UN Resident Coordinator to open inaugural PNG Media Summit as Keynote Speaker
MEDIA UNITY: UN Resident Coordinator in Papua New Guinea, Richard Howard addressing guests at the MCPNG Media Freedom Day Breakfast event on May 3rd, 2023.
The PNG Media Summit gets underway on Saturday, May 3rd, in Port Moresby, with the keynote address to be delivered by Richard Howard, the United Nations (UN) Resident Coordinator in Papua New Guinea.
As the global custodian of World Press Freedom Day (May 3rd) through UNESCO, the UN highlights the vital role of a free and independent media. Papua New Guinea, a UNESCO member, marks this day with this crucial summit. Mr. Howard's presence highlights the international recognition of media freedom's importance in PNG.
Resident Coordinator Howard was instrumental in reminding the Media in PNG of the importance of being a united force for developmental change at a Media Breakfast in commemoration of World Press Freedom Day in 2023.
His keynote address to open this inaugural Media Summit will launch critical discussions on PNG's evolving media landscape, offering attendees a global perspective on press freedom and its link to development and transparency. Mr. Howard's insights will frame the challenges and opportunities for media in Papua New Guinea within the global context.
This summit is significant for media, policymakers, and the public, providing a platform to:
Understand the MCPNG's Transformation: Hear Council President Neville Choi discuss the Media Council of PNG's reconstitution to meet the changing media environment, including a new Media Complaints Tribunal, updated ethics and professional standards, and the Women in Media PNG Chapter – vital for a robust and ethical media sector.
Reflect on 50 Years of PNG Media: Gain historical context through a video by award-winning filmmaker Llane Munau, showcasing media's evolution and her impactful use of film to raise awareness and education on key issues in PNG, especially on Bougainville.
Engage in Critical Discussions: Participate in a panel moderated by Dulciana Somare-Brash, featuring Secretary for Information and Communications Technologies Steven Matainaho, Chair of Transparency International Peter Aitsi, National Newspaper’s Editor Christine Pakakota, Matthew Vari, Digital Director for Post Courier, and other Editors and News Managers from some of PNG’s key mainstream media outlets. This crucial discussion will explore the balance between government, media, and society in a digital democracy, focusing on service delivery, responsibility, media freedom, and the impact of artificial intelligence.
Explore Media Education in PNG: Attend a presentation on "Media Education in PNG: Keeping Pace with Technology." Hear from leaders from the University of PNG, Divine Word University, PNG University of Technology, University of Goroka, and the Melanesian Institute for Arts & Communication on how universities are adapting to rapid technological advancements like AI in journalism and digital storytelling. This session will address gaps and future directions for media education in PNG.
This summit offers an excellent opportunity to connect with leaders, understand the media's challenges and potential in Papua New Guinea, and contribute to a more informed and transparent society.
Don't miss this important event – your participation matters.
To Register, visit: https://forms.gle/jd8KFNfGHHTRsRHN7 or email: womeninmediapng@gmail.com
