South Pacific (SP) Brewery, a cornerstone of Papua New Guinea’s (PNG) cultural and economic development since its establishment in 1951, has officially launched its national campaign, “Born & Raised,” in celebration of the country’s upcoming 50th Independence Anniversary. SP Brewery Managing Director, Ed Weggemans, reflected on the brewery’s deep connection to PNG’s identity and milestones over the past seven decades. “With all its diversity, there are only a few things that truly bring Papua New Guineans together; SP Lager is one of those few.” “From the first locally hosted Pacific Games in 1969, to the historic raising of our national flag in 1975, to sporting triumphs like the SP Hunters’ Grand Final victory, SP Lager has proudly stood with the people of PNG.” Weggemans emphasized SP Brewery’s lasting impact, not just in celebration but in nation-building. Over the past 73 years, the company has significantly contributed to the economy through investments, tax contributions, job creation, and community initiatives, with SP Lager remaining at the forefront of its success. As PNG approaches its Golden Jubilee of independence, the “Born & Raised” campaign is set to honour the country’s growth, resilience, and national pride. Central to the campaign is a specially designed 50th Anniversary logo, which will be featured across brand touchpoints, from media to delivery fleet, and on limited-edition collectible packaging for bottles and cans. In addition, a nationwide consumer promotion will be rolled out, bringing the celebration to retail outlets across the country. “This is more than just a campaign, it is a tribute to the spirit of Papua New Guinea and the people who make this nation great,” “The celebration marks a new chapter for the brand and the nation. Cheers to the next 50 years!”

The Teaching Service Commission (TSC) has officially approved the establishment of Gobo All-Girls School of Excellence in the Jimi Electorate of Jiwaka Province, with 20 teaching positions validated and approved under the Secondary Salary Structure. This development follows a formal request from the Office of the Minister for Civil Aviation and Member for Jimi, Wake Goi, proposing the full establishment and operation of the school by the 2026 academic year. According to TSC Commissioner Operations, Mr. Maini Mike Ugaia, the Commission has received and acknowledged the minister’s letter, confirming the approval of 20 vacant teaching positions for the school. “This approval is done to cater for the science specialist learning for all girls in the province and the country as a whole commencing with first Grade 11 intakes to be enrolled in 2026 academic year,” Mr. Ugaia stated. He added that the positions are part of a broader push to support science-focused education for girls in line with the national government’s education reforms. “The Approval captures the minimum structure of 20 teaching position identified to be relocated and reclassified for full implementation by 01/01/2026 academic year,” he said. “The approved Gobo All-Girls School of Excellence Position Specification under Secondary Salary Structure will to be effective starting 01/01/2026 academic year.” The institution is designed to serve as a Specialized Science Education School for girls under the Secondary Education system. Mr. Ugaia confirmed that teachers with science specialization will be selected and appointed specifically to these newly created roles. “Teachers with Specialized Science Education within the School of Excellence and Secondary Education will be approved for appointment to the specific approved teaching positions to commence Teaching by 2026.” The Commission has issued directives for the Establishment Section of the Education Payroll Division to immediately begin compliance action for processing all validated positions. “Appointment Authorities within the Provincial and National Education Board is advised to comply with all TSC Admission and compliance process in preparation for the school commencement,” Mr. Ugaia said. In addition, the TSC emphasized the importance of aligning the school with national education policy. “Given the Minimum Secondary Science Specialist School Structure, the Commission further advice for Gobo All-Girls School of Excellence to ensure there is alignment with the current 1.6.6 education structure that will complement girls Science Stem Education to be accessible by all top performing science female students within the secondary population in Jiwaka province,” he explained. He further highlighted the need for fair and merit-based enrollment of students: “The relevant authorities within the Student Selection Board were advised to ensure there is fair, transparent and merit-based selection done to have all academically performing science female students are given prominence to be enrolled at Gobo All-Girls School of Excellence.” To ensure a supportive environment for teachers, Mr. Ugaia urged the local community respect and look after the school facilities and the staff. The Provincial TSC Advisor in Jiwaka has been tasked with overseeing proper deployment and performance management of teachers to uphold quality delivery of specialized science education in the province.

Kopkop College in Port Moresby city hosted a vibrant cultural food event on Friday, August 15, highlighting the importance of heritage, unity in diversity, and intergenerational knowledge-sharing as part of the school’s celebrations for Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence Anniversary. The event, themed “United in Diversity – One Culture, One People,” is part of a three-part school-wide program designed to foster cultural appreciation among students, parents, and staff through traditional storytelling, food, and dance. Lower Secondary School Principal Frederick Raka explained that the traditional food showcase was the second event in the series, launched earlier this year. “Food plays a vital part in our culture. And food brings people together in a communal society. So, if we have to celebrate our country's independence, looking at our cultural background and tradition and values, food is at the center of any event,” said Mr. Raka. Parents and families joined the celebration by bringing a variety of traditional meals to share. Students also showcased videos demonstrating the preparation of four regional signature dishes, which were made under the guidance of teachers and family members. Parent, Martha Jaro, who has three children attending Kopkop College, praised the initiative. “I’m from Popondetta and I cooked sago and sprinkled it with coconut, sometimes we call it lamington. With the opportunity given by the school to encourage parents and kids to cook tradition meals, I am so happy that the kids have learnt different ways of cooking, have tasted different meals." “Some kids, even mine, don’t know the names of the traditional food and how it is prepared, and I thank Kopkop for such a wonderful event,” she added. Mr. Raka emphasized that the initiative goes beyond food preparation, aiming to preserve oral traditions and promote storytelling around cultural practices. “Our history has been passed on orally from generation to generation so looking at our food there is a story behind the preparation of it, for what purpose and for what intent, who prepares it, for what group of people and for what specific event." “We hope that this event in terms of the preparation of food and sharing of it will enable our students to understand that food plays a very important role in our country, our way of doing things and daily life. The important message that will be taken away are the stories behind the preparation. When those foods are prepared, the stories are told.” The cultural program began with a screening of myths and legends from Papua New Guinea and will conclude with a traditional dance performance on September 5th. Kopkop College School of Learning and Innovation Principal Ms. Roddy Kidoro reinforced the school’s vision of celebrating cultural diversity while instilling national identity in students. “Our root is still embedded in the understanding that we are Papua New Guineans and we come from one nation.”

South Pacific (SP) Brewery has reaffirmed its commitment to community and culture by sponsoring the upcoming 2025 Tama Festival with a K5, 000 donation. Scheduled to take place from August 21st to 22nd in Arawa in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, the two-day festival will showcase the rich cultural heritage of Bougainville through traditional performances, arts and crafts exhibitions, and local cuisine. SP Brewery’s Sponsorships & Events Executive, Meiva Lalatute, said the company is proud to be involved in the event. “SP Brewery is proud to be part of this important cultural event. Our involvement with the show demonstrates our commitment to embracing community spirit and preserving our cultural practices for the next generation.” The sponsorship cheque was officially handed over to Zhon Bosco, Vice President of the Central Bougainville Tourism Association, who accepted it on behalf of the festival committee. “We thank SP Brewery for their sponsorship. This support will enable the committee to stage the event successfully.” The Tama Festival is expected to draw crowds from across the region, celebrating Bougainville’s unique identity and strengthening community ties through culture.

A groundbreaking climate-resilient development initiative has been launched in Kemabolo village, Rigo District, offering residents access to clean water and improved social services, thanks to a partnership between the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and UNICEF. The program, rolled out in collaboration with the Central Provincial Government, Rigo District Administration, the Climate Change and Development Authority (CCDA), and the Department of National Planning and Monitoring, is expected to directly benefit 30,000 people — including 12,000 children — while contributing to improved health and education outcomes for nearly half a million Papua New Guineans. At the center of this initiative is the installation of a new solar-powered water supply system. The system will provide safe and reliable water drawn from boreholes to all 250 households in Kemabolo, as well as to local schools and health facilities. This critical infrastructure is designed to bolster the village’s ability to cope with climate-related challenges such as droughts and floods. “The Government of Korea has donated money through UNICEF to upgrade the living condition of this village, and I know this project will be a success,” said H.E. Jong Ho Choi, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Papua New Guinea, as he officially commissioned the new system by turning on the water tap. The need for such investment became evident following a comprehensive Climate Risk and Vulnerability Assessment (CRVA), which highlighted Kemabolo’s exposure to frequent droughts, contaminated water sources, poor sanitation, and limited economic opportunities. The burden of water scarcity has fallen most heavily on women and girls. “For us, water is not simply a resource — it is a daily struggle,” said Joan Gwaibo, Head of the Women’s Committee. “It was something the women of Kemabolo carried on their backs and in their arms, walking long distances under the scorching sun, often before dawn or after dusk.” Students are also set to benefit from the water access, which supports better attendance and health outcomes in schools. “Water is not just a basic need for life — it is a right. When proper water is supplied to the school, it helps students stay in school, stay healthy, and achieve their dreams, especially girls,” said Mackllah Gulu, the school head girl. Strong community engagement has been key to the project’s success. Local residents have formed a Water User Committee that includes representatives from youth groups, women, education, health, and religious organizations. The committee will manage the water system’s ongoing operation and maintenance, with support from a monthly household contribution scheme. “Rigo District and Kemabolo can be champions in showing how climate-smart social services and infrastructure can be established and sustained,” said Veera Mendonca, UNICEF Representative. “This is not just about infrastructure — it’s about local ownership, resilience, and protecting the most vulnerable.” Government officials emphasized the long-term vision behind the project, describing it as a model for community-led development across the country. “Creating a good environment for our children and their communities to enjoy their life is fundamental to our progress going forward in the next 50 years. If we are to reset our country, this is the basic reset we must do at the community level. Providing clean and safe drinking water is where it starts,” said Michael Kumung, Deputy Secretary for the Department of National Planning and Monitoring. This project is part of a wider UNICEF–KOICA regional initiative, launched in May 2024 with a grant of nearly US$25 million. The regional program aims to enhance climate-smart infrastructure and services across Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Timor-Leste, and select African countries. In Kemabolo, the initiative includes: · A solar-powered water supply system for all households, schools, and health centers · Solarization of a school block to serve as a climate information hub · Rehabilitation of the local aid post to ensure essential health services With strong collaboration between local leaders, development partners, and the community, Kemabolo is poised to become a model of climate resilience in rural Papua New Guinea. “This is not just a campaign — let it be a turning point for the children of Papua New Guinea,” said Mendonca.

In a ceremony marked by national pride and renewed vision, 90 graduates from the Somare Institute of Leadership and Governance (SILAG) donned their blue gowns today, celebrating their achievements under the theme: “Honoring 50 years of Independence and 71 years of Leadership Excellence: Celebrating our past, Shaping the leaders of tomorrow.” Though 99 students successfully completed the program, only 90 were present at the mid-year graduation, a symbolic milestone in SILAG’s mission to professionalize and future-proof Papua New Guinea’s public service. Delivering the keynote address, Vice Minister for Public Service Francis Siune urged the graduates to embrace their responsibility as the next generation of public servants, especially as PNG prepares to celebrate its 50th year of independence. “It is a privilege to celebrate your achievements and the powerful impact you will have on the future of Papua New Guinea’s public servicee. “You are not merely entering the workforce — you are stepping into history,” said Siune. He praised SILAG for its pivotal role in public sector training since 1954, referencing the “Bully Beef” era as a legacy of resilience and unity that should continue to inspire the leaders of today. Looking forward, Siune reaffirmed the government’s vision for SILAG to transform into a Special Public Service University by 2027, positioning it as the nation’s center for governance, innovation, and capacity building. “From those simple meals, national visions were born. That spirit must continue as we look to the next 50 years,” he added. Vice Minister Siune outlined key priorities under the Marape Government’s reform agenda, referencing NEC Decision 61/2021, which introduced a competency-based approach to public sector training. He outlined a five-pillar vision for the public service: - Efficient and Results- Oriented - Digitally Enabled - Ethical and Accountable - Responsive to Citizens - Resilient and Future-Ready “These are not abstract goals,” he said. “They require skilled, adaptable, and committed public servants — the kind we are seeing here today.” Encouraging the graduates to lead with integrity, Siune concluded: “Trust is the currency of public service. Leadership is about people. And learning must be seen as national infrastructure — as essential as roads and power lines.” SILAG Chief Executive Officer Michael Barobe also addressed the graduates, describing the occasion as a moment of great opportunity and responsibility. “Good news comes in a very successful year,” said Barobe. “This is just your first step — there are many more ahead. The ball is now in your court.” He encouraged graduands to aim high — to become department heads, line managers, and CEOs — and called on them to return to their communities as visible agents of change. “They must know and understand that this person was trained at SILAG — and that’s why we see a difference,” he said. Barobe also spotlighted ongoing academic reforms, including the transition of certificate programs into government-recognized qualifications, particularly targeting school leavers and entry-level public servants. In a major policy announcement, Barobe revealed that proposed amendments to the Public Service Management Act could make certification a prerequisite for public service employment. “Without civil service certification, no one should be employed as a public servant,” he stated. “That’s the future we are preparing you for.” Barobe ended with a strong call to action: “You are lucky people. Let’s take this journey together — for the good of our country.”

More than 700 students of Kiunga Secondary School in the North Fly District of Western Province have been encouraged to read more books to improve both their oral and written communication skills. During the school’s National Book Week celebration held on August 8th, 2025, students were reminded that books play a crucial role in learning, as they are a vital part of literature that educates and empowers. To mark the 45th anniversary of National Book Week, the school organized a range of educational and creative activities aligned with the theme, “Reading our past and transforming our future.” These included a character parade, riddles, quizzes, spelling bee, poetry recitals, essay writing, and a debate. Students actively participated in these events, showcasing their talents in indoor activities that inspired them to read more. The experience aimed to help them expand their thinking capacity and gain a deeper appreciation for literature. Speaking at the event, the school’s Head of English Department, Ms. Joanne Vaninara, motivated students by highlighting the benefits of reading. “I discourage you to hold onto your phone most of the time. Book is the one that makes or gives you a lot of English vocabulary.” “It will help you write well and speak fluently. Let’s continue to read books as it has the power to transform our lives.” She further emphasized that books are the store of knowledge and it is a powerful tool for learning, entertainment and personal development. Classes continued as normal during the morning, after which students spent the rest of the day participating in Book Week celebrations, demonstrating the educational and personal value of reading. Meanwhile, Head Boy Kiapin Heron, also shared his thoughts on how students can develop their English language skills. “The society that we live in also contributes to how we speak and write. If we live in community that speak English, we can speak fluently and write well.” “We students are happy to celebrate in this National Book Week so that we can continue to learn more new things.” To recognize student participation, awards were presented to representatives from Grades nine to twelve who excelled in classroom activities like the spelling bee, poster creation, and debate. As the school nears the end of the term, the administration reminded students, particularly those in Grades ten and twelve, to take care of their well-being during the upcoming holiday. These students are preparing for their national examinations, scheduled for October 6th to 17th this year.

Papua New Guinea will mark a major milestone next week with the 2025 PNG Update, a high-level national conference commemorating fifty years of independence. The event, themed “Papua New Guinea at 50: past, present and future,” will be held on the 21st–22nd of August at the University of Papua New Guinea’s Waigani campus in Port Moresby. The Golden Jubilee conference is jointly hosted by the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) and the Australian National University (ANU), and is expected to draw over 1, 000 participants including national leaders, civil servants, diplomats, academics, students, and members of the judiciary. Prime Minister James Marape will officially open the two-day conference, which will begin with a series of keynote addresses reflecting on the country’s post-independence journey and setting the tone for the next fifty years. Distinguished speakers will include Dr. Fr. John Momis, widely regarded as the architect of PNG’s Constitution and former President of Bougainville, as well as Australian High Commissioner to PNG, Mr. Ewen McDonald. Prominent national figures such as former Treasurer Bart Philemon, former Deputy Prime Minister Charles Abel, Dame Carol Kidu, Dr. Thomas Webster, and Dame Jean Kekedo will also lead plenary sessions on topics ranging from the economy and governance to foreign relations. The second day will feature more than twenty sessions exploring issues critical to PNG’s development, including gender-based violence, climate change, mining and agriculture, health policy, digital transformation, and election reform. Ahead of the main event, a special book launch will take place on the evening of Wednesday 20 August. Treasurer Ian Ling-Stuckey will unveil Struggle, Reform, Boom and Bust, a new economic history of PNG co-authored by ANU and UPNG scholars. The launch will be held at 5:30pm at UPNG's School of Business and Public Policy (SBPP) Lecture Theatre 2. The 2025 PNG Update is open to the public and does not require prior registration. Attendees can check in at the welcome desk outside the New Lecture Theatre on arrival. The event will also be livestreamed via UPNG’s official Facebook page. Professor Stephen Howes, Director of the ANU Development Policy Centre, said that every PNG Update is important, but this year’s event is particularly significant as the country celebrate fifty years of nationhood. Meanwhile, Dr Lawrence Sause, Executive Dean of UPNG’s School of Business and Public Policy, added that this event also marks UPNG’s own 50th anniversary as PNG’s leading national university. “It’s a chance to reflect not only on our national journey, but also on how institutions like UPNG have contributed to shaping the country.”

The Education Department has confirmed that the Government Tuition Fee Subsidy (GTFS) funding for schools for the third quarter (Term 3) has been fully processed and paid out, with approximately K220 million disbursed to support education across the country. Education Secretary Dr. Uke Kombra clarified during a recent discussion that the second quarter payments were made some time ago, countering earlier reports suggesting delays. The third quarter payments began processing last week and were completed earlier on the 7th August. “We’ve received the full warrant for Term 3, and the total amount—around K211 million—has been released. If you include rounding, it's close to K220 million. All schools should now be receiving their funds,” said Dr. Kombra He said, the funding process follows a structured pathway: the Treasury issues a warrant, authorizing expenditure, which is then handled by the Department of Finance. Once finance verifies available cash flow from national revenue, the funds are allocated accordingly. “When the cash comes from revenue, finance releases the money, and we pay the schools,” Dr. Kombra explained. “So far, we’ve received warrants for the entire school year. As long as the funds are available, payments continue,” he said. While schools have been receiving their quarterly payments, occasional delays have been acknowledged and attributed to the timing of cash flow availability within the Department of Finance. “Delays do cause disruptions, but we are working closely with finance to ensure smoother and faster delivery in future quarters.” The full funding for Term 4 is also covered under the current warrant, pending release as cash becomes available.

In response to the resurgence of the deadly poliovirus in Papua New Guinea (PNG), UNICEF and the Government of PNG have launched a nationwide vaccination blitz to immunise nearly three million children against polio, measles, and other preventable diseases. Speaking at the launch ceremony at New Erima High School in Port Moresby, UNICEF PNG Representative Dr Veera Mendonca delivered an urgent message to parents and caregivers across the country. “The goal is urgent and clear: to vaccinate nearly three million children under the age of 10 before the virus can spread further and destroy their futures.” The campaign, led by the Ministry of Health with support from UNICEF and other partners, will run from the 11th to 26th August across seventeen mainland provinces. These include Morobe, Madang, West Sepik, East Sepik, the National Capital District, and others identified as high-risk due to low immunisation rates. “This campaign is about one thing and one thing only; reaching every single child, no matter where they live.” Health authorities launched the emergency effort after the poliovirus was detected in Lae City in Morobe Province, through surveillance of sewage samples and in three asymptomatic children, strong indicators of community transmission. PNG, which had previously been certified polio-free, is now confronting a dangerous decline in routine immunisation coverage. “Technical specialists in immunisation, cold chain, advocacy, and social and behaviour change are working alongside national and provincial authorities to ensure the campaign reaches every child, including those in hard-to-reach areas.” In addition, UNICEF is providing critical support, including oral polio vaccines, cold chain infrastructure, and technical guidance for planning and delivery. The campaign also integrates routine vaccinations to protect against other diseases, further strengthening PNG’s public health defences. “UNICEF is also supporting community engagement activities to raise awareness and encourage parents and caregivers to vaccinate their children.” Meanwhile, the Government has activated the National Emergency Operations Centre and committed resources to support the rapid rollout in which Dr Mendonca praised the swift and decisive action. “We commend the Government of PNG for responding with urgency, making the necessary funds available, and showing the leadership needed to protect every child.” “Polio can take away a child’s future in an instant, but we can stop it. We have the experience, we have the partnerships, and most importantly, we have the will.” Moreover, she emphasised that the success of the campaign will depend not only on policy and logistics, but on the collective effort of communities nationwide. “The heart of this battle is not in offices; it is in schools and in communities. It is with mothers, fathers, local leaders, health workers, pastors, teachers, and students.” With one of the youngest populations in the world, Papua New Guinea faces both a challenge and an opportunity. “PNG is blessed with one of the youngest populations on earth.” “To reap the fruits of this demographic dividend, children must grow up healthy.” While some provinces have shown strong performance in immunisation efforts, others are significantly lagging behind. Dr Mendonca expressed hope that this campaign would mark a turning point. “Some provinces are already doing reasonably well when it comes to immunisation, but some others are woefully behind. This campaign is going to change that once and for all.” “This is not just a campaign, let it be a turning point for the children of Papua New Guinea.”

The Papua New Guinea Football Association (PNGFA) has officially announced that the second player transfer window for the 2025 Premier Soccer League season will open on Monday, 18 August 2025, and close on Monday, 1 September 2025. This window allows participating clubs to:         Register and de-register players          Facilitate player movements between clubs within the league          Recruit players from other federations, subject to FIFA’s International Transfer Management System (TMS)regulations Important Notes for Clubs:          Transfer Documentation: All transfers must be accompanied by a signed transfer          document, approved by both the releasing and receiving clubs.          Advance Preparation: Clubs are encouraged to prepare all transfer paperwork early          to avoid last-minute issues.          International Transfers: Incoming players from overseas federations must comply          with FIFA’s TMS transfer periods.          Squad Limit: The Master List remains capped at 30 registered players.          Transfer Limit: A maximum of five (5) transfers is allowed during this window,          including players not previously registered with another franchise club.          Transfer Fees: ·         Current Senior National Players: K1,000 per player ·         Other Players: K500 per player         Payments are to be made to the National Soccer League BSP Account.          Required Forms: All clubs must use the official Transfer Form provided by the Competitions Department, and attach: o   Letter of Release from the releasing club, or o   Letter of Request from the requesting club          Submission Deadline: Updated Master Lists must be emailed to the Competitions Department by Monday, 1 September 2025, before 11:59 PM. Competition Update:         First Round concludes after Round 11 on 23 August 2025.          The competition will then take a two-week break.          Second Round resumes with Round 12 on 13 September 2025. PNGFA urges all clubs to strictly adhere to the transfer window deadlines and requirements to ensure a smooth transition into the second half of the 2025 season.

The Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) and the PNG National Rugby League Competition (PNG NRLC) have announced that Round 18 of the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup will be named "Round for Ray" to support WNBPG Kimbe Cutter player Ray Amos. Amos sustained a serious neck injury in Round 5 of the competition while scoring a try just four minutes into the first half. He is currently at Port Moresby General Hospital receiving rehabilitation. PNGRFL Chief Executive Officer Stanley Hondina and Performance and Pathway General Manager Tony Archer have visited Amos and his family to inform them of the decision. According to Hondina, PNGRFL and PNG NRLC have been providing support since the injury occurred, and Amos's condition has improved. "We would like to acknowledge the hard-working doctors and nurses at Port Moresby General Hospital for their expertise," Hondina said. The "Round for Ray" initiative will be held at all Digicel ExxonMobil venues in Minj, Rabaul, Lae, Goroka, and Port Moresby city. Fans will have the opportunity to make donations at these locations. A bank account has also been established to assist Amos with medical bills and related expenses. Donation details will be released on Friday, August 15th, 2025.