A landmark pilot training program for Village Court Officers was recently launched at the Dr. John Momis Hall, Somare Institute of Leadership and Governance (SILAG), marking a new chapter in the development of Papua New Guinea’s (PNG) local justice system. The "Introductory Course for Village Court Officers" is the result of a partnership between the Department of Justice and Attorney General (DJAG) and SILAG. The two-week program is designed to build the capacity of village court officials by enhancing their knowledge of PNG’s government and justice systems. The opening ceremony was attended by key stakeholders including DJAG Secretary Dr. Eric Kwa, Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) Counsellor for PNG Law and Justice Tessa Plueckhahn, the SILAG management team, and the first cohort of twenty participants from Central Province. Staff from both partner organizations were also present to witness the commencement of this significant initiative. Dr. Kwa highlighted the critical role of village courts in the country’s justice framework, describing them as “the heartbeat of the rule of law in this country.” “When villagers face legal problems, their first point of contact is the village court, not the police, not the higher courts. The village court is the foundation of justice in Papua New Guinea.” He also emphasized the need for accurate data and better-trained officers, citing past challenges in data collection and capacity building. “If we appoint the right people from the community, they will become true agents of the law and justice process. But if we fail to do so, the entire system is weakened.” The course also serves as an educational pathway for Grade 12 school leavers involved in the village court system, offering them a chance to contribute to crime prevention and peacebuilding while advancing their careers. “This training is more than just about performing court duties; it is about opening doors.” “Through this partnership with SILAG, we are creating a pathway for young people to not only serve in the village courts but also continue their education and potentially enter university.” He urged the participants to treat the training as a “golden opportunity,” noting that this is just the first step in a broader effort to professionalize the village court system across the country. The program is expected to be expanded to reach 7, 000 village court officers nationwide. Dr. Kwa congratulated the twenty inaugural participants and reaffirmed the Marape-Rosso government’s commitment to strengthening the grassroots justice system through education and leadership development.