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.