AFL Papua New Guinea in partnership with the PNG Tribal Foundation has rolled out its Pilai Long Senis (PLS) program in Highlands and Lae, Morobe.

This initiative between both organization is to help promote respect, equality and open conversations around gender-based violence (GBV).

PLS Program Coordinator Jill Ravusiro said the team delivered three different sessions during their visit to the Highlands and in Lae.

“The program team recently travelled to the Highlands region and delivered sessions in three locations: The first was with the Kukumind community (May 5), we had to use classrooms to run awareness at Mt. Giluwe High School in Tambul-Nebilyer.”

“The second session was at Togoba Secondary School in Western Highlands (May 7) and Tambu Galmana Community (May 9) in Banz, Jiwaka.”

She said the program is now active in Lae as it was also delivered to the Salamanda Community (May 12), Bumayong Secondary School (May 14) and a final visit to a community near the Markham River (May 17) before their return to Port Moresby.

“One of the most powerful moments came during the visit to Bumayong Secondary School. The school has struggled with frequent student fights and social challenges. Many students come from difficult family situations and face daily pressures.”

“Despite these issues, the school welcomed the program with open arms. Some students shared how the Senis Pasin documentary deeply connected with their personal experiences.”

“This honest and emotional feedback highlighted the need for programs like Pilai Long Senis to provide guidance, support, and hope for real change,” Ravusiro added.

Meanwhile AFLPNG believes strong in their ‘Pilai Long Senis’ program providing a safe space for all and promotes education and discussion on GBV through its support partners.

The program is in partnership with the PNG Tribal Foundation, and supported by TeamUp and funded by the Australian Government, with additional backing from Paradise Foods Limited.

“AFLPNG are blessed to have great partners to support the delivery of the program, they are PNG Tribal Foundation, TeamUp and Paradise Foods Limited.”

“By combining AFL PNG’s Smart Start Niukick with the PNG Tribal Foundation’s Senis Pasin campaign, Pilai Long Senis reaches communities and schools to create safe spaces and empower young people to be positive role models in their communities.”

Following the completion of Phase I, the PLS team is expected to return for Phase II early June to follow up on the program’s impact in these communities.