The Human Movement Studies (HMS) section has for the first time in almost 14 years registered its first intakes of students into the Bachelor of Education in Physical Education program. This program exists in partnership with the School of Science & Technology (SOST), University of Goroka (UOG). The SOST is where the NSI sits alongside other Divisions. This program endeavors to bridge the gap that exists in schools in the teaching and learning of physical education

Students have so been enrolled into the program, interestingly, 14 students in total for this academic year 2024. These students have also registered for Mathematics and Physical Sciences (Physics/Chemistry) courses respectively who form combinations for our PE students. By the second year, we will stream them into either one of those combinations so by the time they complete, we will graduate them as either PE/Math or PE/Science students for both High Schools (Gr.9 & 10) and Senior High School (Gr.11 & 12).

The process to enrolling our prospecting students has been long and tedious. Our next step is to ensure that we receive full accreditation from DHERST so we can attract 20 scholarships through its TESAS scheme. We anticipate that we can complete this by September this year before the Grade 12 School Leaver Forms go out for Admission (UOG) in 2025. The HMS section has all three staff involved in the program; two actively teaching courses while the other runs all the administration for program delivery for this year. Two PE courses are on offer for our 14 students this semester one. Mr Smith is lecturing in Fundamental Human Movements, while Ms Martins is teaching Foundations of Physical Education this semester.

We acknowledge the support of the Mathematics and Physical Sciences Divisions of the SOST, and especially the Dean of the School, Dr De Britto who has been the driving force behind the Director NSI and Acting HOD HMS in realizing this milestone. HMS is grateful as well to the Office of the Director, NSI and Office of the CEO, PNG Sports Foundation (PNGSF) for the continuous support to the section in facilitating the program.

The National Sports Institute (NSI) Athlete Development Program (ADP) has made remarkable progress since its inception in 2020, now marking its fourth year. What began with just four athletes has expanded significantly, with a current total of fifteen athletes benefiting from the program. Notably, two of the program’s pioneering athletes are currently on scholarships, pursuing training and education in the United States of America (USA).

The 2024 activities for the program have already started and athletes are hard at training. As the program also emphasizes on Education, athletes are continuing to pursue their education in various institutions. The following are athletes in the program;

1. Timothy Tuna
2. Micah Gaisane
3. Bradford Holie
4. Lot Samare
5. Damien Kote
6. Joy Tieba
7. Alphonse Igish (in the USA)
8. Jonathan Dende (in the USA)
9. Judy Mitchell
10. Pais Wisil (Queensland, Australia)

The targeted competitions for 2024 include;

• Oceania Athletics Championships (FIJI)
• Regional Athletics Championships (Highlands Momase, NGI & Southern)
• National Athletics Championships (Port Moresby)
• Olympic Games (Paris)
• World Under 20 Championship (Lima, Peru)

Since its establishment in 1979, the National Sports Institute (NSI) has stood as a beacon for sports development in Papua New Guinea. Over the years, the Institute has nurtured countless athletes, sports administrators, and sporting events providing them with the necessary training and facilities to excel in their respective disciplines. Among these facilities, the grandstand has served as a symbolic centerpiece, witnessing the triumphs and challenges of PNG’s sporting journey. However, after decades of use, the grandstand was in dire need of renovation to meet modern standards and accommodate the growing needs of athletes and spectators alike.

In a visionary move, the Eastern Highlands Province Governor, Hon. Simon Sia, initiated the grandstand renovation project to revitalize this vital part of the Institute. The project, which began under his leadership, is slated for completion by April 2024, marking a significant milestone in the Institute’s history.

The renovation of the grandstand is part of a larger effort by the Papua New Guinea Sports Foundation (PNGSF) to modernize the Institute’s infrastructure. This comprehensive renovation project encompasses all aspects of the grandstand, including the seating area, facilities, and amenities. The goal is to create a state-of-the-art facility that not only meets international standards but also provides a comfortable and enjoyable experience for spectators. This is also timely as the Institute is embarking on establishing a Sports TAFE College, which requires quality facilities for its programs. One of the key focuses of the renovation is the improvement of the seating area. The old grandstand, with its aging structure and outdated facilities, no longer provided the level of comfort and safety expected in a modern sporting venue. The new design incorporates ergonomic seating arrangements, improved sightlines, and enhanced accessibility, ensuring that spectators can enjoy the action in comfort and style.

This renovation project balances upgrades to other facilities within the Institute. This includes the refurbishment of dormitories, kitchenette, mess hall, gymnasium, and outdoor courts, ensuring that athletes have access to top-notch facilities to support their training and development.

The Institute under PNGSF is very grateful for the support of Governor Hon. Simon Sia, the Eastern Highlands Provincial Government and the people of Eastern Highlands. Their commitment to support sport development and their vision to improve the Institute’s facilities to cater for the increasing demand to host sporting and non-sporting events in the province is realized in this project. The Institute pledge to take care of the renovated facility, ensuring that it remains a symbol of excellence and a hub for sporting activities in Papua New Guinea.

In conclusion, the renovation of the grandstand at the National Sports Institute is a testament to the ongoing commitment to sports development in Papua New Guinea. It represents a significant step forward in modernizing the institute’s infrastructure and providing athletes and spectators with world-class facilities. With the completion of this project, the NSI is poised to continue its legacy of excellence and nurture the next generation of sporting talent in the country

The 2023 Trukai Fun Run in Goroka was an extraordinary spectacle that showcased the town’s unity and passion for sports. This event came about as a result of a collaborative effort between Trukai Industries Limited, PNG Olympic Committee and the National Sports Institute. The event attracted an impressive turnout of participants of all ages and background, highlighting the growing importance of active lifestyles and community engagement.

The Trukai Fun Run is one of PNG Olympic Committee’s major fundraiser events from which Team PNG is sent to major international competitions such as the upcoming Pacific Games this year in Solomon Islands. NSI and Trukai Goroka demonstrated their commitment in organizing the Fun Run for Goroka while at the same time promoting sports and a healthy lifestyle within the community. Runners and walkers alike filled the streets, contributing to the festive atmosphere and creating an unforgettable experience. The institute’s dedication to fostering sports culture and encouraging participation contributed significantly to the event’s success.

NSI and Trukai could not have hosted this event successfully without the support of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary through our Police Station Commander. In acknowledging their support, Trukai donated 10kg Rice bags to Senior Inspector Josephine Kumai, OIC Traffic Goroka as well as cartons of Water. The generous donations were presented to the local police force, symbolizing a collaborative effort to appreciate the hard work and dedication of our law enforcement personnel. We also thank all the NSI staff and the ADP athletes who all assisted as Volunteers for the Trukai Fun Run on Sunday. 

Athletes in the Athlete Development Program (ADP) have had a very busy two months at NSI. These athletes are now in competition phase with increased training loads on top of their studies and assignments. Regular time trials are ongoing each weekend and that is where coaches have the opportunity to assess and evaluate their training programs based on individual performances.

The ADP 2023 team comprises both Track and Field athletes with the recent inclusion of Kenny Moalley (Morobe) last month. This year’s team is predominantly Sprints, a few Middle Distance and the Throws pair all led by Pais Wisil. Our coaching staff have fine tuned their workloads accordingly and they are looking well leading up to #PNGAir Highlands Momase Regional Athletics Championships in Goroka later this month.

Time trials are a regular activity beginning with odd races, and now into full races. Last weekend saw some quality races with each athlete demonstrating good consistent times respectively, and there were some good throws by our Javelin throwers. These serve as indicators for Head Coach Sasama and his team to assess performances against Goals set for the upcoming Championships. There is more work to be done and we anticipate the ADP team will be ready for this Meet scheduled for May 26th-27th at NSI.

RESULTS: 13-5-2023 (Times = h)

#100m Mens

1. Pais Wisil – 10.8

2. Johnny Nagahan-Bai – 11.0

3. Graham Bai – 11.1

4. Tovetuna Tuna – 11.0*

5. Micah Gaisane – 11.5

6. Bradford Holi – 11.9

#100m Mixed

1. Danny Warkit (B) – 12.5

2. Joy Tieba (W) – 13.4

3. Merna Martins (G) – 13.9

4. Nathan Kawona (B) – 14.9

5. Esso Jayson (P) – 15.9

#200m Mens (A)

1. Pais Wisil – 22.9

2. Adolf Kauba – 23.1

3. Lot Samare – 23.3

#200m Mens (B)

1. Sialis Passingan – 23.6

2. Micah Gaisane – 24.0

3. Bradford Holi – 24.6

#200m Mixed

1. Danny Warkit (B) – 26.2

2. Joy Tieba (W) – 27.6

3. Merna Martins (G) – 29.5

4. Esso Jayson (P) – 30.9

5. Nathan Kawona – 32.0

#400m Mens (A)

1. Adolf Kauba – 49.7

2. Johnny Ngahan-Bai – 50.2

3. Lot Samare – 51.0

4. Tovetuna Tuna – 50.8*

5. Sialis Passingan – 51.1

6. Graham Bai – 50.8*

#400m Womens

1. Edna Baofob – 62.0

2. Joy Tieba – 64.3

#400m Mens (B)

1. Bradford Holi – 54.7

2. Kenny Moalley – 59.5

3. Micah Gaisane – 65.4

4. Esso Jayson (P) – 70.4

#Javelin #Throw Mens

1. Kenny Moalley – 47.9m

2. Damien Kote – 52.2m

Its back to the drawing board now for the Coaches and athletes. To the others preparing for the May event, NSI will share information on the PNG Air HMRAC in due course.

The National Sports Institute (NSI) recently conducted a Primary School Sport Program (PSSP) Clinic in Kainantu District to prepare and upskill primary school teachers in the district in preparation for a Primary School Sports Carnival that will happen soon. The two-day clinic, from 9th – 10th May 2023, was attended by 17 teachers from primary schools around Kainantu District, including 12 male and 5 female teachers.

The training was aimed at building Primary School Teacher’s capacity to effectively conduct the upcoming sports carnival. Kainantu District Sports Coordinator, Mr Elmo Pasiro and Kainantu Primary School Sports President were very impressed with the training and said the training was timely as the district was preparing to conduct a sports carnival for themselves soon.

The Clinic covered various topics during the training, including Physical Education in Standard Based Curriculum (SBC), Methods in Teaching Physical Education, Volleyball Basic Skills & Rules, Touch Footy Basic Skills & Rules, First Aid, Organizing a Sport Carnival, and Lesson Planning. The training was designed to provide teachers with the necessary skills and knowledge to teach physical education in a standard-based curriculum and effectively organize and conduct a sports carnival.

The Institute will continue to roll out similar sport clinic to other districts in Eastern Highlands Province in preparation for a primary school sports carnival, which will see the sport of Volleyball and Touch being competed. The aim of the carnival is to promote Physical Education for primary school students and encourage physical activity and sports among children in Papua New Guinea.

The NSI’s PSSP Clinic is an initiative that was launched in 2017 and is gaining momentum over the years and such a clinic helps build the capacity of primary school teachers to conduct physical education classes and organize sports carnivals. By providing teachers with the necessary skills and knowledge, the NSI is contributing to the promotion of sports and physical activity among children in Papua New Guinea, which is essential for their overall health and wellbeing.

So far, the Institute has covered two (2) Districts with a total of 34 teachers trained to help roll out the Primary School Sports Program

The National Sports Institute (NSI) recently conducted a Sports Clinic for teachers at Asaro Primary School in Daulo District, Eastern Highlands Province from 27th to 28th April 2023. The clinic was led by NSI officers, with Team Leader Mike Smith in charge.

The Sports Clinic covered a range of topics, including:

• Physical Education in Standard Based Curriculum (SBC),
• Methods in Teaching Physical Education,
• Volleyball Basic Skills & Rules,
• Touch Footy Basic Skills & Rules,
• First Aid,
• Organizing a Sport Carnival,
• Lesson Planning.

The purpose of the clinic was to upskill and prepare the teachers for the Primary School Sports Program (PSSP) event that will be conducted later this year. The clinic also aimed to equip the teachers with the necessary methodology to teach Physical education classes in their school.

The Primary School Sport Program (PSSP) is an initiative of the National Sports Institute, which began in 2017 to revive school sports in primary schools across the country. The program is expected to be rolled out to all schools, and the Sports Clinic is an integral part of this initiative to prepare teachers to implement the program effectively.

A total of 19 teachers from primary schools in Daulo District attended the Sports Clinic, with 17 males and 2 females. The clinic was officially opened by Daulo District Education Manager Mr. Kolo Singip, who expressed his appreciation to NSI for taking the time to conduct the clinic. He also thanked the teachers for attending and encouraged them to move sports forward in Daulo District.

The Sports Clinic was an excellent opportunity for the teachers to improve their skills and knowledge in sports education. With the new knowledge gained from the clinic, the teachers will be better equipped to provide quality Physical education classes and organize successful sports events for their students. The NSI’s effort to conduct the Sports Clinic is commendable, and it is hoped that more such events will be organized to promote sports in Papua New Guinea.

The National Sports Institute (NSI) came alive during an exciting week, 11^th to 16^th April 2023, filled with various activities by clients who use its facilities. The week saw three major events take place, including University of Goroka’s (UOG) graduations, Goroka District Games, and a Digicel Exon Mobil Cup match between Bintangor Goroka Lahanis and Hela Wigmen. These events attracted more than 46,000 people, making it an good week for UOG Graduates and sport enthusiasts in Eastern Highlands Province.

The University graduations took place at the Institute during the week. The graduation ceremonies were a momentous occasion for the graduates, and NSI provided the perfect venue for the event. The Institute’s facilities were well-suited for the graduations, with ample space and seating arrangements for the graduates and their families. The events were a success, with UOG staff, students, and graduates and their families appreciating the hospitality of NSI for providing an excellent venue and support services for the ceremony. A total of 17,248 people entered the Institute to witness the graduation.

In between the two the graduations, the Goroka District Sports Authority (GDSA) hosted their Goroka District Games at the Institute, which attracted a large number of participants and spectators. The games provided an opportunity for young athletes from around Goroka District to showcase their talents and compete against each other. Games played were: Touch Rugby, Volleyball, Rugby League 9s, and Soccer.

The Institute facilities, including the well-maintained sports fields and courts, are well maintained and in top condition, ensuring that the games were played at a high standard. Athletes and spectators alike enjoyed the event, with GDSA expressing their appreciation for NSI’s effort in providing the venue for such a such a successful event. The event attracted a total 23,303 participants, and spectators to the Institute.

The final event of the week was the Digicel Exon Mobil Cup match between Bintangor Goroka Lahanis and Hela Wigmen. The Institute was filled to capacity with over 5,000 enthusiastic fans, creating an electrifying atmosphere. The match was closely contested, with both teams putting on a great show that resulted in a 32-32 all draw.

Overall, the week of activities at NSI was a resounding success. The NSI’s facilities provided an ideal setting for the various events, and the staff worked tirelessly to ensure that everything ran smoothly. With more than 46,000 people attending the events, it is clear that NSI is a valuable asset to the country’s sporting community and organizations wanting to host events.

Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science, and Technology and Sports Hon. Don Poyle, recently paid a visit to the National Sports Institute (NSI) to meet with the Director, staff and resident athletes.

The Minister, who was accompanied by officials from his ministry, was given a tour of the facilities by the Institute’s Director.

During the tour, Hon. Poyle had the opportunity to interact with athletes from the Institute’s Athlete Development Program (ADP) who are training at the Institute. He was impressed with the level of dedication and commitment that the athletes displayed towards their training, despite the challenges they faced. The Minister also spoke with the coaches and trainers who are responsible for the athletes’ development and training programs. He encouraged the ADP Athletes to represent the country as good ambassadors in all their domestic and international competitions.

Hon. Poyle emphasized the importance of sports in the development of the country. He noted that sport had the potential to not only promote physical health but also to develop values such as respect, discipline, and leadership. The Minister pledged to continue supporting the development of sport in the country by providing the necessary resources and infrastructure.

Furthermore he also spoke about the importance of higher education in sports. He noted that education was crucial in providing athletes with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed both on and off the field. The Minister pledged to work closely with the National Sports Institute to ensure that athletes receive the necessary support to pursue their academic and athletic goals.

The visit by Hon. Don Poyle to the National Sports Institute was an important step towards promoting sports development in the country. It demonstrated the government’s commitment to supporting the growth of sports and providing athletes with the necessary resources to succeed. The Minister’s pledge to continue supporting the development of sports and higher education is a positive sign for the future of sports in the country.

The National Sports Institute took time out today to recognize and celebrate International Women’s Day. This organization is almost equal in terms of gender participation at our workplace with 42% who are women serving in various roles at this Goroka office.

This year 2023 the IWD theme raises awareness on diversity, equity and inclusiveness. We continue in our endeavors to recognize and push for a “world where difference is valued and celebrated”. Together with all our women folk in the sporting fraternity and community here in the Eastern Highlands, we acknowledge and celebrate women who have raised the level and participation of sport in Papua New Guinea. There is still a lot more we can do.

Collectively we can all #EmbraceEquity .

#internationalwomensday23

#applaudequalityforwomeninsport