National Volunteer Service has inducted 22 Community Health Worker (CHW) volunteers in Manus Province, marking a significant step in strengthening healthcare delivery in rural and remote communities.

The induction program is part of efforts to improve access to essential health services across the province, particularly in hard-to-reach areas where staffing shortages continue to challenge service delivery.

The week-long program, held from May 25 to 29, 2026, officially opened on Monday, May 25 at the Manus College of Health Sciences in Lorengau, Ward One. The opening was officiated by Manus Provincial Health Authority Chief Executive, Francis Possy.

Manus Provincial Health Deputy Director for Public Health, Ella Michael, said the health sector remains committed to ensuring quality healthcare services reach all parts of the province.

She reaffirmed the authority’s commitment to overcoming geographical barriers and improving access for isolated populations, noting that public-private partnerships remain a key strategy in addressing service gaps.

Ms. Michael also acknowledged the National Volunteer Service as a key partner in supporting healthcare delivery in remote communities, particularly where health worker numbers remain limited.

National Volunteer Service Director for the Volunteer Management Division, Kelly Aisi, said the initiative is designed to support short-term contract with Community Health Workers by formally inducting them as volunteers under NVS coordination.

He explained that the program ensures CHWs can continue serving their communities safely while awaiting formal absorption into the government's payroll system.

Frontline health worker Rachel Ramus welcomed the training, describing it as an important opportunity for professional growth and improved service delivery.

She said it was her first time attending a volunteer induction and expressed enthusiasm about gaining new skills that would better equip her to serve rural communities across Manus Province.

Over the course of the week, the 22 inductees will undergo training on NVS policies, community engagement, and volunteer ethics before deployment to their respective communities throughout the province.