BBC Media Action is set to launch a new report presenting key findings from its latest media study: Understanding Audience Needs, Values, and the Role of Media and Communication in Papua New Guinea (PNG). The report captures the voices of people across the country and explores how they access, trust, and engage with different forms of media. The research reveals a complex and multi-layered information environment in PNG. Despite growing access to mobile phones, half of those surveyed said they still rely on second-hand sources for information at least once a week. The study also highlights a clear demand for more diverse and inclusive content: over one-third of respondents feel there is inadequate coverage of both local and international news, while nearly 40% want more content focused on issues across the wider Pacific region. Additionally, 55% of participants believe there is insufficient media coverage of Papua New Guinea’s history and heritage. This in-depth study sheds light on how people across the country engage with media, what they value, and the kind of content they seek. It is part of BBC Media Action’s broader three-year initiative to strengthen the skills and capacity of media professionals in PNG. The project aims to foster high-quality, accurate, and inclusive public interest media that reaches and reflects all communities, especially those often underserved. The research draws on a nationally representative mobile phone survey of 1,000 people, alongside a series of focus group discussions. Key themes explored include: ·         Daily life and cultural values ·         Media consumption across radio, TV, digital platforms, and mobile devices ·         Trust in media sources and barriers to access ·         Social media usage and engagement ·         Audience preferences and content needs across different groups ·         Public understanding and perceptions of misinformation and disinformation The findings will help inform strategic efforts to strengthen the country’s media landscape, ensuring that all Papua New Guineans have access to the information they need to participate fully in civic life. Speaking at the report’s launch event in Port Moresby, Rachael McGuin, Director of BBC Media Action’s Pacific Programme, said, "This research offers valuable insight into how people in Papua New Guinea are using and trusting media, and what they want more of. Understanding these needs is essential to building effective media and communication that truly serves the public." BBC Media Action looks forward to collaborating with local media, government agencies, and development partners in PNG to share these insights, explore their implications, and support approaches that better meet audience needs. A detailed research briefing will follow today’s discussions and will be made available more widely. This research was made possible with support from the UK Government’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), and the British High Commission in Port Moresby. As the BBC’s international charity, BBC Media Action uses media and communication to promote stronger democracies, inclusive societies, and a safer, more sustainable world. We combine journalism, creativity, research, and development expertise with deep local knowledge and strong partnerships — guided by the BBC’s core values of trust, integrity, public service, and respect.

The University of Goroka (UoG) in the Eastern Highlands province is set to host the inaugural Pacific Teacher Challenge Conference from July 5th to 7th, 2025. This landmark event, the first of its kind for UoG and a significant gathering for the Pacific, aims to address the critical challenges faced by educators across the region, particularly those in rural and remote areas. "This important event brings together teachers, educators, university leaders, policymakers, and researchers from across the Pacific," stated Dr. Jane Awi, Executive Director for Somare Research Institute and the Chairlady for the inaugural Pacific Teacher Education Conference. "Our focus is on the real challenges that teachers face, especially working in rural and remote areas, in Papua New Guinea and the Pacific. The goal of this conference is to improve how teachers are trained and supported across PNG rural communities and our region." The Pacific Teacher Education Conference is a key initiative aligned with the University’s Corporate and Strategic Plan 2023-2027. A primary objective of this plan is to strengthen UoG's teacher training programs and enhance the quality of education provided to future educators. Hosting this conference is seen as a crucial step towards achieving this vision. A major outcome of the conference will be the development of a specific declaration on teacher education. This declaration will outline essential actions needed to improve teacher education programs in PNG and other Pacific Island nations. The findings will be shared with key policymakers and stakeholders, including the Teaching Service Commission, the Department of Education, university leaders, deans of education, and other regional education partners. Dr. Awi said, the conference boasts significant international backing, notably from UNESCO, the global agency dedicated to improving education systems worldwide. A keynote speaker from UNESCO headquarters in Paris is expected to attend. “Strong partnerships with Beijing Normal University and the UNESCO International Research Center for Rural Education (INRULED) are also highlighted. UoG has an ongoing collaboration with Beijing Normal University and several other Chinese universities, aiming to integrate best practices and innovative teaching methods into PNG’s education system. The Chinese government has provided both financial and technical support for this partnership, marking a first for UoG and signifying a shared vision between Papua New Guinea and China to collaborate through education.” A significant outcome planned for the conference is the launch of a Pacific network of deans of education. This network aims to foster ongoing connections, idea sharing, and mutual support among universities across the Pacific, with the intention of making it a regular feature of future conferences. This year’s theme is “Pacific Teacher Challenges”, focusing on the tough realities teachers face in remote areas. Future conferences will look at other key education topics, and follow-up research will be carried out based on this year’s findings. Many universities from the Pacific region will attend, including those from Samoa, Fiji, New Caledonia, and Vanuatu. For the first time, eight rural PNG teachers—two from each region—will also take part. Their stories will help guide future teacher training strategies. “These teachers represent all levels of education, from primary to secondary, and schools of excellence.”

The SP PNG Hunters Rugby League Club has announced the appointment of two new directors to its Board, marking a significant step in strengthening the Club’s leadership both on and off the field. Joining the Board are Mr. Warwick Vele, a seasoned professional in superannuation, finance, and ICT, and Ms. Belinda Manning, a well-regarded expert in strategy and enterprise transformation. Both bring extensive experience and a strong passion for rugby league in Papua New Guinea. Chairman of the SP PNG Hunters, Stan Joyce CSM welcomed the new appointments. “We are delighted to welcome these two outstanding individuals to the SP PNG Hunters Board. Their expertise in corporate governance, finance and ICT will be instrumental in guiding the Club’s strategic direction and ensuring we deliver long term success for our players, fans, and stakeholders.” As the Hunters push forward in their Hostplus Cup campaign, the new directors will play a key role in supporting the Club’s commitment to high performance, strong community ties, and creating clear development pathways for emerging rugby league talent in Papua New Guinea. Mr. Warwick Vele expressed his honor at joining the Board: “It’s a privilege to be part of the PNG Hunters during such an exciting time for rugby league in our country. Having proudly represented Papua New Guinea and contributed to sports administration, I’ve seen how rugby league brings our communities together. I’m eager to work alongside the Board, players, and supporters to strengthen the Hunters as both a development pathway for rising talent and a proud symbol of national unity.” Ms. Belinda Manning shared her enthusiasm about the appointment, stating, “I’m truly excited to join the Board of the SP PNG Hunters. I look forward to supporting the Club’s Strategic Plan and helping to create opportunities—both on and off the field—for young Papua New Guineans, male and female alike, through the power of rugby league.” The PNG Hunters would like to thank the outgoing board members for their service and welcome the new directors as the Club enters its next phase of progress and ambition.

In a major milestone for Papua New Guinea’s sporting future, rugby league great Marcus Bai has been appointed to the board of the country’s upcoming National Rugby League (NRL) franchise, marking a proud and historic moment for the nation. The official announcement of PNG’s inclusion in the NRL has generated a wave of excitement across the country. At the centre of this landmark development is Bai, a former Kumul and internationally respected figure in the sport. Bai, who represented PNG on the global stage and enjoyed a successful professional career, described his appointment as both “shocking” and deeply humbling. Despite his rise to the upper echelons of rugby league, Bai remains grounded. “I’m just a simple person,” he reflected, recalling that he left school after Grade 10 in 1989.” “Didn’t plan for all this corporate stuff — I just wanted to play rugby league.” He emphasized that his journey stands as a message of hope and motivation for young Papua New Guineans. “It’s a good story for our young boys and girls to see,” he said. “Train hard, play well, be consistent — and opportunities will follow.” Bai paid tribute to fellow PNG rugby pioneers including Stanley Gene, Mark Mom, Adrian Lam, David Wesley, and Christopher Mondo, stating that he shares this achievement with them. “I feel I don’t deserve it,” he admitted. “But I represent them — the Kumul old boys — and I know their support is always there.” While acknowledging that he has never served on a board before, Bai expressed eagerness to learn from experienced professionals including Ian Tarutia, Wapu Sonk, and SP Hunters chairman Stan Joyce. The establishment of PNG’s NRL franchise is expected to transform the country’s rugby league landscape. Bai noted that the new franchise will primarily select players from the PNG Hunters, encouraging young players to aim for consistency at the Digicel Cup level. “Focus on your local clubs, perform well in the Digicel Cup — and you’ll have a pathway to the top.” The appointment of Marcus Bai to the NRL franchise board symbolizes not only the recognition of his contributions to PNG rugby league, but also a bold step forward for the sport's future in the country.

Prime Minister (PM) James Marape has officially launched the board of Papua New Guinea’s first National Rugby League (NRL) franchise, marking a major milestone in the country’s historic entry into the NRL by 2028. Speaking at the Santos National Football Stadium in front of dignitaries from both PNG and Australia yesterday, Prime Minister Marape described the franchise as a “national unification project” and a symbol of the enduring 50-year partnership between the two countries. “We are using rugby league not just as a sport, but as a strategy to unite our people,” Marape said. “Like Mandela used rugby (union) in South Africa, we are using league to bring together one team, one people, one nation.” The Prime Minister unveiled the inaugural board that will oversee the new PNG NRL team. The board includes: Ray Dib (Chairman) – Former Bulldogs CEO and respected rugby league administrator Marcus Bai – Former Kumul and long-serving NRL player Lorna McPherson – Longtime rugby league advocate Stan Joyce – Architect of the PNG SP Hunters program Richard Pegum – Chairman of Mayur Resources Wapu Sonk – Managing Director of Kumul Petroleum Ian Tarutia – Business leader and finance expert Marape assured the public that the board would operate independently from government, with a focus on transparency and professionalism to ensure long-term success. Australian Minister for International Development and the Pacific, Pat Conroy, praised the partnership and reaffirmed the Australian Government’s A$600 million commitment to the project, calling it “a world-first initiative using sport to unite two nations.” “This is more than a sporting team, it’s a nation-building initiative,” said Conroy. “It will create jobs, boost tourism, and deepen ties between our peoples.” Furthermore, a national competition to name the team and its theme song will be launched soon. Marape called on all Papua New Guineans to participate, encouraging a name that reflects PNG’s shared history with Australia and its vision for unity. “We want every child in PNG and every Australian to see this team as their second team,” he said. With the support of the Australian Rugby League Commission, NRL executives, and stakeholders, PNG’s journey to the NRL is set to be a defining legacy of its 50th year of independence.

Former PNG Kumul’s star and NRL premiership winner Marcus Bai is calling on parents and guardians to take an active role in nurturing young talent through existing pathways now available. Speaking passionately, Bai reflected on his own journey, emphasizing the stark contrast between his playing days and the present. "Playing during our time, nobody was there for us, we did it ourselves," Bai stated. "But now, the government is. The Prime Minister has now set up that forum, they set up the Hunters, it is another bridge." He stressed that these initiatives, including the SP PNG Hunters, are creating pathways for young talent that simply didn't exist before. Bai directly challenged fathers to re-evaluate their priorities, stating, "If I was a parent now, I'd be looking at these interviews and the news and say, right, we can help. No fathers, stop what they're doing, drinking every night or drinking every Friday, put some effort in your kids if you want your son or your daughter to be a superstar later." He shared a personal story about his own father initially doubting the potential of sports, only to witness, Bai lifting the NRL trophy in 1999. "It tells everybody, don't worry about everything in the village, go and do what Mark has already done," he urged. According to Bai, the responsibility is now on parents to capitalize on these advancements. "There's so many bridges that the government built for us and we need to take it on board. The government doesn't fail, the parents, we fail to encourage our young girls and boys to be able to participate, to grab the opportunity," said Bai. He cited Justin Olam's remarkable journey to the NRL as a prime example of what's achievable, "after 16 years after me, he came in and went all the way." Looking ahead, Bai envisions a future where top-tier rugby league is played on home soil. "In five or six years' time, it won't be over there, it'll be here, right here on our own shores. They'll be playing every second week, every second week here and the parents, the grandparents will be watching them live, not taking a plane to Australia to go and watch a game." He also anticipates the presence of heroes from other NRL clubs, inspiring local talent. Bai concluded with a powerful message of empowerment: "There's plenty of opportunities for young boys and girls and it's up to them to take it. They don't take it, they're the losers and we lose as well." However, he remains optimistic, having witnessed the burgeoning talent and competitiveness in regions like Kainantu and Goroka. "There's too many young boys and girls playing rugby. I've seen it. So many young boys and girls taking those opportunities and we encourage them and work hard, there's nothing else." He firmly believes that with hard work, talent will ultimately lead to success.

A shared long-standing partnership between Papua New Guinea and Australia since 1975 still continues through the announcement of PNG becoming the NRL 18th team last year, with Prime Minister James Marape announcing today the inaugural PNG franchise Board. MP Marape announced that the board consists of a total seven experienced and well-versed members including former Kumuls star and NRL premiere ship winner Marcus Bai, Former Bulldogs Administrator Digicel PNG's Vice-President Lorna McPherson and five other members. Meanwhile, Australian Minister for International Development and the Pacific Pat Conroy states that the PNG team has been talked through for decades and is finally here. He said, no other country is more deserving to have an NRL team than Papua New Guinea with the kind of support and love it has for rugby league. Prime Minister Marape further made announcement of the first order of business for the Board which would be to officially launch a PNG NRL team name and theme song competition. More updates to come on this story...

Thousands of Papua New Guineans, in vibrant yellow gathered as early as 5am this morning for a spirited Trukai Fun Run, raising crucial funds to send Team PNG to the upcoming Pacific Mini Games in Palau. The event, a powerful display of national unity and athletic passion, underscored the vital role of community support in the nation's sporting success. "This isn't just about a fun run; it's about investing in our nation's pride," said Team PNG Chief de Mission Me. Kinivanagi Karo. "Every clean-up and every shirt sold is going directly into helping our athletes prepare and travel to Palau. That's something to be proud of," stated Karo. A major highlight of the event was the recognition of Trukai Industries Limited, the long-standing naming rights sponsor for Team PNG. Trukai has championed Papua New Guinea's athletes for an incredible 25 years, a testament to their unwavering commitment to sports development in the country. NCD Governor Powers Parkop delivered a passionate speech, commending the turnout and the enduring spirit of support for Team PNG. "It's great to see everybody turn up this morning for this annual event, the Fun Run, sponsored by Trukai," Governor Parkop stated. He expressed immense appreciation to Trukai for their consistent support in enabling Team PNG to compete in various championships globally, especially within the region. He highlighted the presence of members of the PNG Olympic Committee, various sporting coaches, and representatives from corporate organizations, government departments, and state enterprises, all demonstrating their commitment. He emphasized the symbiotic relationship between sponsors and athletes: "It's a win-win sort of relationship, promoting Trukai, but at the same time, more importantly, supporting our athletes who go out there and do their best to carry the red, black, and gold, inspiring our people, representing Papua New Guinea." Drawing parallels to Papua New Guinea's 50th anniversary this year, Governor Parkop underscored that sports is more than just competition; it's a powerful tool for nation-building. "It unites our people, inspires the youths of our country," he affirmed, stressing the need for increased effort and resources in this great platform that is a win-win for government, for sporting coaches, for athletes and for development all around." When Team PNG steps onto the international stage, the nation's collective spirit will be with them. "You were part of that journey. You helped them get there. They're not just competing for themselves or their families. They're doing it for Papua New Guinea, for you, for all of us."

Pacific International Hospital (PIH) has successfully wrapped up its two-day Cancer Outreach Program in Kokopo, marking a significant step forward in its ongoing efforts to extend essential healthcare services beyond Port Moresby city. The outreach was held at the PIH Medical Centre in Takubar Industrial Estates on Friday, 20 June, from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM, and continued on Saturday, 21 June, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM. The event saw strong community engagement, with many local residents attending for cancer consultations, screenings, and health education sessions. At the heart of the outreach was PIH Cancer Specialist Dr. Suresh Raghunath, whose presence offered a rare and valuable opportunity for residents of East New Britain — a province that currently lacks a resident cancer specialist. For many attendees, receiving expert care close to home meant avoiding the considerable cost and complexity of traveling to Port Moresby for similar services. “We’re honored to bring these vital services to Kokopo,” said Maxwell Kababa from PIH Medical Centre, Kokopo. “Our aim was to bridge the healthcare gap and ensure that even in the provinces receive the attention they deserve.” The outreach focused on early detection and prevention, with families, schools, churches, and local businesses playing a key role in spreading awareness. Their support helped extend the program’s reach and reinforced the importance of community-led health initiatives. PIH thanked the Kokopo community for their warm reception and participation. As emphasized throughout the event, taking charge of your health can be lifesaving. For follow-up consultations or more information, residents can contact the PIH Medical Centre in Takubar, Kokopo at 7031 5017 or email pihmckokopo@pihpng.com.

Ambitious pledges at Bali Forum target cervical cancer prevention for girls and women globally. Governments, donors, multilateral organizations, private sectors, and other partners convened at the 2nd Global Cervical Cancer Elimination Forum in Bali to unveil significant policy, programmatic, and financial commitments aimed at eliminating cervical cancer; one of the world’s most preventable cancers. With over 300 participants, including Ministers and Vice Ministers of Health from diverse regions, the forum highlighted a strong political commitment to expand access to HPV vaccination, screening, and treatment, working toward making cervical cancer the first cancer ever to be eradicated. The World Health Organization (WHO) Global Strategy sets clear 2030 targets: · 90% of girls fully vaccinated with HPV vaccine by age 15 · 70% of women screened with high-performance tests by ages 35 and 45 · 90% of women with cervical disease receiving appropriate treatment WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, highlighted the urgent need to act faster and ensure equity, stressing that every unvaccinated girl and unscreened woman is a call to intensify efforts. Despite being preventable, cervical cancer claims a woman’s life every two minutes in which 94% of these deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Many LMICs face barriers like limited health systems, costs, and logistics, with less than 5% of women screened. HPV vaccination prevents the majority of cervical cancer cases, saving lives at a high rate. However, by 2024, only 46% of low-income countries have introduced the vaccine nationally, compared to 98% of high-income nations. Building on momentum from last year’s commitments in Cartagena, which secured nearly US$600 million to scale up elimination efforts, the Bali forum highlighted key innovations such as single-dose HPV vaccines and self-sampling for screening. These advances are improving access and affordability, particularly in Africa, where first-dose vaccination coverage rose from 28% in 2022 to 40% in 2023. Additionally, Indonesia’s Ministry of Health is rapidly expanding its national HPV vaccination and early detection programs, providing free vaccinations to school-age girls and enhancing screening through DNA HPV tests combined with visual inspection. Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin stressed that prevention, including vaccination and regular screening, is crucial to reducing cervical cancer mortality. Across many countries, national screening and treatment programs are being scaled up to ensure timely care for women diagnosed with cervical disease. This coordinated global effort aims to prevent cervical cancer deaths from rising above 410, 000 annually by 2030. Donors are urged to fully support Gavi’s target of vaccinating 120 million additional girls by 2030, a move expected to save 1.5 million lives. Meanwhile, WHO Regional Director Dr. Saia Ma’u Piukala, described the initiative as a movement for justice, ensuring every woman, regardless of her location or income, has access to lifesaving care while breaking down barriers, stigma, and advancing women’s health globally. Moreover, the forum concluded with the Bali Declaration, calling on countries to set ambitious national targets, align with global health commitments, and strengthen collective efforts toward a cervical cancer-free world by 2030.

In a strategic move aimed at enhancing player development and game time, the SP PNG Hunters and the Rockhampton Capras have agreed to a player swap involving Hostplus Cup talents Khaiya Waiembi and Morea Morea. The agreement, confirmed by both clubs, will see Waiembi join the Hunters while Morea heads to the Capras. The switch is expected to take effect as early as next week. Coaches from both sides described the move as a mutually beneficial opportunity to support the growth of the young athletes within the highly competitive Hostplus Cup competition. “This arrangement gives both players a fresh environment to gain valuable match experience and continue their development,” said a joint statement from the coaching teams. The clubs have expressed confidence that the transition will be smooth, with both players set to integrate into their new squads in the coming days.

After several years without representation, the people of Central Bougainville once again have a voice in Parliament. This comes following the official welcome of newly elected MP Jim Miringtoro by OUR PATI leader and Mining Minister Rainbo Paita, along with members of the party, at Jacksons Domestic Terminal. Minister Paita expressed his congratulations and praised Miringtoro’s return, highlighting the wealth of experience he brings as a former senior leader. He noted that the election result was a clear mandate from the people, reflecting their confidence in a proven and capable representative. “His a very senior member, a former member and a former minster in different capacities, including, the capacity that I’m holding as Mining Minister, communications and so has been in different portfolios,” said Minister Paita. Minister Paita also emphasized the importance of Miringtoro’s role in ongoing discussions about Bougainville’s future, particularly regarding the issue of independence. He said Miringtoro’s insight and leadership will be valuable as the government works towards addressing this significant national matter. He also acknowledged Miringtoro for the joining the team, boosting their numbers from 14, to a15 members now. With his return to Parliament, MP Miringtoro is once again in a position to lead and advocate for the people of Central Bougainville. Miringtoro acknowledged Minister Paita and his people’s support for trusting him to take on the role and serve his people. He said that while a lot of money usually goes into such efforts — and it takes a lot of hard work — he didn’t run any campaigns because the people’s support and trust were already with him. “I want to work with the government, where Rainbo is leading. Where the issue for Bougainville is central and we will follow the peace agreement.” “The process is there, and we will follow it until we will find a solution for the Bougainville problem.”