In ensuring that Port Moresby General Hospital continues to deliver its goals in the National Health Plan and National Health Service Standards 2021-2030, a 3-day workshop was held, dedicated to the reviewing of the 2024 midyear clinical performance and overall implementation of the 2022-2024 Corporate Plan. The focus of the third day will be on the development of the 5 years, 2025 to 2030, Corporate Plan. Day 1 began on Wednesday 10th July, on a high note at the Holiday Inn with the focus on presentations by the coordinators of each clinical departments in regard to how they have performed in the Corporate Plan (2022-2024) and the 2024 Annual Implementation Plan. In his opening remarks, CEO Dr Paki Molumi spoke of the Corporate Plan’s (2022-2024) focus on setting the platform to implementing the National Health Plan and therefore establishing a Level Six National Tertiary Referral, Research, and Teaching Hospital in accordance with the National Health Service Standards mandated by the National Health Administration Act. Dr. Molumi stated that the current review aims to assess performance in both the Corporate Plan and the 2024 Annual Implementation Plan. “So, after we've positioned ourselves in this short corporate plan (2022-2024), the next corporate plan will focus to deliver a Level 6 National Tertiary Referral, Research, and Teaching Hospital” he stated. On behalf of the National Department of Health, Dr Dora Lenturut-Katal, the Deputy Secretary, Compliance and Standards presented on the expectations for 2025 and beyond at the national level and how activities could align with the corporate plan to achieve the KRAs in the NHP 2021-2030. She stressed that the National Health Service Standards, mandated by law, must be implemented and detailed the approach to making these standards easier to follow, including the development of checklists and internal accreditation surveys. She also addressed the importance of improving health infrastructure, equipment, and services, and encouraged staff to proactively manage their responsibilities to ensure high-quality care and compliance with standards. Each presentation by the clinical departments will be captured in the Strategic Priority Areas and Key Intervention Programs of the Corporate Plan 2025-2029.

Air Niugini today issued a notice advising all its customers that the airline is implementing an adjustment to domestic airfares effective today, Monday 15th July. The airline is restructuring its airfares to create better value for the traveling public whilst ensuring a consistent delivery of safer airline services. Over the course of the last 12 twelve months, the airline has faced significant increase in the cost of fuel. The cost of airline supply chains both within PNG and globally has increased substantially, and Air Niugini is not immune from these cost increases. The cost of aircraft leases, spares and services sourced from overseas have increased significantly with global supply chain inflationary pressures and appreciating foreign currency value, against the Kina. Airlines the world over have been grappling with increased costs – driving airfare increases. Air Niugini is thankful that the fuel supply issues are now being appropriately dealt with. The airline says flight delays and cancellations as a result of fuel from Port Moresby are now behind. Despite the cost pressures, Air Niugini is committed to providing increased value to our customers. 25% of Air Niugini seats sold will see a reduction in price or will remain unchanged due their responsibility to provide affordable accessible air travel. Passengers travelling on mid-range and full fare economy tickets will see increases between 15% and 25%. Business class airfares will also be increased. Air Niugini saver fares and promotions will continue, with an announcement on a new airfare sale to follow later this week. Air Niugini remains committed to its fleet replacement program which will see more modern and efficient aircraft arriving to replace the retiring Fokker fleet. This commenced with the arrival of two additional Boeing 737-800, and another Dash8-Q400 joining in August. Their new Airbus A220 aircraft commence arriving in August 2025, in time for ANG’s 50th anniversary of PNG’s independence. Air Niugini would like to thank all of its valued customers and stakeholders for their continued support.

Member for Bulolo and Leader of United Labour Party Sam Basil Jnr is calling on the Government to spend money were it is needed the most while connecting roads to the Project areas instead of overlooking them. He said, while everyone is proud to say that PNG has over 100 years of mining history but from the goldfields of Bulolo to the alluvial mines throughout Wau Waria and Bulolo Districts in the Morobe province, the socio economic and political indicators show under development and regression. “We read about busiest airports and banks and post office, to dredging mines, theatres, library and recreational halls to golf and bowling clubs but these has vanished with the Government policies that affect business and sustainable development in the impact areas." The Mining MOA has so many reference to education and training, first right of employment and business spinoff, future generation funds and scholarships, environment protection and community projects and social economic infrastructure for the people. Learning from the Hidden Valley Mining MOA that specifically mentions the maintenance of Bulolo, Wau-Menyamya Highway and so many infrastructure and socio economic projects that are hardly been funded out of the National Budget, the Bulolo DDA in the past and now is very protective on the Wafi Golpu Mining Project. “The Wafi Golpu Mine is said to operate for 40 years but ore reserves can take the mine to 100 years and we cannot just sign MOA and consent covering 2 or 3 generations for short term gains." Basil Jnr said, “On 12th March 2024, I wrote to Minister for Mining reaffirming communication to the Prime Minister and my concerns as per Questions in Parliament on both Hidden Valley Mine and the proposed Wafi Golpu Mine." He stated that the Marape Rosso Government is repeating the mistake of spending K100 million Infrastructure Grant related to Wafi Golpu Project in 2023 and again in 2024 that has no consideration for the District Administration and the Bulolo DDA that has oversight of service delivery in the Project areas and impacted LLG and District. “We appreciate the distribution of K1 million to all LLG in Morobe but DDA request is to build roads to the Project area, improve and build their schools and health centres and community halls and police station and barracks and connect electricity as well as public servants housing is overlooked.” “It is disheartening to know that the National Government undermines the established service delivery mechanism and is spreading K100 million around Morobe when half could have been invested in the host District."

Papua New Guinea's emerging 12 young leaders have embarked on a once-in-a-lifetime exchange programme to Australia as part of KTF’s (Kokoda Track Foundation) Archer Leaders Development Program. During the 2-week exchange, the 2024 Archer Leaders visited Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane completing a jam-packed schedule designed to build leadership skills, broaden perspectives, undertake career-aligned work experience and foster invaluable professional networks. Experiences included a series of adaptive leadership workshops by Conversus Leaders, tailored work experience placements, meetings with key leaders from the government, private and the community sectors, a personal tour of NSW Parliament House by Greens Member for Balmain, Kobi Shetty MP and a behind the scenes a visit to Channel 7, hosted by Sharyn Ghidella. Cultural immersion days included visits to the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre and FareShare, the Auburn Community Centre and the Street University. Culminating in a cocktail event in Brisbane, the Archer Leaders had the opportunity to speak alongside His Excellency John Kali, High Commissioner for PNG, Dadi Toka Jnr, Chairman of the Motu Koita Assembly and Deputy Governor for NCD, Ian Kemish AM and Dr Genevieve Nelson, KTF Chair & CEO, Archer alumni based in Brisbane and key corporate and community stakeholders. Speaking on behalf of the group, Chelsea Paspalau (Fisheries & Marine Science, PNGUNRE) and Taine Kassman (Law, UPNG) passionately shared the impact of the experience with guests. “The Archer Leadership program is spectacular, it's crazy and it's out of the ordinary.” Taine shared. “These opportunities have enlightened us and challenged us, we have seen the standard in all our respective professions, and this has given us the responsibility to strive for excellence.” “The days have been long and tiring but have taught us so much about what being a leader is…” “Inevitably, we learnt that leadership starts with self, and it has helped us become versatile in knowing the role we need to play as young leaders of our nation.” “This experience has taught us so many different ways of giving back to our communities, we have learnt that real change…can start from the bottom up.” “And that is what we, as Archers, look to do in the near future.” “We are 12 young aspiring leaders who have come from different backgrounds, have different journeys and have conquered different battles.”” “But we are bound by one theme, and that is being an active agent for change in our country.” As His Excellency John Kali remarked, the future is in strong and safe hands with these young leaders on the cusp of driving meaningful change in their communities and beyond. Meanwhile, KTF CEO, Dr Genevieve Nelson said: “This one-of-a-kind development journey is designed to take emerging leaders out of their comfort zones and push them into new experiences.” “The exchange broadens their perspectives, opens minds, and fosters understanding of different social groups and cultures, inspiring new ideas and goals to bring back to PNG; fostering innovative and adaptive leaders of tomorrow that prioritise tangible and sustainable social change.” “I had goosebumps hearing from Taine and Chelsea at our event, and indeed speaking to all of the Archers during the exchange.” “This group of young women and men are extraordinary, and I look forward to following the impact of their leadership journey in PNG.” KTF’s life-changing program would not be possible without the generous support of Newmont, Kina Bank and the Fred P. Archer Trust managed via Perpetual Trustees. The Archer Leader Development Program is a year-long experience that includes mentoring by a senior leader, work experience placements in Australia and Papua New Guinea, support for tuition and boarding fees, an educational and professional development resource allowance, community projects, as well as the exchange program to Australia. It has been operating for 14 years and boasts an alumnus of 106 emerging leaders.

“America was built on courage, on imagination, and on an unbeatable determination.” “When the 56 delegates of the Second Continental Congress unanimously adopted the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, they put in motion the American Dream by asserting the right to a government by and for the people.” These were the words attributed by the USA Ambassador to Papua New Guinea Ann Marie Yastishock on Thursday 11th July as esteemed guests, colleagues, friends, teammates and dignitaries gathered together to celebrate the United States of America’s 248 years of Independence held at the US Embassy residence in the Nation’s capital. While acknowledging the presence of those in attendance, Ambassador Yastishock gave a warm welcome to former Olympic Swimmer and PNG’s Chief De Mission for the 2024 Paris Olympics, Ryan Pini as their MVP. “In the spirit of the upcoming Olympic games, the theme of the day is Team U.S.A.” “What better embodiment of diplomacy could there be than sports?” “It is through a shared passion for sports, and friendly competition, like through the Olympics, that countries can transcend political differences and cultural barriers to build bridges and cultivate relationships”, said Ambassador Yastishock. She said the concept of the American dream is still one of the most uniquely “American” ideals – the ultimate idea that any individual can pursue their dreams and build the life they strive for if they put in the hard work. “It is our unique strengths, interests, and backgrounds that come together to form a diverse and impactful society.” “And 248 years ago, our founding fathers pledged their lives, their fortunes, and their honor to forge this new path—one guided by liberty, justice, and the pursuit of happiness.” USA will see its Presidential elections in the month of November of this year that will highlight all aspects of democracy on the world stage. “I don’t know who will make it to the finish line, but I am proud to be a part of a nation that allows for freedom of speech, including the opinions I support- and even and those I don’t”. Meanwhile, 4-time Olympian Ryan Pini, wished USA on its 248 years of independence and gave a brief history of his sporting code and the achievements he accomplished so far. He said, sports transcend beyond the playing field, impacting areas of socio-economic development and fostering discipline, teamwork and perseverance that are essential to personal and community development. “We are a small but mighty team.” “We are a team of 6 athletes. We have 1 from athletics, 2 from taekwondo, 2 from swimming and 1 from weightlifting.” Pini added that, they are not competing for medals, but instead, they are competing for pride, for honour and for PNG. “Let’s get ready to cheer on all the athletes around the world and celebrating what brings people together from different background.” “And here on Team PNG, we will cheer on Team USA and Happy Independence”, said Pini. In her closing remarks Ambassador Yastishock said; “As we celebrate this Fourth of July, let us embrace the values that define the American Dream the world of sports, and democracies alike: teamwork, fair play, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.” “Let us cherish the freedoms and opportunities that make our dreams possible, regardless of background, to achieve our own versions of the American Dream.”

Students attending Yanga Elementary School in Lae, Morobe province will now enjoy the comfort of a new learning environment, all thanks to the Steamships and John Swire & Sons who recently announced the successful completion and official opening and hand over of the classroom in Lae. The brand-new classroom was formally presented to the school community in a small ceremony at the school grounds attended by students, parents, teachers, and project partners of Yanga Elementary School. Addressing the audience, Steamships Finance Director & Company Secretary, Alessandro Mistroni highlighted the importance of education. "Education forms the foundation upon which successful societies are built.” “It empowers and transforms communities, paving the way for a brighter future.” “Today, we celebrate not only the physical transformation of a school but also the promise of quality education for the children at Yanga Elementary." The overall investment in this project amounts to approximately PGK 200,000, covering a steel classroom kit complete with students and teachers’ desks and chairs, shelves, blackboards, pinboards, and building contractor costs. Mr. Mistroni also thanked the project partners, and team at Consort Express Lines, who without their support, the execution of the project would not have been possible. The completion of this redevelopment project not only provides essential infrastructure but also instils a sense of pride and enthusiasm among the students, educators, and community members involved in its construction. The upgraded facilities are expected to enhance attendance and foster greater engagement, enriching the educational experience for all and contributing to the achievement of national education goals. The Swire Philanthropic Fund and Steamships remain dedicated to the ongoing success of this initiative and eagerly anticipate the transformative impact it will have on the Yanga Elementary School and its community.

Some of the best young talent in the country will be on display at the NRL Bid Academy Tournament taking place in Goroka over the weekend of the 20th to 21st July. The tournament will be an opportunity for Academy players to compete over 2 days and showcase their skills to the world. Players to watch out for include: Goroka Hercules Kondo (Men’s U19, Fullback) A local player from Asaro, which is home to the renowned Goroka Mudmen, Hercules has impressed all judges with his power and speed. Possessing an excellent rugby league IQ, his height makes him exceptional under the high ball. Ukere Sabumei (Women’s U18, Fullback) Ukere, was brought up around the game of rugby league, with her father being the first indigenous coach of the PNG Kumuls. She is an outstanding defender who has shown the ability to create opportunities for others through her all-round vision and game management. Mt. Hagen Steven Hiwi (Men’s U19, Dummy Half/Hooker) Hailing from Tari in the Hela Province, Steven is one of the brightest prospects in the game, despite the fact that he is only in Year 11 at school. Steven has already shown outstanding leadership qualities which has resulted in him being named as the current captain of the PNG under 19 team. He will look to lead from the front at this tournament. McKelly Dencil (Women’s U18, Outside Back) A student at Hagen Park Secondary School, McKelly has speed to burn and has continually shown the ability to break tackles through her explosive running. McKelly, looks to inspire her team-mates through her actions on the field and will be looking to continue her good form throughout this tournament. Port Moresby (NCD) Lydia David (Women’s U18, Fullback) One of the youngest players in the tournament at the age of 15, Lydia attends Tokarara Secondary School, where she recently competed in a Grand Final. With electric speed and agility, Lydia will be one to watch if she is given any space to find a gap during the tournament. Jeffrey Philip (Men’s U19, Utility - Halves and Hooker) An 18-year-old utility who can play at hooker or in the halves, Jeffrey represents the Waigani Christian Academy. Known for his excellent organisational skills and kicking game, Jeffrey will bring leadership and experience to the Port Moresby team during the tournament. New Guinea Islands Paul Uriso (Men’s U19, Prop and 2nd Row) A very strong defender and powerful ball runner, Paul will look to dominate through making good yardage gains. Known as a leader within the team, Paul is already on the radar of the NGI Guria first-team selectors. Attalia Joseph (Women’s U18, Halfback) An excellent defender, possessing a superb passing game over short and long distances, Attalia will look to be an on-field organiser for her team throughout the tournament. Possessing an ability to read the game, Attalia has already shown the qualities that would allow her to step up to Representative level. Port Moresby, Central Region Paulina Talin (Women’s U18, Lock) Seen by many as a potential future Junior Orchids player, Paulina has already made a name for herself in the National Capital District’s schools’ competition. Known for her aggressive defence, Paulina is also a strong ball runner who can make important carries when her team most needs them. NRL Bid Academy Head Coach, Joe Grima, was excited about rugby league followers getting the chance to see the depth of talent at junior level within the country. “I think the tournament in Goroka will be a great opportunity for our best young players to showcase their talent to not only the people of PNG, but also the rest of the rugby league world.” “There is no doubt that there is enormous natural talent amongst our emerging stars and through the work of the Academy, we are now seeing starting to see some real progress in our player development.” “I encourage everyone to watch as much of the tournament as they can as I believe they will be thrilled with what they see from the next generation of players.”

A team of senior education officials from Papua New Guinea’s National Department of Education (NDoE), Provincial Education Divisions (PDoE) and Bougainville Department of Education (BDoE) travelled to Queensland, Australia recently for a learning exchange visit with Good to Great Schools Australia (GGSA). The learning exchange was facilitated by the Australian Government’s Partnerships for Improving Education (PIE) program with the goal of generating innovative ideas and approaches to tackling challenges that impact teaching and learning in rural remote schools in PNG and Australia alike. GGSA is an Indigenous-owned non-profit organization, founded by the esteemed Indigenous leader Noel Pearson. GGSA collaborates with schools in the Cape York peninsula to enhance student learning outcomes. The PNG delegation visited 2 schools in the Cape, Hopevale Primary and Coen Primary. They observed classrooms where teachers used direct instruction to engage students in reading, writing, spelling, and mathematics. They also had the chance to observe students participating in various Indigenous cultural and musical activities. The team learned how these schools use data to monitor teaching and learning progress, with attendance being a key component of their weekly tracking system. BDoE acting Secretary Dorothy Kenneth said, “We were impressed by the consistent strategies teachers employed to engage students, and by how quickly the schools had improved their results.” Kenneth said every teacher was mentored by an instructional coach, usually the School Principal or Deputy, who regularly conducts teacher professional development, observes lessons, and helped teachers master the appropriate teaching strategies. Some of the key takeaways for the PNG delegation were that the schools used consistent teaching practices, along with the modelling and reinforcement of high expectations. This leads to improved student engagement and high interest in learning. This approach helps students gain confidence in their mastery of literacy and mathematics foundations. This month, representatives from Good to Great Schools Australia will travel to PNG to understand the challenges encountered by remote schools in the country and to investigate how their strategies can be tailored to fit these schools.

In response to the petition from the health workers of Modilon General Hospital, Health Minister Dr. Lino Tom said he received the petition from the doctors and nurses who have raised significant concerns in regard to the Madang Provincial Health Authority (PHA). “I take all reports of misgovernance extremely seriously”, said Dr. Tom. He said, PHAs were established to decentralize the management and delivery of healthcare services to the provincial and district level, and aimed at improving the effectiveness, efficiency, and accountability of healthcare delivery. PHAs are governed by a board of directors appointed by the Provincial Government, with representation across different sectors, as mandated by law. “Sound governance is essential for a functional PHA; and transparency and accountability are core values. And these apply to both the establishment and operations of a PHA Board.” Upon received the petition, Dr. Tom had asked his Department to investigate the main areas highlighted in the petition, and they have provided the following advice: 1. The Madang PHA Board has not demonstrated that a transparent, merit-based appointment process was used to recruit its current CEO. 2. The nominations for PHA Board Members submitted to date have not met the requirements for fit and proper persons from respective sectors, as stipulated in the PHA Act 2007. As these legal requirements were not met, two Cabinet Submissions for the Madang PHA Board have been rejected. “I am committed to addressing these serious issues related to health service delivery in Madang. PHAs have a responsibility to ensure that our health workers can provide quality care in a safe environment that is fit for purpose.” “This has an impact on the health outcomes of our patients too.” “It is imperative that we have strong governance in place to support effective health service delivery at the Provincial and District levels.” “As leaders, we have a responsibility to ensure that Board appointments are merit-based and comply with the law.” He added that, a new Madang PHA Board submission will be considered by Cabinet shortly. As soon as the Board members have been commissioned, their responsibility will be to review the performance of the Madang PHA CEO and senior executive team and take action accordingly. “I also strongly encourage the Madang PHA Board and other PHA Boards across the country, to conduct an external audit into your operations over the past five years.” “This is crucial for accountability and quality assurance.” “I would like to assure the health workers at Modilon General Hospital that I have heard your concerns around the sub-optimal health facility standards and environment to safely provide essential health services, and that I will continue to follow-up on this at the highest levels, until the outstanding Madang PHA Board and governance issues have been addressed.”

Papua New Guinea’s bid to join the National Rugby League will take another step forward with the best young players in the country on display later this month. The tournament, which will take place over the weekend of 20/21 July in Goroka, will see the eyes of the PNG Rugby League world focused on some outstanding emerging talent exhibiting their skills on the field. The tournament will also showcase the important work being done by the NRL Bid Academy. The Academy, supported through the PNGAus partnership, and led by the highly experienced coach, Joe Grima, has placed a focus on equipping the best U15/17/19 boys and U18 girls with the skills to succeed on and off the field. The 16-week program, the first of its kind in PNG, is uncovering talent throughout the country that can compete against the best young players in Australia and New Zealand. This will be an important building block to becoming an NRL club. PNG NRL Bid Chief Executive, Andrew Hill, understood the importance of this tournament. “We are creating a solid structure for the game in this country and one that will put us in the best possible situation to succeed,” said Hill. “The development of the Academy under Joe Grima and a great group of coaches, has been incredibly important.” “This tournament is the next step towards preparing our young talent for the future. It will see the best players compete over two days and showcase the fact that in the coming years we have the depth and skill level required to compete against the best young talent from the NRL.” “I look forward to what will be a great event for the game here in PNG.”

Coca-Cola Europacific Partners (CCEP) teamed up with the Port Moresby General Hospital and the Angau Hospital to host a successful blood drive at two office locations in honour of World Blood Donors Day recently on the 14 June, 2024. The Port Moresby General Hospital Health Team said, “Only 1 in 30 people give blood, but 1 in 3 people will need blood in their lifetime.” Valdo Pongiura, CCEP’s Talent Management Executive said, “donating blood is about making a direct and positive difference in people’s lives and CCEP is pleased to support this cause.” Representatives from the blood bank units from both hospitals, Sir Brian Bell Centre for Transfusion and Angau Blood Bank, appreciated CCEP's support, noting the donations will go a long way in saving lives. Aside from giving blood, our staff received valuable information on the health benefits of donation. “Some benefits of donating blood include, mini examination, balanced iron levels, calorie burning, reduced cancer risk, enhanced cardiovascular health, and improved blood flow for repeat donors”. CCEP is dedicated to supporting initiatives that improve employee health and wellbeing and community health.

Vodafone PNG is excited to announce its silver sponsorship of the renowned National Mask & Warwagira Festival, taking place from the 10th - 13th July at Queen’s Park in Rabaul, East New Britain Province. This year’s festival promises to be a spectacular event, showcasing traditional performances, rituals and crafts from in and around the East New Britain province. “Vodafone is delighted to support this festival and contribute to the celebration of our diverse cultural heritage." This is from Vodafone’s PR Manager Charmaine to Robert. “We believe in the power of connectivity to bring people together and this festival is a wonderful opportunity to support and engage with our community.” Festival goers can expect all this and more from the Vodafone Stall - FREE Sim Registration – With every new Vodafone SIM registered, customers can enjoy 200 mins talk-time. SUPA AFFORDABLE Phones – Exclusive to the Mask Festival, there will be touch screen phones going from as low as K129! FREE Show Bags – Visit the Vodafone Stall and see how you can score yourself a free show bag with Vodafone branded goodies inside. FREE Face Painting – Get sighted in the crowd with the Vodafone logo painted on your face and you could win some exciting prizes. Keep an eye on Vodafone’s social media pages for more information and make sure to visit the Vodafone Stall at the National Mask & Warwagira Festival to take advantage of the specials!