PNGFM Limited recently celebrated one of its radio stations; YUMI FM’s 29th birthday as staff gathered to mark this milestone.Speaking to one of YUMI FM’s most famous voices and recent recipient of the King’s Medal Award, Turner ‘Kasty’ Arifeae, recalled the first time working for 93 YUMI FM around the year 1999 as a part-timer while he was in his mid-thirties.“It has been a long journey to becoming a radio personality- a voice that Papua New Guinea recognizes.” He stated that initially he never considered his voice as one suited for radio. “One thing that kept me coming back was the listeners.” He referred to radio as a medium that is meant to be shared with a friend and also spoke on the evolution of technology that has changed the world of broadcasting. “Radio used to be a lot more complicated with archaic technology such as cassettes and tapes needed to keep the show running, eventually we switched to CDs and flash drives.” “We then started using a software called Wizard and now it’s Zetta.” Meanwhile, Freddy ‘Black’ Bevan, 93 YUMI FM’s Content Director and a regular host on the station’s Kapmaus Show, also spoke the advancement of technology. “Presently, there has been a huge challenge with social media, but I don’t encourage people in radio to neglect social media, instead we must partner with it and use it to advance radio.” Going forward he stated that he would like to see 93 YUMI FM maintain its spot as the number one most listened to radio station in the country. “Let us take it to the next level.” “Currently 38% of the population listen to YUMI FM and I would like to see it reach 40%.” “Many people may choose English as their business language but the influence of Tok Pisin is still widespread in everyday conversation especially in the Momase and Highlands Region.” He also gave a strong encouragement to individuals thinking of joining the YUMI FM crew to be authentic. “Radio is one of those professions that require you to be yourself – you have to find your own voice and your own personality.”                       

Papua New Guinea’s government and key international partners have launched a US$12.18 million education initiative aimed at accelerating national school reforms and improving learning outcomes for children across all provinces.The new TOGETHER Programme, funded through the Global Partnership for Education’s System Transformation Grant and System Capacity Grant, will support implementation of PNG’s 1-6-6 school restructuring reform and rollout of the Standards-Based Curriculum under the National Education Plan 2020–2029. The programme is led by the National Department of Education, with UNICEF as Grant Agent and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) as Coordinating Agency, in partnership with the Global Partnership for Education (GPE). Education Secretary Dr Uke Kombra said the grant strengthens PNG’s ability to deliver the 1-6-6 reform effectively by investing in teachers, improving curriculum delivery and reinforcing planning systems. “Every child in Papua New Guinea must have the opportunity to learn and succeed.” The country has more than 2.8 million learners across preparatory, primary, secondary and alternative pathways such as TVET and FODE, but faces persistent challenges in foundational learning, retention and completion, especially in remote and underserved communities. GPE Chief Executive Officer Laura Frigenti said PNG was taking “bold steps” to strengthen its education system, while JICA’s Chief Representative Matsuoka Hideaki stressed that stronger coordination among partners was essential to sustainable reform. The grant builds on PNG’s education partnership compact signed in early 2025 by the government and 17 partners, aligning support behind the complete rollout of the 1-6-6 restructuring reform as the country’s top education priority. As Grant Agent, UNICEF will oversee programme coordination and financial management to ensure investments translate into measurable classroom improvements. UNICEF Acting Representative Vikas Singh said strengthening teacher capacity, learning materials and data-driven decision-making would create conditions for children to thrive. Officials said the launch signals a shared commitment by government and partners to inclusive, equitable and quality education, ensuring sustained progress for children and communities nationwide.

Director: Dragos PascuYear of Release: 2018 Genre: Education, Short Duration: 10mins Percentage of Life is a short film that follows a young man as he goes about his day while being addicted to his phone. He wakes up at 5am in the morning, takes a picture and posts on Instagram with a fake caption about fitness and healthy life. Behind the screen however, he is living the exact opposite of the life he claims to have. This film makes you question the authenticity of everything posted on social media as well acknowledging the fact that we often miss the moments when we’re too busy seeking the approval of others online. One feature that stands out in the film is the image of a battery at the bottom-right corner of the screen symbolizing the battery life of the youngsters’ phone in a day. It starts off full in the beginning and eventually turns red as the battery life decreases. Eventually, the battery dies and the young man snaps out of his trance-like state. Additionally, the film has no dialogue and only relies on images, captions and texts between characters not only to communicate its message but to show the realistic portrayal of the overdependence on digital communication in today’s society. Percentage of Life is scarily accurate as the growing use of digital tools replace everyday interaction and consume most of our lives. Rating: ★★★★⯪ (4.5/5)

Students and staff at Acatec Aviation College in collaboration with Sir Brian Bell Centre for Transfusion and Medicine recently held a blood donation drive at their workshop with a modest turnout of students and staff volunteering to donate blood.The initiative, organized as part of the college’s Youth Development Training course, encouraged students to give back to the community through voluntary blood donation. It specifically targeted 150 second-year students enrolled in the course, with about 120 attending. Instructor Waieng Bunge, who coordinated the program, said the drive was designed to build social responsibility among students. “This blood donation is a simple act that can save lives, and we want our students to understand the importance of contributing back to society beyond their academics.” Mr. Bunge acknowledged balancing teaching duties with event coordination as a challenge but praised student participation. He urged the wider public to consider donating blood if eligible, emphasizing that “together we can save lives and support our community.” First-year Aircraft Maintenance Engineering student Edward Kusak said he chose to donate simply because “someone might need it,” adding that after donating several times, the experience now feels normal and rewarding. He encouraged other youths not to be afraid, saying the first donation makes the next one easier. For fellow student Adeline Alden, the drive was her first-time donating blood. Despite initial fear, she said the experience left her feeling proud. “It was really scary, but I did it anyway. It feels good knowing that I helped save a life.” She urged other young people to take part because blood donation is safe and impactful. Another student donor, Raynard Feeger, also giving blood for the first time, said he was motivated by the need he sees across the country.  “There are a lot of people in Papua New Guinea who are struggling, blood is one of the resources that is low.” He described the experience as exciting and said donating blood is a “superpower” that allows ordinary people to save lives.

Port Moresby on Sunday 15th February, officially launched its 2026 flagship events program, continuing nationwide celebrations marking Papua New Guinea’s 50th anniversary of independence.The ceremony brought together government leaders, traditional Motu Koita custodians, cultural groups, security forces, students and community representatives, reinforcing the capital’s “Amazing Port Moresby” theme of unity and inclusion. The flagship events calendar will run throughout 2026, culminating on 16 September — exactly 50 years since independence in 1975. Planned activities include major civic celebrations, cultural festivals, youth and children’s events, environmental observances and international friendship days highlighting Pacific and Asian partnerships. Speaking at the event, NCD Governor Powes Parkop commended the people of NCD for their hard work during the 2025’s celebrations. “All the celebration, all the energy and time that we have spent to mark this moment of time in the journey of our people, and this year we are continuing the celebration as part of the amazing Port Moresby celebration.” He also stressed that Port Moresby carries a dual responsibility as both a city and the nation’s capital — a place where more than 1,000 tribes and over 800 languages congregate. Governor Parkop called on all residents, institutions and communities to work together to make the city inclusive, safe and vibrant, noting that progress in the capital often sets the tone for the country as a whole. The 50th anniversary celebrations began on 16 September 2025 and will conclude on 16 September 2026.

Port Moresby General Hospital’s Children’s Cancer Ward yesterday marked World Childhood Cancer Day not only bringing awareness to cancer affecting children but also highlighting challenges faced by the hospital’s children’s cancer ward and sharing the incredible stories of survival and recovery.The modest gathering included the hardworking staff of PMGH’s cancer ward, Friends of POMGEN, partners, volunteers, parents and children from ward 1E. Speaking at the event, Pediatrician for the Children’s Cancer Ward, Dr. Benjamin Daur briefly spoke on the cancer ward and patient numbers. He mentioned that Papua New Guinea should be seeing approximately 500 new cases every year, however health records only show 150 new cases in children, stating that the rest of the young patients get ‘lost’ in the system. “Many parents believe in sorcery, hence they refuse to bring their children to the hospital, others are misdiagnosed.” Dr. Daur stressed that because of misinformation, it is crucial that such events are used to raise awareness. He also noted that many childhood cancers are curable, but access to treatment remains difficult for families who cannot travel to Port Moresby. “The ward has 12 beds, but we have 20 patients.” “35 patients receive treatment every week.” “7 children receive chemotherapy daily.” Despite limited space and resources, the ward continues to provide life-saving care to dozens of children every week.

Director: June CheongYear of Release: 2024 Genre: Education, Short film Duration: 22mins 15-year-old Viola is desperate to belong in her new school that's full of privileged students. After constant bullying, she will do anything to fit in. But how far is too far? The title itself, Viola Isn't Like Us already paints a picture of an outcast. It is a story about the price of fitting in and compromising your values. In the film, Viola is alienated from her peers due to differences in lifestyle. Everything from their clothes, their behavior and even the way they speak communicates high-class - a stark contrast to Viola who comes from a simple middle-class background. In order to please her peers, Viola goes as far as to shun her previous friendships. Eventually, the consequences of her actions catch up to her, and she is faced with the horrible realization, that her friends were never genuine in the first place. There are several contrasting moments of sadness and happiness throughout the film. Scenes of happiness captured are very brief whereas sad parts are quite long, emphasizing the fleeting moments of joy Viola experiences with her peers before being replaced by harsh reality - the reality being Viola faking her entire personality to fit in. Pearl Hoo Jia Qi delivers an outstanding performance, skillfully embodying the complexities of a conflicted teen. She capably navigates the delicate balance between youthful awkwardness and a subtle, maturity that reflects her character's upbringing. Hoo Jia Qi's layered portrayal brings depth to her role, capturing the vulnerability and inner turmoil of adolescence. It's a deeply authentic performance that resonates long after the film ends. Overall, Viola Isn't Like Us, is a good educational tool about peer pressure, bullying, class differences, and toxic friendships. Rating: ★★★★⯪ (4.5/5)

Director: Prithukirti PratyushYear of Release: 2021 Genre: Education Duration: 4mins If Teachers Could Hear Your Thoughts is a Hindi short film that illustrates hilarious scenarios of a teacher listening to her students’ innermost relatable thoughts during class. An important message for teachers in this film would be that fact that despite them being in a position of authority, they could contribute meaningfully and effectively to a student’s life by simply remembering that they were once students themselves, and chances are they experienced similar situations. Story felt like more of an update in life than a plot. Unlike a regular film that has a beginning, rising action, conflict, climax etc., If Teachers Could Hear Your Thoughts was marked with conflict right from the beginning as the students’ thoughts continuously interfered with the teachers work. Pacing was rightfully fact accentuating the chaotic life in a class full of young students. The young actors’ performances were exaggerated to emphasize their inner thoughts and also give a comedic effect. This is a good film to watch especially during the start of school or when students become disillusioned during studies. Scenes captured will remind students that school is not always about constant studying but also be a fun environment with its humorous moments. Rating: ★★★★⯪ (4.5/5)

The University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) welcomed its first-year students at its Waigani campus in Port Moresby during orientation.Pro-Chancellor Goiye Gileng, delivered a strong message on discipline, responsibility and leadership during the university’s orientation program for first-year students. Here are the key takeaways from his address: 1. Young Papua New Guineans Are the Nation’s Greatest Asset Mr. Gileng said addressing young people was always meaningful, describing them as the future leaders capable of taking the country forward. 2. UPNG Stands on the Land of Traditional Owners He acknowledged the Motu Koitabu people of Central Province, recognising their role in providing land for the establishment of UPNG and the nation’s capital. 3. UPNG Has Produced National Leaders Since its establishment in 1965, the university has produced five Prime Ministers, four Chief Justices, and numerous leaders across public service, business and academia. 4. University Freedom Comes with Responsibility Mr. Gileng reminded students that unlike secondary school, university life has no strict controls. Managing time, attending classes and staying disciplined is entirely the student’s responsibility. 5. Discipline and Emotional Intelligence Matter More Than IQ While students at UPNG are academically capable, the Pro-Chancellor warned that success depends on discipline, emotional intelligence and self-control — not intelligence alone. 6. Distractions Can Derail Potential He cautioned students against alcohol abuse and other distractions, saying they have destroyed the potential of many young people with promising futures. 7. Plan Your Life and Avoid Corruption Mr. Gileng urged students to set clear goals, work deliberately toward them, and reject corruption, describing it as “a cancer” that harms both individuals and the nation.          

A resettlement plan for the settlers at 2 Mile Hill, particularly the Eastern Highlands and Simbu communities who reside near the YWCA and the 2 Mile Hill Memorial is currently underway, this was announced by member for Moresby South, Justin Tkatchenko.Tkatchenko explained that the nature of the resettlement initiative came about following years of careful planning and coordination with local and national authorities.He emphasized that the resettlement was not a response to any violent crime, but rather the result of years of collaboration with the Simbu and Eastern Highlands communities, to find peaceful solutions.“The settlers of Simbu and Goroka that live at 2 Mile Memorial are good, honest people.”“They’re hard-working people, they have always done the right thing.”While acknowledging the peaceful intentions of the Simbu and Goroka settlers, Tkatchenko also made it clear that the operation was demanded by the presence of other communities in the area that had caused significant social issues, including crime.“Unfortunately, we have other communities living in the same area causing us great grief that are now being removed by an official police operation.”He further clarified that the resettlement was part of a larger plan that had been in place for over two years.“Most of the people here have been given blocks already. This is an organised resettlement programme. And it’s one that we've all worked on together in an orderly and professional standard.”In partnership with National Capital District Governor, Powes Parkop and the National Capital District Commission (NCDC), Tkachenko assured residents that the relocation process had been conducted with care.“Thanks to the Governor, NCDC, and the Lands Department, our people are now being resettled in an orderly manner.”The arrangement will see families moving to newly allocated plots in the Saraga area, located behind the Saraga Market.A total of 80 households from the Simbu and Goroka communities will begin relocating from the 2 Mile Hill Memorial area starting today, with a full transition expected to be completed by weekend Sunday.To ensure a smooth process, Tkatchenko announced that assistance would be provided for the families in moving their belongings and structures to their new homes.“We want to ensure that our good citizens are not hurt or affected by the ongoing police operations.”He also extended gratitude to the Governor, who was present during the announcement, for his support and for helping to facilitate the successful implementation of the resettlement plan.

Recently the Consultative Implementation & Monitoring (CIMC) met with its partners and stakeholder for its first engagement of 2026, where several significant milestones were highlighted from new leadership to renewed focus.Here are the five updates from that CIMC meeting:1. New Leadership: Mrs. Ruth Kissam Tindiwi Takes Charge of FSVAC The CIMC formally introduced Mrs. Ruth Kissam Tindiwi as the new Chair of the Family and Sexual Violence Action Committee (FSVAC). With her leadership, CIMC looks forward to greater direction and impactful action in addressing family and sexual violence across the country. 2. Financial Boost: CIMC Secures K150,000 for IEC Materials CIMC has secured K150,000 in funding from the Department for Community Development and Religion (DfCDR) and the National GBV Secretariat (NGBVS). This grant will be used for revising, printing, and distributing vital Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials aimed at raising awareness about gender-based violence. 3. Strategic Partnerships Strengthened: CIMC’s Growing Collaboration with Key Stakeholders CIMC continues to build strong partnerships with national entities like DfCDR and NGBVS. These collaborations ensure better approaches in the fight against family and sexual violence. 4. Aligning with the National Vision: CIMC’s Role in the 'Reset@50' 20-Year Roadmap In 2026, CIMC is aligning its work with the National ‘Reset@50’ 20-Year Roadmap, a strategic plan to bridge development gaps. As part of the National Steering Committee, CIMC is committed to helping drive long-term solutions that address key issues like family and sexual violence. 5. Focus on Advocacy and Communication: CIMC’s Renewed Strategy for 2026 With a sharpened focus on advocacy and communication, CIMC aims to play a key role in shaping public discourse on family and sexual violence. By reinforcing its role as a platform for civil society and government consultation, CIMC is set to make 2026 a year of meaningful progress.

With new schools popping up in the country, ever wondered what’s the process behind starting a new school in the country. Here’s five things to know about registering a school in PNG according to the Education Secretary Dr. Uke Kombra: 1. Registration Certificate is a Must No school can begin operations without the official registration certificate approved by the Secretary for Education, Dr. Uke Kombra. The process begins with the Provincial Education Board (PEB) approval, but this does not automatically allow the school to open the following year. 2. Rigorous Inspection Process After PEB approval, the Department of Education conducts an inspection to ensure the school meets essential standards. This includes verifying that the school has classrooms, qualified teachers, and adequate teacher housing before it can be granted official registration. 3. Teacher Housing is Now Mandatory A key update to the registration policy requires that schools seeking registration must have adequate housing for teachers. For example, if a school plans to hire 9 teachers, it must have 9 teachers' houses. This ensures teachers are well-supported, especially in remote areas. 4. Junior High Schools Must Meet Strict Criteria Upgrading a primary school to a junior high school is not automatic. Junior high schools must meet specific requirements such as having secondary-trained teachers, appropriate classroom facilities (including science labs), and a curriculum delivered by specialized teachers. This ensures quality education for Grades 7 to 10. 5. Illegal Schools Face Major Consequences Schools operating without proper registration face numerous challenges. Teachers in unregistered schools won’t be paid, students can’t sit for exams, and the school won’t be eligible for tuition funding. Dr. Kombra warns that operating a school without the official certificate is illegal and can cause significant disruptions.