The Remington Group, Papua New Guinea's leading technology solutions provider, has expanded its retail footprint into the Highlands region with the opening of its newest Remington Hi-Tek outlet in Mt. Hagen.

Joining the company's established locations in Port Moresby and Lae, the new store brings a wide range of technology products and services closer to customers in the Western Highlands and surrounding provinces.

To mark the occasion, Remington Hi-Tek hosted a vibrant Open Day on 16 June in partnership with the PNGFM radio team. PNGFM broadcast live throughout the day across its media platforms, generating excitement and engaging with the local community.

Visitors enjoyed an interactive experience featuring giveaways, trivia competitions, voucher prizes and other activities, while exploring the store's extensive range of laptops, smartphones and technology accessories.

The event attracted strong community support, with large crowds turning out to welcome the new store and discover the latest technology offerings.

Remington Hi-Tek is the retail technology arm of the Remington Group, one of Papua New Guinea's most established business groups. Through its nationwide network, the company supplies information technology products, office equipment, communications solutions, business systems and after-sales support to government agencies, businesses and consumers across the country.

With a longstanding commitment to innovation and customer service, the Remington Group continues to play a key role in supporting Papua New Guinea's digital transformation by providing access to world-class technology products and services backed by local expertise.

The opening of the Mt. Hagen outlet reflects the company's commitment to expanding access to technology beyond the country's major urban centres and supporting the growing digital needs of communities throughout the Highlands region.

The Remington Group extends its sincere gratitude to the people of Mt. Hagen for their warm reception and looks forward to serving the Highlands region for many years to come.

About Remington Group

The Remington Group is Papua New Guinea's premier technology solutions provider, delivering information and communications technology, office automation, business systems, telecommunications, security and retail technology solutions nationwide. With decades of experience and a strong presence across Papua New Guinea, the Group supports government, corporate and consumer customers through innovative products, trusted brands and dedicated local service.

Leading underground contract miner Barminco has selected Sandvik to supply a 23-unit fleet of underground trucks, loaders and drills for the Bellevue Gold Project in Western Australia.

The order, which was booked in the second quarter of 2026, includes seven Toro® TH663i trucks, six Toro® LH517i loaders, five Sandvik DL432i longhole drills and five Sandvik DD422i development drills. The development drills will include Sandvik's dual controls package, which features dual drilling controls and split feeds for multitask drilling operations, including boring, bolting and meshing. The deal also includes rock tools, parts and services.

"Our collaboration with Sandvik continues to evolve alongside the increasing demands of modern underground mining," said Mick Radi, Vice President, Operations Australia, for Barminco, part of the Perenti Group. "This new fleet investment for Bellevue will support accelerated underground development, improved material movement and increased flexibility as additional mining areas are opened. It positions us well to deliver strong operational performance while supporting our customer's long-term sustainable production growth."

Bellevue Gold Limited awarded Barminco a four-year contract at its namesake operation, one of Australia's highest-grade gold mines. Starting in August 2026, Barminco will provide all underground mining services to support the ongoing development and production activities at Bellevue, located approximately 400 kilometres north-west of Kalgoorlie.

Bellevue commenced commercial production in 2024 and is currently tracking toward FY2026 production guidance of between 130,000 and 150,000 ounces of gold. Bellevue has distinguished itself as a leader in sustainable mining innovation, becoming the world's first net-zero (Scope 1 and Scope 2) gold mine in 2025. Following the commissioning of four wind turbines and a solar farm, approximately 90 per cent of its electricity demand is supplied through renewable energy infrastructure.

Toro® TH663i and Toro® LH517i are engineered for the most demanding underground loading and hauling applications. They offer advanced connectivity, real-time analytics, automation readiness and superior maintainability, enabling high payloads and lower operating costs per tonne.

Sandvik DL432i and Sandvik DD422i deliver a powerful combination of productivity, precision and operator safety for underground drilling. Both rigs are designed to improve drilling accuracy, maximise equipment utilisation and support safer working environments through advanced digital drilling controls, ergonomic operator environments and reliable performance in demanding underground conditions. Together, they help reduce operational variability and support more consistent drilling outcomes.

"We are pleased to further strengthen our longstanding partnership with Barminco by supplying a new fleet of our intelligent equipment to support the Bellevue Gold Project's ramp-up," said Mats Eriksson, President of Mining at Sandvik. "This order reflects Barminco's continued confidence in our technology and our shared commitment to safer, more productive and more sustainable underground mining. It highlights the value our intelligent equipment and digital mining solutions can bring to complex gold mining operations in Australia."

Sandvik Group

Sandvik is a global, high-tech engineering group providing solutions that enhance productivity, profitability and sustainability for the manufacturing, mining and infrastructure industries. We are at the forefront of digitalisation and focus on optimising our customers' processes. Our world-leading offering includes equipment, tools, services and digital solutions for machining, mining, rock excavation and rock processing. In 2025, the group had approximately 42,000 employees and revenues of about SEK121 billion in more than 150 countries.

Business Area Mining

Mining is a business area within the Sandvik Group and a leading global supplier of equipment and tools, parts, services, digital solutions and sustainability-driving technologies for the mining and construction industries. Application areas include rock drilling, rock cutting, loading and hauling, tunnelling, ground support and quarrying. In 2025, sales were approximately SEK69 billion with about 18,000 employees. For further information, visit mining.sandvik.

Daikin PNG is proud to have contributed to the successful completion of the Noble Centre at Champion Parade in Downtown Port Moresby, a landmark development that reflects the value of collaboration, innovation and engineering excellence.

Working alongside CRCEG and other project partners, Daikin PNG delivered specialized mechanical ventilation and air conditioning solutions designed to meet high standards of performance, reliability and energy efficiency.

The company's scope of work included:

• Installation of VRF air conditioning systems to provide energy-efficient climate control.
• Installation of fire ventilation fans to enhance life safety and support building compliance requirements.
• Installation of central outside air (OA) processing units to deliver fresh, conditioned air and improve indoor air quality.

The completion of the Noble Centre marks another significant milestone for Daikin PNG and highlights what can be achieved through strong partnerships and a shared commitment to quality. The project further demonstrates the company's capability to deliver advanced HVAC solutions that support modern, sustainable developments across Papua New Guinea.

As one of Papua New Guinea's leading heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) providers, Daikin PNG delivers a comprehensive range of climate control, ventilation and energy-efficient cooling solutions for commercial, industrial and residential projects. Backed by the global expertise and technology of the Daikin Group, the company continues to support major developments across the country with innovative solutions tailored to local conditions and customer needs.

Daikin PNG extends its sincere appreciation to CRCEG, project partners and all those involved in bringing the development to completion. Through collaboration and innovation, the company remains committed to helping build resilient infrastructure and supporting Papua New Guinea's continued growth and development.

TISA Bank has reinforced its commitment to organisational preparedness through a Disaster Risk Management (DRM) information session conducted in partnership with the National Disaster Centre (NDC) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

The one-day session brought together representatives from TISA Bank, NDC and IOM to enhance awareness of disaster preparedness, emergency response coordination and Papua New Guinea's national disaster management systems. The initiative forms part of a broader capacity-building effort aimed at strengthening institutional readiness and improving responses to disasters and emergencies.

The training covered key disaster risk management principles, hazard identification, communication strategies, national coordination frameworks and organisational preparedness. Participants also engaged in discussions on internal response mechanisms and the importance of integrating disaster risk considerations into operational planning.

For TISA Bank, strengthening preparedness is critical to safeguarding staff, customers and business continuity across its nationwide operations.

TISA Bank Acting Chief Executive Officer Luke Kaul said the session reflects the bank's commitment to building internal capability and enhancing its readiness to respond to emergencies.

"At TISA Bank, preparedness is fundamental to how we protect our people, serve our customers and maintain our operations," Kaul said.

"This engagement with the National Disaster Centre and the International Organization for Migration is an important step in strengthening our internal capacity and ensuring we are better equipped to respond to emergencies while contributing to broader national resilience efforts."

The session also marked the beginning of a longer-term collaboration between TISA Bank, NDC and IOM. Future initiatives are expected to include more advanced training programs, including certified courses in incident management and institutional disaster risk management planning.

A total of 20 TISA Bank employees participated in the training, representing the Physical Security, Audit, Operational Risk, Property and Facilities, Information Technology, and People and Culture departments.

Through initiatives such as this, TISA Bank remains committed to strengthening internal capability, enhancing preparedness across its branch network and supporting national efforts to build disaster resilience through strategic partnerships and sustained engagement.

In Papua New Guinea, one of Port Moresby’s most iconic dining destinations has been given a new lease on life, with Crown Hotel officially relaunching Rapala Restaurant, offering an elevated culinary experience that combines premium international cuisine, stunning harbour views combining local flavours and world-class hospitality.

Located within  Crown Hotel,  Rapala Restaurant has reopened following an extensive redevelopment and menu transformation, bringing a fresh approach to fine dining while maintaining the restaurant’s longstanding reputation among local and international guests.

The relaunch forms part of Crown Hotel’s ongoing commitment to upgrading its facilities and enhancing guest experiences since local ownership assumed management responsibility in November 2018.

Leading the new culinary direction is Executive Chef Arup Das, who joined Crown Hotel in December 2025.

Chef Das brings more than 15 years of international hospitality experience, having worked with some of India's most respected hotel brands. 

Having previously worked in PNG since 2022, Chef Das said the opportunity to lead Crown Hotel's culinary operations and revive Rapala Restaurant was one he eagerly embraces.

"Rapala was once one of the city's most recognised restaurants before COVID-19, and reopening it was a special assignment for me," Chef Das said.

"Together with the management team, we developed a completely new menu, new presentations and a new dining concept focused on fine dining standards while creating something unique for Port Moresby."

The restaurant officially reopened on 16 March 2026, introducing a carefully curated menu featuring premium ingredients, contemporary presentation and expertly matched wines.

A Heritage Property Continues to Develop

Crown Hotel holds a unique place in PNG’s hospitality history.

Originally developed during the years surrounding PNG’s Independence (1975) and commencing operations in 1978, the property has evolved through several identities over the decades, transitioning from Travelodge to Park Royal before becoming the Crown Hotel known today.

Now proudly operating as a 100% Papua New Guinean-owned hotel, Crown Hotel has undertaken continuous renovations and modernisation works over recent years, including upgrades to guest rooms, public spaces, furnishings and facilities.

Rapala restaurant represents one of the final major components of the hotel's ongoing transformation.

According to Chef Das, Rapala Restaurant was pending to reopen for some time because they wanted to make sure they had the right culinary leadership and vision.

"We wanted to bring back a restaurant that people remembered and loved, while introducing a fresh fine dining experience that meets modern expectations."

Dine at an Award-Winning Destination

The revitalisation of Rapala Restaurant comes as Crown Hotel continues to build on its growing reputation within the hospitality industry.

The hotel has received approximately 12 awards over the past seven years and has again been nominated for the prestigious World Travel Awards, recognising its commitment to service excellence and continuous improvement.

For guests seeking a memorable dining experience in Port Moresby, Rapala Restaurant, fine dining offers a compelling combination of premium cuisine, waterfront views, personalised service and contemporary elegance.

A Dining Experience Defined by Its View

While Port Moresby offers several well-known dining establishments, Crown Hotel believes Rapala Restaurant's location sets it apart.

Perched above the waterfront, the restaurant provides uninterrupted views across Fairfax Harbour and the sea beyond, creating a setting that few other venues in the city can replicate.

"The ambience and seaside view are among Rapala's greatest strengths," Chef Das said.

"It creates a completely different dining atmosphere. Guests come not only for the food but for the overall experience."

The waterfront backdrop has quickly become one of the restaurant's most celebrated features, particularly during sunset dining services and weekend evenings.

Premium Ingredients and Signature Dishes

Rapala restaurant's new identity is a menu built around premium imported meats, fresh seafood and innovative culinary techniques.

Guests can enjoy high-quality Australian-sourced Wagyu beef, premium seafood and carefully selected international ingredients, all prepared using contemporary cooking methods and elegant plating.

One of the restaurant's standout attractions is its Lobster Thermidor, which has already emerged as a customer favourite.

Prepared using large premium lobsters and presented with refined flair, the dish has become one of Rapala's signature offerings.

Other popular menu selections include

•Wagyu beef steaks

•Pan-seared scallops

•Beef carpaccio

•Seafood bisque

•French onion soup

•Premium salmon dishes

•Chicken breast served with fresh guacamole

A range of vegetarian and dietary-specific options

Chef Das said the menu balances familiar favourites with creative touches designed to surprise guests.

"We take classic dishes and present them in a different way," he explained.

"The names may be familiar, but the presentation, flavour combinations and dining experience are uniquely Rapala."

Wine Pairing Elevates the Experience

A key feature distinguishing Rapala restaurant from many traditional dining venues is its emphasis on curated wine pairings.

Throughout the menu, recommended wines accompany soups, starters, salads and main courses, allowing guests to enjoy a complete fine dining experience.

The pairing concept has been designed to complement flavours while introducing diners to combinations typically associated with premium international restaurants.

"We wanted guests to experience more than just a meal," said Chef Das.

"The wine pairings are carefully selected to enhance each dish and create a memorable dining journey."

Showcasing PNG Local Ingredients

While premium meats and specialty products are imported to ensure quality, Crown Hotel remains committed to incorporating PNG's rich agricultural produce into its menu.

Local ingredients play an important role in Rapala restaurant's culinary philosophy. These shows the restaurant is passionate about showcasing local produce.

Chef Das added, "In many dishes we use locally grown vegetables, herbs and ingredients, and we continue looking for ways to incorporate Papua New Guinea's unique flavours into our menu."

Some herbs are even grown on-site, while ingredients and vegetables such as sweet potatos, have been incorporated into selected dishes to provide a distinctive local touch.

The approach allows guests to enjoy international fine dining while still experiencing authentic Papua New Guinean flavours.

Investing in PNG

Crown Hotel's success continues to be built on its people.

The hotel employs more than 200 team members, with only nine expatriate staff members across all departments.

More than 95% of employees are Papua New Guinean nationals, reflecting the hotel's commitment to developing local hospitality talent.

Training remains a major focus, with international managers and chefs working closely with local staff to strengthen fine dining service standards, food preparation techniques and guest engagement.

Crown Hotel's goal is to deliver world-class hospitality while showcasing the warmth and professionalism that Papua New Guineans are known for.

The restaurant's reopening marks only the beginning of Crown Hotel's culinary evolution.

Management has committed to reviewing and refreshing menus regularly, ensuring guests continue to enjoy new dining experiences throughout the year.

Menus across the hotel's various outlets—including the café, room service, bars and restaurants—are updated periodically, with Rapala restaurant expected to introduce seasonal menu changes every few months.

With its blend of international culinary expertise, Papua New Guinean hospitality and one of the city's most scenic dining locations, Rapala restaurant is positioning itself as a must-visit destination for food lovers, business travellers and residents alike.

Whether enjoying a perfectly prepared Wagyu steak, indulging in the restaurant's signature Lobster Thermidor, or simply watching the sun set over Fairfax Harbour with a glass of wine in hand, Rapala offers a dining experience designed to linger long after the last course is served.

Papua New Guinea is entering a new era of digital transformation. Across government, business, education and households, technology is becoming increasingly central to economic growth, productivity and connectivity. 

As one of Papua New Guinea's longest-standing ICT companies, Daltron is proud to play a leading role in supporting this transformation. For nearly five decades, we have evolved alongside the nation, continuously investing in technology, people and infrastructure to deliver world-class solutions to businesses and consumers throughout the country. 

Today, Daltron operates through four strategic business divisions: Internet Services, Corporate Enterprise Solutions, Office Automation and Retail Technology. Together, these pillars provide a comprehensive technology ecosystem that enables organisations and individuals to thrive in an increasingly digital world. 

Strengthening Connectivity Through ISP Services 

Reliable connectivity has become the backbone of modern business operations. Through our Internet Service Provider division, Daltron continues to expand access to secure, reliable and scalable connectivity solutions for organisations across Papua New Guinea. 

Leading Enterprise Digital Transformation 

As organisations accelerate their digital transformation journeys, the need for visibility, resilience and efficiency has never been greater. 

In 2025, Daltron strengthened its position as a leader in enterprise observability by introducing the SolarWinds Observability Platform to the Papua New Guinea market. This advanced solution enables organisations to gain real-time visibility into their IT environments, helping them improve performance, reduce downtime and strengthen operational resilience. 

Our enterprise portfolio is supported by partnerships with some of the world's most respected technology providers, including Nutanix, Aruba, VMware, HP, Cisco, Fortinet, OpenText, Citrix and Oracle. 

We have also expanded our networking portfolio through strategic partnerships with Ruijie Networks, providing customers with advanced routers, switches and network infrastructure solutions designed to support growing digital demands. 

Delivering Smart and Efficient Workplaces 

Daltron is proud to be Papua New Guinea's largest distributor, reseller and service provider of Sharp multifunction printer and copier solutions. Our dedicated team supports organisations across government, education, healthcare and the private sector with document management, workflow automation and managed print services that improve efficiency and productivity. 

Expanding Security and Surveillance Capabilities 

As security requirements continue to evolve, organisations require increasingly sophisticated tools to protect their people, assets and operations. 

Daltron has strengthened its surveillance and security portfolio through partnerships with global technology leaders such as Dahua, one of the world's largest surveillance and security technology providers. 

One of Papua New Guinea's Largest Retail Technology Networks 

With a growing network of eight retail showrooms strategically located across the country, Daltron has established one of Papua New Guinea's largest technology retail networks. 

Our retail presence allows customers to access the latest innovations in computing, consumer electronics, office equipment and digital solutions, supported by knowledgeable local teams and comprehensive after-sales service. 

Investing in Papua New Guinea's Future 

At Daltron, technology is not simply about products and services. It is about empowering people, supporting businesses and contributing to national development. 

Our continued investments in connectivity, cybersecurity, enterprise solutions, office automation, surveillance technologies and retail infrastructure reflect our confidence in Papua New Guinea's future and its growing digital economy. 

As the country continues its digital transformation journey, Daltron remains committed to delivering world-class technology solutions, building trusted partnerships and helping organisations across every sector achieve their goals. 

The future of Papua New Guinea will be increasingly digital, connected and technology-driven. Daltron is proud to be helping shape that future through innovation, partnership and long-term investment. 

 

By Shehan Zahir 
Assistant General Manager – Sales & Marketing, South Pacific Region 

The Papua New Guinea Chamber of Resources and Energy (PNG CORE) has appointed Richard Kassman as its new executive director, bringing more than four decades of leadership experience across the petroleum, energy, insurance, tourism and civil society sectors.

Kassman succeeds interim executive director Philip Samar and will lead the chamber's strategic initiatives, stakeholder engagement and policy advocacy efforts.

PNG CORE said Kassman has more than 40 years of experience in senior leadership roles and is a founding director of Transparency International PNG, reflecting his long-standing involvement in governance and accountability initiatives.

Before joining PNG CORE, he served as manager of public affairs and external communications at TotalEnergies EP PNG Limited, where he played a key role in stakeholder engagement and external relations for major energy projects.

His career has included senior executive positions in both private-sector companies and state-owned organizations, with a focus on strategic leadership and sustainable development.

Outside the corporate sector, Kassman has also been active in community and sporting organizations. He served as chef de mission for Team PNG during the 2015 Pacific Games and was awarded the Order of the British Empire for his contributions to business and the community.

PNG CORE President Anthony Smaré welcomed the appointment, saying Kassman's experience and leadership would strengthen the chamber's ability to advocate for sustainable development and support the continued contribution of the resources and energy sector to Papua New Guinea's economy.

"Richard Kassman is a respected leader with a proven track record of integrity, vision and commitment to Papua New Guinea. His appointment as executive director strengthens PNG CORE's capacity to advocate for sustainable development and to ensure that the resources and energy sector continues to deliver benefits for our people and our nation," Smaré said.

Smaré also thanked Samar for his service as interim executive director during the leadership transition.

"On behalf of PNG CORE, I sincerely thank Philip Samar for his dedication and leadership as interim executive director. His stewardship ensured continuity and stability, and we are grateful for his valuable contribution to the chamber during this important time," he said.

As executive director, Kassman will work closely with industry partners, government agencies and local communities to promote responsible and inclusive growth across Papua New Guinea's resources and energy sectors.

Loloata Island Resort proudly attended the official launch of the Pacific Australia Skills Papua New Guinea (PAS PNG) Program at Port Moresby Technical College late in May 2026.

The event brought together representatives from the Australian High Commission, military personnel, industry stakeholders, educators, government representatives and participants to celebrate a significant milestone in technical and vocational education across the country. The program aims to equip Papua New Guineans with practical, industry-relevant skills that support economic growth and create employment opportunities.

Representing the resort at the launch were Executive Chef Neori Mokotanavanua, Hospitality Trainer Roa Vali and several members of the resort's culinary team, who were participating in a three-week training programme under PAS PNG at the time. Their presence highlighted the resort's commitment to professional development and its belief that a skilled workforce is essential to delivering exceptional guest experiences.

"The training provided practical skills I can apply directly at Loloata, including workflow delegation, communication with staff and guests, and recipe costing," said Aiku Pala, a chef at Loloata Island Resort. "Programs like PAS PNG are important for developing and upskilling young chefs, helping them build successful careers in the hospitality industry."

A highlight of the visit was seeing members of the resort's kitchen team actively engaged in training sessions, developing practical skills that will strengthen service standards and support the long-term growth of PNG's hospitality industry.

Loloata Island Resort congratulates the Pacific Australia Skills Papua New Guinea Program and all stakeholders involved in making this initiative possible, and looks forward to the positive impact it will have on individuals, businesses and communities across the country.

Remington Technology and Don Bosco Technical School (DBTS) Gabutu have formalized their long-standing partnership through the signing of a 2026 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on May 28. The agreement reinforces their shared commitment to advancing technical education and professional development in Papua New Guinea.

The strategic framework establishes a coordinated working relationship designed to leverage the strengths of both institutions, focusing on two primary areas:

Student Job Training with Remington Technology Limited: Remington Technology will host Don Bosco Gabutu students for workplace-based training aligned with the institution's academic calendar. This will provide students with valuable hands-on experience within Remington's operational environment across various technical trades.

Staff Training and Skills Development: Don Bosco Gabutu will deliver tailored professional development programs for Remington employees. These customized training sessions will help ensure that Remington staff remain at the forefront of evolving industry standards.

The formal signing ceremony was attended by key representatives from both organizations, including DBTS Gabutu Principal Martin Dai, DBTS Gabutu Deputy Principal Kenneth Gonzales, and Remington Group Chief Executive Officer Justin Kieseker.

Kieseker emphasized the importance of the ongoing partnership, noting that Remington's continued investment in technical institutions is a cornerstone of the company's mission to foster a highly skilled local workforce and create a better future for Papua New Guinea's youth.

Teachers Savings and Loans Society Limited (TISA/Society) has announced an Additional Bonus Interest for the 2025 financial year, following a strong performance by the Society and the broader TISA Group.

For the 2025 financial year, TISA recorded a profit after tax of K95.8 million, supported by a robust balance sheet of K1.01 billion. Total income increased by K41.5 million, while total assets grew by 2% to K1.01 billion compared to 2024.

TISA Group Chief Executive Officer Michael Koisen said the results reflect disciplined financial management, continued member growth, and a strong focus on delivering long-term value to members.

“This performance demonstrates the strength of our cooperative model and the trust our members place in us. Despite challenges across some sectors, TISA has remained focused on sustainability, resilience, and generating sustainable results for the benefit of members,” Mr Koisen said.

As a result of this performance, the TISA Board has approved a discretionary Additional Bonus Interest of 7% for the financial year ending 31 December 2025, reflecting the Society’s strong performance and prudential management.

The bonus will be credited to members’ Memba Accounts with TISA Bank, based on their general savings balances as at 31 December 2025.

The 7% bonus interest, equivalent to approximately K21.3 million, will be distributed to members in accordance with the approved bonus framework.

The Additional Bonus Interest reflects the Society’s commitment to supporting member financial wellbeing while maintaining prudent capital and liquidity management.

TISA Group continues to invest in technology, people, and responsible banking practices to ensure sustainable growth and enhanced services for its members and customers.

Kutubu Secondary School has marked a major milestone with the official handover of three new community infrastructure projects delivered by Santos, representing an investment of nearly K600,000 in education, water and sanitation facilities.

The projects were formally handed over by Santos Regional Manager Vagi Tamari at a ceremony held at the school this year, attended by students, teachers and members of the local community.

Speaking at the event, Mr Tamari highlighted the critical role that education, health and sanitation play in shaping opportunities for young Papua New Guineans and reiterated Santos’ commitment to sustainable partnerships with host communities.

“These projects are about investing in people – particularly young people – by creating a safe, healthy and enabling learning environment,” Mr Tamari said.

“Santos has delivered critical infrastructure to support your learning journey. I encourage students to take ownership of these facilities, maintain them well, and honour this investment by striving for academic excellence.”

Santos Sustainable Development Supervisor Philip Makari outlined the scope of works delivered through Santos’ Sustainable Development Program.

The projects included upgrades to the school’s rainwater catchment system, maintenance and improvements to the student dining hall with new dining tables and six 9,000-litre water tanks, and the construction of a new female ablution block featuring six shower rooms and six septic toilets.

Kutubu Secondary School Principal Bai Irabo highlighted the importance of the investment, which comes as the school celebrates its 27th anniversary.

“For many years, the school struggled with limited infrastructure,” Mr Irabo said. “These facilities – particularly the water tanks, dining hall upgrades and new female ablution block – will make a lasting difference to our students.”

Mr Irabo also highlighted the significant impact of improved sanitation facilities for female students, noting that inadequate infrastructure had previously contributed to girls discontinuing their education.

Speaking on behalf of the student body, Year 10 student Samantha Mora thanked Santos for its support and acknowledged the importance of the projects in improving learning conditions at the school.

Kutubu Secondary School currently educates 553 students, including 137 female students, supported by 24 teachers, and serves communities across the Southern Highlands districts.

Delivered through a close partnership with the school, the projects enable Kutubu Secondary School to manage and deliver the works internally, strengthening local capacity, ownership and long-term outcomes. The completion and handover of these facilities reinforce Santos’ ongoing commitment to community-led investment and building a better future for local communities.

A group of students from Buk bilong Pikinini’s Koki Library Learning Centre recently swapped classroom walls for the deck of a working tugboat, stepping into the world of maritime operations as part of a new partnership between Buk bilong Pikinini (BbP) and Svitzer PNG.

The partnership, launched through a K20,000 contribution from Svitzer PNG to support BbP’s School Library Re-establishment Program, combines literacy support with experiential learning opportunities aimed at broadening children’s understanding of future careers and industries in Papua New Guinea.

To mark the collaboration, students were invited aboard the Svitzer Venture tugboat for an educational excursion that introduced them to life at sea and the role maritime services play in supporting trade, shipping, and the energy sector.

For many students, it was their first time boarding a working vessel.

During the visit, students met Captains Denys and Oleksandr, Chief Engineer Alexander, Officer Emmanuel, and other crew members, who guided them through different parts of the tugboat while explaining daily operations and onboard safety procedures.

The students explored the vessel’s Bridge, Engine Room, Deck, Crew Accommodation, and Galley, gaining firsthand insight into the technical and operational responsibilities involved in maritime work.

Crew members also explained how tugboats assist larger ships entering ports, support oil and gas operations, and respond to emergencies such as maritime firefighting operations.

The excursion concluded with lunch onboard prepared by the vessel’s chef, Catherine, adding to what organizers described as a memorable learning experience for the students.

Svitzer PNG officials attending the event included General Manager Dylan Sheehan, Port Manager John Whitfield, Lead People and Culture Partner Emma Yabsley, and Melbourne Port Manager Simon Riddle.

Representing Buk bilong Pikinini were Executive Officer Leanne Resson, teachers, and members of the organization’s head office team.

Sheehan said the company viewed education and community engagement as important parts of its long-term commitment to Papua New Guinea.

“Svitzer PNG is proud to support and invest in the communities we operate in and specifically with Buk Bilong Pikinini in Port Moresby,” he said.

“We hope this partnership sees young children in Port Moresby not only given the opportunity to access much-needed learning materials and resources, but also inspired to one day work in the maritime industry in PNG and internationally.”

Resson said the partnership addresses both literacy needs and student exposure to real-world learning environments.

“Schools across PNG are in dire need of quality library books,” she said.

“Students need books to enhance their learning, while books are useful teaching resources for teachers. Svitzer PNG’s contribution reflects its dedication to community engagement and education through the replenishment of school library books.”

She added that experiential activities such as the tugboat excursion can help inspire curiosity, confidence, and ambition among young students.

The K20,000 contribution will help fund School Library Kits and additional library books for schools supported by Buk bilong Pikinini across Papua New Guinea.

The organization said it hopes to continue expanding partnerships that combine literacy support with educational opportunities that expose students to industries and career pathways they may not otherwise encounter.

For many students at Evedahana Primary and Junior High School, the start of Term 2 brought more than just a return to classes — it brought shelves of new stories, learning opportunities, and renewed excitement for reading.

Through a partnership between maritime services company Svitzer PNG and literacy-focused nonprofit Buk bilong Pikinini (BbP), 2,000 library books were donated to the school community, helping address ongoing shortages of educational materials while reinforcing efforts to build a stronger reading culture among young learners.

The donation included 1,000 books each for the primary and junior high school sections, providing students and teachers with additional resources for classroom learning, independent reading, and research activities.

The initiative also carries deeper significance for Buk bilong Pikinini, which operates an Early Childhood Centre within the Evedahana school community. Many children who begin their learning journey through the organization’s literacy programs later continue their education at the primary and junior high school.

By extending support beyond early childhood education, Buk bilong Pikinini hopes to sustain reading habits as students progress through higher levels of schooling.

“Books open the door to imagination, creativity, and opportunity,” said Buk bilong Pikinini Executive Officer Leanne Resson.

“When a child picks up a book, they begin a journey where anything is possible. By simply opening these pages, they can start building a future filled with knowledge and success.”

Resson said the organization also wanted to create safe and supportive learning spaces where children could continue exploring literacy beyond the classroom.

“We encourage all students to develop a daily reading habit, and we thank the teachers for their continued dedication in guiding and inspiring young readers,” she said.

Svitzer PNG said the partnership reflects its broader commitment to education and community development in Papua New Guinea.

“We are proud to support Buk bilong Pikinini in delivering these books to Evedahana,” said Anna Ingip, Crewing Officer PNG at Svitzer PNG.

“Education is a powerful tool for change, and we believe that access to quality reading materials can help shape brighter futures for young people across Papua New Guinea.”

Teachers and school leaders said the donation arrives at a critical time, with many schools across the country continuing to face shortages of books and educational resources.

Primary School Head Teacher Kagayabi said literacy challenges remain significant in many parts of Papua New Guinea, making access to books especially important for improving learning outcomes.

“We are truly grateful for this generous donation made possible through Buk bilong Pikinini and Svitzer PNG,” he said.

“I encourage our students to make reading a daily habit because the more they read, the more they learn and grow. These books will open many opportunities for them.”

The principal of the junior high school also expressed appreciation for the donation, saying the additional resources would support students’ academic development and confidence.

Beyond the Evedahana donation, Buk bilong Pikinini said many schools across Papua New Guinea still face major resource gaps that limit children’s access to quality education.

The organization is now encouraging more corporate organizations to support literacy and educational initiatives nationwide through similar partnerships.

Buk bilong Pikinini also acknowledged logistics partners PNG Air, Express Freight Management, and Sea Fast for helping transport books from Australia to Papua New Guinea and distribute them across different provinces.

Additional support this quarter has also come from Fincorp, Blue Water Shipping, and the Warrnambool Rotary Club, whose contributions have helped expand book access for children across the country.

For Buk bilong Pikinini, the message remains simple: investing in literacy today helps shape opportunities for Papua New Guinea’s next generation tomorrow.

Westpac Bank PNG Limited has congratulated the PNG Indigenous team following an impressive campaign at the 2026 National Indigenous Cricket Championships (NICC) in Mackay, Australia, where Papua New Guinea received the NICC Men’s Spirit of Cricket Award and players secured multiple Westpac match honours throughout the tournament.

Held on Yuwibara Country from 14–19 April 2026, the men’s and women’s T20 championships were played at Great Barrier Reef Arena and Harrup Park. Papua New Guinea participated in the men’s competition as an invitational team for the first time, while four PNG Lewas players joined South Australia’s women’s squad for the tournament.

The championship also featured a dedicated cultural activity day on 17 April, alongside national broadcast and streaming coverage.

Westpac PNG said the results highlighted the depth of cricket talent in Papua New Guinea, as well as the strong culture of respect and sportsmanship within the national programme ahead of upcoming international fixtures.

Among the key recognitions received during the tournament were:

• NICC Men’s Spirit of Cricket Award – Papua New Guinea
• Westpac Player of the Round (Round 2) – Michael Charlie
• NICC Men’s Player of the Championship – Tony Ura
• NICC Men’s Team of the Championship – Tony Ura
• NICC Women’s Team of the Championship – Henao Thomas

Westpac ‘Player of the Match’ awards were also presented throughout the tournament:

• Round 1 vs Queensland – Tony Ura
• Round 2 vs Tasmania – Michael Charlie
• Round 4 vs South Australia – Sese Bau
• Round 5 vs Northern Territory – Hila Vare
• Round 7 vs Tasmania – Tony Ura

PNG delivered a series of strong performances during the week, including back-to-back wins in rounds four and five to maintain an unbeaten run midway through the tournament.

The competition also served as a high-performance preparation platform for upcoming international fixtures, including Papua New Guinea’s ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Qualifier campaign in Japan.

Westpac Bank PNG Limited Chief Executive Andrew Cairns praised the team’s achievements and conduct throughout the tournament.

“We’re proud to see the PNG Indigenous team recognised for both performance and sportsmanship at the NICC. Congratulations to the players and staff, especially those who received Westpac match awards throughout the tournament,” Mr Cairns said.

Cricket PNG High Performance Manager and Head Coach Tim McCaskill said the tournament provided valuable preparation for the team’s upcoming international commitments.

“This tournament provided valuable high-performance preparation. The Spirit of Cricket award reflects the standards we set for ourselves as a group, and the individual honours are a credit to the players’ hard work,” Mr McCaskill said.

The squad has since returned to Port Moresby and will continue preparations for future fixtures and tournament commitments.

Westpac said the participation of the PNG Indigenous team and PNG Lewas players was supported through the Australian Government’s PacificAus Sports programme, which provides Pacific athletes, coaches, officials and administrators with opportunities to access high-performance training and elite competition.

Ok Tedi Mining Limited (Ok Tedi) has strengthened its position as one of Papua New Guinea’s leading investors in human capital through the awarding of its 2026 Undergraduate Scholarships to high-performing students from three universities across the country.

As part of its ongoing investment in education and skills development, Ok Tedi recently awarded 21 scholarships to students from the Papua New Guinea University of Technology (UNITECH) in Lae, Divine Word University (DWU), and the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) during a presentation ceremony at the company’s Port Moresby office.

The awards included 11 new third-year scholarship recipients and 10 continuing scholars, representing a total 2026 investment of K593,741.

Speaking during the ceremony, Manager Mine Production Mr Yagatau Hamena highlighted the company’s long-standing contribution to nation building through education and workforce development.

“For more than 40 years, Ok Tedi has been more than a mining company. Yes, we mine copper, gold and silver — but the real treasure we invest in is people,” Mr Hamena said.

“We have mined potential. We have mined talent. And we have supported and developed leaders across PNG who are now driving change in engineering, technology, science, business, community development and many other fields.”

Ok Tedi said its scholarship programme forms a key part of the company’s investment in people under its Growth 2050 Strategy. The company said building a capable Papua New Guinean workforce remains critical to ensuring the long-term sustainability of its operations, community development initiatives and national economic contribution.

The company’s long-term human capital development contributions include:

• 689 graduates completing the Graduate Development Scheme since 1988
• 1,191 apprentices trained since 1982
• 731 trainees upskilled from Preferred Area Development communities
• 50 industrial trainees provided with practical work experience
• 40 vocational students supported through the on-the-job training programme since 2023
• 81 students sponsored through the Undergraduate Scholarship Programme
• K37 million invested in training in 2025 alone

Third-year Computer Science student Jodanah Malus expressed gratitude after receiving the scholarship.

“I am deeply honoured to be a recipient of the 2026 Ok Tedi Undergraduate Scholarship. This sponsorship lifts a heavy burden from my parents and allows me to focus fully on my academic goals,” Ms Malus said.

“I am incredibly grateful to Ok Tedi for believing in my potential.”

UNITECH Vice Chancellor Dr Ora Renagi reaffirmed the university’s partnership with Ok Tedi, describing education as central to national development.

“I fully embrace this partnership with Ok Tedi. True change for PNG will only come through the development of our human resources,” Dr Renagi said.

“Ok Tedi recognises that universities exist to transform students into capable, skilled professionals who will drive Papua New Guinea forward.”

Executive Dean of the School of Business and Public Policy at UPNG, Dr Lekshmi Pillai, said the scholarships represented both an opportunity and a responsibility for recipients.

“This is not just an ordinary occasion — it is a momentous one that signifies a profound responsibility,” Dr Pillai said.

“Ok Tedi’s support reflects its commitment to nurturing the future leaders of Papua New Guinea by investing in students currently pursuing higher education.”

“For our scholarship recipients, this support is not only an opportunity but also a privilege that calls for dedication, discipline and excellence.”

Acting Registrar of Divine Word University Marie Clare Aribi thanked Ok Tedi for its continued partnership and support for students across the country.

“We sincerely thank Ok Tedi Mining Limited’s Human Resources team, Training team and Executive Leadership team for your generous support, partnership and belief in our young students at Divine Word University and across Papua New Guinea,” Ms Aribi said.

“Your commitment goes beyond financial assistance — it demonstrates a deep dedication to growth, innovation and meaningful community impact.”

Beyond scholarships, Ok Tedi said it continues to support UNITECH, UPNG and other tertiary institutions through strategic infrastructure and capacity-building investments aligned with Papua New Guinea’s national development priorities.

The company congratulated all 2026 Undergraduate Scholarship recipients and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting their academic and professional development.

Ok Tedi said it remains committed to building a strong, skilled and prosperous Papua New Guinea through sustained investment in education, people and community partnerships.