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