Spotlight Released: (Wednesday, 03 June 2026)
The misuse of AI poses a significant threat, and it must be addressed
The rising misuse of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Papua New Guinea is a critical issue that demands urgent attention. As AI-generated content continues to proliferate, it poses significant threats to human creativity and the integrity of information.
The PNG National Research Institute's (PNGNRI) Spotlight Volume 19, Issue 5, titled “Addressing the Rise of AI-Generated Content and Its Impact on Human Creativity, Trust, and Information Integrity in Papua New Guinea,” emphatically warns that this rapid increase in AI-generated content brings both promising opportunities and alarming risks for the digital ecosystem in PNG. Read more...
Spotlight Released: (Thursday, 14 May 2026)
Cost of living remains high despite GST exemption on basic goods
During the presentation of the 2025 National Budget the Government decided to remove goods and services tax on 13 basic goods to ease the cost-of-living burden in the country. The policy was extended to 31 December 2026 during the presentation of the 2026 National Budget. It has been observed, however, that the cost of living remains high in Papua New Guinea (PNG) despite the government intervention. Read more...
Spotlight Released: (Tuesday, 07 April 2026)
AI can improve public service performance and support economic growth
Artificial Intelligence (AI) can improve public service performance and support economic growth in Papua New Guinea, according to PNG National Research Institute Spotlight article released today.
In the Spotlight Volume 19, Issue 3, titled “Opportunities and challenges for AI adoption in Papua New Guinea: insights from AI Summit 2026,” Kebet Liven, gives an overview of the AI Summit 2026 organised by the International Training Institute (ITI) early this month. Read more...
Spotlight Released: (Tuesday, 10 March 2026)
Potential tourism products at Mandress community of East New Britain Province
The Mandress Ward (community) of East New Britain Province (ENBP) has a lot of natural and cultural resources that are good for tourism which need to be exposed and marketed as tourist attractions.
The Mandress Ward, is part of the Inland Baining Local Level Government in the Gazelle District of Eastern New Britain Province (ENBP). As a coastal Ward, Mandress offers a variety of land-based and marine tourism products. The area features large forests and mountains with stunning lookout points, diverse bird species, waterfalls, and plantations. Read more...
Spotlight Released: (Tuesday, 24 February 2026)
Foreign exchange shortage not over yet
The foreign exchange shortage has improved significantly in recent months, but there is no certainty that the shortage is over, according to a Spotlight article released today by Papua New Guinea National Research Institute (PNGNRI). Read more...
Other Publication Released: (Tuesday, 17 February 2026)
Climate change affecting Maisin communities in Oro Province, PNG
The Maisin people of southern Collingwood Bay in Oro Province, Papua New Guinea (PNG), are severely affected by climate change, according to a PNG National Research Institute’s (PNGNRI) publication (Other Publication No. 9) titled “Climate change affected communities in southern Collingwood Bay” released today. Read more...
Discussion Paper Released: (Tuesday, 10 February 2026)
Unlocking the Potential of Sustainable Rural Tourism in Papua New Guinea
Papua New Guinea (PNG) holds remarkable opportunities in the tourism sector, thanks to its stunning natural landscapes and vibrant cultures but these attractions remain largely untapped. In “Challenges and opportunities for developing sustainable rural tourism in Papua New Guinea” (PNGNRI Discussion Paper No. 222 released today), Dr. Philip Kavan, Wilson Kumne, and Julian Melpa examine the challenges and opportunities for developing sustainable rural tourism in PNG. Read more....
Blog Released: (Tuesday 03 Feb 2026)
Is PNG ready for digital transformation?
Papua New Guinea (PNG) is stepping into a new chapter in its digital journey. But the question is: are we truly ready?
PNG National Research Institute (PNGNRI) released a Blog titled: “Is PNG ready for digital transformation? Key lessons from PNG’s Digital Transformation Summit 2025”.
The PNGNRI Blog by Kebet Liven summarises the lessons from the Summit as follows:
• Sevis is the digital government platform for service delivery;
• Widespread and affordable Internet in the country is key to unlock the digital journey;
• Involvement of a large segment of young people will drive PNG’s digital transformation;
• Digital transformation will work if citizens trust the system as safe to use and their digital rights are protected;
• There are some signs of progress with some Government services are already online or are in trialing stages.;
• There is nowa clear pathway toward modern and inclusive public services.; and
• The key policy signal going forward is to promote digital literacy and local innovation.
Whether this digital surge benefits everyone will depend on how inclusively, securely, and affordably it reaches every citizen.
Discussion Paper Released: (Tuesday, 27 January 2026)
Student attrition at IBSU and how to help them complete their education
Student attrition at universities (defined as students discontinuing their studies before completing their degree) poses a significant challenge for higher education institutions worldwide. This issue impacts university operations, student success, and the overall quality of education. Read more...
RESET@50: PNG 50-YEAR REVIEW AND 20-YEAR ROADMAP
Launching of the "Reset PNG @ 50" at UPNG today.
PNGNRI contributed to the report that was launched.
Dr Osborne Sanida, PNGNRI Director, speaking at the launch.
Spotlight Released: (Tuesday, 21 October 2025)
The law-and-order komiti should be recognised and supported
A law-and-order komiti (committee) is a group of respected community members whom the people see as leaders. The committee plays a key role in handling law and order issues and maintaining peace within the community. Read more....
Spotlight Released: (Tuesday, 14 October 2025)
Youth definition should be uniform across all sectors
Papua New Guinea (PNG) does not have a standardised definition of “youth” and this poses challenges in addressing youth issues across the country.
Currently, different organisations and institutions use varying age categories for youth which may result in policy inconsistencies, difficulties in data collection and comparison, misinterpretation and challenges in program design. Read more....
Spotlight Released: (Tuesday, 30 September 2025)
Financing of consecutive budget deficits affects monetary policy operations
In Papua New Guinea, ongoing budget deficits pose significant challenges, primarily driven by domestic borrowing through mechanisms like open market operations and the Temporary Advance Facility. Domestic borrowings complicate the implementation of effective monetary policy. Read more...
Discussion Paper Released: (Wednesday, 6 August 2025)
Financial inclusion is important for economic growth
Financial inclusion helps people improve their lives, support their families, and grow the economy, but in many developing countries like Papua New Guinea (PNG), it is still a big challenge. Read more...
Issues Paper Released: (Tuesday, 29 July 2025)
There is a need to protect PNG’s cultural artifacts.
There is a need to preserve Papua New Guinea’s cultural artifacts, according to an Issues Paper (No. 49) released today by the Papua New Guinea National Research Institute (PNGNRI). Read more...
Discussion Paper Released: (Tuesday, 1 July 2025)
PNG needs to improve the quality of its TVET graduates
The fact that foreign nationals occupied the majority of the technical and trade jobs during the construction phase of the mega PNGLNG project is not in question. The question is whether Papua New Guineans will miss out again during the construction of the second mega gas project, the Papua LNG, and other resource projects that are currently underway. Read more...
Spotlight Released: (Wednesday, 18 June 2025)
A review of electoral boundaries is needed before the 2027 election.
According to this Spotlight article released by the Papua New Guinea National Research Institute (PNGNRI), there is a need for a review of electoral boundaries before the 2027 National General Election (NGE).
The Spotlight Volume 18, Issue 6, titled “Why an electoral boundaries review is urgently needed before the 2027 National General Election,” is authored by senior research officer Wilson Kumne. Read more....
Spotlight Released: (Tuesday, 2 May 2025)
Status of the Kina following the exchange rate reform
In 2023, the PNG Government entered a three-year International Monetary Fund (IMF) program to implement several structural reforms as conditions for a US$918 million loan. One of the reforms was for the Bank of PNG (BPNG) to introduce a flexible exchange rate with the objectives of restoring Kina convertibility and addressing persistent foreign exchange shortages. Read more...
Spotlight Released: (Tuesday, 13 May 2025)
Addressing the perceived foreign dominance in businesses reserved for Papua New Guineans
Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) play a crucial role as catalysts for economic growth and income generation in many countries, significantly contributing to the development of a nation's economy. In every economy, SMEs, both formal and informal, provide hundreds of thousands of employment opportunities for citizens. To achieve these economic milestones in Papua New Guinea (PNG), the Investment Promotion Authority (IPA) Act reserves certain business activities exclusively for PNG citizens. The SME Policy 2016 also outlines sectors that reserve business activities for Papua New Guineans to own. Read more....
Issues Paper Released: (Tuesday, 06 May 2025)
PNG’s strategic location and geopolitical and security relations provide potential for resilience and growth.
Papua New Guinea (PNG) can foster growth and resilience by readjusting its geopolitical relationships, diversifying its economy, enhancing security, and emphasising sustainable development and climate adaptation. Read more...
Discussion Paper Released: (Tuesday, 29 April 2025)
Have the Land and Housing reforms in PNG achieved their outcomes?
Land and housing policy reforms in Papua New Guinea (PNG) have faced challenges for over 50 years. The reforms continue to struggle to achieve their desired outcomes.
PNGNRI has released Discussion Paper No. 218, titled "Land and Housing Policy Reforms in Papua New Guinea: Have they achieved their intended outcomes?" by Dr. Lindsay Kutan and Joecy Kabiu. This paper intends to elucidate the advancements in land and housing reforms in Papua New Guinea since the attainment of independence, encompassing the achievements, challenges, and insights acquired throughout this process, while employing the drivers of change conceptual framework. This framework recognizes the diversity and robust cultural and traditional inclinations that evolve swiftly. Read more....
Discussion Paper Released: (Tuesday, 22 April 2025)
To what extent can universities in Papua New Guinea cultivate entrepreneurial skills in their students?
In recent years, entrepreneurship has emerged as a critical driver of economic growth, innovation, and employment across developing countries, including Papua New Guinea, where resources and opportunities are limited. With a youthful population and a growing demand for job creation, higher education institutions are increasingly recognised as key players in nurturing entrepreneurial mindsets and skills among students. Read more....
Discussion Paper Released: (Tuesday, 15 April 2025)
Do PNG entrepreneurs have access to MSME loans in Papua New Guinea?
Micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are vital sources of livelihood for a large segment of the population and significant contributors to the revenue of the Government of Papua New Guinea (PNG). Therefore, growing the MSME sector can be directly equated with enhancing the country's economy. However, the growth of MSMEs in PNG has consistently been hindered by insufficient business financing, primarily due to high interest rates and the lack of secure collateral required by local banks and financial institutions, among other factors. Read more....
Spotlight Released: (Tuesday 01 April 2025)
Ways to address lawlessness in Papua New Guinea
The rise in lawlessness in Papua New Guinea (PNG) threatens businesses, government properties, and the safety of the general public. Besides straining the country's police force, the lawlessness also poses a critical risk to national security, economic growth, and the country's development. Read more...
LAUNCH OF PNGNRI CORPORATE PLAN 2024-2028
Speech and launch of the Corporate Plan 2024-2028 by the Special Guest
It is both an honor and a privilege to stand before you today as we gather to mark a pivotal moment in our nation’s intellectual journey. Today, we launch the National Research Institute’s (NRI) Corporate Plan, a document that will operationalize the Strategic Plan 2021-2030 and serve as a testament to our collective commitment to strategic thinking, innovation, and national progress. Read more...
Spotlight Released: (Tuesday 25 February 2025)
What are the implications of having no Grades 8 and 10 examinations?
The Papua New Guinea (PNG) Government made a decision to abolish the grades 8 and 10 National Examinations in 2024. This is another milestone in the education system, following the Tuition-Fee-Free (TFF) Policy reform in 2019 and the restructuring of the 3+6+4 Outcome-Based Curriculum (OBC) to the 1+6+6 Standards-Based Curriculum (SBC) in 2021. These changes are part of the government’s plan to have all students complete 13 years of schooling, with grade 12 as the only exit point. Read more...
Spotlight Released: (Tuesday 18 February 2025)
The way forward for privately-run early childhood education in PNG
Early Childhood Education (ECE) is important for the development of a child especially in terms of providing the child with a strong foundation for academic, social and emotional growth. However, in Papua New Guinea (PNG), privately-run ECE centres have continued to face challenges. Read more...
Discussion Paper Released: (Tuesday 28 January 2025)
PNG to consider drawing lessons from some developing countries on electricity reforms
Papua New Guinea (PNG) is on the verge of an electricity crisis characterised by low electricity access levels, unreliable and curtailed electricity supply, uncompetitive electricity tariffs, and a lack of private investments that have restricted network systems expansion. The country is one of the least electrified in the world, with most of the population living without access to reliable electricity. Read more....
Spotlight Released: (Tuesday 03 December 2024)
Strategies to address fuel shortages in Papua New Guinea
Fuel shortages often have adverse impacts on the economy of a country especially the transport sector that drives other sectors directly or indirectly. The shortages contributes to the increase in the cost of doing business which translates to the increase in the prices of goods and services. Papua New Guinea (PNG) has continued to face fuel shortages and it has resulted in the hike of fuel prices. It is important to find ways to address the fuel shortages to boost business operations and the country's economy. Read More...
Discussion Paper Released: (Thursday 10 October 2024)
Rural-urban migration in search of better services in Kiunga, Western Province
The issue of rural-urban migration is a serious and contentious issue in PNG, especially with population growth and rural people moving in search of employment opportunities and better services, such as education or health. The discussion paper reports on a specific case in Western Province, that of the Kubo and Febi people of Middle Fly District who have come to settle in Kiunga, North Fly District. The paper examines the reasons why people leave their home villages and move into Kiunga. The ‘push factors’ that drive migration of the Kubo and Febi people into Kiunga town relate to the recent decline in basic services at their main village, Suabi. Read More...
Discussion Paper Released: (Tuesday 24 September 2024)
Do more to address challenges faced by SMEs in PNG
Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) play an important role in the economy of a country such as Papua New Guinea (PNG). According to PNG SME Policy, the number of SMEs in the country is expected to be at least 500,000 in 2030. However, the growth of SMEs in the country continue to be restricted by several constraints
The PNG National Research Institute is releasing Discussion Paper No. 213 titled “Factors affecting growth of small and medium enterprises in Papua New Guinea” by Dr Philip Kavan, a Senior Research Fellow under the Economic Policy Research Program. It focuses on the key factors that restrict SMEs from achieving their full potential and strategies that can be used to promote the growth of SMEs. Read more...
Spotlight Released: (Wednesday 18 September 2024)
PNG is not ready to legalise the production of industrial hemp
The production of industrial hemp has been legalised for medicinal, industrial and scientific purposes in some countries as a result of the increase in the demand for its products. However, some countries have been hesitant to legalise hemp.
National Research Institute Spotlight Volume 17, Issue 16 titled “Papua New Guinea’s drive to legalise the production of industrial hemp: Are we ready?”, authored by Associate Professor Eugene Ezebilo and Dr. Osborne Sanida provides a snapshot of why Papua New Guinea (PNG) is not ready to legalise the production of industrial hemp in the country. Read more...
Spotlight Released: (Tuesday 27 August 2024)
Policy options to address the current inflation situation in PNG
PNG is currently experiencing imported inflation which directly affects the welfare of people and cost of businesses. The inflation pressure has been caused mainly by high taxes on imports and inflation in the exporting countries as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the war between Russia and Ukraine, and the weakening Kina that emanates from the domestic exchange rate reform. Read more...
Other Publication Released: (Tuesday 20 August 2024)
PNG’s demographic transition slow and erractic
Papua New Guinea’s (PNG’s) demographic transition has been slow and somewhat erratic, according to a paper released by PNG National Research Institute (PNGNRI).
NRI Other Publication No. 07 titled “Papua New Guinea’s Slow Demographic Transition since 1950: a Comparative Perspective”, authored by Dr. Geoffrey Hayes, compared Laos with PNG. It revealed that PNG has lower level of urbanisation, higher poverty rates, and a slower rate of economic growth, compared to Laos. Read more....
Spotlight Released: (Tuesday 13 August 2024)
Assist teachers in upgrading their academic qualifications
In Papua New Guinea (PNG), some elementary, primary, and secondary school teachers do not have the minimum academic qualifications needed for the job. However, each of the teachers is expected to upgrade their qualifications to continue to serve as a teacher.
The National Research Institute Spotlight Volume 17, Issue 14 titled “Is the Government doing enough to assist teachers in upgrading their academic qualifications”, by Michael Jimmy, Senior Research Officer, points out factors that restrict teachers from upgrading their qualifications and some interventions that can be used to assist teachers to upgrade their qualifications. Read more...
UPCOMING EVENT:
Seminar Presentation on Government MSME Credit Scheme
Spotlight Released: (Tuesday 30 July 2024)
Prospects and challenges of PNG’s Participation in the Australian NRL
The Australian National Rugby League’s (NRL) invitation to Papua New Guinea (PNG) to join as the 18th team transcends sports, serving as a strategic move in the region.
According to National Research Institute Spotlight Volume 17, Issue 13 titled “Soft power and regional influence: the role of the proposed PNG NRL team in geopolitics”, the author Research Officer, Hafford Norea, highlights the challenges associated with PNG's participation in the NRL as well as potential ways to address the challenges. Read more...
Spotlight Released: (Tuesday 16 July 2024
Unemployment is becoming a concern to development in PNG
Many people in Papua New Guinea (PNG) are eager to work but struggle to find formal employment or have access to the
capital needed to start their own businesses. Read more...
Spotlight Released: (Tuesday 09 July 2024)
Address challenges that restrict access to quality education holistically
Papua New Guinea (PNG) has made significant strides in education since gaining independence in 1975, with improvements in services, infrastructure, and educational outcomes. However, significant challenges remain. Read more...
Spotlight Released: (Tuesday 02 July 2024)
Challenges women candidates face in the National General Elections
The society that we live in is male dominated and it is evident in the National Parliament. There were several women elected to the parliament, but the numbers have not increased beyond three since 1975. It is often difficult for a female candidate to win in the National Elections in Papua New Guinea. Read more...
Other Publication Released: (Wednesday 19 June 2024)
Russia-Ukraine war is affecting food supply in PNG
In the just released National Research Institute publication titled "The Russian-Ukraine Conflict: Agrifood trade, market disruptions and policy responses in Papua New Guinea" the authors Dr Francis Odhuno, Joe Barak and Julian Melpa use import data and responses from a survey of key informants to investigate the extent to which the war might have disrupted the country’s food supply chains. Read more....
Spotlight Released: (Tuesday 01 June 2024)
Foreign exchnage shortage affects balance of payments in PNG
Papua New Guinea (PNG) is a small open economy that relies heavily on the mineral, petroleum and agriculture sectors. These sectors contribute meaningfully to gross domestic product, export earnings, and formal employment. Export earnings directly influence the balance of payments (BOP) position. PNG has recorded both BOP surplus and deficit since political independence.
The National Research Institute (NRI) Spotlight Vol. 17, Issue 9, titled "Does Foreign Exchange shortage affect balance of payments in Papua New Guinea?" by Dr Thomas Wangi, Senior Research Fellow at PNG NRI looks at how foreign exchange shortage issue affects BOP, and suggest some policy recommendations to address it. Read more...
Spotlight Released: (Tuesday 04 June 2024)
Issues related to violence must be addressed using holistic approach
Issues associated with violence in Papua New Guinea (PNG) have been a concern to the government because the issues restrict sustainable development in the country. However, access to data needed for planning and making informed decisions on how to address the issues have been problematic.
The National Research Institute (NRI) Spotlight Vol. 17, Issue 8, titled "The dynamics of violence in Papua New Guinea: Incidents reported from the Highlands Region from 2018 to 2022" by Mr. Joe Barak, Research Officer at PNG NRI provides a snapshot of the different types of violence, the harms being caused, and potential ways to address the issues associated with violence at the community level. Read more....
Spotlight Released: (Tuesday 28 May 2024)
The abuse of social media can affect students’ performance
The use of different social media platforms has become very popular around the world, including Papua New Guinea (PNG). People from all walks of life, including students are heavily involved in the use of social media for various reasons and has become an important part of today’s living. Read more...
Re-Advert:: (Monday 27 May 2024)
"Looking for Research Participants for a TVET graduate tracer study"
The PNG National Research Institute (NRI) is currently conducting a study about labour market outcomes of Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET) graduates in Papua New Guinea (PNG). This study is open to TVET graduates who completed their training from any TVET college or institute located anywhere in PNG in 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023.
This study is anonymous, voluntary and you do not need your employers’ permission (if you are currently working) to participate. You can participate by filling in a short online questionnaire (10 to 15 minutes), but first, we need to confirm your eligibility to take part in the study:
- You will receive a notification via email within two days about your acceptance into the project.
- The link to the online questionnaire will be sent to your email address with instructions how to participate.
As a thank-you for your time, internet data use, and input, each survey participant will receive a K10 worth of Digicel, Vodafone or Telikom recharge card.
Spotlight Released: (Tuesday 21 May 2024)
The size of land matters for the construction of affordable housing
The concept of ‘economies of scale’ is widely used in the design of large-scale housing development to ensure that the unit cost of a house reduces as more houses are constructed.
The National Research Institute Spotlight Vol. 17, Issue 6, titled "The need for economies of scale for large housing developments in Papua New Guinea" by Logea Nao, NRI Research Fellow, focuses on the optimum size of land for large-scale housing development which can result in cost reductions and increase in profitability for developers, as well as a reduction in price for home buyers. Read more.....
Blog Released: (Thursday 16 May 2024)
2024 Census must provide accurate data for the review of electoral boundaries
The Papua New Guinea (PNG) National Population Census is set to commence on the July 2024. The adopted theme “Be counted, no one left behind” emphasises the importance of accurately counting every individual in the census process. However, one can also add “count once’ into the theme, to emphasise the importance of transparency and accuracy and no duplication or manipulation for political or other reasons. Before the 2024 national population census begins, the National Statistical Office (NSO) and census officials must clearly understand that this census data will be used for important decisions that will either bring negative or positive impacts in the future. Read more...
Discussion Paper Released: (Tuesday 16 April 2024)
Helpline services in Papua New Guinea must be improved
Services provided through counselling and comforting worried and unhappy people via telephone (helpline) contribute to health and social care by directly responding to issues such as gender-based violence (GBV) and violence against children (VAC). However, the limited scope for users’ feedback or follow-up of impacts makes assessment of the effectiveness of helplines problematic.
The National Research Institute (NRI) Discussion Paper No. 212 titled "Strategy to improve helpline services in Papua New Guinea: Gender aspects and family violence" by Associate Professor Eugene Ezebilo of Papua New Guinea (PNG) NRI, Henry Gorea and Kinime Daniel of ChildFund PNG and Thea Joy-Jarvis, former Program Manager at ChildFund PNG provide insights into strategy relevant to helplines for strengthening interventions to key issues on family violence. Read more...
Spotlight Released: (Tuesday 16 April 2024)
Why job creation in the informal sector matters for PNG
Job creation is a key priority of the current Government. Critically, Medium Term Development Plan (MTDP) IV includes an ambitious target to create 1 million jobs over the next four years.
The National Research Institute Spotlight Vol. 17, Issue 5, titled "Why creating jobs in the informal Economy matters for Papua New Guinea" by Dr Elizabeth Kopel, focuses on the rationale for job creation for people who depend on the informal economy for survival. Read more....
Spotlight Released: (Tuesday 02 April 2024)
Address concerns raised on the recent inflation figures for PNG
In Papua New Guinea (PNG), inflation has become a great concern because it directly reduces value of the Kina. During high inflation, people buy less goods and services or need more Kina to buy the same amount of goods and services. The loss in the value of Kina negatively impacts the cost of living, welfare of the people and cost of doing business.
The National Research Institute Spotlight Vol. 17, Issue 4, titled " Are the recent inflation figures for Papua New Guinea reflecting the changes in prices of goods and services?" by Dr Thomas Wangi, provides highlight into the recent general increase in the prices of goods and services (inflation) figures in PNG. Read more...
