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

The NSI Athlete Development Program (ADP) has resumed officially for 2023 with the last lot of athletes arriving at camp on Monday 20th February. The ADP has grown since 2020 having started with just 3 athletes. This year the Institute granted five (5) new athletes into the program giving a total of 13; two of whom are now US based. This makes it 11 ADP athletes officially in camp. In addition to the eleven, 1 female athlete, Joy Tieba, is granted ‘Probation’ status until her performance qualifies her to be part of this residential program.

Preparations began at the end of January with Medical Checks and a series of Fitness Tests. This ADP demands a 50-50 percent effort in both Training and Education. Two athletes are enrolled at formal school in Year 12, one is upgrading Year 12 at Department of Open and Distance Learning (DODL), while the rest are registered at Flexible Open Distance Learning (FODE) Goroka Centre to complete their education.

The month of February saw athletes getting back to shape in the gym and at the track. Schedules are pretty hectic with sessions starting as early as 5.30am and ending with study sessions concluding at 9pm. These athletes have an arduous task ahead as competitions are just around the corner. They have to get into a training routine at the same time, maintain a regular study pattern. This will continue until their first competition in May this year.

Our Team:

No	Name	Location	Events
1	Pais Wisil	NSI	100m, 200m, 400m
2	Jonathan Dende	USA	100m, 200m, 400m
3	Alphonse Igish	USA	100m, 200m, 400m
4	Timothy Tuna	NSI	100m, 200m, 400m
5	Jonny Bai	NSI	100m, 200m, 400m
6	Graham Bai	NSI	100m, 200m, 400m
7	Salome Yaling	NSI	100m, 200m, 400m
8	Adolf Kauba	NSI	400m, 800m
9	Bradford Holi	NSI	100m, 200m, 400m
10	Micah Gaisane	NSI	100m, 200m, 400m
11	Lot Samare	NSI	100m, 200m, 400m
12	Sialis Passingan	NSI	400m, 800m, Hurdles
13	Damien Kote	NSI	Javelin

Assistant coaches Mike Smith and Philip Kamane return back on duty supporting Head Coach, Mr. Samu Sasama, in various capacities. The team hope to excel this year again under the stewardship of Mr. Sasama.

Director NSI acknowledges the continued support of the PNG Sports Foundation through the CEO Mr. Albert Veratau. We also appreciate and thank our partner Athletics PNG Inc. for their assistance towards the program so far. Much gratitude to the families, friends, and Eastern Highlands for backing us when we reach out to you.

Tune in the next time as we profile our athletes leading up to the Highlands/Momase Regional Athletics Championship in Goroka on 27th – 28th May 2023.

The National Sports Institute (NSI) through its Sports Information & Information Technology (SIIT) section conducted its first training for the year 2022 on the PNG Sports Foundation (PNGSF) Online Database system. The NSI is a division of the PNGSF based in Goroka, EHP. This software was developed by this section to capture and house all the data from all sports training or workshops conducted by the organisation in all centres.

In brief, the rudiment database system was created back in 2008 on a simple Excel spreadsheet. By 2010, data collected up to that year were migrated onto Access. Over the years, the database did not improve or serve its purpose as we faced challanges in freighting raw data to NSI given the region’s geographical locations, and the database was somewhat isolated as there was only one or two data entry officers designated to that database at NSI. 

PNSGF saw the need to give current and real-time data to its stakeholders in terms of Sport Programs conducted right around the country. Hence this development by NSI’s IT Manager to capture these data. A total of 19 staff are in attendance at this training. 5 from Lae, 1 from Kokopo, 1 from AROB, and the rest from NSI. The purpose of the training is to introduce this Online Database software to all regional program staff; to appreciate the forms necessary to generate the right data; and, to access and input data from anywhere at anytime as long as they have internet connectivity. With the use of technology, any PNGSF program staff with granted access can enter data immediately after their training from any locality. Once the data is inputed, reports can be generated accordingly and provided as and when data is needed. For example, a report may be requested for how many programs conducted in the EHP by PNGSF; how many people trained in a certain program in a year; and/or how much a particular program costed in any given year. 

Director NSI thanked all those who were able to travel to attend this important three-day workshop. She stressed again on the importance using the correct forms to enter correct and factal data only. Limited access may be granted due to the security of the data. This same training will later be conducted for PNGSF staff in Port Moresby.  

Director of NSI, MS Janet Gimots

 

 

The ICT Section conducted a Professional Development Training on how to create and publish articles, stories, and updates on NSI activities through its website : http://www.pngnsi.org.pg

The training was conducted by ICT Manager Mr. Henry Tom who has developed the website. 

Please check our website for updates, activities, and articles on NSI’s current activities.