The Permanent Parliamentary Committee on Communication conducted a significant public inquiry at Divine Word University (DWU) on 18th of June, addressing nationwide concerns over communication issues in the regions.
The session, held at DWU’s Sir Peter Barter Auditorium, follows the Committee’s May 9 announcement of the inquiry, which was prompted by public concerns regarding communication challenges, particularly those affecting journalists in Papua New Guinea. The inquiry also explored the integration of new technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI) and other innovations, into legislation.
Representatives from various Madang-based media organizations attended the session, providing testimonials and sharing their perspectives on the issues raised. The Committee, led by Chairman Marsh Narewec, MP for Wau-Waria Open Electorate, Ricky Morris Shadow Minister for Provincial and Local Level Government Affairs and Fisheries and Marine Resources and Robert Naguri MP for Bogia Open Electorate, focused on systemic challenges, examining potential improvements and forward-looking initiatives that could influence legislative reforms.
Among the attendees were representatives from the Madang Provincial Administration and Provincial Media, the Provincial Police Commander handling cybercrime, local media outlets including TVW, NBC Madang, and other news organizations, independent journalists and the Head of DWU’s Communication Arts Department along with faculty staff and students.
Following the formal presentations, a question-and-answer session allowed staff, students, and other participants to engage directly with the Committee. DWU’s role as the host highlights its position as a key center for media advocacy, with journalism students and professionals actively participating in the discussions.
Mr Narewec emphasized the importance of involving universities and institutions in such inquiries. “It helps bridge the gap between policy development and media education,” he said. The outcomes of this inquiry could lead to enhanced protections for journalists in PNG and broader improvements in the country’s communication systems moving forward.
The session concluded with a tour of the Communication Arts Department’s broadcast and television studios. The visiting Parliamentary Committee members expressed admiration for DWU’s state-of-the-art facilities and discussed potential collaborations with Divine Word University in the future.
