The Papua New Guinea Centre for Judicial Excellence (PNGCJE) today reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening access to justice and upholding the rule of law through regional and international collaboration, during a courtesy visit by the British Deputy High Commissioner, Mr. Nial Cullens.

Senior leaders of PNGCJE, led by Justice John Carey, Judge Administrator, welcomed Mr. Cullens (Political and Development) to the Centre in Port Moresby. He was joined by Mr. Nicholas Mirou, Deputy Executive Director, Mr. Tongia Kekebogi, Program Officer (PNG Judges), and Mr. Peter Michael, Program Officer (Magisterial Services).

The visit underscored the strong and constructive relationship between PNGCJE and the British High Commission, grounded in a shared commitment to judicial independence, professional competence, and the effective administration of justice in Papua New Guinea.

A key focus of the meeting was the forthcoming visit of Professor Dapo Akande, the United Kingdom’s nominee to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) for the 2027–2036 term. Professor Akande—an internationally respected scholar and practitioner of international law and a member of the International Law Commission—will visit Port Moresby in February 2026.

During his visit, Professor Akande will facilitate a seminar hosted by PNGCJE on 13 February 2026, focusing on contemporary developments in international law and evolving standards of judicial practice. The seminar will bring together judges, magistrates, and members of the wider legal community, contributing to the continuous professional development of PNG’s judiciary.

Justice Carey noted that such engagements are central to PNGCJE’s mandate of building judicial competence and confidence, strengthening court leadership, and enhancing the capacity of judicial officers and court staff to deliver accessible, fair, and efficient justice to communities across Papua New Guinea.

“By investing in judicial education and professional exchange, PNGCJE is helping to translate global legal standards into local judicial practice—supporting public confidence in the courts and reinforcing the rule of law,” he said.

PNGCJE expressed its appreciation to the British High Commission for its ongoing support and partnership, which continues to enable meaningful dialogue, knowledge exchange, and high-quality judicial training that directly benefits justice delivery in Papua New Guinea.

Through collaborations such as this, PNGCJE remains steadfast in its mission to strengthen judicial excellence and improve access to justice for all Papua New Guineans.