Papa, Central Province – Saturday, 17 May 2025
Minister for Information and Communication Technology, Hon. Timothy Masiu, today officially opened a state-of-the-art ICT classroom at Papa Junior High School, Hiri-Koiari District, and launched the landmark “50 for 50” Connectivity Project – a nationwide initiative to boost ICT infrastructure across Papua New Guinea.
The event coincided with World Telecommunication and Information Society Day (WTISD) and marks the second ICT launch in Central Province for 2025.
The occasion was attended by students, teachers, community leaders, and government officials, including Member for Hiri-Koiari Hon. Keith Iduhu, NICTA CEO Mr. Kila Gulo-Vui, and Deputy Secretary for the Department of ICT Mr. Flierl Shongol.
Delivering the keynote address, Minister Masiu highlighted the government’s commitment to digital transformation through meaningful partnerships and targeted investments.
“Today, Papa Junior High School is a proud recipient of 20 new computers and accessories,” he said.
“The school will have high-speed broadband internet access for two years, paid for by the Government through the Universal Access & Service (UAS) ICT Projects program managed by NICTA. The facilities also come with backup power to ensure continuous access to services.”
Minister Masiu acknowledged the support of ExxonMobil and community leaders in constructing the ICT facility.
“We must be seen to be working in partnership so we can achieve more, and this impressive building fully equipped with digital learning resources is a testament to that.”
The Minister also announced the “50 for 50” Connectivity Project, a flagship initiative of the Marape-Rosso Government that aims to increase basic voice and internet coverage to 100% nationwide in time for Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence Anniversary.
“This project is not just about infrastructure – it’s about creating meaningful, lasting impact,” Minister Masiu said.
“It will connect over 2.5 million people across the country at an estimated cost of K50 million, reaching over 100 institutions including schools, health centres, rural airstrips, local businesses, and more.”
The “50 for 50” Project will address connectivity challenges on both the supply and demand side, aiming to integrate underserved communities into the digital economy and ensure that “no Papua New Guinean, regardless of gender or location, is left behind.”
“We, as a government, will do what we can through projects like this ICT lab and the ‘50 for 50’ Project, but it needs a collective effort from all of us to progress PNG for our children.”
Member for Hiri-Koiari, Hon. Keith Iduhu, in his remarks earlier commended the Minister’s leadership and his work in Digital Transformation and Cybersecurity.
“We must protect this infrastructure. I want to commend the good Minister for bringing this initiative and being very aggressive in this sector.
“I am also encouraged by the reforms in cyber security and monitoring of cybercrime.”
NICTA CEO Mr. Kila Gulo-Vui described the new ICT facility as a “hub of innovation and creativity.”
“Equipped with 20 computers and high-speed connectivity, this centre gives students and teachers the tools to excel. We appreciate the Member for Hiri-Koiari for sharing our vision and acknowledge Minister Masiu’s leadership in digital transformation.”
Deputy Secretary of ICT, Mr. Flierl Shongol, emphasized the importance of policy in driving transformation and urged students to consider ICT careers.
“ICT is a tool for your learning. Through the Universal Access program and policies like the Digital Transformation Policy, we aim to connect more schools. We also need cybersecurity experts, and I encourage students—especially girls—to pursue careers in ICT through programs like Girls in ICT under NICTA.”
Picture: Papa Junior Highschool New ICT Classroom
More Pictures of the launch:
