Despite the termination of their 2016 academic year, the University of Papua New Guinea’s New Ireland students are determined to host a bigger and better provincial day.
New Ireland Students Association (NISA) president Martin Bomuna told Loop PNG that the two-day event (July 22 and 23) will be held at the Taurama Aquatic Centre in Port Moresby.
“Day one will host the battle of the bands and a traditional pageant while day two will be the official day where traditional dances will be showcased,” says Bomuna, who is a final year anthropology student.
The New Ireland provincial day celebration is normally a one-day event that is annually held on July 23, coinciding with Remembrance Day. New Irelanders in Port Moresby as well as city residents should expect major changes to the hosting of the celebrations this year.
Singsing groups director Sonia Sebulon told Loop PNG that unlike in the past, traditional groups will be allowed to perform until sundown.
“After their main performance, the groups can continue dancing outside the arena,” explains Sebulon.
Apart from that, the setting of the stage to the involvement of the participants will be different.
Bomuna also revealed to Loop PNG that he kept the students from returning home because of the event. He is considering renting an accommodation for them.
He is therefore appealing to the New Ireland community for assistance. He can be contacted on7252 3465 while Sebulon can be reached on 7050 4738.
(File picture of New Ireland children in their traditional attires.)