PNG-Australia partnership

WHP pioneers water security project

This initiative, part of the PNG-Australia Partnership, marks the inaugural phase of a three-province endeavour set to unfold from 2023 to 2025.

The Western Highlands emerges as the pioneer province in this transformative Water Security Project, with East Sepik and Morobe provinces following suit. Addressing a critical need for reliable and safe clean water access, the project aligns with PNG's development goals and stands as a cornerstone in Australia's climate change policy.

Improved training for Enga teachers

The training was conducted in Wabag and offered teachers a valuable professional development opportunity that focused on using the Bilum Books Training guides to implement the Department of Education's Standards-Based Curriculum.

The Provincial elementary coordinator, Simon Kakeyo, noted that the training will equip early grade teachers with the necessary teaching skills for phonics, reading comprehension, writing, listening, and speaking in English.

Need for Social Accountability

It brought together civil society organizations, public officials and service providers.

The theme was ‘Sharing and Learning from Innovators and Practitioners.’

The purpose of the summit was to stimulate critical thinking and discussions around social accountability tools to use and empower citizens to advocate for accountability on the management of public resources.

Paul Barker, Director for Institute of National Affairs says it is important for the government to report to its people.

Partnerships for improving education program launched

Last week, Minister for Education Jimmy Uguro and Secretary for the Department of Education Dr. Uke Kombra, launched the PIE program.

The launch coincided with the official opening of the 2023 academic year at Dapu Primary School in Vanimo and in West Sepik.

The Bilum Story

The Australian High Commission will virtually launch on 24 February the short film ‘The Bilum Story’ to celebrate the remarkable PNG women social entrepreneurs who 10 years ago began to shine a spotlight on bilum as a national treasure, and driving inclusive economic growth for women weavers.

K205m For Major Road Projects

Four major long term maintenance contracts have been awarded to improve road conditions in Morobe, New Ireland, Milne Bay and Northern Provinces.

Through the PNG-Australia Partnership’s Transport Sector Support Program, the four projects, valued at K205 million, will support maintenance and upgrade work on the Wau, Boluminski, Northern/Kokoda and Magi highways this year. 

WASH Facilities Protect Children’s Educational Rights

The provision of these new hand washing stations and water tanks were provided by the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) PNG through the PNG-Australia Partnership.

In line with the newly accrued facilities, awareness sessions on COVID-19 were held for the student body and faculty so they can be properly informed on the pandemic and its measures to keep everyone safe.

Together for Education

However, thanks to some parents and teachers in procuring innovative digital technology, equality in opportunities and provision of education is now made available.

In an elementary school in the Central Province, 11-year old Odie was described by her teachers as an avid learner and great example to other students. Her love for reading was dually awarded when her school was selected to be a part of the “Together for Education Project”.

Daru Gets Legal Service Boost

A team of officials from Western Province accompanied by an officer from PNG’s Village Court and Land Mediation Secretariat met with village court officials and community members from the Tamate, Iaru, Cawo’o, Darowaro, and Central Kiwai Village Courts.

The meetings were an opportunity to share information and ideas about court and mediation services and how best they can support the community.

The officials inspected village court records, reviewed the conduct of court officials, observed court procedures and held information sessions for the communities.

20 years of Incentive Fund celebrated

In 1999, during Development Cooperation Treaty negotiations, the PNG and Australian governments agreed that Australia’s development cooperation program would include joint programmed assistance known as the Australia Papua New Guinea Incentive Fund.

Incentive Fund began in 2000 with the broad goal of encouraging PNG organisations to be more effective, build their capacity and ultimately contribute to the economic development and advancement of PNG.