP IV and the national Reset PNG@50 programme. For the first time, the National Budget will pass the K30 billion mark, with over 88% of it funded from domestic revenue — achieved without raising taxes. The Prime Minister said the government’s fiscal position reflects the success of its disciplined long-term planning.“This Budget is fully aligned with the Government’s 13-Year Budget Repair Plan, which lays out a clear pathway to reduce debt, strengthen revenue, and restore long-term fiscal stability. We remain firmly committed to this plan. Our debt-reduction programme is tracking on target, and in 2026 we will record one of the smallest deficits in our nation’s recent history — bringing us much closer to a balanced budget by 2027.“Our domestic revenue performance continues to improve, not because we are introducing new taxes, but because the size and activity of the local economy are expanding. The increased volume of collections reflects real economic growth and stronger compliance across the system.”Prime Minister Marape emphasized that this year’s Budget is not aimed at dramatic shifts or surprises, but rather consolidating gains made over the past five years while responsibly managing inflation and supporting frontline services.“The 2026 Budget will present no surprises. It maintains stability, consistency, and disciplined planning. We are staying the course to ensure effective services and responsible growth,” he said.Prime Minister Marape also said the recurrent expenditures will be prioritized towards core services in 2026 ensuring salaries, goods, and services are fully supported for key priority areas. He noted that the Government is committed to protecting core public services so that schools, hospitals, police, and frontline agencies continue to function without disruption.He also confirmed that the GST relief on essential household items, introduced last year to great success, will continue to the end of 2026.“This measure remains in place because easing the cost of living for families is a priority, and we have already accounted for it in the Budget,” he said.