Judges and judicial officers and Staff of the National Judicial Staff Services from across Papua New Guinea and the Pacific (by live stream) gathered to observe the International Judicial Well-being Day, highlighting the importance of physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being within the country’s judiciary.
The day commenced with a prayer offered in recognition of the event at 8:00 a.m, followed by the opening remarks by the Acting Chief Justice Ambeng Kandakasi encouraging members of the judiciary to maintain balance in their lives and remain steadfast in their commitment to justice, integrity, and public service.
A key feature of the service was a reflection on judicial well-being delivered by Father Bruce Kupi, Pastoral Vicar of the Catholic Archdiocese of Port Moresby, who spoke on the importance of nurturing the spiritual dimension of life alongside professional responsibilities. Father Kupi encouraged judges and court officers to care for their overall well-being, noting that sound judgment and effective service are strengthened by inner peace, resilience, and personal reflection.
He emphasised that the demanding nature of judicial work often places significant pressure on judicial officers and highlighted the value of faith, community support, and healthy personal practices in maintaining strength and purpose in service.
Throughout the day, Judges took part in activities designed to promote wellness, healthy living, and collegiality among members of the judiciary. These included fitness exercises, health awareness programmes, and opportunities for fellowship and team-building. The Staff of the National Judicial Staff Service also took part in the event which included staff address by the Secretary NJSS and the Registrar of the Supreme and National Court, mental health presentations, vital medical health checks and healthy lunch provided for participating staff.
Organisers said Judicial Wellness Day reflects the judiciary’s ongoing commitment to supporting the welfare of judges and court personnel, recognising that a healthy and resilient judiciary is essential to the effective administration of justice.
The event also provided an opportunity for members of the bench and court staff to strengthen professional relationships and reaffirm their shared commitment to delivering fair, independent, and efficient justice to the people of Papua New Guinea.