Papua New Guinean Women: Pioneers in Politics and Diplomacy

In a nation renowned for its vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes, Papua New Guinea has also cultivated a remarkable legacy of women in leadership. From the halls of Parliament to the international diplomatic stage, these women have defied societal expectations and made significant contributions to their country. Their achievements, often against the backdrop of cultural and political challenges, serve as a testament to their resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment to serving their nation.

Women MPs (Members of Parliament): 10 PNG women MPs with the names of the villages or places they were born in:

1. Dame Josephine Abaijah

Born in: Misima Island, Milne Bay Province

Elected: 1972–1977, 1977–1982, 1997–2002

Contributions:

• Championed women’s rights and representation in Parliament.
• Played a key role in the establishment of the National Women’s Council.
• Introduced legislation to protect women’s property rights.

2. Waliyato Clowes

Born in: Daru, Western Province

Elected: 1977–1982

Contributions:

• Advocate for rural development and education.
• Worked to improve access to healthcare in remote areas.

3. Nahau Rooney

Born in: Manus Island, Manus Province

Elected: 1977–1987

Contributions:

• Focused on issues related to land rights and customary law.
• Played a significant role in the development of the National Constitution.

4. Dame Carol Kidu

Born in: Shorncliffe, Queensland, Australia (naturalized PNG citizen)

Elected: 2002–2012

Contributions:

• A leading advocate for women’s rights, education, and social welfare.
• Introduced legislation to combat domestic violence and sexual assault.
• Established the Kidu Foundation to support education and community development.

5. Julie Soso

Born in: Goroka, Eastern Highlands Province

Elected: 2012–2017

Contributions:

• Focused on rural development and infrastructure projects.
• Worked to improve access to clean water and sanitation in remote areas.

6. Loujaya Kouza

Born in: Lae, Morobe Province

Elected: 2012–2017

Contributions:

• Championed gender equality and women’s empowerment.
• Established the Loujaya Kouza Foundation to support women’s education and leadership.

7. Delilah Gore

Born in: Popondetta, Oro Province

Elected: 2012–2017

Contributions:

• Focused on health, education, and rural development.
• Worked to improve maternal and child health outcomes.

8. Rufina Peter

Born in: Hula, Central Province

Elected: 2022–present

Contributions:

• Represents the interests of her constituents and contributes to legislative discussions.
• Focused on issues related to climate change and sustainable development.

9. Kessy Sawang

Born in: Madang, Madang Province

Elected: 2022–present

Contributions:

• A dedicated public servant with a focus on community development.
• Works to improve access to basic services in rural areas.

10. Francesca Semoso

Born in: Buka, Bougainville

Elected: 2023–present

Contributions:

• Advocates for peace, reconciliation, and sustainable development in her region.
• Works to address the legacy of conflict and promote economic growth in Bougainville.

 Women Diplomats (Ambassadors and High Commissioners):

1. Dame Meg Taylor DBE

Former: Secretary General to the Pacific Islands Forum (2014-2021)

Province: Eastern Highlands/Jiwaka

Contributions:

•   Played a key role in regional cooperation and development.
•   Led efforts to address climate change and sustainable development in the Pacific.

2. Winnie Anna Kiap CBE

Former: Papua New Guinea High Commissioner to the United Kingdom (20112022)

Province: Manus (Baluan Island)

Contributions:

•  Promoted Papua New Guinea's interests on the international stage.
•  Strengthened bilateral relations with the United Kingdom and other Commonwealth countries.

3. Dame Jean Kekedo DBE

Former: Ombudsman and High Commissioner to the United Kingdom

Province: Oro (Kokoda)

Contributions:

•   A pioneer in the Papua New Guinean public service.
•   Championed human rights and good governance.

4. Madam Helen Aitsi

Current: Ambassador to South Korea

Province: Central Province (Yule Island)

Contributions:

•   Represents Papua New Guinea’s interests in South Korea.
•   Works to enhance diplomatic relations and cooperation between the two countries.

As Papua New Guinea advances towards a more equitable and prosperous future, these remarkable women stand as beacons of inspiration. Their unwavering dedication, resilience, and commitment to their nation have not only shaped its destiny but have also paved the way for countless others. Whether advocating for policy change or fostering international relations, they serve as powerful reminders that leadership knows no gender. Let us honor their legacy and continue to support and empower women in all spheres of society.

PNG Police Clearance Application Process Now Online

The Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC), in partnership with the Department of Information and Communication Technology (DICT) and the Department of Finance, announced the official launch of the Police Clearance Management System (PCMS). This system streamlines the police clearance application process, offering a user-friendly, digital experience for Papua New Guinean citizens.

Key Features of the PCMS

• Online Application and Payment:  The PCMS eliminates the need for physical applications and cash transactions. Citizens can now conveniently apply for and pay for their police clearance certificates online. 

• Digital Certificate with QR Code: Applicants will receive secure, digital police clearance certificates featuring QR code technology. This allows for efficient electronic verification of the certificate's authenticity. 

• Biometric Data Collection:  The PCMS incorporates biometric data collection for enhanced security and fraud prevention.

Access the Police Clearance Service here: https://www.gavman.gov.pg

The Police Clearance Online Application Process or PCMS marks a milestone in the e-Government initiative. It represents the first citizen-facing service launched through the e-Government Portal.  

Building on this success, eight additional services are scheduled for launch next month, alongside a digital wallet app that allows citizens to securely store their electronic certificates.

Alignment with Government Priorities

The PCMS aligns with the national commitment to digital transformation, as outlined in the Digital Transformation Policy 2020, the Digital Government Act 2022, and the Medium-Term Development Plan IV (2023-2027). It demonstrates the government's dedication to improving online accessibility and simplifying service delivery for the public.

Access the Police Clearance Service: Citizens can access the Police Clearance online service through the e-Government Portal: https://www.gavman.gov.pg

Pope Francis’s Historic Visit to Papua New Guinea: Why Is the Trip Important?

Pope Francis is scheduled to make a historic visit to Papua New Guinea from September 6 to September 9, 2024. This visit holds great significance for the Catholic community and the nation as a whole, as it emphasizes the Pope's mission of promoting unity, peace, and spiritual renewal. 

''Pope Francis will visit Papua New Guinea from September 6 to 9, 2024, aiming to promote unity, peace, and spiritual renewal. His visit includes meetings with state leaders, the disabled, the sick, and the youth. This follows Pope John Paul II's impactful visits in 1984 and 1995. The visit is significant for the Catholic community, which makes up 27% of the population, and the nation's global image.''

Importance of the Trip 

Pope Francis’s visit to Papua New Guinea goes beyond being a religious journey; it is a mission of unity and hope. The Pope aims to strengthen the faith of the local Catholic community, which makes up approximately 27% of the country’s population. 

His visit is seen as a validation of the Church’s presence in Papua New Guinea, a nation known for its rich mix of ancient traditions and a strong practice of faith. The visit also holds great significance for the nation’s global image. 

As Cardinal Ribat emphasized, “A world leader coming to us will improve our image on the global stage.” The Pope’s presence is expected to promote a sense of peace and inclusivity, especially as he plans to interact with the disabled and the sick, embodying the spirit of compassion and care. 

IMAGE: Vatican News

Background and Schedule 

The Catholic Church has been present in Papua New Guinea since the late 19th century when the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart established their initial missions. Over the years, the Church has become an integral part of the nation's spiritual and social fabric. 

During his visit, Pope Francis will follow a comprehensive schedule: 

• September 6: Arrival in Port Moresby and a welcome ceremony at Jacksons International Airport. 

• September 7: Courtesy visit to the Governor General at Government House, followed by a meeting with state leaders at APEC Haus. The Pope will also engage with the PNG Council of Churches and visit the children of Street Ministry and Callan Services at Caritas Technical Secondary School. 

• September 8: Journey to Vanimo, where he will meet with the local community before returning to Port Moresby for a youth festival at Sir John Guise Stadium. 

• September 9: Departure from Papua New Guinea. Impact on Catholics in Papua New Guinea 

Impact of the Pope's Visit to PNG

The Pope's upcoming visit is anticipated to deeply impact the Catholic community in Papua New Guinea. With around two million followers, the visit will provide inspiration and spiritual renewal. 

Additionally, it will emphasize the Church's role in addressing the nation's challenges, such as tribal violence and civil unrest. Moreover, the visit has the potential to mark a historic occasion - the canonization of Blessed Peter Torot, which would make him Papua New Guinea's first saint. This would be a significant milestone for the Catholic community in Papua New Guinea and the Pacific.

Pope John Paul II visited Papua New Guinea in 1984 and 1995

Pope John Paul II’s visit to Papua New Guinea in 1995 was a momentous occasion for the nation. During his two-day stay, the Pope beatified Blessed Peter ToRot, a catechist martyred during World War II, marking a significant milestone for the local Catholic community. 

His visit was characterized by heartfelt interactions with the faithful, including a moving Mass celebrated in Port Moresby. 

This visit, along with his earlier visit in 1984, left a lasting impact on the spiritual life of the nation, reinforcing the Church’s commitment to peace, unity, and the well-being of the people

Pacific Engagement Visa Online Application: Eligibility and How to Apply

The Australian Government has introduced the Pacific Engagement Visa (PEV), a new permanent resident visa aimed at strengthening connections between Australia and the Pacific region. This initiative offers up to 3,000 visas annually to nationals from participating Pacific countries and Timor-Leste through a ballot process.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Pacific Engagement Visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Age: Applicants must be between 18 to 45 years old.

2. Nationality: Hold a valid passport from a participating country.

3. Birthplace: Applicants or their parents must have been born in an eligible country.

4. Job Offer: Secure a formal ongoing job offer in Australia (either the primary applicant or their spouse/partner).

5. Language: Meet basic English language requirements.

6. Health and Character: Fulfill health and character requirements.

7. Registration Fee: Pay a $25 registration fee to enter the ballot.

Participating Countries

The countries currently participating in the Pacific Engagement Visa program include:

• Federated States of Micronesia
• Fiji
• Nauru
• Palau

• Papua New Guinea

• Solomon Islands
• Timor-Leste
• Tonga
• Tuvalu
• Vanuatu

How to Apply

1. Register for the Ballot: Prospective applicants must first register for the ballot online through the Department of Home Affairs' ImmiAccount. The ballot involves an electronic random selection process.

2. Ballot Selection: If selected in the ballot, applicants can then proceed to apply for the Pacific Engagement Visa.

3. Submit Application: Complete the visa application, including details of the job offer, English language proficiency, and health and character checks.

4. Include Family Members: Applicants can include their partner and legally dependent children in their application.

The Pacific Engagement Visa aims to provide fair and transparent access to the program, fostering greater cultural, business, and educational exchange between Australia and the Pacific region.

For more information and updates, visit the:

• Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade website https://www.dfat.gov.au/geo/pacific/peopl e-connections/people-connections-in-the-pacific/pacific-engagement-visa.
• Pacific Engagement Visa | Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade https://www.dfat.gov.au/geo/pacific/people-connections/people-connections-in-the-pacific/pacific-engagement-visa
• Pacific Engagement Visa frequently asked questions https://www.dfat.gov.au/sites/default/files/pev-palm-faq.pdf

UOG Non-School Leaver Applications Open for 2025: Pursue Higher Learning at the University of Goroka

The University of Goroka (UoG), a leading institution in Papua New Guinea, is now accepting applications for non-school leavers for the 2025 academic year. If you're looking to take the next step in your education, download the UOG application form for 2025 here.

Eligibility and Requirements

The non-school leaver program at UoG is open to individuals who meet the following criteria:

• Completed Grade 12 or equivalent qualification.
• Possess a minimum GPA (exact GPA requirement to be confirmed by UoG, here are last year's GPA requirements).
• It may include international students.

If you are applying to the School Of Science and Technology, check out the specific information about the school you should know before applying.

How to Apply

Applying to UoG's non-school leaver program is easy and convenient. Here's what you need to do:

1. Download the application form: Click the link below to download the application form directly. Simply fill out the form electronically and submit it.

[Download application form here]

2. Alternatively, apply in person: Application forms can also be collected at the UoG main campus for those who prefer a paper-based application.

Take advantage of this opportunity!

The University of Goroka offers an enriching academic experience that can propel you towards a successful future. Apply today and join a vibrant community dedicated to learning and growth.

For more information on all the PNG Universities in PNG Insight - click here

About the University of Goroka

UoG prides itself on a rich history of providing quality education. It fosters intellectual curiosity and cultivates graduates who are prepared to tackle real-world challenges. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, making it a great choice for diverse academic interests.