Former Olympic gold medalist and swimming legend Liesel Jones will serve as the SP Sports Awards guest speaker this year, on Saturday, June 1, 2024, at the Crown Hotel. SP Brewery Corporate Affairs Manager John Nilkare introduced the swimming sensation during the announcement of the SP Sports Awards finalists. "Leisel is an 8-time Olympic medalist and the first Australian swimmer to compete in four Olympic Games, and we are delighted to have her here for the awards night on June 1st." "During her visit, we've scheduled a coaching clinic at the Taurama Aquatic Center with the Boroko Swimming Club with aims to inspire our younger swimmers.” “Leisel, who began swimming at a young age and went on to win one of Australia's youngest Olympic medals, is looking forward to working with our young swimmers." · At just 15, Liesel became the youngest member of the Sydney 2000 Olympic Swimming Team. · Leisel won two silver medals in the 100m breaststroke and 4x100m Medley Relay, making her one of the youngest Olympic medalists in Australia’s history. · 1 gold medal (1x100m medley relay), 1 silver (200m breaststroke, 1 bronze (100m breaststroke) at Athens in 2004 Olympic games. · 1 gold (100m breasts), 1 gold (4x100m medley relay), 1 silver (200m breaststroke) in Beijing 2008. · 1 silver (4x100m medley relay) London Olympic Games 2012. Since announcing her retirement in 2012, Jones has continued to excel. She published a memoir, hosted Network Ten's coverage of the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, and was a swimming expert commentator for the 7 Network's Tokyo Olympic Games. She is currently a commentator for Triple M's Rush Hour in Brisbane.

As part of a vision to transform his home province – Madang, youth and community leader Kurere Matanzana, once again took to the grassroots level, initiating another project in April. This time, a cocoa farming project called the ‘Madang Solar Cocoa Farmers’ with the support of Mr. Seth Mal, who was elected as the chairman of the association, upon establishment of the project, given his vast background in the agriculture sector. Matanzana stated that more than 250 cocoa farmers and their families from Ambenob and Transgogol LLGs are involved in the project. “The concept used in the project is known as the family cocoa concept – in this concept we have a goal for every family to plant at least 300 cocoa seedlings, which in turn encourages SME (Small Medium Enterprise). Despite it being a noble task, he explained the complicated process involved in starting and maintaining this initiative. “We created an association, opened up a bank account, and obtained an export license, which was a huge milestone for us, although challenging.” “Our organization was registered with PNG IPA (Investment Promotion Authority) under the name ‘Madang Solar Cocoa Cooperative Society’; hence, it became a legal entity recognized by the PNG Cocoa Board.” Matanzana stated that the Madang Solar Cocoa Cooperative Society can be a trusted body in assisting cocoa farmers in and around Madang Province to find potential buyers. “We are acting as the middleman for Madang cocoa farmers, connecting them to overseas markets, facilitating a channel to export their produce and also help the farmers gain more financially that reflects the value of their time, energy and effort invested in growing cocoa.” He further stated that they are working on collecting data and getting other cocoa farmers who are not connected, that is, individuals in rural locations and farmers who are unaware of Madang Solar Cocoa Cooperative Society. Additionally, he and the farmers reached a verbal agreement, which will see Mr. Matanzana conduct certain training sessions, equipping them with financial knowledge and information, and build their capacity. " “The cocoa farmers must recognize the importance of land and cocoa seedlings and how to maximize both the human and natural resources they possess.” Matanzana’s ultimate goal is to connect at least 5, 000 – 6, 000 cocoa farmers from selected LLGs and as well as diversify and include vanilla farmers. Meanwhile, the Madang Provincial Government has pledged to support Mr. Matanzana and Madang Solar Cocoa Cooperative Society, which will be launched at Yelso village between May – July 2024.

Prime Minister James Marape recently praised the efforts of the PNG Customs in Port Moresby for their significant achievements in combating the importation of counterfeit goods into Papua New Guinea from 36 per cent to 4 per cent. “This has been made possible by increased government investments in border surveillance and fighting illicit trade.” During a meeting with PNG Customs Chief Commissioner, David Towe and representatives from British American Tobacco (BAT) PNG, discussions focused on excise tax enforcement and the penalties for businesses that do not comply with customs regulations. “Whilst I am greatly concerned about continued activities relating to directly importing or aiding in the import and distribution of counterfeit goods in Papua New Guinea, I would like to commend Customs Chief Commissioner David Towe and his team at PNG Customs for putting in place stricter mechanisms and processes with regards to trade at our borders, which is resulting in the identification of illegal trade and smuggling of goods.” The PM also acknowledged PNG Customs' role in generating significant revenue for the government over the last few years, emphasizing the importance of strict measures to combat illegal imports. He highlighted the critical situation of illicit cigarette trafficking and related goods, which was discussed with BAT PNG. Chief Commissioner Towe outlined the difficulties in distinguishing between counterfeit and genuine products, noting that illicit goods frequently resemble real items and are sold at comparable prices. He confirmed continued collaboration with the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) to address these issues.

Under the theme: “Press for the Planet: Journalism in the Face of Environmental Crisis,” students from the University of Papua New Guinea in the course of Journalism & Public Relations, were fortunate to learn from and be challenged by important figures in various disciplines as they recently marked World Media Freedom Day. Present at the event was the Executive Dean, School of Humanities & Social Sciences, Professor Leo Marai; Acting Chief Executive Officer, Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (PNGTPA), Mr. Douglas Keari; Director of Centre for Climate Change & Sustainable Development, UPNG, Professor Chalapan Kaluwin; Director, Melanesian Institute of Arts & Communications (MIAC), Dr. Michael Mel; and Minister of Communication & Information Technology, Timothy Masiu. Professor Kaluwin spoke on the importance of journalists knowing their environment before reporting. “Journalism and journalists can help to promote PNG and tourism; you can do that; however, you lack the data.” “Before you promote your country, you must know your country – get your facts right before you report.” He further gave a common example to further illustrate the importance of journalism in bringing information to the globe. “Foreigners still think we practice cannibalism because the facts of our country have not reached their shores.” “Journalists can inform the world that we are not the cannibals they assume we are.” Minister of Communication & Information Technology, Timothy Masiu further supported Professor Kaluwin’s stance on knowing facts. “Journalists have a responsibility to tell the truth; the power of the press to inform, educate and mobilize the masses towards a sustainable future cannot be overstated.” Additionally, he spoke on the effects of climate change acknowledging that Papua New Guinea is also facing the dangers of global warming which has affected especially the coastal areas causing islands to disappear undersea. He further challenged the students to not become passive in their work. “I do not want to see students graduating only to become desk journalists; we need stories from pressing issues and situations in and around the country.”

Students of Evedahana Junior High School outside Port Moresby now have a computer lab for their Information Technology classes - a timely assistance from BSP Financial Group Limited’s annual Community Project. The project by BSP’s Gordons Commercial Centre and Waigani Drive Branches enables the students of the new junior high school in the Moresby North-East area to sit in and have resources for their IT classes. Community Project Coordinator Relvie Tarutia, who is delivering the project on behalf of the BSP Gordons Commercial Centre and Waigani Drive Branch teams, stated that the project involved BSP refurbishing the school's existing computer lab, which had not been used in ten years. "We also donated 10 computers along with accessories and chairs for the students to use, enabling them and their teachers to now have access to the internet to do their research while enhancing their computer skills as well." When Evedahana Junior High School Deputy Headmistress Pauline Kavora received the project, she expressed her gratitude to BSP for the new computer lab. She described BSP’s assistance as a bonus for the school that has since been upgraded to Junior High school with the inclusion of grade nine students. “Now students and teachers have a newly refurbished computer lab for us to use after ten years.” The project was delivered at a total cost of K60, 000

A group of local vanilla farmers is rewriting their futures with the help of the EU-STREIT PNG Programme by capitalizing on the vast potential of overseas markets. This initiative, supported by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), is a comprehensive journey from the soil to the digital world, ensuring local communities' prosperity through innovation, digitalization, and empowerment. At the heart of this transformation are three dynamic Mandi Village youths who, armed with newfound digital skills, have launched a portal to global markets: a website featuring their vanilla beans. This digital platform has not only opened doors to an Australian buyer but has also served as a testament to their genuine, quality-driven business, marking a milestone in their journey from traditional farming to global trading. Mongs AgTrade Services Limited symbolizes this leap forward. Benefiting from the FAO and ITU support, this group of farmers has successfully navigated the international market, now embarking on the second batch of export of high-quality vanilla beans (70 KG worth PGK 21,000, approx. USD 5,500) to Australia, a venture that has significantly boosted their earnings. Nicodemas Mainga, the group's company secretary, shares their story of digital transition. “The buyer saw our brief interest on our LinkedIn page, and we communicated through messenger application where they asked for our webpage.” “We created our e-marketplace page with the support of three youths empowered by ITU, who participated in digital skills and e-commerce trainings in Brandi Secondary School and Maprik Secondary School’s Resource Centers.” This venture into digital marketing was a pivotal moment, encapsulating their commitment to quality and the integrity of their operations, bolstered by the comprehensive support from the EU-STREIT PNG Programme. "Before the EU-STREIT PNG Programme’s intervention, our understanding of vanilla quality processing and marketing was at a local level.” Now, the Programme has advanced our skills to a higher level, improving both processing and marketing capabilities significantly." Young farmer Jenelyn Marmber personifies the initiative's commitment to youth and gender inclusivity, demonstrating the impactful role young women play in agricultural innovation and market expansion. Her involvement is a powerful illustration of the Programme's effectiveness in engaging the youth. “We applied what we learned in the training led by ITU to create a webpage and e-marketplace page for our business.” “As a young woman in our business group, I feel good to actively contribute to finding a market for our vanilla.” “This is my first time contributing in a big way to support my villagers and I feel really good.” "The quality of our vanilla was not at an export standard before EU-STREIT PNG, but now, thanks to the enhanced techniques and modern equipment provided by FAO under the Programme, our vanilla quality meets international standards, enabling us to command better prices." Prior to the EU-STREIT PNG’s intervention, the producers of Mandi Village cautiously navigated international trade, uncertain of their beans' quality. The introduction to the FAO’s Vanilla Value Chain Development initiative in 2021 marked a pivotal shift, empowering them with the knowledge and tools to enhance the quality of their vanilla. Joel Pilisau, the Group’s Company Director spoke on how this initiative has transformed their production, yielding healthier plants and superior vanilla beans, a testament to the effectiveness of the skills, technologies, and resources provided. "Thanks to the Programme, we've upgraded from basic to modern cultivation and quality processing materials and equipment.” “This advancement has allowed us to achieve more in less time and significantly elevate our standard of living." The emphasis on quality doesn't stop with cultivation. Through the Programme, farmers have embraced advanced techniques and tools, such as climate-smart practices and solar dryers, which have significantly enhanced the quality of their vanilla beans. “The solar vanilla dryer provided by the EU-STREIT PNG Programme has really helped us to condition our beans and that was one selling point for our quality vanilla beans, thank you EU-STREIT PNG.” This excellence is exactly what global markets are searching for, and the farmers of Mandi Village are rising to meet this demand. The Programme's wider support network is vast, offering training, tools, and access to innovative technologies and facilities. The establishment of Resource Centres across the Sepik region is a cornerstone of this strategy implemented by ITU, providing farmers with lasting access to ICT and digital services, crucial for their ongoing development. These centres play a critical role in supporting local farmers, ensuring they are equipped with modern farming techniques, business operation skills, online marketing, access to e-market, and digital commerce knowledge. The story of Mandi Village's farmers is an inspiring example of how targeted support can elevate traditional agriculture into a lucrative, sustainable enterprise with a global footprint. Their journey from Papua New Guinea to the world stage serves as a powerful testament to the potential of local farmers to meet and surpass international quality standards, attracting global buyers in search of premium vanilla products. This narrative transcends vanilla farming; it's a tale of empowerment, technological innovation, and global connectivity. It illustrates a path for local farmers to envision and achieve greater aspirations, ensuring that the finest vanilla from Papua New Guinea reaches international markets, cultivated by its people and propelled by the vision and assistance of the EU-STREIT PNG Programme.

Air Niugini’s Boeing 767 (B767) aircrafts have now resumed operations on the airline’s Brisbane and Singapore flights following the completion of scheduled heavy maintenance checks. The aircraft had undergone scheduled C-check maintenance for the past six months starting with P2-PXV which returned to service in January, and followed by P2-PXW which returned to service on 20th April. The maintenance included a complete refurbishment of the passenger cabins and lavatories. During this period of scheduled maintenance Air Niugini’s Brisbane and Singapore flights have been operated by Omni Air International under a wet lease arrangement which has now ended. Air Niugini acknowledges Omni for the support in the last seven months while ANG’s B767s were away for the normal C checks. The resumption of the refurbished B767 aircraft is timely as Air Niugini resumes its Tuesday Singapore service on the 07th of May, increasing the frequency to a total of 5 weekly services, plus a fourth weekly service to Hong Kong from Monday 01st July. All Singapore and Brisbane flights are now operated by our refurbished 767s with our own Air Niugini crew. We thank our valued customers for your patience and understanding during the time the B767s were away.

Buk Bilong Pikinini (BbP) with Rotary recently marked World Malaria Day with events aimed to bring awareness to all Library Learning Centers across Papua New Guinea (PNG). BbP gladly received the donation of awareness materials from Rotarians Against Malaria (RAM) and mosquito nets from the Rotary Club of Boroko while stressing the importance of protecting children against Malaria. “It is vital for children to learn how to protect themselves from this preventable and devastating disease which affects millions of people in PNG.” “Malaria has a very negative effect on children’s overall health, so it is vital to try to avoid contracting it too often.” All children enrolled in BbP’s Early Childhood program across the country received a Malaria coloring-in booklet which included information about prevention and treatment of the sickness. Meanwhile, BbP’s teachers received flip-charts with detailed information, which will be used as part of the organization’s awareness program. Thanks to sponsorship support from the Rotary Club of Boroko, with a grant for 150 mosquito nets and financial support for the event from Sanjay Shah of Supreme Industries Limited and You & Us Connect, made for a fun and enjoyable learning experience for the children. Rotarians who were in attendance to present the nets included Pragnesh Lalcheta of Supreme Industries Limited, Joselito Tubon of CHM and Yollander Jovopa of You & Us Connect. BbP will distribute the Malaria nets to vulnerable families and to continue to support the children with awareness. BbP recognizes the need to educate children on Malaria in the hopes that this will reduce the number of children affected. “A majority of the children enrolled in BbP’s have themselves had Malaria but have perhaps never quite understood where this disease comes from and how to avoid it.” “Early Childhood Education gives the children a chance to set healthy hygiene practices from a young age and can share their knowledge with their family.” “BbP is grateful for the support from Rotary to assist with spreading correct information about the prevention of the disease while we all wait for the vaccine to come.” “No child should have to die from this disease.”

Like his fellow graduates, Thursday, April 25th 2024 was an emotional moment for former Student Representative Council (SRC) President, Luther Kising as he shook hands with the Pro Chancellor, knowing well that he was now a certified student of the School of Humanities and Social Sciences from the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG). Kising who hails from Butibam village in Lae, Morobe Province, stated that he had a dream to become SRC President in UPNG when he was selected from Busu Secondary School in 2020. “When I came to UPNG, I strove to live by the rules and the policies of the school, and to fulfil necessary requirements.” “By the time I was in my third year in 2022, I decided to run for the position of president.” Kising admits that his time as SRC president was challenging as the country was experiencing national issues, most notably the national uproar against Foreign Minister Justin Tkatchenko over offensive commentary and confusion over the signing of a defence military pact with the United States in Port Moresby, which resulted in student protests against the government and also forcing the university to reschedule its semester 1 exams. “While I was president, the student body was affected by national issues but my concern was to make sure the students successfully completed the academic year.” “It was a matter of prioritizing academics, which was the advice I received while consulting the school’s administration; to ensure that students completed their studies instead of focusing on matters beyond our control.” Additionally, he spoke about critical lessons he learned during his time in leadership emphasizing the importance of emotional intelligence and his concerns when it came to representing UPNG during times of national matters. “When you are in a position of leadership, representing the elites of the country, the professionals and over 10, 000 students, it is crucial to control your emotions.” “Your words must not be affected by how you feel in the moment and what you say must always maintain the dignity of the university.” He insisted that the younger generation pursue their dreams despite obstacles. “Do not give up, if you were not fortunate enough to get an education – it is not the end.” “Continue to pursue and believe in your dreams, be patient – you will still achieve something in life.” When asked about his future ambitions, he replied that after learning how to oversee public matters on campus, he would still like to pursue a career in leadership, if God wills and if the people agree. On a final note, he encouraged the people of Morobe Province to maintain their support towards youths who are still studying and those who have only started in their careers as well.

Parents, guardians and family members witnessed over 260 students from the School of Humanities and Social Sciences (SHSS) graduate today at the Sir John Guise indoor stadium in Port Moresby in the forth day of the University of Papua New Guinea's (UPNG) 69th graduation ceremony this week. A total of 261 students graduated from various disciplines including 11 Honors recipients. Acting Vice-Chancellor Professor Cecelia Nembou in her address to the students congratulated the students on their successful completion of their studies while also highlighting difficulties they will face during post-graduation period. “Graduation day is the certification of the successful completion of your studies and the confirmation of your arrival in the adult world of many realities.” “Some of you were fortunate enough to secure a job after exams while others are still searching; there is the reality of professional standards in the workplace – of work attire, punctuality, discipline and the timing of receiving promotion but only if you work hard and impress your superiors.” “Additionally, there is the temptation to partake in immoral and corrupt practices.” “Whether or not you conduct your life according to a moral compass is the reality of personal responsibility and decision making – you are now in control of your life.” Also present at the ceremony as guest speaker was Ms. Susil Nelson-Kongoi, the Chief Executive Officer of the PNG Institute of Banking and Business Management (IBBM), who emphasized on the significance of humanities in society. “You have a unique perspective on how societies function, evolve and connect – you understand the importance of human relationships, cultural heritage and social justice, which are critical for building a sustainable and just world.” “Nation building requires more than just infrastructure and economics, it requires a deep understanding of people who make us a nation.” “Your education has equipped you to be leaders in these areas – you have the tools to bridge divides, foster understanding and advocate for positive change.” She also spoke words of support and encouraged students to embrace change, to be resilient and to be authentic in their lives.

The Sir John Guise Indoor Stadium in Port Moresby city was once again flooded with blue gowns for the third day of the 69th University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) graduation ceremony this week as 175 students from the School of Natural and Physical Sciences (SNPS) graduated today. Guest speaker, the Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science and Sports, Don Polye, acknowledged the students for their efforts and also the parents, guardians and sponsors involved in helping the graduating students develop their academic skills and eventually receiving their degrees. He proceeded to highlight the significance of such an event in the students’ lives calling it a journey full of dedication, perseverance and the relentless pursuit of knowledge. He also acknowledged the financial difficulties parents face in the process of getting their children to university. “For a person who attends graduations annually, this is a common occurrence, but for the students who studied and the parents who have worked tirelessly for their children to be here, this is a very crucial and long-awaited moment.” “As a parent myself, I am aware of the circumstances surrounding the process of getting children to university, the countless hours pondering whether or not you did the right thing in order to help your child graduate, the cost of a university education – which on average can cost up to K30, 000.” Graduand Respondent, Ms. Jemimah Makabe recognized the growth of her fellow students in their academic journey. “We demonstrated unrelenting knowledge seeking, a spirit of inquiry and a dedication towards solving some of the most pressing challenges facing society today.” “We have delved into the complexities of the natural world, explored the frontiers of scientific discovery and refined our skills as critical thinkers and problem solvers.” “Beyond the pursuit of academic excellence, we have also learned invaluable life lessons in resilience, perseverance and collaboration.” “We have navigated the challenges of higher education with grace and determination and developed an ability to overcome adversity and adapt to new circumstances.” Meanwhile, in his parting speech, Executive Dean of the School of Natural and Physical Sciences, Professor Simon Saulei encouraged the students to always treat everyone regardless of who they are with utmost respect. “Being a degree holder does not give you the right to look down on others who do not have the same privileges and opportunities as you – always be humble and respectful.”

Armed with a vision to transform Madang Province, this is not the first time that youth and community leader Kurere Matanzana initiated, took action and delivered to schools in Madang throughout early April, distributing school supplies, giving leadership talks and engaging with community members.  Matanzana visited a host of elementary, primary, and secondary schools in both rural and urban locations. Amongst those visited was his former school, Tusbab Secondary, where he was invited by Scripture Union to speak during their combined fellowship at the James Marape hall and subsequently addressed the Grade 11s and 12s. “I shared about my personal experiences, the choices I made in my life their outcomes, what challenges I faced and how I overcame in the hopes that the students who are in the similar situations can be encouraged.” “By listening to what I went through in my life, I trust they took away a few valuable lessons to remember and which may guide them in their own lives as young people.” During the fellowship he had spoken to about a thousand students including teachers, ancillary staff members and key stakeholders, emphasizing on the importance of being wise whilst referencing scriptures, specifically Luke 2:52 [“And Jesus increased in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and man.”] and 1 Samuel 2:26 [“Now the boy Samuel continued to grow both in stature and in favour with the LORD and also with man.”] “As a young person, how do you grow in wisdom, in stature and in favour with both God and man?” “How do you grow in such qualities while in class, in school, and in your community?” “Those were the questions posed and answered when referring back to scripture.” Matanzana also engaged in community dialogues with head teachers in other schools, key individuals like councillors and teachers who support early childhood education. “Apart from community talks, I assisted teachers set up plans on starting early childhood learning programs.” Stationeries delivered included exercise books, reading books, papers, charts, colours, and writing utensils.