The newly established Mt Hagen School of Nursing is set to start enrolling students this year, marking a major milestone in addressing the long-standing shortage of trained health workers in the Western Highlands Province and the nation as a whole.College Director Mr. Gabriel Kewa said the initiative began in 2023 with the formation of a working committee, supported by continuous technical advice from the Chimbu School of Nursing. “This project started after careful planning and consultation. With the guidance and support from Chimbu School of Nursing, we completed all the necessary groundwork and documentation required to establish the college,” Mr. Kewa said. He explained that Western Highlands had gone more than 50 years without a nursing college, despite growing health service demands in the region. “There has been a clear need in the health sector. We saw the shortage of health workers and decided to take the initiative to establish a new school of nursing for our people,” he said. According to Mr. Kewa, land for the institution has already been identified, and infrastructure development is underway. The working committee formally notified the Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (DHERST) and submitted the college’s proposal in 2023. He said the proposal received positive feedback from the Acting Secretary for DHERST, who acknowledged that Mt Hagen was overdue for a nursing college and granted approval for the project to proceed. Following the approval, senior DHERST officials, conducted a site visit to Mt Hagen on 26th September 2021. After the visit, the department advised the working committee that the college could begin student intake in either 2026 or 2027. Based on that advice, the management decided to commence early preparations and begin accepting applications this year. “We have already released application forms, and the response has been very encouraging. A large number of students have applied so far,” Mr. Kewa said. The establishment of the Mt Hagen School of Nursing is expected to significantly strengthen healthcare training and improve access to skilled health professionals in the Western Highlands and surrounding regions.

The Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) has postponed two OFC Pro League matches scheduled to be played at North Harbour Stadium on today, due to adverse weather conditions affecting the Auckland region. deferred The affected fixtures include Tahiti United’s match against PNG Hekari FC, which was set for a 3:00pm NZT kickoff, and the evening clash between South Melbourne FC and Solomon Kings FC, scheduled for 7:00pm NZT. Auckland is currently under a Heavy Rain Warning (Orange Alert), in force from 9:00am Wednesday until 2:00am Thursday. OFC officials said the decision to postpone the matches was made in the interest of safety for players, match officials, and spectators. Both matches will be rescheduled to later dates within the competition calendar. The OFC confirmed that updated fixture details will be announced in due course. The postponement comes as parts of the region continue to experience significant rainfall and weather-related disruptions. Meanwhile, PNG Hekari FC is currently sitting at 7th place after losing to Solomon Kings FC 1-0.

Health authorities in Lae city, Morobe province have confirmed a rise in influenza cases caused by a virus known as H3N2 subtype, but at this current stage it is not a case for concern.According to Morobe Provincial Health Authority (MPHA) and Angau General Hospital Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr. Kipas Binga, their surveillance teams have observed a noticeable rise in patients presenting with flu symptoms and in response, medical teams have collected samples from affected patients, which have been sent to the Goroka Institute of Medical Research (IMR) for laboratory testing. Results from these tests are expected to determine the exact cause of the illness. Preliminary assessments suggest that most of the symptoms are consistent with common viral infections. Health workers are therefore managing the cases as common colds, which typically respond well to basic home remedies such as hot water steaming and rest. The majority of patients are being treated as outpatients, indicating that the illness is generally mild. Importantly, health authorities have confirmed that there have been no reported deaths directly linked to the flu cases to date. He stated that, they are continuing to monitor the situation closely and have reassured the public that further updates will be provided once laboratory results are available.  

Metoreia Health Centre has successfully conducted Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) training for its support staff, reaffirming its commitment to patient safety and high-quality healthcare delivery.The training equipped staff with practical skills to prevent the spread of infections within the facility. Key topics included proper hand hygiene, correct use of personal protective equipment (PPE), waste management, cleaning and disinfection procedures, and safe patient-care practices. Metoreia Health Centre Manager, Regina Wuri, highlighted the critical role of IPC in protecting both patients and healthcare workers. “Infection prevention is essential to ensure that everyone—staff and patients alike—remains safe while receiving or providing care,” she said. The program was facilitated by the National Capital District Provincial Health Authority (NCDPHA) in collaboration with public health partners and is part of ongoing efforts to build capacity at frontline health facilities, reducing the risk of healthcare-associated infections. Key outcomes of the training include improved hand hygiene, correct PPE usage, safer waste disposal and environmental management, and stronger teamwork in maintaining infection-free spaces. Dr. Robin Oge, Chief Executive Officer for NCDPHA, commended the Metoreia management and IPC team for their efforts. “Community members must continue to practice good hygiene and support health workers in keeping the facility safe,” he said.

More elementary teachers across Papua New Guinea (PNG) will get the chance to upgrade their qualifications in 2026 as the Department of Education rolls out a new nationwide training plan.Department of Education Secretary Dr. Uke Kombra said the program will help early grade teachers move up to a Diploma in Primary Teaching (In-Service), which is now required under the new 1–6–6 education system. “This process has already started,” Dr. Kombra said. “PNG Education Institute, Divine Word University, Innovative University of Enga, and Balimo Teachers College are already offering the two-year conversion program.” The plan aims to train 8,576 elementary teachers between 2026 and 2029. This is a big step up, compared to the 1,430 teachers—only 7 per cent of the total—who completed similar training between 2019 and 2025. Right now, Papua New Guinea has 21,602 elementary teachers working across the country. Training numbers will increase each year, with 2,082 teachers expected to join in 2026, 3,613 in 2027, 2,890 in 2028, and 2,371 in 2029. The diploma program was developed by the Department of Education and launched in 2024. It is being delivered in partnership with the Teaching Service Commission (TSC), the Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (DHERST), and several teacher training institutions. Dr. Kombra said the two-year course includes eight units and a total of 120 credit points. To qualify, teachers must be employed under the TSC, have at least five years of teaching experience, hold a Certificate in Elementary Teaching, have a valid Teacher Registration Certificate, and have completed Grade 12 or an equivalent qualification through FODE. The training program supports the National Education Plan 2020–2029, which changes the school system from 3–6–4 to 1–6–6. Under this system, Preparatory, Grade 1, and Grade 2 will be taught by trained early grade teachers. Dr. Kombra also thanked the development partners supporting the program. Funding is being provided by DFAT through the Program for Improving Education, the World Bank through the Learning Enhancement and Access Project, and the Global Partnership for Education through UNICEF, covering all provinces. “This training is important for the future of our children,” Dr. Kombra said. “By 2030 and beyond, we want all elementary teachers to have the right qualifications to teach in primary schools.”

The SP PNG Hunters Assistant Coach Enock Maki says that role clarity and discipline will be the central focus as the team moves into Block Two of its preseason program.Maki explained that role clarity is about ensuring every player understands their responsibilities and remains accountable both on and off the field in order to contribute to the team’s success. “Players need to focus on their own job and understand their role within the team,” Maki said. “When players are clear on that, it helps the whole group move in the right direction.” The Hunters currently have a squad of 36 players, including 32 contracted players and four development players. Maki confirmed that 32 players will form the club’s final squad for the season, with the development players continuing to train alongside the main group. He also reinforced the importance of maintaining the club’s standards, noting that all players sign a code of conduct during the induction process when joining the Hunters, and they are expected to strictly adhere to it. "We have our own standards here. If players don’t meet those standards, then difficult decisions have to be made. However, the door is not closed, players can work on themselves and earn their way back,” Maki said. The Hunters are expected to play their first trial match in approximately five weeks’ time against the Pride in Cairns, before opening the season with a round one clash against the Capras in what is anticipated to be a strong rivalry. “Our priority at the moment is lifting everyone to the level we want. There’s still a lot of work to be done, but we’re building steadily.” With several senior players having departed, the Hunters are entering a rebuilding phase. Despite this, Maki expressed confidence in the squad, particularly in the middle forwards and spine positions. He said, “We’re comfortable with our middle. The spine is still a work in progress, but by the time round one arrives, we believe we’ll be ready.” Maki also praised the attitude and work ethics of the new players who have joined the squad during the preseason. “They’re eager to learn and improve every session,” he said. “That’s exactly what we want to see.”

Minister for Education Lucas Dekena has welcomed the Marape–Rosso Government’s commitment of K4.9 billion to the education sector under the 2026 National Budget, describing it as a strong endorsement of ongoing reforms across the system.The allocation accounts for 16% of the total national budget, a level of funding Minister Dekena said reflects the Government’s confidence in education as a national priority. Of the total amount, K1.4 billion has been appropriated directly to the Department of Education, including K1.199 billion for recurrent expenditure. Minister Dekena confirmed that K905 million will be allocated for tuition and project fees in 2026, ensuring continued access to education for students nationwide. A further K211 million has been set aside for departmental operations. The Minister expressed his appreciation to Prime Minister James Marape, Cabinet, and the leadership of the Department of Education for their collaborative efforts in securing the funding amid competing national priorities. He also outlined major investments aimed at improving school infrastructure and learning environments across all levels of education. Minister Dekena confirmed that US$100 million (approximately K500 million) has been secured through the World Bank to support Early Childhood Education, while an additional K500 million has been approved by the National Executive Council for school infrastructure development. In addition, the Department of Education is in discussions with the Asian Development Bank to secure US$60 million to support infrastructure development for secondary schools, particularly grades seven to twelve. “These investments are critical to addressing legacy infrastructure issues, reducing overcrowding, and improving learning outcomes,” Minister Dekena said. As part of broader education reforms, the Government aims to reduce class sizes to between 20 and 25 students per classroom, bringing Papua New Guinea closer to international best-practice standards. “We must think about our teachers’ welfare as well as the quality of learning our students receive,” the Minister said.

Port Moresby's Gordons Secondary School Principal, Mr. George Kenega, has revealed that limited spaces in universities and other institutions of higher learning are a major reason many high-performing students fail to secure placements, despite appearing to meet academic requirements.Mr. Kenega explained that while many students achieve strong grades, particularly A’s, not all A grades are treated equally during the university selection process. He said institutions apply detailed classifications when assessing results, with distinctions such as “top A,” middle-range A, and A grades that are closer to a B.“On paper, it may look like students have met the criteria, but when selections are made, those differences in grading become critical,” Mr. Kenega said. “Some A's are very high, while others fall into lower categories, and universities take those classifications into account.”He noted that this grading variation often leaves parents and schools questioning why students with good results are not selected. According to Mr. Kenega, the issue becomes clearer once the grading categories and selection criteria used by universities are fully understood.In addition to the grading standards, Mr. Kenega highlighted the growing pressure caused by limited university capacity.He said the number of students completing secondary schools continues to increase each year, while available spaces in higher learning institutions remain largely unchanged.“The output of students keeps rising every year, but universities cannot expand at the same pace. As a result, fewer students are being selected, even though many of them perform well academically,” he said.Mr. Kenega stressed that the situation does not reflect a lack of effort or ability among students, but rather structural limitations within the higher education system.“On the surface, our students have done well, but the reality is that limited spaces and strict selection criteria prevent many deserving students from moving on to universities,” he said.He called for better planning and expansion in the higher education sector to accommodate the increasing number of qualified school leavers.

Port Moresby General Hospital (PNGH) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr. Paki Molumi is urging the families and relatives of unclaimed bodies at the hospital's mortuary to collect and bury them as the facility is about to reach its maximum holding capacity.Currently, the hospital mortuary, including refrigerated containers, can hold 300 bodies.  With an average of 10 to 15 admissions per day, Dr. Molumi said the hospital needs space for incoming cases.“We urge the public, if you have loved ones at the mortuary, please come and claim them for burial to create space for new bodies,” he said.Unclaimed bodies, particularly those who die on arrival or have no identified relatives, are subject to mass burials after court clearance. So far, the hospital conducted three to four mass burials, each involving 15 to 20 bodies.Looking ahead, Dr. Molumi revealed plans to expand the mortuary with funding from the Indonesian government.The new facility, currently under design review, is expected to begin construction in the first quarter of 2026.The upgraded mortuary will include increased storage, a forensic medicine section for post-mortems, an environment-controlled preservation area, funeral service facilities, and a chapel. Cremation services, however, will not be included in the current design.Dr. Molumi also highlighted the hospital’s medical achievements and plans for the coming year. In February 2026, Port Moresby General Hospital will perform kidney transplants for five patients, following the successful recovery of two previous transplant recipients who have returned to work and normal life.Cancer care and programs addressing lifestyle-related diseases such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease will also be expanded.“We aim to provide comprehensive healthcare to the people of Papua New Guinea as part of the Golden Jubilee celebrations,” Dr. Molumi said.

FC Wantok secured a commanding 4-0 victory over Rutz FC in the NCD Governor's Cup Grand Final at University Oval last week, with striker Leo Rue scoring a brace to seal the win.Rue opened his account in the 26th minute before adding his second just after the restart in the 47th minute. The match, officially kicked off by a representative from NCD Sport Desk and witnessed by NCD Governors Cup Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Billy Aki and his committee, saw FC Wantok dominate from the outset. The game started at a measured pace, but FC Wantok quickly capitalized on Rutz FC’s shaky defence. Solomon Rani broke the deadlock with a stunning 20-meter strike in the opening minutes, putting Wantok ahead. The lead was extended in the 13th minute by stunning winger Bernard Maru, who showcased his speed and skill to put the team 2-0 up. Rue then added the third goal before halftime, heading past the Rutz's defence and goalkeeper to put the game out of reach. Despite a brief resurgence from Rutz FC after the break, Rue sealed the result with his second goal of the match, ensuring FC Wantok’s emphatic win. Rutz FC continued to fight until the final whistle, but FC Wantok’s defence held firm, preventing any goals. The 4-0 result reflected Wantok’s dominance, though both teams delivered a performance worthy of a grand final. FC Wantok walked away with K15, 000 and the prestigious Governors Cup, while Rutz FC took home K10, 000. Third place went to 21 BC FC with K7, 000, and the Peter Paul-led team received K5, 000. Meanwhile, in the women’s grand final, Mosama FC claimed the K10, 000 prize and the Governor's Cup after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Tupuru FC, winning 4-3. Both teams were tied 1-1 after regulation and extra time. Tupuru FC received K7, 000, Bomana Wild Duck received K5, 000, and FC Sisters took home K4, 000.

The Metoreia Urban Health Centre located at the Hanuabada village in the National Capital District (NCD), had a quiet and calm start to the New Year.Acting Manager Health Extension Officer Ms. Regina Wuri, reported that the health Centre only received two admissions on New Year’s morning where one safely delivered her baby while the other was referred to the Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH). “Only one baby was delivered by the mid-wife on duty during the early hours of New Year, but we also had an emergency referral to the Port Moresby General Hospital,” said Ms. Wuri. She said the second mother was experiencing complications where the baby was experiencing fatal distress and was referred to the PMGH Labor Ward. She explained that they only operate twenty-four-seven for the labor ward and not the out-patient, hence they had no reports of emergency cases.

Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr. Paki Molumi, has confirmed that the hospital’s long-awaited Cancer Centre is expected to open in 2026, with services rolled out in phases to align with government funding.“The Cancer Centre has been divided into phases to suit annual government funding.” “We thank the Government of Papua New Guinea, through the last budget, for allocating K60 million for this project.” He said PMGH is hopeful the funds will be released in the first quarter of 2026, allowing the centre to open in the second quarter of the year. “We hope the government will release the funding in the first quarter of 2026 so that we can open this facility most likely in the second quarter.” Dr. Molumi explained that once operational, the Cancer Centre will initially provide chemotherapy and radiotherapy services using modern technology. “When we open the cancer service in the second quarter of 2026, we will be providing chemotherapy services.” “We will also be providing radiotherapy services with one machine, which is the linear accelerator- not the cobalt machine. This is the latest technology.” He added that the facility will be equipped with an LCM linear accelerator and will also offer brachytherapy services. “We will be providing brachytherapy services for several cancer treatments.” “Hopefully, we will also have a nuclear medicine department with PET scans installed so we can provide PET scan services in 2026.” Looking to the future, Dr. Molumi said PMGH plans to expand services further between 2027 and 2028 with the addition of a second radiotherapy machine. “In 2027 and 2028, we should be able to include the second cancer machine, which is the TrueBeam.” He said even more advanced cancer treatments are planned in the years that follow. “By 2029 and 2030, we should be able to introduce advanced radiotherapy treatment, immunotherapy, and bone marrow transplant services.” “By 2030, we hope to offer the people of Papua New Guinea a one-stop shop for comprehensive cancer care.” On patient numbers, Dr. Molumi said it is still too early to provide exact figures but noted the scale of cancer cases nationwide. “I cannot give the numbers right now, but our statistics show there are about 300,000 new cancer cases a year,” he said, adding that PMGH expects to treat a significant portion of patients once the centre is operational.