National Capital District (NCD) City Manager, Mr. Ravu Frank has commended the University of Technology for its commitment to producing high quality engineering training at the University. Mr. Frank expressed high commendation to Chancellor Sam Koim and Vice Chancellor Professor Ora Renagi for initiating a first ever professional accreditation program for engineering training in the country. The City Manager, a civil engineer by profession, made the remarks while welcoming members of Engineers Australia who were on transit to Lae on Tuesday 3rd of September 2024 for the accreditation review program. “On behalf of NCD Governor and the NCDC Board I extended a warm welcome to our visitors. Thank you for your presence in our city and may I wish you every success in your engagement with the Papua New Guinea University of Technology.” Mr. Frank said. The Engineers Australia Panel Members are in the country for an evaluation of the engineering programs at Unitech to determine whether PNGUoT produces graduates who meet international benchmarks to practice. The team will be assessing the quality of teaching, the relevance of the curriculum, and the effectiveness of student support services such as industry support. They will also review the qualifications and expertise of the Faculty Members to ensure that they are well equipped to deliver high quality education. Mr. Frank said the arrangement is indeed a step towards making our engineers to be competently qualified with added dignity to the engineering training at the University of Technology and the preparedness of students to meet the higher requirements at the completion of their studies. The City Manager stressed on the significance of the engineering profession to nation building and took time to appreciate the leadership of Unitech in particular the Engineering Faculty for advancing the accreditation process with Engineering Australia. “This is certainly a positive development for engineering in Papua New Guinea in value and dignity and I wish everyone involved every success,” Mr. Frank said. Thanking the City Manager for welcoming the visitors, University Chancellor, Sam Koim reiterated that it was a very important moment for them as well as for the country. “I believe your (Engineering Australia Panel) coming here and assessing us at the university is a very pivotal moment,” said Mr. Koim. He added that gaining the accreditation requirements of Engineering Australia would be a turning point for engineering studies in PNG many of whose budding engineers are going overseas for further studies. The trend can be reversed through this benchmark arrangement for appropriate international recognition and PNG could instead be attracting others in the Pacific and Asia “You have the experience and exposure to assess, so this current assessment is not just a formality, but it is a thorough evaluation that could potentially lead us to have a full accreditation under the Steve Washington Accord. “That’s something that we are looking forward to. So, I echo the words of the City Manager on the implications of this accreditation as profound and signifying our dedication to provide a quality education that meets the demands of a rapidly evolving world that we are living in,” said the Chancellor.

As the country gears up to celebrate it’s 49 years of Independence, the Yangoru-Saussia District in East Sepik Province is also preparing to host a big 49th Independence celebration on Monday, September 16. Local Member and Minister for International Trade and Investment, Richard Maru said: “This is a good time to reflect on the progress we have made as a country and as a district over the last 49 years. It is time to come together and thank God for His blessings over the last 49 years despite our sinfulness.” “We, the people of Yangoru-Saussia District have come a long way over the last 49 years including achieving many successes like being the leading cocoa producing district in the country producing over 14 metric tons annually and leading the province in quality education with eight High Schools with three Secondary Schools.” “We did not have a bank branch since independence but now we have two banks in the district (BSP and Women’s Microbank). In October our new Yangoru Mobile Barracks will be completed and ready to receive the first batch of 45 policemen and women who will be based in the district and operating from Yangoru, our District Headquarters. We now have a commercial chicken farm in the district which not only produces chicken meat and eggs, but from last week producing 10, 000-day-old chicks a week to support our local chicken farmers in our district and in the province with the price per box reduced from K500 at Lae to now only K270 (50% reduction) from our own Haripmo Farm.” Minister Maru stated: “We have done well in many areas of development; however, we still have serious law-and-order issues and challenges, and unreliability and lack of power supply system are major impairments to our development aspirations and to our ability to attract large investors to come and invest in our district. “This has not been helped by our inability to mobilize land for large-scale agriculture developments. These are challenges that we must overcome and we are hoping that apart from the chicken project, we will have our first oil palm project started before the year ends. We have so much untapped economic potential which we must, with God’s help harness to create much needed jobs and create wealth for our people.” Minister Maru said he will announce the new projects and initiatives for the district at the celebrations. “I appeal to all people of Yangoru-Saussia District to prepare for our 49th Independence celebrations at Yangoru Station on Monday, September 16, 2024. The Yangoru-Saussia DDA is hiring all our PMVs and buses to bring all our people from our four LLGs for the Independence celebrations at Yangoru Station,” said Minister Maru. “Our 50th Anniversary celebrations next year will be even bigger," added Minister Maru.

The U.S. Indo-Pacific Command recently hosted Papua New Guinea (PNG) for the Bilateral Defense Dialogue (BDD) to discuss and strengthen their defense relationship. The BDD serves as a forum for bilateral consultations between PNGDF representatives and USINDOPACOM to strengthen cooperation and advance defense programs that enhance relations between security forces, encourage greater regional military cooperation, and promote the common interests of both countries. The Dialogue focused on military cooperation, civil-military operations including disaster relief, and training and education opportunities, such as professional military education. Humanitarian assistance, along with support for ongoing health, sustainability, and economic programs in the region, is designed to build partner capacity to address these issues. USINDOPACOM forces recently completed exercise Pacific Angel 24, which focuses on humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, laying a strong foundation for continued cooperation. The long-term partnership with PNG is based on shared values and mutual respect, underscoring the progress made to enhance cooperation and deepen both countries regional partnerships in the areas of the economy, security, health, and energy. This annual forum builds on persistent engagements and the U.S enduring commitment to PNG and the Indo-Pacific region. The BDD is a testament to the ongoing commitment to enhance defense cooperation, reflecting shared values and a mutual interest in promoting regional stability and security. This dialogue not only reinforces existing ties but also opens new avenues for collaboration in areas such as disaster relief and training, further solidifying the partnership between the two nations.

The Opposition Leader Douglas Tomuriesa strongly expressed disappointment over Prime Minister (PM) James Marape’s treatment towards Pope Francis’s visit to the country. “I am deeply disappointed and ashamed over the way His Holiness Pope Francis has been treated by Prime Minister James Marape over the last three-days during the Papal visit, and the lack of courtesy and respect shown by the PM.” “I join many of our citizens in expressing my embarrassment over how Mr. Marape has handled the Pope’s visit without any respect.” He said, “The Prime Minister continuously declares PNG as a ‘Christian country’ and prides himself on being a religious individual. So, it comes at a surprise to many when the Pope was continuously snubbed by the PM over the weekend since the Pope’s arrival on Friday.” Tomuriesa added, The Pope is the head of the Catholic church, the largest Christian church in the world and he is also a head of state. PNG not only being a Christian country, but a country that prides itself as a ‘friend to all, enemy to none’, the PM should be according to the Pope with the highest level of respect. “It was shameful to see that the Prime Minister failed on three occasions to meet the Pope and accord him respect.” On Friday, the Prime Minister did not welcome the Pope at the airport like he has done on many occasions to other world leaders. Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso had to step in. On Saturday, the Prime Minister again failed to attend the gathering at APEC Haus where I and many other Members of Parliament on both sides met the Pope. Governor-General Sir Bob Dadae had to step in on behalf of the State. Even Prime Ministers from our neighbouring Pacific Island countries were in attendance but not our own PM. “And yesterday (Sunday 8th September), the most disappointing display of all occurred when the PM missed his one-on-one meeting with the Pope at his residence in the morning. Per information reported, the organising committee said they were waiting for the PM to make his way but failed to turn up on time.” He further stated, “As a result, the PM had an impromptu meeting with the Pope at the stadium after mass which is very inhospitable and shameful. If Indonesia, a majority Islamic nation, can set aside their religious differences to show respect to an important global leader, then I don’t know why our own PM can’t do the same.” "I know the Pope will not be bothered by this disrespect as he is a very forgiving and loving man, but as a Papua New Guinean, I am utterly ashamed and disappointed. Mr. Marape has shown his true colours, and this blatant display of disrespect lets the country down."

The Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) Chief Executive Officer, Stanley Hondina, praised the efforts of the six (6) teams who participated in the inaugural National Women’s Competition, the Santos Cup, for their enthusiasm and commitment to the seven (7) week competition. “In a year of firsts, we as the PNGRFL are excited to see the talent and the elevation of the women’s game through the Santos Cup.” “The ladies have played their hearts out over the first five (5) weeks of competition, and we commend their performances and grit through this first season.” “I thank the East New Britain Gurias Women’s Team and the Mt. Hagen Eagles Women’s team their style of game and their contribution and participation this year, they will no doubt be back next year as better teams.” The Santos Cup regular season ended on the Saturday 31st August, seeing the Central Dabaris finish at the top of the ladder and the Lae Snax Tigers, Goroka Lahanis and Port Moresby Vipers following as 2nd, 3rd and 4th placed respectively. The Central Dabaris defeated the Port Moresby Vipers, 10 – 6 in a close match, whilst the Goroka Lahanis took out the Lae Snax Tigers, 12 – 6 at the Santos National Football Stadium, Sunday 8th September 2024. “I take this time to congratulate the Central Dabaris and the Goroka Lahanis, who will face off in the first ever Santos Cup Grand Final next Sunday.” “Your efforts and that of your staff and franchise, has paid dividends, seeing you make this Grand Final.” “You are the prides of your province. We look forward to seeing you take the field before your male counter parts in the “Big Dance” and wish you the best in your preparations.” The PNGRFL CEO, also expressed his gratitude towards the partners of the game who have invested and driven the women’s game to this milestone year. “We are indebted to the support of Santos, the Australian Government through PacificAus Sport, Kumul Mineral Holding Limited and Digicel, whose investments into women’s rugby league has seen the game evolve exponentially in the last four (4) years.” Hondina also congratulated the Kroton Hela Wigmen and Wamp Nga Mt. Hagen Eagles the on their progression to the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup’s 2024 Grand Final and thanked the teams for their commitment to the season. “The Digicel ExxonMobil Cup has grown leaps and bounds this year with the capture of data and proper monitoring.” “We are excited to see these two teams who have risen to the top, take the field next Sunday. Congratulation to the Eagles and the Wigmen and wish both teams the best.” The Kroton Hela Wigmen defeated the KMHL Enga Mioks, 20 – 12 in front of a packed Santos National Football Stadium for their Preliminary Final clash. The Central Dabaris will play the Goroka Lahanis on Sunday 15th September for the 2024 Santos Cup, ahead of the Kroton Hela Wigmen and Wamp Nga Mt. Hagen Eagle Digicel ExxonMobil Cup Grand Final at the Santos National Football Stadium.

The Kroton Hela Wigmen have pulled through to the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup grand final next week Sunday at the Santos National Football Stadium as they will take on the Mt Hagen Eagles. Both teams battled it out in the afternoon blazing heat to see Mioks add the first 2 points to the score board with a penalty goal kick. But coming from behind, Wigmen's Victor Ruling scored his sides first try after going through the video referee followed by a successful conversion from Pokari, putting them in the lead with 6-2 lead. With eighteen minutes left in the first half, Wigmen's Kaupa Sipa successfully put two consecutive tries followed by another try from his teammate Siki Konden with all successful conversions, taking them to a thrilling 20-6 at first half. Coming back from a much-needed break, the reigning champs Mioks tried to push through with several try attempts to level up but only managed to put their last try by Andy Tand, taking the fulltime score 20-12. Kroton Hela Wigmen's Coach Ian Yaro said, it was a tough journey for the team to make the top six and the grand final. "To come this far and make the grand final is just awesome, you know. And all credits to the boys for making it this far to the grand finals." With the team now set for the final series with the Hagen Eagles, coach Yaro said, discipline is one area he will work with the team before the Grand final. "We just got one of our players on record and will just have to wait and see if his going to make it through for the game, but otherwise, we got full players there that a ready and capable for the job." The Kroton Hela Wigmen will now face the Mt. Hagen Eagles in the 2024 Digicel ExxonMobil Cup grand final showdown at the Santos National Football Stadium at 3pm.

The Goroka Lahanis came out victorious 12-6 in the Santos Cup preliminary finals after putting up a good fight against the Lae Snax Tigers to secure their spot in the finals for this season. Leading in both half's, the Lahanis put up a strong defence with more try attempts then the Tigers. Although the Tigers tried their best to block all attempts, Lahanis Yolanda Taute showed great power by successfully putting the last try to secure their spot in the finals as they take on the Central Dabaris next week Sunday in the grand final match. Lahanis Coach Michael Moses expressed excitement at the ladies breakthrough and is optimistic for a greater celebration come next week.

Gerehu Police Station Commander Hanson Tokally confirmed that two police officers involved for the attack on a Gerehu Hospital senior doctor have been arrested with two other officers yet to be arrested. He said, the Police Commissioner has been told and is fully aware of this incident. Deputy ACP NCD/Central, Met.Supt - NCD, Supt CID, Commander Zone 2, PCC Gerehu and Internal Investigations Unit (IIU) NCD were physically present at the crime scene in front of the Gerehu Hospital. “The full details and identities of those policemen involved are known. Their full names as we as the incident reports have already been submitted to the Police at IIU office for further investigation.” “A known policeman, named with his Registration number named was a driver of a private white Toyota ten-seater, bearing the Registration number named at the time of the incident.” This policeman involved was officially transferred to Waigani Police Station from Gerehu after he was criminally arrested and charged for committing another offence 2 years ago. “Now, he is being arrested for being involved in this incident and is in Police custody with the other unattached policeman named.” “It is highly likely that others involved will also be arrested immediately and they will be terminated from the Police Force as per Commissioner's directive.” He said, other policemen involved are reservists, named. A medical doctor (victim) is also known. His statement as well as other evidence such as medical reports and witness statements will be taken by IIU police before making formal arrest and charge as usual. “A civilian man (currently unidentified) was seriously attacked somewhere in Port Moresby and transported by those policemen to Gerehu Hospital for medical treatment.” “The doctor (now victim) was the only medical officer on duty around 2:00AM on Friday 6th September, 2024. Little argument erupted when those policemen expected immediate medical treatment while the doctor excused himself and refused to help the patient (civilian) with medical treatment because he was drunk.” “Confrontation occurred between the security guards on night shift duty as they saw this and intervened.” “They confronted the policemen after the doctor was being seriously punched by another police officer.” “The security guards fought against the policemen involved and the fight broke into the hospital where other sick patients were being admitted. “ “After the doctor was being repeatedly kicked with safety boots and punched with folded fists, he sustained serious injuries to his head and face.” The police men escaped thereafter. IIU police were called in with the police bosses, who arrived later. The hospital has been closed pending police investigation since morning but it's open for normal business now, after being professionally addressed in the presence of the Police bosses, including the Commissioner, PSC Gerehu and the Hospital Management team. “Some policemen doing night shift at Gerehu went to stop the fight but they were late and also attacked by those policemen, who were said to be drunk and under the influence of liquor. Not all policemen were involved.” “We are very sorry for this sad incident as we humbly convey our heartfelt sympathy to the innocent doctor, who is fighting for his life.” “May God give you peace and wish you a fast recovery as you are fighting for your life,” said PSC Tokally. “Finally, we hope immediate relief and justice to be served on the victim accordingly.”

The National Capital District Provincial Health Authority (NCDPHA) Board Chairman Daniel Waswas has condemned in the strongest terms, the violent and unjustified attack on one of their doctors, Dr. Thomas Aiyaka, which took place early this morning. The assault, reportedly carried out by two intoxicated police officers, is a shocking act of brutality against a health care professional who was simply doing his duty to take care of the sick. Doctors, nurses and all health care workers dedicated their lives to serving the public, often under challenging and demanding circumstances. For any individual especially those entrusted with enforcing the law to violently attack a doctor is not only unacceptable but deeply disturbing. Such actions undermine public trust in Law enforcement and create an unsafe for our healthcare workers. “We are working closely with police authorities in NCD toi ensure that jstice is served swiftly.” “The two officers involved have been removed from the hospital premises, and we expect full accountability for their actions,” said Dr. Waswas. He said, “Gerehu Hospital is now secured, and their staff and patients are safe.” “Dr. Aiyaka is receiving the necessary medical care, and our thoughs and prayers are with him for a speedy recovery.” He added, they will not tolerate any form of violence or intimidation against their medical professionals. Healthcare workers must be able to perform their duties without fear for their safety. “We call on the Police Commissioner and the relevant authorities to thoroughly investigate this matter and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.” “To all our dedicated healthcare workers in NCD, we stand by you.” “You have our full support. And we will ensure that your safety is always prioritized.”

At around 4am this morning, doctors, nurses and patients say they were attacked by reserve police officers at the Gerehu General Hospital in Port Moresby. According to the Gerehu Hospital Manager Dr. Ruben Kiten, a group of police men under the influence of alcohol came into the hospital with a patient whose diagnosis is still unknown, demanded for fast medical treatment but was asked to wait by a senior doctor who was attending to another patient. Dr. Kiten said, the officer attacked the senior doctor, left and returned with reinforcement and opened fire and shot into the hospital causing panic to the hospital staff and patients. The senior doctor is currently at the Port Moresby General Hospital seeking treatment along with an asthmatic patient who was also attacked. “The first incident took place; they went out and came back with reinforcements.” “They hit the doctor the second time and when he was on the ground, he was kicked like a soccer ball.” “He left his family and came to work to serve the people.” “There was another attack, an asthmatic patient who was hit on the head and collapsed next to the doctor.” “And when they came back with the reinforcement, that’s when they started firing shots in the hospital.” Dr. Kiten told media that they went into the emergency ward and attacked everyone from doctors to the guardians in the hospital. He called these actions barbaric coming from a disciplinary force. “From the emergency ward, they went to the medical ward and the paediatric ward and did the same thing. Complete chaos last night.” “Many of the hospital staff had to remove their unforms, especially the nurses, and hid beneath the hospital beds to take cover.” Dr. Kiten made a strong call to the Police hierarchy to take immediate action and hold those men responsible for their actions and take proper disciplinary actions on them. He urged the police department to ensure that the hospital, staff and patients’ safety is guaranteed. Meanwhile, Zone 2 Commander Chief Inspector Tobby Hamago said, investigations into the matter are currently underway as this incident is of top priority now under the command of the Police Commissioner. He urged all staff members of the hospital who were on duty at the time of the incident to provide witness statements/reports to help investigations move smoother and faster. “If you were around that time when the incident happened, give us the story, come forward.” “If you know the police officer, give us the name.” “We need you to cooperate with us. Give us more information so that we can fast track this investigation.” The Police Commissioner later visited the Hospital to address the staff. At present, the Hospital remains closed.

The President of the Papua New Guinea Law Society Mr. Hubert Namani has joined the NCD Provincial Health Authority (NCDPHA) in condemning, in the strongest possible terms, the appalling attack on Dr. Thomas Aiyaka by police officers early this morning at the Gerehu Hospital in Port Moresby city. It was reported that some police officers, who were allegedly under the influence of alcohol, attacked the good doctor after they forced him to attend to a patient that they brought to the Gerehu hospital. He said the assault by two police officers on a dedicated healthcare professional is not only a disgraceful breach of the law, but a direct attack on the values of justice, human rights, and public service that both the legal and medical professions uphold. "Doctors and healthcare workers are at the frontline of serving our communities, often working under intense pressure to save lives and care for those in need. For law enforcement officers—whose duty is to protect citizens and maintain order—to turn on those who provide such critical services is an unacceptable betrayal of their sworn responsibilities," said Mr. Namani. "As the President of the Law Society and the Deputy Chairman of NCDPHA, I call for immediate and decisive action." "We demand that the police officers responsible be brought to justice without delay." He added that the Police Commissioner and all relevant authorities must ensure that an impartial and thorough investigation is conducted, and that those found guilty of this heinous act are held fully accountable under the law. He went on to say that this incident is not just a matter of individual misconduct, it reflects a breakdown in the relationship between those who enforce the law and those who work tirelessly for the good of the society. "We must restore trust and ensure that no healthcare professional ever fears for their safety while performing their duties." "I urge swift action by law enforcement to address this egregious violation." "Let this serve as a reminder that no one is above the law, and justice must prevail." Meantime, the Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) John Rosso in a short message said he will be attending the hospital scene this morning. "I have also deployed our internal affairs officers to the scene this morning," said DPM Rosso. "Let me assure you all that once investigations are concluded appropriate action will be taken. At this point in time, we are working on identifying the “policemen” and will be suspending them from duties immediately." "There is no room for such behaviour in the Force. We have many hardworking members. A few still believe they are not here to serve others but rather serve themselves."

A coordinated effort among various statutory health agencies, will provide comprehensive emergency medical support during the Papal Visit this week. Operating under the joint command of the Department of Health, the collaboration involves the National St John Ambulance (NStJA) Council, Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH), the NCD Provincial Health Authority (NCDPHA), the PNG National Emergency Medical Team (PNGEMT), and the West Sepik Provincial Health Authority. The joint health support operations will begin on Friday 06 September and continue through to Monday 09 September 2024 when the Papal delegation departs Papua New Guinea. Over 35,000 people are expected to attend ceremonies on Sunday 08 Sep and Monday 09 Sep at Sir John Guise Stadium. Dr Gary Nou, National EMT Lead for the Department of Health, said, “the Pope’s visit could be one of the largest gatherings of people at a single event in PNG’s modern history.” “Our priority is being well-prepared for the expected medical needs during the event. As with any event of this size, adequate crowd control is vital, and we ask people to move sensibly around the venue to prevent situations where crowd crush may occur.” “We have baseline plans in place to manage a situation where many people may require assistance at the same time.” To manage the expected medical needs, PNG EMT, PMGH and NStJA will establish an advanced care medical centre (ACMC) at the Stadium. The ACMC will be staffed by a skilled team of doctors and nurses from PMGH, NCDPHA, and NStJA. The ACMC’s objective is to treat patients on site. Complex cases will be stabilised and referred to hospital as needed. In addition to the ACMC, nine first aid posts will be placed around the stadium, each manned by NStJA volunteer first responders. To further enhance emergency coverage, four additional NStJA ambulances, staffed by ambulance officers, will supplement the six ambulances already operating in NCD as part of NStJA’s normal emergency services. These extra ambulances will be on standby to respond to any serious incidents. NStJA will also deploy a critical care ambulance and a quick response vehicle to support the Papal delegation. The critical care medical team will accompany the Papal Delegation to Vanimo, returning the same day. To ensure adequate coverage for this large event, NStJA has recalled off-duty staff to assist with the event. NStJA have also recruited and trained an additional 40 volunteer first responder. In total there will be around 150 trained first responder volunteers and health professionals engaged in providing support to the Papal Delegation.