The Institute of Papua New Guinea Studies (IPNGS), a key cultural institution under the National Cultural Commission (NCC), was established in 1974 with the core directive to research, record, and document the music, dance, cultures, and artifacts of Papua New Guinea.

The Institute officially entered a new era of transformation with the opening of its newly renovated facility on 23 April 2026 at Boroko, National Capital District. The project, initiated in 2023 and completed after two years of continuous work, represents the Institute’s most ambitious renovation to date. Unlike earlier efforts that focused only on selected areas, this full-scale renewal covered all buildings across the site, delivering a comprehensive upgrade to the Institute’s facilities and overall environment.

The opening ceremony was attended by the Minister for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Hon. Belden Norman Namah; NCC Deputy Board Chairman Prof. Leo Marai; NCC Executive Director Mr. Steven Kilanda; members of the NCC Board; heads and representatives of diplomatic missions; stakeholders; and developing partners.

The renovation, carried out over three years, represents a critical and long-overdue investment in one of the country’s most important cultural institutions.
Minister for Tourism, Arts and Culture Hon, Belden Norman Namah said, “Today is not simply the opening of a building; today represents a national commitment, it is a commitment to preserve the stories of our ancestors, to protect the wisdom of our people, and to ensure that the identity of Papua New Guinea remains strong, for generations. This institution now stands as a living symbol of our determination to protect the cultural heritage, and that defines us as a people.”

“The achievement of the renovation and rebuilding of this institution deserves recognition. It shows that even in difficult times, good leadership can still produce tangible outcomes for our people. This project stands as evidence that national progress does not depend solely on the size of the budget; it depends on the quality of leadership.

For far too long, too many nations have been encouraged to measure progress only by foreign standards, but development must begin with identity. PNG is home to more than 850 languages, more than 1200 tribes, countless tribe stories or histories, sacred traditions, art forms, music, and oral histories. We must indigenize our art and culture, modernize the infrastructure, and promote peace and unity in diversity.”
Minister Namah officially opens and declares IPNGS Adminstartions office Block and Jacob L. Simet Confrence Center (The conference centre was named after IPNGS former Director and NCC’s founding Executive Director Dr. Jacob L. Simet who passed away last year).

He also extended his appreciation to the NCC Board, Mr. Kilanda, and the staff of NCC and IPNGS for their commitment and hard work, noting that this significant improvement reflects their dedication and the positive direction in which the institution is moving.

NCC Deputy Board Chairman Prof. Leo Marai reinforced the cultural responsibility of the Institute, stating,
“It is vital that our national preamble speaks of PNG ways, and it is through institutions like this that we must demonstrate those PNG ways, making this place a true reflection of the preamble.”
The reopening of the Institute of Papua New Guinea Studies marks more than the completion of a renovation it signals a renewed national commitment to culture, identity, and heritage. With improved facilities and a strengthened vision, the Institute is now better positioned to carry out its mandate and serve future generations.

Executive Director of NCC Mr. Steven Enomb Kilanda acknowledged the critical role of government support in delivering the project. He expressed his gratitude to the Department of National Planning and Monitoring for the Public Investment Program (PIP) funding, as well as the Department of Treasury and the Department of Finance for facilitating the financial processes that made the renovation possible. He also thanked the NCC Board for its continued commitment and guidance throughout the project.

This Institute of Papua New Guinea Studies is as old as this nation. Its responsibility is not small; it carries the duty of safeguarding our identity, our stories, and our traditions for future generations.

This renovation is not just about buildings; it is about restoring pride, strengthening purpose, and preparing IPNGS to do more for the country.This transformation marks a major step forward in strengthening Papua New Guinea’s cultural sector, positioning the Institute to play a greater role in preserving and promoting the nation’s rich and diverse heritage.