By GABRIEL KATUHO
THE Papua New Guinea Olympic Committee (PNGOC) joined over 200 countries around the world in celebrating International Olympic Day on Monday (June 23) with a vibrant and educational event at Ela Beach, Port Moresby.
With this year’s theme “Move, Learn, Discover,” children from across the city gathered to participate in interactive sports activities, guided by PNG’s national athletes and Olympians.
The event kicked off with fun locomotor drills designed to reflect the spirit of the theme—promoting movement, learning, and self-discovery through sports.
Children rotated through sports stations where they learned basic skills and safety tips under the watchful guidance of celebrated PNG athletes.
These included Olympic weightlifting icons Morea Baru and Dika Toua, who were on hand to inspire the next generation of champions.
PNGOC Secretary General Desmond Kaviagu welcomed the children and emphasized the importance of Olympic Day, which is observed annually on June 23rd.
“With 207 National Olympic Committees celebrating worldwide, Olympic Day is about honoring the Olympic values and the founding of the Olympic Movement—created in 1894 to unite nations through sport,” Kaviagu said.
This year marked the 131st anniversary of the Olympic Movement, and PNG’s own sporting heroes were celebrated as role models.
Morea Baru, in his remarks, reminded the young participants that discipline and consistency are the foundations of success, both in sports and in life.
Dika Toua, a trailblazer in weightlifting and a role model for many, encouraged the children to respect their parents and stay away from negative influences.
She said discipline starts at home and urged the children to obey their parents, stay away from drugs, alcohol, and parties, and focus on their dreams—whether in sports or other careers.
The event also coincided with the first Monday of the Term Two school holidays, making it an ideal opportunity for children to engage in positive, educational fun.
With laughter, learning, and lots of movement, Olympic Day 2025 was a memorable one for children and athletes alike—showcasing the unifying power of sport in PNG and beyond.
