The National Capital District (NCD) is set to host a vibrant cultural event, "China Day," this Sunday, June 15, at the iconic Sir Hubert Murray Stadium. The celebration aims to showcase the rich tapestry of Chinese culture and its integration within Papua New Guinea's diverse society. Organized by the China-PNG Friendship Association Inc. and the Overseas Chinese Service Center - PNG, and supported by NCD Governor Powes Parkop, the event promises a day filled with cultural performances, interactive activities, and culinary delights. Day Program Highlights: 11:00 AM: Opening of Chinese food stalls offering authentic cuisine. 12:00 PM: Games and raffle draws for attendees. Afternoon: Demonstrations and competitions including Lion Dance, Drum, and Dragon Dance performances. 5:00 PM: Tug of War and presentation of competition winners. Main Program Highlights: 5:00 PM: Opening ceremony with speeches from CPFA President, NCDC Governor, and the Chinese Ambassador to PNG. 5:30 PM - 9:00 PM: Cultural performances featuring Lion Dance, Acrobatics, Face Changing, Dragon Show, Drum Show, Kung Fu Dance, and Singing Performances. The Chinese community in Port Moresby city has a longstanding presence, contributing to the city's cultural and economic landscape. Events like "China Day" reflect ongoing efforts to promote cultural understanding and strengthen bilateral relations between China and Papua New Guinea. In recent years, initiatives such as the "China Ready" workshop have been introduced to prepare Port Moresby for increased Chinese tourism, focusing on cultural enrichment and infrastructure development. Additionally, projects like the Baosen Chinatown development aim to enhance the city's appeal as a multicultural destination. Governor Parkop encourages residents and visitors to attend the festivities, stating, "China Day is more than just a celebration; it's a testament to the strong bonds of friendship and cultural appreciation that exist between China and Papua New Guinea." Event Details: Event: China Day Date: Sunday, June 15, 2025 Venue: Sir Hubert Murray Stadium, Port Moresby Time: Day Program starts at 11:00 AM; Main Program from 5:00 PM Admission: Free, with gift distributions and raffle draws throughout the day. Attendees are advised to arrive early to enjoy the full range of activities and performances.

This is a first-hand account by PNG HAUSBUNG multimedia journalist Jordan Vela. Attending and completing the three-day Mobile Journalism (MoJo) and Social Media Journalism training run by ABC International Development was one of the most valuable experiences I’ve had since joining the media industry last October. As someone who didn’t graduate with a journalism degree, I often face challenges in the field, especially when it comes to asking the right questions, getting credible information, and turning it into a story that meets the journalism professional ethics and standards we aim for here in PNG. This training couldn’t have come at a better time. Through the support of PNGFM Ltd and my immediate PNG HAUSBUNG News Director, Ms. Genesis Ketan, I had the opportunity to take part in the training alongside other journalists from across the country. We were trained by experienced mentors from ABC Australia, Dave McKeen and Lara Luth, who broke things down in a way that was practical and easy to understand. One of the most useful sessions for me was learning about the “five-shot sequence” for video production. Since I am in charge of social media and video work for PNG HAUSBUNG, this was especially helpful for me and being able to capture quality shots using just by using a phone show how much storytelling has evolved. We also covered how to create social media “tiles” using Canva, which makes our stories more engaging for online platforms. Another big highlight was receiving the MoJo kit today. This is a mobile journalism pack that includes a tripod, microphone, and phone holder. These tools will improve how I film, edit, and report from the field. This training was made possible through ABC International Development under the Media Development Initiative, funded by the Australian Government through the PNGAusPartnership. It was also supported by partners like PNG Media Development and others who are investing in the future of journalism in Papua New Guinea. Programs like this remind me that good journalism isn’t just about having a degree — it’s about being committed to learning, growing, and telling real stories that matter to our people. I’m thankful to MDI - ABCID and all its partners for equipping us with the skills and tools to keep improving. Most of all, I thank PNGFM Ltd for believing in me and giving me this opportunity to grow as a journalist.

His Excellency William Soaki, Solomon Islands (SI) High Commissioner to Papua New Guinea, delivered a heartfelt tribute to PNG on its 50th Anniversary of Independence during the final day of the Pacific Story Celebrations at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium, emphasizing the theme of Pacific unity. "We are neighbours by geography, brothers and sisters by our common Melanesian identity, and united in spirit through our churches and many shared ties," he said. He acknowledged the deep people-to-people connections—from missionaries and trade to education and intermarriages—highlighting shared milestones such as former Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare being born in PNG, and current Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele graduating from the University of Papua New Guinea. Commissioner Soaki extended warm congratulations to the government and people of PNG on behalf of the Solomon Islands Government and its people. He praised NCD Governor Powes Parkop and the National Capital District Commission (NCDC) for providing Pacific communities with a platform to celebrate unity through culture. He also recognized the contributions of Pacific Island communities from Fiji and West Papua, expressing solidarity with them. He urged that the celebration serve not only as a festive occasion but also as a catalyst for new friendships, partnerships, and cultural exchanges across the Pacific. “Let tonight not just be a celebration, but the beginning of deeper friendships and regional solidarity,” said Soaki. “To you, PNG—you do not just stand tall in the Pacific; you lead as you rise.” He concluded with a powerful message: “In all our diversity, we are strongest when we stand together.” The event featured performances from Solomon Islands artists, including Wantok, Point of View, Cool Roots, and cultural groups from Malaita and Western Province.

An eventful and entertaining first half saw the Warriors take a 14-12 lead into the sheds as they took on the South Sydney Rabbithos at the Accor Stadium, Sydney yesterday, Sunday 1st June. The Rabbitohs had the first use of the ball, with Jai Arrow taking the first hit up. In the 4th minute after a successful Captain's Challenge the Warriors reset, with Dallin Watene-Zelezniak coming down with a Luke Metcalf cross-field kick to start the scoring. Metcalf was unsuccessful with the conversion attempt and the Warriors lead 4-0. The Bunnies hit straight back with a try to Keaon Koloamatangi after receiving a penalty for dangerous tackel involving high contact from Adam Pompey who was also put on report. The Bunnies were now in the lead after a successful conversion from Latrell Mitchell to lead 6-4. The Bunnies nearly had another, only for some good defensive work from the Warriors pushing Bayleigh Bentley-Hape's foot out onto the touchline. The Rabbitohs were looking dangerous with Mitchell involved in coming down the right side to try and set up his winger whilst the score remained 6-4 to the home side. What a try from Alex Johnston. An end-to-end passage of play with the Bunnies on the attack on the left side, but the Warriors defend that raid and counterattack, earning a six-again on their line, but Metcalf pushed the pass at the line, allowing Johnston to intercept it just off his own line to run the length of the field to extend their lead. Mitchell added the extras for a 12-4 lead. The Warriors went back-to-back and score an important try just before the break with Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad fighting his way over the line. The visitors force an error, and a line drop out, to put on the pressure, with the Warriors fullback charging his way to the line to score. Metcalf kicked his first conversion, and the Warriors lead 14-12. Metcalf showcased his speed after the Warriors dove on a dropped ball and ran 80 metres to score with an unsuccessful conversion bringing the score to 24-12. All the points were now coming the way of the Warriors, with the experienced Roger Tuivasa-Sheck going over for another try down the left sideline. Metcalf nailed this more difficult one and it was 30-12. The fightback began for the Bunnies with their captain Latrell Mitchell in the thick of it, producing a nice, long pass to his winger Johnston who went over of the left-hand side for his second of the day. Mitchell converted to narrow the scores to 30-18. A special moment for Alex Johnston in the 63rd minute who had both a hat-trick and 200 premiership tries. Once again, he latched on to a good, looping pass out from skipper Mitchell who converted the try to narrow the scores to 30-24. The Warriors got some breathing space with RTS coming up with the goods for his side with his second try. Halasima came down with a Metcalf kick and dropped it backwards for Chanel Harris-Tavita to scoop it up and pass it out. Metcalf converted for a 36-24 lead. The Warriors got a repeat set after Metcalf put in a kick taking in the Rabbitohs in-goal for a line drop out. The Bunnies just won't go away, and their skipper was again standing tall, with Mitchell crashing over for a try after charging at the line. He converted as well, and the Warriors were holding on to a 36-30 lead. It was a thrilling end to the match, but the experienced players of the Warriors including Kurt Capewell and RTS helped in settling the play in the final moments as the Bunnies surged. The Warriors held on, for their 36-30 victory. Plenty of talking points from the match, with injuries to both sides - the major concern being for Warriors' skipper Mitch Barnett and his knee. Source: NRL.com

“The future is very bright,” says Cheta Emba, reflecting on her visit to Papua New Guinea and the growing presence of women in rugby across the country. Before her departure yesterday, PNG HAUSBUNG had the privilege to meet Cheta Emba at Bomana Primary School on Friday, 30th May 2025, during a joint outreach program by the U.S. Embassy Sports Envoy and PNG NRL School Clinic Program. The USA national rugby union player and advocate for women’s sport shared her remarkable journey, her heartfelt experience in Papua New Guinea, and her hopeful vision for the future of women’s rugby in the country. Cheta described her visit as “incredible.” Having never been to PNG before, she was moved by the community’s warmth and inspired by the deep-rooted passion for rugby. “I had no idea what to expect, but the love of rugby here is so strong,” she said with a smile. “It’s easy to connect because we all share that love of the game.” Her path to rugby wasn’t straightforward. Raised in a family that leaned towards academics and traditional sports like soccer and basketball, Cheta initially pursued those familiar routes. It wasn’t until college that she discovered rugby and it was love at first tackle. “Coming from a soccer and basketball background, rugby was completely new. At first, my family wasn’t entirely behind the idea of me playing such a physical sport,” she shared. “But over time, as they saw how much I loved it and the opportunities it brought, they came around.” After earning a degree in molecular and cellular biology from Harvard University, Cheta made the bold decision to pursue rugby full-time and relocated across the country to train at the National Training Center, chasing her dream of representing the United States on the world stage. “It took time before I earned my first jersey, but playing for the national team in both sevens and fifteens has been a dream come true,” she reflected. “I’ve been fortunate to travel the world and apply not just the physical skills, but the lessons in discipline and resilience that sport teaches.” During her visit, Cheta spent time mentoring and interacting with young girls and local athletes, witnessing first-hand the growing interest in women’s rugby and rugby league. “The future here is very bright,” she said. “Women are already leading training sessions, growing in confidence and teaching the younger one the sporting code discipline, teamwork, communication and resilience. These are lessons that athletes have to apply both on and off the field.” She acknowledged the cultural barriers that some girls in PNG may face but urged them not to give up. “For me, rugby has always been a tool for empowerment,” she said. “Even if the path is unfamiliar or not widely accepted at first, trust in your passion. Your journey matters.” Cheta also emphasized that behind the sport lies a sense of joy and belonging. “Keep doing the work, keep showing up—and have fun,” she said with a laugh. “That’s what keeps you going.” Looking ahead, Cheta remains grounded about her playing career. She acknowledges that while it’s a privilege to represent her country, preparing for life after rugby is just as important. “I’m thankful for everything rugby has given me, but I also want to be ready for the next chapter,” she said. Before leaving PNG, Cheta expressed sincere gratitude for the hospitality she and her colleague Andrew received during their stay. “It’s been an incredible trip, and I hope to come back. The spirit here is powerful, and the people - well especially the young girls, they have so much potential,” she concluded. Cheta Emba’s story is not just about athletic triumph but it’s about courage, resilience, and the quiet strength it takes to follow a dream, even when the world doesn’t yet understand it. Her visit leaves a message of hope and determination for the women of Papua New Guinea.

The Marianville Alumnae Group (MAG) has officially launched its 60th Diamond Jubilee Celebration Plan, marking the beginning of a 12-month journey toward commemorating six decades of academic and spiritual excellence at Marianville Secondary School just outside Port Moresby city. The launch took place on Friday, May 30th, 2025, coinciding with the Feast of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart, a significant date in the Marianville calendar. The event marked 59 years since the school's establishment in 1966. MAG Vice President Leila Kedea, speaking on behalf of President Karen Fabila, unveiled the year-long celebration plan, which includes a leadership retreat, public awareness campaigns, and community engagement initiatives aimed at honouring the legacy of the school and reconnecting with past students. “With the blessings from God our Heavenly Father and our Mother Mary, the Marianville Alumnae Group is proud to begin this journey. We are reaching out to alumnae near and far to reflect on how ‘Mary’s Village’ has shaped their lives,” said Kedea. The group has established a 60th Jubilee Planning Committee, structured into sub-committees focusing on fundraising, logistics, media, security, catering, and merchandise. Team leaders and volunteers, both in PNG and abroad, are coordinating efforts to ensure the celebrations are inclusive and meaningful. During the same week, Marianville Deputy Principal Mrs. Hape reflected on the school’s official recognition of its 59th anniversary, held during the OLSH feast day celebrations. She highlighted the dual significance of the day: launching into the school’s Diamond Jubilee year and honouring one of Marianville’s longest-serving teachers, who recently retired after 37 years of service. “She’s been with us her whole career, and we want to keep her involved up until the 60th because of how much she’s contributed to Marianville’s development,” Mrs. Hape said. Mrs. Hape, who has been with the school for 23 years, also noted that the school had earlier launched its own internal 60th Jubilee plans during a student-led event and expressed admiration for the strength of the alumnae group. “Marianville’s alumnae is one of the most active in the country. They’re not just fundraising but also forming reconnections. The 60th will be bigger than the 50th, which was only celebrated in Port Moresby. This time, we’re hoping to go beyond the capital and involve more of our community.” Looking ahead, Mrs. Hape said the upcoming celebrations will also serve as a reunion for former students and staff to “take time out from their busy schedules” and return to Marianville as a community. The 60th Jubilee, scheduled for 2026, aims to honour the legacy of the Daughters of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart, the school's missionary founders, while bringing together generations of past students to celebrate the enduring spirit of Marianville.

Wests Tigers have fallen to a 32-28 defeat to the Cowboys in Townsville. In a match where they trailed 32-6, an epic fightback fell just short, despite some outstanding individual performances from the likes of Starford To’a and Jahream Bula After Jarome Luai was sin-binned for repeated infringements early on, tries to John Bateman and Jaxon Purdue meant things looked ominous for the Tigers. However, a great team move where Wests Tigers shifted the ball to either end of the field culminated in Starford To’a breaking numerous tackles to score. Another sinbin though, this time to Adam Doueihi for taking out a Cowboys chaser, led to Drinkwater racing through off a scrum right before half-time. The score read 18-6 at the break, and with Doueihi still in the bin, Jeremiah Nanai grabbed a try in the first set of the second period to extend the home side’s lead. Jaxson Paulo was next to score, before a long-range effort from the Cowboys was finished off by Tom Dearden. From there though, Wests Tigers nearly pulled off the equal-greatest comeback in Australian rugby league history. To’a’s strength and power was on show again for his second try, and just two minutes later, Heath Mason stepped his way through for his first four-pointer at NRL level this season. When Jahream Bula set Charlie Staines up in the corner, Wests Tigers were right back in the match, and Jahream Bula sliced through with five to go to bring them within two points. However, despite their best efforts, the Tigers just couldn’t find that last try to level or win the match, with North Queensland ultimately emerging victorious, 32-28. Cowboys 32 (Bateman, Purdue, Drinkwater, Nanai, Paulo, Dearden tries; Drinkwater 4/7 goals) defeated Wests Tigers 28 (To'a 2, Mason, Staines, Bula tries; Doueihi 4/5 goals) at Queensland Country Bank Stadium. Source: www.weststigers.com.au

Papua New Guinea’s cultural craftsmanship made a powerful statement at Fiji Fashion Week 2025, where Florence Jaukea Kamel, widely known as the Bilum Meri, unveiled a contemporary collection centered on the traditional bilum. Her work, rooted in heritage yet boldly modern, received regional acclaim and reaffirmed the global potential of indigenous design. Kamel’s participation in the event was supported by Air Niugini, underscoring the airline’s continued investment in showcasing Papua New Guinean culture internationally. The moment also marked a milestone for PNG Fashion Week, an organization committed to elevating the profiles of local designers and artisans on regional and global stages. “Bilum is more than a bag,” Kamel said in a post-show interview. “It is a living expression of our stories, our womanhood, our strength. Taking it to Fiji was about showing that our heritage has a place in the global fashion dialogue.” Wearing one of Kamel’s signature pieces on the Suva runway was Incennea Minz, Brand Ambassador for PNG Fashion Week. Her striking presence and emotional walk captivated the audience, presenting the bilum not just as a garment, but as a vessel of cultural pride and identity. “It was more than just modelling,” said Minz. “I felt like I was carrying the spirit of our mothers, sisters, and daughters who weaves her story into each thread.” Traditionally handcrafted, bilums are deeply embedded in Papua New Guinea’s social and cultural fabric. Kamel’s designs innovatively reinterpreted this tradition, transforming the bilum into structured garments that fused heritage with high fashion. Her collection received widespread attention from designers, journalists, and fashion enthusiasts across the Pacific. PNG Fashion Week Managing Director Philma Kelegai praised the showcase, calling it a proud representation of Papua New Guinea’s artistic voice. “This moment reflects what we’ve always known that Papua New Guinea has a unique voice, one that resonates beyond our borders,” Kelegai said. “We are incredibly proud of Florence and Incennea for carrying that message with such authenticity and pride.” The success of Kamel’s presentation in Suva stands as a testament to the strength of PNG’s creative sector. It also highlights the importance of ongoing support for cultural industries, which play a critical role in preserving tradition while fostering innovation. As PNG fashion gains momentum, events like Fiji Fashion Week provide valuable opportunities to amplify local talent and strengthen regional cultural ties. Kamel’s showcase, rooted in authenticity and driven by vision, marks not just a personal achievement but a collective step forward for Papua New Guinea on the world stage.

The Cowboys are reportedly interested in recruiting Broncos hooker Cory Paix as the Red Hill club continue to struggle with their salary cap headache. Brisbane reportedly have 14 players worth a collective $4 million coming off contract, with club powerbrokers busily trying to piece together the puzzle. Their cap pressures were also furthered after veteran playmaker Adam Reynolds declared he would continue playing in 2026, with many expecting him to retire this season. Reynolds, Kotoni Staggs, Selwyn Cobbo, Blake Mozer, Corey Jensen, Kobe Hetherington and Fletcher Baker are without contracts for 2026 and Paix could be one player to depart. That is according to Code Sports, who are reporting North Queensland bosses have highlighted Paix as a potential replacement for the outgoing Reece Robson. The 25-year-old has started and been used on the bench under Michael Maguire this season, making it clear he has a desire to remain at the Broncos. “It (Broncos) means the world. I have got my family close by and obviously the Broncos have spent a lot of time on me developing me into the person and player I am,” he said. “I did a lot of milestones here in my personal life. Brissie is home to me. “I would love to be a Bronco for life but sometimes in life you don’t always get what you want.” Bulldogs gun Reed Mahoney is reportedly another target of the Cowboys, with Paix’s reportedly meeting with Brisbane bosses during the week. “Cory would like to stay at the Broncos but it depends on what happens,” Paix’s manager Paul Hogan said. “The Broncos are keen to keep him. We’ll see what transpires over the next few weeks, but Cory is focused on playing good football and if he does that, his future will sort itself out. “He has fought back really well and is enjoying being coached by Madge.” Source: www.foxsports.com.au

The United States Embassy in Port Moresby city, in collaboration with the Papua New Guinea National Rugby League (PNG NRL), has launched a week-long sports diplomacy initiative to foster youth development through rugby union clinics across schools in the National Capital District (NCD). As part of the program, the U.S. Embassy brought two Olympic-level rugby athletes—Cheta Emba and Andrew Durutalo for a series of workshops, school visits, and on-field clinics from May 24th to 30th. The visit is part of the U.S. State Department's Sports Envoy Program, aimed at using sports as a bridge for cultural exchange, skill-building, and youth empowerment. Speaking during a clinic at Bomana Primary School, Deputy Chief of Mission Mr. Matthew Bunt praised the collaboration with PNG NRL and the enthusiastic response from the students. “It’s been an amazing opportunity to engage with Papua New Guinean youth and the wider sporting community, and to really highlight the values we share between our two countries,” said Bunt. “Cheta and Andrew have been working hands-on with students, sharing skills and experiences that has been inspiring to watch.” The event is also a symbolic gesture ahead of the 50th anniversary of bilateral relations between the United States and Papua New Guinea and marks a continuation of efforts to strengthen people-to-people ties through public diplomacy initiatives. Sarah Sanderson, Public Affairs Officer at the U.S. Embassy, shared deeper insights into the goals and spirit of the program. “Sports is a language we all share,” said Sanderson. “It’s a lot of fun, but it’s also a way to promote leadership, confidence, and development—beyond just physical skills. Our hope is that it brings our two countries closer and encourages Papua New Guinean youth to engage in sport in the spirit of cooperation.” Sanderson, who serves full-time in the embassy’s Public Diplomacy section, emphasized that the initiative is more than just rugby, but it is about building character and international connections. The two athletes, Cheta and Andrew, spent the week working with local coaches and players, learning about the unique style of rugby in PNG while also mentoring students and sharing their personal journeys. Cheta Emba resonated with many students as a role model, especially for young girls aspiring to compete at elite levels. “It’s been amazing to watch the connections formed between our athletes and the youth here,” Sanderson added. “Seeing how inspired they are, well especially by Cheta’s story as a female Olympian—is something truly powerful.” The outreach program also celebrates Papua New Guinea’s 50th year of independence, creating a dual milestone year that highlights the significance of the initiative. When asked if this program would continue annually, Sanderson explained that the Sports Envoy Program is application-based, with countries selected each year. “Two years ago, we hosted surfing envoys. This year it’s rugby. We’ll apply again next year and who knows, maybe we can bring American football next time,” she said with a laugh. With high-energy clinics, impactful stories, and cultural exchange, the week-long event has left lasting impressions on both the visitors and the communities they are engaged with. As PNG continues to build its sporting potential, partnerships like these provide meaningful platforms for learning, connection, and growth.

Over 840 Western Province students graduated from the Kokoda Track Foundation Flexible Open Distance Education (KTF FODE) making it the largest graduating cohorts in the Fly River area. This was through the landmark partnership of SDP and KTF working alongside the Western Province Division of Education to extend education pathways to some of the province’s most remote communities, offering students a second chance at education like Marilyn Duwaba. Marilyn, a busy single mother of three boys and a local primary school teacher in Kiunga, recently celebrated her graduation, successfully upgrading her Grade 12 results through FODE. When she first completed Grade 12 over 25 years ago, Marilyn received a GPA well below her goal. Determined to meet the new minimum government requirements for schoolteachers, Marilyn grasped the opportunity to upgrade via a program that offered the flexibility she needed as a committed teacher. Her determination paid off. In 2024, Marilyn not only improved her GPA, but she was honored as Dux of her class. In response to her achievement, Marilyn said, ‘I was so excited that my effort had paid off. I feel that with this kind of opportunity in the community, we don't have to stay at the same level; we can continue to advance ourselves and provide good opportunities for our families and contribute to our communities as well.’ Marilyn wants to share her story to encourage people who are thinking about giving education another go but are hesitant about their ability to learn. She hopes that her story will show that if you persevere, you will eventually succeed. She shared these words of encouragement, “You don't stop because it does not turn out right the first time. If you want to achieve something, then you keep going. Education does not end with a certain grade; we can keep upgrading ourselves so we can provide a better community for ourselves and our families.’ A testament to the lasting partnerships that drive this initiative, the graduation celebrations across Western Province were attended by representatives from local government, SDP and KTF, including Western Provincial Education Advisor, Mr. Charlie Buia, SDP Director of Education, Dr Brad Shaw, KTF CEO, Dr Genevieve Nelson and KTF Head of Education, Ms. Martha Bentley. Through the vision of SDP's Gutpela Community Strategy 2025-2030, and the cultivation of strong, long-term partnerships between SDP, KTF, FODE and the Western Provincial Division of Education, thousands of students are grasping an educational lifeline through second-chance FODE pathways. Together, the partnership is creating a pipeline of empowered students equipped to pursue employment or education opportunities, building a brighter future for Western Province.

United Nations Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Violence Against Children, Dr. Najat Maalla M’jid, has called for stronger cross-sectoral collaboration and investment in child protection services during her official visit the country on 25th Sunday of May at Port Moresby's City Hall. Speaking at a high-level meeting hosted by National Capital District (NCD) Governor Powes Parkop and key partners, Dr. Najat stressed the urgent need to translate national policies and strategies into tangible services accessible to all children and their caregivers. “You know, we can have wonderful policies and strategies, but what truly matters is how we translate these into concrete services that reach children where they are most needed,” Dr. Najat said during the meet. She then commended Governor Parkop for his active leadership and commitment as a child rights advocate and for supporting the proposed Parliamentary Committee on Child and Youth Well-being. “This is not an inspection or an investigation,” she clarified. “My role is to advocate and to explore how we can work more closely with the UN team and all key stakeholders, including at the community level.” Papua New Guinea is among 45 countries participating in the Global Pathfinding Alliance to End Violence Against Children, a growing international coalition committed to preventing and eradicating all forms of violence against children by 2030. However, Dr. Najat warned that globally, progress remains off track. “Despite multiple commitments, the world is not on pace to meet the promise made in Agenda 2030,” she said. “We need to reassess and ask why we are failing, and what value this alliance can bring.” She noted that violence against children is a complex, cross-sectoral issue, driven by factors such as poverty, gender inequality, harmful social norms, climate change, and increasing online risks. The consequences, she said, are severe—affecting children's health, education, and future productivity. Dr. Najat cited studies from Fiji and the Solomon Islands, estimating that the economic cost of violence against children can reach up to 11% of national GDP. In contrast, the cost of implementing a cross-sectoral national action plan is as little as 0.12% of a country’s budget. “We must see child protection not as a cost, but as an investment in our human capital,” she urged. “It is essential to align national and municipal budgets with these priorities.” The Special Representative also highlighted gaps in child-sensitive social protection, with only 12% of children in developing countries benefiting from assistance programs. She emphasized the importance of integrating such programs with child protection mechanisms to ensure their effectiveness. Dr. Najat praised ongoing local efforts to streamline services under a “one-stop” model and encouraged the definition of roles, responsibilities, and budget tracking among service providers. She also called for stronger community engagement, recognizing the importance of customary law and local leadership in PNG’s governance structure. Key areas identified for integrated services include birth registration; early childhood education, healthcare, justice, social welfare, and police support—delivered cohesively throughout a child’s life cycle. Dr. Najat concluded by offering her support to Papua New Guinea’s national and local authorities, civil society, and development partners in advancing this critical agenda for children.