In a powerful show of youth, identity, and national pride, students from the University of Papua New Guinea opened New Guinea Islands Day at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium in Port Moresby city, leading float parades and cultural showcases that launched the region’s contribution to PNG Story Month. Draped in traditional attire from Manus, Bougainville, New Ireland, and East and West New Britain, the students brought colour and purpose to the day’s celebration by setting the stage for a historic and emotional program commemorating 50 years of Papua New Guinea’s independence. NCD Governor Powes Parkop in delivering the keynote speech, praised the energy of the youth and reflected on the rich cultural roots of the New Guinea Islands. “Our people have existed on these islands since time immemorial, from the western part of Manus to Motlock and Buin. We are ancient people with ancient culture, and our story must be told, amplified, and celebrated,” he said. Parkop highlighted the role New Guinea Islands leaders played in the lead-up to independence in 1975, describing their contribution as “defining and critical” to PNG’s national identity. “As we approach our Golden Jubilee in just nine weeks, we must understand and celebrate the road that brought us here so that we can shape the road ahead.” He called on young Papua New Guineans to reflect on what story they will be telling in the next 50 years. “What lessons will you learn from the last 50 years? How will you redefine and recreate our nation for your children, your families, and your future?” The Governor also reminded the nation of the peaceful nature of PNG’s independence—a rarity in the global context. “We did not fight a war for our freedom. We gained it peacefully. That is a powerful legacy we must honor.” The event, running throughout the day, features cultural performances, string band music, local SME stalls, and traditional food, all highlighting the diversity and unity of the New Guinea Islands region. Governor Parkop thanked the UPNG students, cultural groups, and the event team who have worked since May delivering the Pacific, Asian, and Australian stories leading into the PNG Story Month finale. “Today, we are all New Guinea Islanders, because we are one nation, one people, on one journey together.”