TWENTY traffic officers were awarded certificates on Friday, 15 May 2026, after completing a six-week intensive Method of Instructional Training (MIT) course at the Bomana National Centre of Excellence (NCoE) in the National Capital District (NCD).
This marks the first formal training for traffic officers after more than 20 years. Participants included 17 officers from the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) Traffic Division, two from the Road Traffic Authority (RTA), and one from the Department of Transport (DoT).
Deputy Commissioner of Police Special Operations Donald Yamasombi, delivering the keynote address, highlighted the significance of the training as a collaborative effort among key government agencies.
He linked the initiative to the government’s Connect PNG program, which is expanding road networks across provinces.
“What the people want to see is proper management of the
traffic system. Without it, road users will live in fear,” Yamasombi said.
He urged officers to use their training to identify gaps, develop new training packages, and build public trust in road safety.
Superintendent Joe Joseph, speaking on behalf of the class, described the program as the beginning of a new era.
He noted that since the enactment of traffic legislation in 2010 and 2014 respectively, officers had not received proper training to enforce the laws.
“The narrative has now changed. We are equipped to carry out our duties and charge offenders where necessary,” Joseph said.
He added that MIT also taught officers how to structure speeches and communicate effectively, skills they will now pass on as certified instructors alongside Bomana Traffic School trainers.
Assistant Police Commissioner (ACP) for Training Silva Sika reminded graduates that they had achieved instructor level competency and could be called upon to deliver future courses.
ACP Traffic John Kolopen congratulated the officers, urging them to perform their duties diligently while enjoying their work. He commended their perseverance through sleepless nights and challenges during the training.
Course Manager Senior Sergeant Barbra Kiso explained that MIT was designed to help officers adopt new approaches in their daily duties, broaden perspectives, and improve workplace management.
“This course inspires members to be leaders in their areas of duty and strengthens their communication abilities,” she said.
The training reflects growing collaboration among RPNGC, RTA, and DoT, with the shared goal of advancing road safety in Papua New Guinea.