The Papua New Guinea Football Association (PNGFA) has announced a revised match schedule for the ongoing PNGFA Futsal League 2025. Effective immediately, matches will now be played twice a week — every Monday and Thursday. This scheduling change follows consultation with the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) Competitions Department and is necessary to conclude the league earlier than planned. The adjustment will allow PNGFA to identify the national champion and submit the final squad list for the OFC Futsal Men’s Champions League 2025 no later than 12 September 2025. The upcoming OFC tournament will mark a historic first, with PNGFA’s inaugural futsal champion club representing the country at the regional level. The league was initially scheduled to run through October. However, ending the competition earlier avoids a number of preparation challenges ahead of the OFC tournament in Fiji this November, including:  Finalizing and processing passports for players and officials Securing funding for travel, accommodation, meals, and insurance Managing leave arrangements for players and staff from work, school, and home Preparing full sets of team uniforms (including goalkeepers and bibs) in line with OFC requirements PNGFA thanks all clubs for their continued support, cooperation, and professionalism throughout this first-ever national futsal competition. Your participation has made history for the sport in Papua New Guinea. PNGFA also appreciates the encouragement and recognition from OFC, acknowledging this major step in the development of futsal in PNG.

The Papua New Guinea U16 Men’s National Football Team has departed Port Moresby today for Honiara, Solomon Islands, to compete in the OFC U16 Men’s Championship, the official qualifying tournament for the FIFA U17 World Cup Qatar 2026. Under the guidance of Head Coach Mathew Witu, the 23-man squad will proudly represent PNG on the regional stage. Their mission: to claim one of the two qualification spots available for next year’s World Cup, a feat that would mark a historic first for PNG’s men’s youth football. Coach Witu expressed his confidence in the team’s readiness and stated, “Our boys have put in the work and are ready to compete. This is an opportunity not just to represent the country, but to make history. We’ll give it everything we have.” PNG Football Association President John Kapi Natto, who officially farewelled the team on Friday, offered words of inspiration: “You can rewrite our history by creating your own history and qualify for the U17 Men’s World Cup in Qatar 2026.” In the lead-up to the tournament, the team has undergone a rigorous preparation program, including technical drills, tactical simulations, strength training, and team-building exercises. The PNGFA technical team and staff from PNG High-Performance Sport have worked closely with the players to ensure they are in peak condition for competition. The OFC U16 Men’s Championship begins this Friday at Lawson Tama Stadium in Honiara. PNG has been drawn into a competitive group alongside Melanesian rivals Fiji, as well as the Cook Islands and Tahiti. PNG U16 Fixtures – Group Stage Venue: Lawson Tama Stadium, Honiara Match 1: PNG vs Cook Islands | 17/08/25 | 12:00pm (11:00am PNG time) Match 2: PNG vs Tahiti | 20/08/25 | 12:00pm (11:00am PNG time) Match 3: PNG vs Fiji | 23/08/25 | 3:00pm (2:00pm PNG time)

As part of its ongoing commitment to support health and wellbeing within Papua New Guinea’s justice system, Pacific International Hospital (PIH) conducted free eye screenings for members of the judiciary during a retreat held at Loloata Island Resort on 5 August 2025. The screening was part of the Judicial Wellness Initiative, a collaborative effort between PIH and the Papua New Guinea Judiciary aimed at promoting long-term health among judiciary staff. A total of 24 Judges and their spouses benefited from the service, which focused on the early detection of vision issues and raising awareness about preventive eye care. PIH General Manager, Sales & Marketing, Mr. Shadab Anwar Siddiqui said, “We’re proud to continue supporting the PNG Judiciary through targeted wellness programs. Our collaboration ensures that staff working in vital sectors like the judiciary have access to preventive and quality healthcare services.” The initiative follows the success of International Judicial Well-being Day, held on 25 July 2025 at the Waigani Court Grounds. During that event, PIH provided free basic health checks to over 200 staff members from the National Judicial Staff Services (NJSS), including blood pressure, blood glucose, and BMI assessments. The Judicial Wellness Initiative highlights a growing recognition of the importance of preventive healthcare in sustaining an effective and resilient judiciary. Both PIH and the judiciary have pledged to continue working together to deliver accessible and high-quality health services for legal professionals across the country. “The Judicial Wellness Initiative reflects the shared commitment of PIH and the Papua New Guinea Judiciary to promote health and wellness among its workforce,” Mr. Siddiqui added.

In a powerful show of unity and commitment, the World Health Organization joined the Government of Papua New Guinea and partners at New Erima Primary School in Port Moresby to launch a nationwide campaign to protect children from the threat of polio. This vital initiative marks a bold step forward in safeguarding the health and future of the country’s youngest generation. Speaking at the launch, Dr Masahiro Zakoji, on behalf of the World Health Organization (WHO) Representative in Papua New Guinea, emphasized the significance of the campaign. “This moment represents more than just a public health initiative; it is a bold step forward in our shared mission to secure the health and future of Papua New Guinea’s youngest generation.” Since May 2025, PNG has been responding to an outbreak of circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 (cVDPV2), with over 31 detections confirmed through environmental and community surveillance. While no cases of paralysis have been reported, the risk of further transmission remains high due to low routine immunization coverage and the difficulty of reaching children in remote and underserved areas. The campaign is being rolled out across all provinces with a targeted approach: Mainland Provinces (17 high-risk areas): Two rounds of vaccination using both the novel oral polio vaccine (nOPV2) and the inactivated polio vaccine (IPV). New Guinea Islands Provinces (5 lower-risk areas): A single round of IPV. To maximize impact, the campaign also integrates routine immunization and essential child health services, including vitamin A supplementation and deworming. WHO is working hand-in-hand with the Government of Papua New Guinea and partners to ensure the campaign’s success. Key contributions include: Supporting the development of the outbreak response plan, immunization guidelines, and tools. Training over 100 provincial trainers, who will cascade knowledge to more than 5,000 vaccinators, 3, 000 social mobilisers, and 900 supervisors. Deploying 20 consultants to provinces to support campaign implementation and strengthen polio surveillance. Enhancing surveillance systems and providing operational support to vaccination teams, especially in resource-limited areas. The campaign is made possible through the unwavering support of health development partners, including the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI), UNICEF, Gavi, and the Governments of Australia and New Zealand. Their contributions are vital to achieving high immunization coverage and building resilient health systems across the country. Dr Zakoji concluded with heartfelt thanks to the health workers, community leaders, and partners whose tireless efforts are making this campaign possible. “Your dedication is the driving force behind our progress. Together, we can achieve a polio-free future for Papua New Guinea.”

South Pacific Brewery (SP Brewery) has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting culture and community by partnering with the Enga Cultural Show Committee. The brewery donated K5,000 to support the 31st Enga Cultural Show, which commenced on Friday 8th and ending tomorrow, Sunday 10th August at John Siki Oval in Wabag. The annual show is one of Papua New Guinea’s most iconic cultural festivals, celebrating the unique heritage and traditions of the Enga Province. SP Brewery’s External Affairs Manager, Luke Beliga, expressed the company’s pride in supporting the event. "SP Brewery is happy to support the 31st Enga Cultural Show. We believe this event will continue to promote the culture of Enga, foster a safe and peaceful community, and boost tourism in the area. This show aligns with our core purpose of fostering the joy of true togetherness, and we are grateful for the opportunity to bring communities together and showcase the diverse culture of this country,” Beliga stated. Chairlady of the Enga Show Committee, Margaret Potane, thanked SP Brewery for its contribution. “We thank SP Brewery for supporting this show. It reflects their commitment to preserving our culture, and the embracing spirit of togetherness that this show represents,” Potane said. SP Brewery’s support for the Enga Cultural Show reflects its ongoing dedication to corporate social responsibility and its efforts to back local events that promote unity, diversity, and cultural pride across Papua New Guinea.

The United States Department of Defense’s Prisoner of War/Missing in Action Accounting Agency (DPAA) has launched new recovery missions across Papua New Guinea, running from July 12 through September 2025, as part of ongoing efforts to locate and repatriate American service members missing from World War II. The DPAA has been active in Papua New Guinea since 1978, seeking to account for the approximately 3,300 U.S. personnel who went missing in the country during the war. This year’s missions focus on areas within Madang, Morobe, East New Britain, and Oro provinces, where significant WWII battles occurred. DPAA teams are working closely with a wide range of partners including the U.S. Embassy in Port Moresby, the National Museum and Art Gallery (NMAG), the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF), and local and provincial leaders in the targeted regions. “DPAA is grateful for Papua New Guinea’s continued support in the search for our missing,” said Captain Cole Euverard, mission lead. “Every mission brings us closer to accounting for our nation’s heroes and bringing them home to be laid to rest by their families.” He added that without the ongoing assistance from PNG’s institutions and communities, the recovery efforts would not be possible. The DPAA's global mission is to provide the fullest possible accounting of U.S. personnel missing in action from past conflicts. Their investigation and recovery teams operate worldwide, including in the Pacific, Southeast Asia, and Europe, searching for those still unaccounted for. These latest missions reaffirm the longstanding partnership between the United States and Papua New Guinea, rooted in a shared history and mutual respect for the sacrifices made during World War II.

The Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) has announced the return of the Pawa Meri Round this weekend, in partnership with the SP PNG Hunters, Digicel ExxonMobil Cup, and Santos Cup. Now in its second year, the Pawa Meri Round honors the significant contributions of women to the game of rugby league in Papua New Guinea (PNG), both on and off the field. From players and coaches to team managers, trainers, and game day staff, the round highlights the essential roles women play in the rugby league ecosystem. PNGRFL Chief Executive Officer, Stanley Hondina said the initiative is a direct outcome of the PNGRFL Wan Haus Policy, which promotes inclusion across all levels of the sport. Under this policy, all three national and international competitions which are the Hostplus Cup (SP PNG Hunters), Digicel ExxonMobil Cup, and Santos Cup, will participate in this weekend’s celebration. “All players, game day staff, and competition officials will wear bright pink socks as a show of recognition.” “The SP PNG Hunters will also take the field in their dedicated Pawa Meri jerseys for Round 20 of the Hostplus Cup.” He also extended an open call to businesses and organizations to support the round in future editions. “We hope that next year we can partner with like-minded businesses to further champion this important cause.” Hondina highlighted recent milestones in women’s rugby, including the establishment of a National Women’s Rugby League Competition, and reaffirmed PNGRFL’s commitment to gender equality. He revealed that a PNGRFL Gender Equality Strategy will be officially launched in the coming months. “The Pawa Meri Round is more than symbolic; it is a reminder that we play with respect and stand united against all forms of gender-based violence.” “I also want to acknowledge the incredible work of our female staff, sponsors, and volunteers, past and present, who have shaped the growth of rugby league in PNG.”

A night of celebration, recognition, and hope for the future marked the 10th anniversary of the STEM program in Papua New Guinea (PNG), as 80 top-performing students were honored ahead of their academic journeys to the United States, India, China, Malaysia, and Fiji. The event, held in Port Moresby, brought together key government officials, international diplomatic representatives, education leaders, proud parents, and scholarship recipients under one roof to celebrate the third cohort of PNG’s Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) students selected for overseas scholarships. Dr. Uke Kombra, Secretary for the Department of Education, emphasized the significance of the evening, describing the selection of these students as a “golden opportunity” and a reflection of PNG’s commitment to nurturing the nation's brightest young minds. "You are the 1%,” Dr. Kombra told the students. “You have been chosen purely on academic merit, not on where you come from or who your parents are. You carry the hopes of your families, your communities, and your country.” Dr. Kombra highlighted that out of over 17,000 Grade 10 graduates in 2022, only 203 students enrolled in STEM programs in the National Schools of Excellence in 2023. From those, 160 students have been selected this year, representing just 0.7% of all Grade 12 students – a testament to the program’s rigorous standards. The event also marked the first official sponsorship by Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited (KPHL), which committed to funding 30 students annually for the next five years. “A big thank you to KPHL and the government of the day,” said the Dr. Kombra. “Your support will change lives and build our country’s future.” The celebration was attended by representatives from the Indian High Commission, the United States Embassy, and other diplomatic missions – partners who continue to support PNG’s STEM advancement. Minister for Education, Lucas Dekana, and Minister for Higher Education, Kinoka. Feo was acknowledged for their ongoing dedication to securing funding and logistical support for the program, despite financial challenges. Dr. Kombra praised Minister Dekana in particular for his relentless advocacy, noting that “he checks on the students 24/7.” This year’s STEM scholars will pursue studies in 53 different disciplines, including Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Biotechnology, Aerospace Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, Forensic Science, and Agricultural Biosystems – many of which are not currently offered in PNG. “We believe that these students will return not just with degrees, but with the expertise to transform our economy, infrastructure, and society,” said Dr. Kombra. He also reminded students of the cultural adjustments they would need to make, particularly in countries like India and the U.S., encouraging them to embrace diversity and maintain focus. The emotional highlight of the night came when Dr. Kombra recalled a past recipient—the son of a taxi driver—who broke into tears upon receiving his scholarship, demonstrating the transformative power of education. The Department of Education has now supported 368 students through the STEM scholarship program since its inception in 2021, with numbers expected to grow as partnerships expand and institutional frameworks strengthen. “There is no difference between a child from PNG and Elon Musk,” Dr. Kombra said. “It’s about how much you are willing to work, how much you give, and how far you want to go.” As the students prepare to depart for their studies abroad, the nation watches with pride and high expectations. The students are set to live for US and India next week. “You don’t come back as any normal graduate,” Dr. Kombra reminded the students. “You are going overseas not just for yourselves, but to make a difference for your country.”

Minister for Youth, Religion and Community Development, Jason Peter, has reaffirmed the Marape-Rosso government’s commitment to inclusive development with a K20,000 donation to Mt Sion Blind Centre in Goroka, Eastern Highlands province. The donation, presented during a visit on Monday, 28 July 2025, is part of the Church-State Partnership Program and aims to support the centre’s ongoing work in empowering people with special needs. Minister Peter was accompanied by Secretary Jerry Ubase and members of the Church Development Council (CDC). He commended Mt Sion’s work, acknowledging the Catholic Church’s leadership in delivering inclusive community services. “Every citizen, regardless of ability, deserves protection, dignity, care, and opportunity,” the Minister said during the visit. In a symbolic gesture, a visually impaired resident presented a handwoven bilum to Prime Minister James Marape, through Minister Peter, as a token of appreciation for the government’s support in building and sustaining the centre. Mt Sion Chairperson and Principal, Mr. Justin Wagame, thanked the Minister and delegates for the financial support. He also took the opportunity to outline the centre’s challenges, including limited skilled staffing and ongoing funding constraints. Despite these hurdles, Wagame emphasized the centre’s commitment to delivering education, life skills, and care for individuals living with disabilities. The Minister’s visit followed the latest CDC meeting and underscores the government’s continued focus on uplifting vulnerable communities across Papua New Guinea.

More than 40 members of the Eastern Highlands-Simbu Mission (EHSM) of the Seventh-day Adventist Church have successfully completed a two-day Financial Literacy Retail Training, receiving certificates during a ceremony held last week in Goroka, Eastern Highlands province. The training, organized by the Department for Community Development and Religion (DfCDR), focused on equipping participants with essential financial management skills, including budgeting, saving, emergency planning, and time management. Minister for Youth, Religion and Community Development, Jason Peter MP, addressed the graduating participants and encouraged them to apply what they had learned with discipline—while also staying committed to their spiritual responsibilities. “Never forget to give your tenth [tithe] to the Lord. Leave your worries with Him. He is the provider of all that you have and will have. Trust Him in all your plans,” the Minister said. DfCDR Secretary Mr. Jerry Ubase and representatives from the PNG Council of Churches were also in attendance to witness the official presentation of certificates. Speaking on behalf of the graduates, Ms. Angele Verefu said the training had boosted their confidence in managing household finances. She shared her enthusiasm for potentially launching a small informal business using the skills she had gained. In a gesture of gratitude, participants presented small tokens of appreciation to the training facilitators, recognizing their support and dedication throughout the program. The event coincided with the second Church Development Council meeting, which was held on 27 July at the EHSM headquarters. The Department’s Informal Economy team reaffirmed its commitment to expanding this community-based training initiative to other regions of Papua New Guinea in the coming months.

The National Rugby League (NRL) has unveiled the official draw for the 2025 Pacific Championships, which will see elite men’s and women’s international rugby league teams compete across three countries over four action-packed weekends in October and November. Following the thrilling conclusion to last year’s tournament—where the Kangaroos and Jillaroos lifted their respective Pacific Cup trophies in front of a sell-out crowd at Sydney’s CommBank Stadium—the 2025 edition promises even more high-intensity clashes and passionate national pride. Samoa will return to the men’s Pacific Cup after touring the UK in 2024, and will headline a blockbuster opening double-header on Sunday, 26 October at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane. They will face off against Tonga, runners-up in last year’s tournament, while the Jillaroos begin their title defence against Samoa on the same day. The men’s Pacific Cup will also feature New Zealand, who will host Samoa at Go Media Stadium on 19 October and take on Tonga at Auckland’s Eden Park on 1 November. That match day will also see the Jillaroos face off against the Kiwi Ferns in a key women’s clash. The tournament will culminate with the men’s and women’s Pacific Cup finals at CommBank Stadium in western Sydney on Sunday, 9 November. The region—home to Australia’s largest Pasifika community—is expected to deliver a vibrant and unforgettable atmosphere for the deciders. NRL CEO Andrew Abdo praised the continued growth and emotional impact of the Championships across the Pacific. “The images of a sea of red jerseys and Tongan flags at last year’s Final in Sydney, the big crowds in New Zealand and the hero’s reception for the teams playing in Fiji and PNG were massive moments for rugby league last year,” Abdo said. “Nothing stirs the emotions and inspires players or fans quite like the pride for their nation and there is no greater example of the unique passion and energy that international rugby league brings than what we witness during the Pacific Championships.” In addition to the Pacific Cup, the men’s and women’s Pacific Bowl competitions will be staged over three weekends at Santos Stadium in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea. The men’s Bowl will feature Papua New Guinea, Fiji, and the Cook Islands, while the women’s Bowl includes Papua New Guinea, Cook Islands, and Tonga. The 2025 Pacific Championships Final is proudly supported by Destination NSW, the NSW Government’s tourism and major events agency. NSW Minister for Sport, Jobs and Tourism, and Multiculturalism, Steve Kamper, expressed his excitement about Sydney hosting the tournament's climax: “I’m thrilled Sydney will host the Final of the Pacific Championships. Western Sydney has the nation’s largest Pasifika community, whose passion and enthusiasm will create a unique and incredible atmosphere that’s not to be missed. “We look forward to welcoming rugby league fans from around the nation and across the ditch for an unforgettable sporting experience in the rugby league capital of the world.” The Pacific Bowl is supported by the Australian Government through PacificAus Sports, an initiative that fosters development and collaboration between Australian and Pacific athletes through shared opportunities to train, play, and grow. MATCHES Round 1-Pacific Bowl · Fiji Bati V Cook Islands Aitu, Saturday 18th October, 3:00pm at Santos National Football Stadium, PNG Round 1- Pacific Cup · Kiwis V Toa Samoa, Sunday 19th October, 3:00pm at Go Media Stadium, Auckland Round 2-Pacific Bowl · PNG Kumuls V Cook Islands Aitu, Saturday 25th October,3:00pm at Santos National Football Stadium, PNG Round 2-Pacific Cup · Toa Samoa V Tonga XIII, Sunday 26th October,3:00pm at Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane Round 3- Pacific Bowl · PNG Kumuls V Fiji Bati, Saturday 1st November, 3:00pm at Santos National Football Stadium, PNG Round 3- Pacific Cup Kiwis V Tonga XIII, Sunday 2nd November, 3:00pm at Eden Park, Auckland FINAL TBC V TBC, Sunday 9th November, 3: 05pm at CommBank Stadium

The World Health Organization (WHO) has welcomed a NZ$2 million (around K4.7million) contribution from the Government of New Zealand to support Papua New Guinea’s ongoing response to a polio outbreak. The funding arrives at a critical moment, as cases of circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 (cVDPV2) continue to be detected through environmental and community surveillance in Lae and Port Moresby since April 2025. Papua New Guinea remains at high risk of polio resurgence, driven by low routine immunization coverage and significant challenges in reaching remote areas. New Zealand’s support will aid broader efforts to strengthen the country’s immunization systems, in collaboration with Australia, Gavi, the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI), and Papua New Guinea’s National Department of Health. The WHO said the funding will enable it to provide critical support on multiple fronts, including: - Technical assistance for planning and rolling out Supplementary Immunization Activities (SIAs) at the provincial level, - Operational support for vaccinator payments in areas not covered by other donors, - Enhanced surveillance of acute flaccid paralysis (AFP) and environmental samples, - Training of over 100 trainers across all 22 Provincial Health Authorities, who will in turn train and deploy thousands of frontline vaccination workers. “This contribution comes at a critical time,” said Dr Masahiro Zakoji, Officer-in-Charge of WHO PNG. “With ongoing poliovirus transmission and low routine immunization, this funding allows us to provide training of trainers to health staff from all provinces. These trainers will cascade the training to more than 5,000 vaccinators, 3,000 social mobilisers, and 900 supervisors nationwide to engage communities, vaccinate children, and strengthen surveillance.” Since the declaration of a public health emergency in May 2025, WHO has been working closely with the National Department of Health and other partners to coordinate a nationwide response. To date, over 31 detections of cVDPV2 have been confirmed, found in both healthy children and environmental samples. So far, no cases of paralysis have been reported. To stop further transmission, targeted vaccination campaigns are being rolled out across the country. In the 17 mainland provinces—considered high-risk—two rounds of vaccination will be conducted for children under 10, using the novel oral polio vaccine (nOPV2). The second round will also include a fractional dose of inactivated polio vaccine (IPV) to boost immunity. In the five New Guinea Islands provinces, where the assessed risk is lower, a single round of fractional IPV vaccination will be conducted. The vaccination campaign will also include other essential child health services such as nutrition support and routine immunizations, helping to protect children from a range of preventable diseases while reinforcing Papua New Guinea’s broader health system. WHO reaffirms its commitment to supporting the Government of Papua New Guinea, Provincial Health Authorities, and partners in achieving high immunization coverage and building a resilient health system capable of preventing future outbreaks.