The Papua New Guinea Centre for Judicial Excellence (PNGCJE) successfully conducted a comprehensive three-days Judicial Orientation Program for ten newly appointed Judges of the Supreme and National Courts of Papua New Guinea.

Held from 3rd –5th September 2025 at the Airways Hotel in Port Moresby, the intensive program aimed at equipping the new Judges with essential knowledge and skills to support them in their judicial duties. The program emphasized the importance of understanding the roles, responsibilities, and ethical obligations inherent in the administration of justice.

The orientation covered a wide range of critical topics, including judicial ethics and conduct, courtroom management, legal reasoning and writing, human rights, gender-based violence, and customary law. These sessions were facilitated by senior members of the judiciary, legal academics, and experts from regional judicial bodies.

In his opening remarks, Chief Justice Sir Gibuma Gibbs Salika welcomed the new appointees and highlighted the critical role of integrity and independence in judicial service.
“As Judges, your decisions shape the law and affect lives. This orientation is the foundation of your judicial journey, ensuring you serve with wisdom, fairness, and independence,” said Chief Justice Salika.

Deputy Chief Justice Ambeng Kandakasi also addressed the participants, encouraging them to uphold the highest standards of justice and to embrace continuous professional development.

The program provided not only structured learning but also opportunities for peer networking and collegial exchange, strengthening consistency in judicial practices across jurisdictions.

Day one featured a panel discussion on Transition to the Bench with insights from Justice Lawrence Kangwia, Justice Iova Geita, Justice Oagile Dingake, and Justice Vergil Narokobi. This was followed by a session on Civil Trial and Procedure and Case Management led by Deputy Chief Justice Ambeng Kandakasi and Justice John Carey. Justice Oagile Dingake delivered a session on Human Rights, while Justice Vergil Narokobi presented on Judicial Ethics and Conduct. The day concluded with a discussion on Judicial Review, again led by Justice Dingake.

Day two began with a presentation on Criminal Trial and Procedure by Justice Panuel Mogish. Justice Teresa Berrigan addressed Dealing with Juveniles, while Justice Narokobi led a session on Customary Law and Disqualification/Conflict of Interest. Justice Kangwia spoke on the Leadership Tribunal, and Ms. Ethel Akike introduced participants to Integrated Criminal Case Management.

The third and final day focused on technological tools and decision-making processes. Mr. Stuart Koltes and Mr. Bruce Ifina delivered a session on FTR Digital Recording Systems. Ms. Rose Apai presented the PNG Legal Information Network, followed by an overview of the Integrated Electronic Case Management System (IECMS) from Deputy Chief Justice, NJSS Registrar Mr. Ian Augerea, and Mr. Robert Tony. Later, the Judicial Decision-Making session was led by the Deputy Chief Justice and Justice Berna Collier, and the program concluded with a session on Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) by Justice Derrick Wood.

Each session featured active question and answer segments, fostering open dialogue and deeper understanding between the new Judges and experienced panellists.

Justice Mohammed Khan expressed his gratitude to the panellists, stating that he appreciated the organization of such a program for the newly appointed judges.

Deputy Chief Justice Ambeng Kandakasi also expressed his gratitude to Justice John Carey, Judge Administrator of the PNGCJE, and the centre staff for their support and assistance throughout the three-days program.