When is 2024 National Remembrance Day and Repentance Day in PNG?

When are Remembrance Day and National Day of Repentance in PNG? This question often arises in the minds of many individuals, whether they are residents or visitors to Papua New Guinea. 

In this article, we shed light on their respective dates and the meaning behind each commemoration.

Varirata Lookout (Port Moresby in foreground)

National Remembrance Day in PNG

National Remembrance Day, observed on the 23rd of July each year, is a significant public holiday in Papua New Guinea. 

The day is dedicated to honouring the brave men and women who lost their lives during various conflicts, particularly in World War I and World War II. It serves as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by Papua New Guinea's military personnel and civilians to defend their nation and preserve peace worldwide. 

On this day, ceremonies are held across the country, with wreaths laid at war memorials, and citizens observe a minute of silence to pay their respects to the fallen heroes.

To check out the Gazetted Public Holidays in PNG, click here. Or check out the tag links at the end of this article for the latest updates.

 

National Day of Repentance

The National Day of Repentance is another notable public holiday in Papua New Guinea, observed on the 26th of August each year. 

Unlike National Remembrance Day, this day carries a more religious significance. It is a time for the people of Papua New Guinea to engage in reflection, prayer, and penance. The day is dedicated to seeking forgiveness for past wrongdoings and transgressions, both on a personal and national level. 

Communities come together in churches and other places of worship to participate in special services, seeking reconciliation and a renewed sense of unity.

Papua New Guinea Independence Day

Independence Day is yet another important public holiday celebrated in PNG. Commemorated on the 16th of September each year, this day marks the country's independence from the Australian administration in 1975. 

It is a time of great national pride, with festivities, parades, and cultural events taking place throughout the country. 

Independence Day signifies the birth of Papua New Guinea as a sovereign nation, and it serves as an occasion to celebrate the nation's achievements, diversity, and unity.

Significance of National Remembrance Day and Repentance Day

All in all, National Remembrance Day is on the 23rd of July and the National Day of Repentance is on the 26th of August. 

While National Remembrance Day pays homage to the fallen heroes who sacrificed their lives during conflicts, the National Day of Repentance focuses on seeking forgiveness and national reconciliation through prayer and penance. 

Both these days hold immense significance for the people of Papua New Guinea.

How to Apply for DHERST Higher Education Loan Program (HELP)

If you are a student in Papua New Guinea (PNG) and need financial assistance for your higher education, then the Higher Education Loan Program (HELP) offered by the Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (DHERST) can be a good option for you. 

The HELP program for 2023 application will be open from 20th March 2023 to 31st October 2023. In this blog post, we will guide you through the process of applying for the HELP loan program.

Here is the latest article on the TESAS & HELP Student Loan Program

Eligibility Criteria for HELP

Before applying for the HELP program, you need to meet the following eligibility criteria:

• You must be a PNG citizen.
• You must be enrolled and registered at a Higher Education Institution (HEI) recognized by DHERST.
• The study program undertaken by the applicant is accredited by the National Higher and Technical Education Board (NHTEB) or by another authorised body.

HELP Student Loan Application Timeline

The HELP program facilitates 4 batches every year. If you do not apply or do not submit your loan application in a batch, you have the flexibility to apply in the subsequent batch. The application timeline for HELP 2023 is as follows:

Batch Application Period

• 1  20th March - 30th April
• 2 1st May - 30th June
• 3 1st July - 31st August
• 4 1st September - 31st October

The last (4th) batch and the HELP application cycle for this year will be closed as of 31st October 2023. 

DHERST will not accept any applications from students who applied and submitted the HELP after this date.

Requirements to Apply for HELP Loan

To apply for the HELP loan program, you need to fulfil the following requirements:

Signed HELP Declaration Form: Enquire about the HELP declaration form from your institution. Fill out the form and submit it to your Registrar and/or Student Data Officer with one of the mentioned ID documents.

ID Document: You need to submit any one of the following ID documents along with your HELP declaration form:

• Gr 12 certificate
• Student ID
• PNG NID/birth certificate
• Passport
• Driver's license

 

Apply for DHERST Student Loan

Your Student Data Officer (SDO) at your institution will issue HELP login credentials to you. If you have forgotten your password, you may check with your SDO to get a new one.

First-year students who had NOAS credentials from 2022 and had their enrollment status confirmed by SDO can use the same credentials to apply for HELP. The same applies to continuing students who previously applied for HELP, they can use the same credential to reapply for HELP this year.

The HELP 2023 timeline will be made available to the HEI through the Registrar's office during the registration period.

Contact DHERST

For further information, please contact the DHERST Support Service at noassupport@dherst.gov.pg.

Or visit HELP login page https://ipng.dherst.gov.pg/

The Higher Education Loan Program (HELP) by DHERST is a great initiative to provide financial assistance to students who want to pursue higher education in PNG. 

If you meet the eligibility criteria and follow the application guidelines, you can apply for the HELP program and avail the benefits of the loan. 

We hope this blog post has provided you with all the necessary information to apply for the HELP program in 2023.

Note: This information appears on DHERST website.

Understanding the Australian Awards Scholarship 2024 Application, Intake List and Final Selection

The Australian Awards Scholarship offers financial assistance to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs for the duration of the study program. 

The program aims to promote education, enhance development, and build mutual understanding between Australia and participating countries, including Papua New Guinea (PNG)

Australian Awards Scholarship 2024 Intake List

If you applied for the Australian Awards Scholarship for the 2024 intake, you might be wondering if your name is on the list of successful applicants. 

Based on past releases, the Australian government typically informs applicants of their selection for the Australian Awards Scholarship via email or post.

Once the application process closes, the scholarship selection committee reviews the applications and makes a shortlist of candidates who are then invited for an interview. 

The interview is conducted either in-person or online and is usually conducted by representatives of the Australian government, universities, or other relevant institutions.

Successful candidates

After the interview process, the selection committee then makes a final decision on the successful candidates who will be offered the scholarship. 

As mentioned, the successful candidates are then informed of their selection via email or post.

Check the Australian Awards Scholarship 2024 intake list

To check the Australian Awards Scholarship 2024 intake list, you should keep an eye on your email or mailbox. 

If you are selected for the scholarship, you will receive a notification via email or post with detailed information about the scholarship award, such as the:

• level of study,
• duration of the scholarship,
• start date of the program, and 
• any additional requirements that need to be fulfilled before the scholarship can be formally awarded.

If you are not selected for the scholarship, you may also be notified via email or post. The email or letter will provide feedback on why your application was not successful and may offer suggestions on how you can improve your application for future scholarship opportunities.

Accept an Australia Awards Scholarship 2024

Applicants who want to accept an Australia Awards Scholarship will need to sign a contract with the Commonwealth of Australia declaring that they will comply with the conditions of the scholarship. 

Scholars are required to leave Australia for a minimum of two years after completing their scholarship.

All in all, if you're interested in applying for the Australian Awards Scholarship 2024 intake, be sure to keep an eye on your email or mailbox for notifications from the Australian government. 

And if you're not selected for the scholarship, don't be discouraged – use the feedback provided to improve your application for future scholarship opportunities.

Note that this is based on past years' application process, selection and interview. If you have applied for the Australian Awards Scholarship, rest assured that you will hear from them about your applications. This article is for information only as you anticipate your selection.

PNG Defence Force Application, Recruitment, and Training | Non-school Leavers

The Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) plays a crucial role in safeguarding the nation's security and protecting its citizens. If you aspire to serve your country and pursue a career in the military, the PNGDF offers opportunities for application, recruitment, and training. 

This article provides essential information for non-school leavers interested in applying for the PNGDF recruitment, intending to undergo training in 2024.

If you are a grade 12 school leaver wanting to apply to the PNGDF cadet program, check out this article, click here. It gives information about the options that you will have to fill through the DHERST online application system.

 

2025/2026 update: Note that this initiative has NOT been executed, read about the latest on PNGDF recruitment  here

 

How to Apply for PNG Defence Force Recruitment

To apply for the PNG Defence Force recruitment, follow these steps:

• 1. Stay Informed: Keep an eye on media announcements and updates regarding the recruitment process. The PNGDF typically advertises vacancies through various channels.
• 2. Check Eligibility: Ensure that you meet the basic requirements for the role you wish to apply for. The PNGDF has different application processes and criteria for different positions.
• 3. Gather Required Documents: Prepare the necessary documents for your application. These may include your school qualifications, tertiary or trade qualifications, employment history, driver's license details, criminal convictions, medical information, vaccination history, and preferred trades and services.
• 4. Submit Your Application: The PNGDF does not currently have an email address or online application forms. To apply, you can either send your documents by post or hand-deliver them to the PNGDF Recruitment Office located at Murray Barracks in Port Moresby.

Eligibility and Requirements

To be considered for the PNGDF recruitment, you must meet the following minimum requirements:

• 1. Age: General enlistee applicants must be between 18 and 27 years old. Officer cadet applicants should be between 18 and 30 years old. Direct entry officer applicants also need to be between 18 and 30 years old.
• 2. Education: You must have completed at least three years of secondary school education.
• 3. Medical Fitness: Applicants must meet the required medical standards to ensure they are fit for service.
• 4. Citizenship and Security: You must meet the citizenship and security requirements set by the PNGDF.

5 Things to Know Before Applying for PNG DF in 2024

Before applying for the PNGDF recruitment, here are five important points to consider:

• 1. Responsibilities of the Job: Understand the nature of the job and the responsibilities that come with it. Serving in the military requires dedication, discipline, and a commitment to protecting your country.
• 2. Competitive Application: While meeting the minimum requirements is essential, strive to exceed them to become a more competitive applicant. Showcase any additional qualifications, skills, or experiences that can set you apart from other candidates.
• 3. Physical Fitness: The military demands physical fitness. Prepare yourself physically before applying by engaging in regular exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
• 4. Commitment and Sacrifice: Serving in the PNGDF requires a significant commitment and personal sacrifice. Be prepared to dedicate your time and energy to the organization, often being away from family and facing challenging situations.
• 5. Career Advancement Opportunities: The PNGDF offers various career advancement opportunities, including specialized training, promotions, and professional development. Research and understand the possibilities for growth within the organization.

By considering these points and ensuring you meet the eligibility criteria, you can better prepare yourself for the PNGDF recruitment process in 2024. 

Remember to stay updated on announcements and follow the application instructions provided by the PNGDF. 

Serving in the military can be a rewarding and fulfilling career, allowing you to contribute to the security and defence of Papua New Guinea.

Here is the latest on PNG Defence Force Application that you should know, click here to find out.

FAQs: PNG Defence Force Application, Recruitment, and Training 2024

Q1: What is the minimum age requirement to apply for the PNG Defence Force recruitment in 2024?

A1: The minimum age requirement for general enlistee applicants is 18 years old, while officer cadet and direct entry officer applicants must be between 18 and 30 years old.

Q2: What educational qualifications are necessary to be eligible for the PNGDF recruitment?

A2: Applicants should have completed at least three years of secondary school education.

Q3: Can females apply for the PNG Defence Force recruitment?

A3: Yes, both males and females are eligible to apply for various positions within the PNGDF.

Q4: How can I get an application form for the PNG Defence Force?

A4: Currently, the PNGDF does not have an online application form. You can the army barracks in Port Moresby, Lae or other centres in the country and ask for the 2024 PNGDF application form.

Q5: What are the key responsibilities of serving in the PNG Defence Force?

A5: Serving in the PNGDF entails responsibilities such as defending the nation, protecting its citizens, maintaining peace and security, and upholding the values and principles of the organization. The specific duties may vary based on the chosen trade or position within the force.