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PNG National Policy on Information and Communications - extractsCountry ProfilePapua New Guinea (PNG) has a population of 4 million people of which 85 percent live in the rural areas. It has a land mass of 462,800 square kilometres and this gives a population density of 8 persons per square kilometre. The annual population growth rate is 2.3 percent. The mainland is surrounded by large offshore islands of New Britain, Bougainville, New Ireland and Manus and over 600 smaller ones. Mountain terrains with peaks over 4,000 metres run the length of the mainland from the east to the west. Other places are flat with swamp land covering most of the plains. PNG gained independence from Australia in 1975. It is a parliamentary democracy with a single legislature - the National Parliament - through elected members. Elections are held every 5 years for the 109 seats: 20 regional and 89 open electorates. The Queen is the Head of State and is represented by a Governor-General. PNG has more languages (over 800) than any other country in the world with possible exception of India. The official language is English with Pidgin and Hiri Motu being used widely as lingua franca to facilitate communication among people of diverse linguistic backgrounds. It is estimated that two thirds of the adult population are illiterate. The education system has since made inroads to address the situation. Papua New Guinea is a free market economy. It is rich with natural resources such as oil, gas, gold, copper, forestry and fisheries which play a vital role in the development of the country. Traditional agricultural commodities such as copra, cocoa, coffee, rubber, tea still earn a big portion of the Country's foreign exchange. Media outlets include the National Broadcasting Commission, EMTV, two national dailies; the PNG Post Courier and the National, weekly publications of Times of PNG and the Wantok as well as other smaller publications. Advances in broadcast technology such as satellites allowed television programmes to be viewed in this country long before a TV network was established. In some places cable TV networks were installed to provide reception and distribution of off-air satellite programmes. Audio Visual services also becoming increasingly popular with the trends in customer market. PNG has one of the most advanced telecommunications network in the world. All centres in the country are linked by either terrestrial or satellite microwave radio links with routing and switching of calls made at telephone exchanges in major centres. Calls can be made to almost anywhere in the world. Because communication is the thread which hinds a community and indeed a nation together, lack of information- and communication have been identified as the biggest problem of hindrance in meaningful development. In mid 1992, the Fifth National Parliament established a Department of Information and Communication to ensure that the majority of Papua New Guineans benefit from Government programmes and services through an improved information and communication system in tune with the spirit of the National Constitution. Establishment of the Department of Information and Communication Services was the first major initiative taken by the Wingti-Chan Government in January 1993 to formulate the National Information and Communication Policy for Papua New Guinea. PNG National Policy on Information and CommunicationsEXECUTIVE SUMMARYBACKGROUND 1.01 The idea of an appropriate information and communication policy was discussed in 1979 through submissions made to a committee reviewing information services in the country, commissioned by the Government at that time, headed by the late Leo Morgan. 1.02 The Committee’s recommendations was a further acknowledgement of the need for the formulation of such a policy. Hence upon establishing the Department of Information and Communication Services, this policy formulation process was embarked upon. 1.03 The other major action by government to ensure the development of information and communication in the country was NEC Decision No. 43/88, establishing the Department of Information and Communication Services. However owing to resource limitations, this decision fell short of implementation. 2. CURRENT SCENARIO 2.01 Up to now, limited attention has been paid to the formulation of an appropriate umbrella policy to enhance information and communication processes in the country, in a coherent manner. 2.02 Whatever information and communication related policies formulated so far, were done with the aim of fulfilling specific sectoral requirements. The Information Technology (IT) policy by DPM, policy on Library and Archives, policies covering NBC and PTC to mention a few. 2.03 The 1987 Report of the Board of Inquiry into Broadcasting (including Television) lays appropriate groundwork for policies to provide solid legislative direction in operating both broadcast and television 2.04 However, certain operators in the country have taken advantage of the absence of a clearly defined policy on television, to tap into satellite broadcasting. 2.05 Random importation of communication equipment and appliances indicates the lack of guidelines in the standard of items imported. 2.06 All media industries operate without proper government policy directives - whether legislative or administrative, leaving the country open to scrupulous media personnel to take advantage of the policy vacuum. 2.07 There is no venue for screening news channeled out as well as into the country. This would be the job of a news agencv. 2.08 These are a few indications for the urgency of the need to establish sound policy guidelines for information and communications development in the country to keep pace with global technology advantage. 3. DEFINITIONS AND SCOPE 3.01 Communication is information based in the sense that a good part of communication processes are based on information. Information therefore forms a significant function in communication. In this context it appears more appropriate that this policy be referred to as the National Communication Policy. However for reasons of consistency, it shall he known as the National Information and Communication Policy. 3.02 This policy takes a broad view of the whole spectrum of communication to serve the cause of information flow and communication processes in development. 4. GOAL The goal is to provide a co-ordinated umbrella policy directions in information and communication to enhance developmental processes in the country. 5. POLICY SETTING 5.01 This policy upholds the basic rights guaranteed by the National Constitution. It also derives from the National Goals and Directive Principles as set out in the preambles to the Constitution. 5.02 It is based on Christian values and principles, and adheres to a philosophy of communication of which the fundamental principles are as provided in the Preamble to the policy document. 5.03 The policy takes into account specific sector policies in existence, within information and communication agencies of government. 5.04 The policy gives strong support to and compliments other policy initiatives for the advancement of information flow and communication processes in the country. 5.05 The policy sets out broad guidelines for the development of information and communication in enhancing Papua New Guinea’s overall development strategies. 6. MAJOR OBJECTIVES 6.01 Major policy objectives are provided for in the following sectors: ·Telecommunication Services ·Postal Services ·Print Media ·Book Publishing ·Radio and Television Broadcasting ·Cable Television ·Satellite Broadcasting ·Films and Cinema ·Interpersonal Communication ·Traditional and Group Media ·Information Services ·Information Technology ·Information Technology Standards ·Audio Visual Media ·Human Resource and Communication Training ·Communication Research ·News Agencies ·Advertising ·Copyright Law ·Movie Industry Rating ·Code of Ethics 7. PRACTICAL OUTCOMES The implementation of this policy is to be monitored, and reviews and improvements initiated by a National Information and Communication Council (NICC) to he established by an Act of Parliament. The NICC will come under the administrative responsibility of the Minister for Information and Communication Chapter 1 - The Policy1.1 PREAMBLE The basic rights guaranteed by the National Constitution, in particular the National Goals and Directive Principles, shall be upheld in our National Information Communication Policy and in all future endeavours and expressions of the policy. In this policy we shall strive to ensure: Better Information and Communication for all. The people of Papua New Guinea past, present and to come acknowledge that communication in all its modes and forms is a basic human right through which men, women and children share life, experience, ideas, values, hopes, and aspirations to build community. We acknowledge that communication is a right equal with all other rights. It includes the right to inform and to be informed, the right to freedom of expression, the right to freedom of information and assembly, and the right to communication opportunities. It is subject only to the rights of others under the National Constitution. The National Information and Communication Policy shall be based on Christian values and principles and shall adhere to a philosophy of communication of which the fundamental principles are: 1.1.1 All people have the right to he dynamically involved in the processes of their own development and should have the opportunity to participate in communication processes at all levels. All expressions of communication should foster integral human development. This is best achieved through participation and interaction in communication processes. 1.1.2 All people have the right of access to information and communication. They shall have the means to participate as both initiators and recipients of communication. Access to information shall be as equitable as possible and in a language and form which they can understand. 1.1.3 The national information and communication system shall be comprehensive, varied and flexible enough to meet the needs and aspirations of all. 1.1.4 Information and communication processes shall he free from domination by individuals or groups, whether foreign or local, state or private, and shall respect the interests of all. 1.1.5 Information and communication processes shall contribute to: (a) integral human development through participation and two-way communication processes; (b) foster national identity and unity amongst our diverse cultures, traditions and people; (c) enhance cultural preservation and enrichment: (d) guard and promote democratic processes: (e) foster self-reliance: and (f) ensure environmental protection. 1.1.6 The focus of the policy shall be on developing appropriate information and communication opportunities. These principles shall be the basis for all expressions of the National Information and Communication Policy - administrative and regulatory- both present and in the future. 1.2 GENERAL POLICY STATEMENTS Introduction Guidelines on certain topics such as ownership, access, and content are common to all areas of this Policy. For example what the Policy outlines on ownership of print media applies to ownership of broadcasting media as well. The following Statements shall function as general guidelines which shall apply equally to all sections of the National Information and Communication Policy. Ownership Ownership means control. Because the various forms of media can have such a powerful influence and impact on people, national sovereignty and cultural autonomy are at stake. For this reason, it is important that Papua New Guineans have effective control over all types of media at every level - local, regional and national. Access Access to the media is greatly affected by problems of distribution in Papua New Guinea. These problems include inadequate coverage of services, transportation, excessive costs and lack of local infrastructure. In addition factors as illiteracy and choice of language can greatly affect the level of access. All media providers whether public or private must base their policies and strategies on a commitment to provide increased levels of access to information and communication services to the entire population. Content The power of media to influence is based largely on its content. Because of this, priority must be given to encouraging Papua New Guinea cultures, Christian values and promoting national aspirations amid development objectives. Language/Cultural Diversity Virtually all communication in Papua New Guinea is cross-cultural to a greater or lesser degree because of the cultural diversity of the population. This situation is compounded by the legacy of the colonial past and the Western cultural assumptions embedded in modern forms of government, education, commerce, laws, and so forth. The potential for mis-communication is greatest among the rural population because many changes are not understood well. Therefore, awareness must play a significant role in the provision of information and communication services, especially among the rural population. Awareness must he conducted in a language understood by the people. Training The National Training Policy White Paper (1991) calls for inter-sectoral cooperation and rationalization of training initiatives. This is especially necessary in the area of communication training. Communication affects all sectors in a unique way. It is the means by which each carries out its task. For this reason, communication training must he done in partnership with all government departments and agencies as well as with non-governmental organisations. In addition, because the meaning and cultural impacts of new forms of communication such as television can he difficult to understand, training must also prepare the population in general to be critical and discriminating consumers of media. Technology Modern communication is increasingly dependent on sophisticated technology. Thus, there is a direct and growing correlation between national development and the country’s ability to support its communication technology infrastructure. In addition there is a need to use technology in ways that are appropriate to the country’s requirements taking into consideration the effect of technology on social, cultural and traditional values as well as the environment. Copyright Copyright protects local works of art, music, literature, traditional knowledge, scientific research findings and works of media. It also fosters increased creativity, productivity amid creates employment. However, since Papua New Guinea is a net importer of information, the cost of participation in an international copyright convention would he prohibitive to education, research and other sectors. Therefore, in consideration of the present circumstances of the country’s development, a domestic copyright law shall be adopted. Research and Development Communication involves more than just technology. There are social implications as well. Modern media techniques and technology must be assessed and adapted for appropriate use in Papua New Guinea. The need for this type of research and development will he ongoing. Hence, communication research shall he co-ordinated and the results assessed for future policy adjustments by a National Information and Communication Council. 1.3 NATIONAL INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION COUNCIL In the implementation process of the NICP there will be a need for overall control and co-ordination. This will be the role of the National Information and Communication Council which will be enacted under appropriate legislation. Further information on the Council is given in chapter six. Chapter 3 - Information Services3.1 LANGUAGE The National Language Policy of Papua New Guinea follows the principle of unity through community-based decision making. At the local level this means that the language which each community chooses must be respected as the primary means of communication within that community and the basis on which they direct their own development. The same principle of community-based decision making applies in the wider community of a province or region. When members of different language communities choose to communicate with each other through Tok Pisin, Hiri Motu or English language, that choice will be respected. Among the community of nations, Papua New Guinea has chosen to communicate in the English language. That decision will be respected as well. Thus at every level - community, regional and national - unity is achieved, not on the basis of a common language, but on the common respect given to communities to choose the clearest and most coherent language available to the community. POLICY STATEMENT In the belief that all citizens have the right to he dynamically involved in the processes of their own development; Further, in recognition of the fact that community-based decision making must be in a language understood by the members of the community: The Independent State of Papua New Guinea endorses the basic rig/it of each cultural community to receive fundamental information in their mother-tongue. Further. in recognition of the vital role of languages of inter-community as well as international communication: The Independent Stare of Papua New Guinea recognises English as its official language of international communication and commerce, with Tok Pisin and Hiri Motu as official languages of convenience. The use of these three languages shall he based on their intelligibility, appropriateness and acceptability in any given domain of communication. 3.2 INFORMATION SERVICES Information is an essential resource in the operation and management of all kinds of industry. In the communication arena, information is crucial in the collection, storage and processing of data relevant to cover real life situation, news and events in a responsible, complete, balanced and meaningful manner. Information is also important to policy formulation and planning of both public and private institutions. Focusing on PNG development process, information about human resource development, material resources, and the economy are fundamental elements for the overall system planning of the Government. Information is vital to empowering people for self-determination and reliance. Therefore, information access to the media, government and non-government institutions, and the people is necessary in order to play active role in the development process of the nation. Information distribution and dissemination put the people in touch with the times and make them feel the pulse of the nation. Hence, the development of information system is an essential part of this policy. MAJOR OBJECTIVES 3.2.1 The role of information in society It shall be the policy of the Government to develop national information resources and services as part of national development planning. Strategies This objective shall be achieved through: 1. strengthening the library network and services throughout the country; 2. utilising interpersonal, modern and traditional-mediated channels to disseminate information throughout the country; 3. encouraging the development and sustenance of traditional media to disseminating development information to the rural population; and 4. encouraging the development of the education system by utilising the mass media and information systems to enhance its goals and objectives. 3.2.2 Access to information resources and services It shall be the policy of the Government to facilitate access to information in all parts of Papua New Guinea. Strategies This objective shall he achieved through: i. improving the postal and telecommunication systems throughout the country; ii. improving road and transportation systems throughout time Country: iii. rationalising the flow of information with emphasis on two-way processes iv. promoting mobile audio-visual, puppet and drama groups, bookstores and small libraries: v. producing and improving community radio programmes in local languages; and vi. encouraging the publication of literacy material. 3.2.3 Development of PNG information resources It shall be the policy of the Government to strengthen the PNG production of all types of information material, to widen the range and scope, and to improve its quantity with quality Strategies This objective shall be achieved through:
ii. producing and disseminating information through traditional media; iii. utilising local material in group media production and dissemination: iv. improving the existing radio network: v. setting up a national database to collect, store, process and disseminate information; and vi. strengthening the national archival system. 3.2.4 Use and awareness of information It shall be the policy of the Government to maximise the use of information resources and services through positive programmes of assistance. Strategies This objective shall he achieved through the following tasks: i) conducting awareness programmes about the value and use of information on PNG human and material resources; and ii) making people aware of the availability of existing information resources and services. 3.2.5 Human resources for information services It shall be the policy of the Government to promote and support the development of qualified personnel for the efficient management and operation of information resources and services in PNG. Strategies This objective shall be achieved through: i) devising comprehensive training programmes for the present and future human resources in the information system; ii) encouraging ongoing training of personnel in all information and communication systems and institutions; and iii) devising and introducing media education in the national education system. 3.2.6. National, Regional and International information participation It shall be the policy of the Government to play a key role in national, regional and international information programnmes and systems Strategies This objective shall be achieved through: i. exchanging and sharing of multi-disciplinary scientific data; ii. encouraging and strengthening regional cultural and educational ties; iii. encouraging the development and participation in regional and international media organisations and associations; iv. strengthening national and regional public forums on issues of mutual interest; v. encouraging the development of database and networking within the country and between nations within and outside the region under appropriate agreements; and vi. strengthening the existing news exchange networks in the region. 3.3. INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY Information Technology (IT) embraces the application of several sciences and engineering to the enhancement man performance in a wide range of activities by facilitating the acquisition, transfer, processing, assimilation utilisation of information. The information technology environment includes: people, computing hard-systems software, applications software, electronic communications systems (e.g., voice, data and video), documentation, user support, information resources (e.g., library management systems and management information systems), typesetting and publishing systems, audio-visual facilities, and technology training resources, an important aspect of information technology is the integration of these components into peoples working, learning and leisure activities to create more useful, effective and satisfying systems. Government recognises that computers, telecommunications and other information processing technologies are essential to the effective and efficient operation and management of almost every public and private organization structure. Therefore the Government accepts as one of its highest priorities the successful exploitation of information technology. Consequently the Government recognises the need for a comprehensive policy, embodied in this document, to ensure the most effectual introduction, application and management of information processing technology to provide the maximum economic and administrative benefits to the nation. OBJECTIVES 3.3.1. Production Environment, Technology and Integration It shall be the policy of the Government to promote a productive environment, technology and integration. -- more extracts will follow as original is scanned
Main features of the National Policy on Library, Archives and Information Services
1. Role of information in Papua New Guinea development
It shall be the policy of the Government to promote the development of national information resources and services as an integral part of national development planning.
1. The Policy will allow for the provision and progressive improvement of library and archives facilities and services in order to contribute effectively to the intellectual development of the people, their economic activities, their cultural and recreational activities.
2. The Policy will ensure equal and open access to services for all members of the community without regard to cultural grouping, sex, age, educational level, economic status and or any other qualification or conditions.
Strategy
i) This objective will be achieved through
a) formulation of appropriate policies b) improved decision making process c) conduct of research d) participation in educational process both formal and informal e) development and implementation of programmes and projects.
2. Access to information resources and services.
It shall be the policy of the Government to facilitate access to information in all parts of Papua New Guinea.
1. Library, archives and information resource and facilities provided by agencies in the public and private sectors are part of the overall national provisions for the people and shall be made available subject to priority access that may be needed by the primary users of the facility, as far as possible, access to records should be freely available.
2. Library materials produced within the country as well as abroad shall be acquired in accordance with national standards to provision, giving due consideration to the need to avoid unnecessary duplication of resources.
3. Emphasis shall be placed on the sharing of resources in order to maximise benefits from public investments. In this regard the latest in information technology will be applied where appropriate.
Strategies
i) This objective will be achieved through the provision of library, archives and information services to serve:
(a) The National Parliament, provincial assemblies, government ministries and departments, local and community level governments, universities, colleges, research and other tertiary education institutions and schools and as far as possible, all members of the urban and rural communities.
(b) The underpriviledged, handicapped and the institutionalised members of society.
(ii) through ensuring access to computerised data bases at the national and international levels;
(iii) through lending reference and referral services, information analysis and consolidation, bibliographic services, selective dissemination and document copying facilities;
(iv) through proper documentation of resources in country in conformity with national standards, so as to facilitate the creation and maintenance of an integrated national data base.
3. Development of Papua New Guinea Information Resources
It shall be the policy of the Government to strengthen the Papua New Guinea production of all types of information, to widen range and scope and to improve its quality.
1. Publishers in public and private sectors shall be encouraged to substantially increase publications in their respective fields to suit all interest levels in accordance with national needs.
2. As part of the intellectual and cultural heritage of the nation, copies of all materials published or produced within the country shall be deposited and conserved in accordance with legislative provisions and made as accessible as possible.
Strategies:
The objective will be achieved through the adoption of the following strategies ensuring:
i) the effective use of external sources of information;
ii) the effective use of national sources of information;
iii) the establishment of national data bases, particularly in major development sectors;
iv) the establishment of specialised information centres and systems in areas deemed to be of national importance;
v) better access to and promotion of the use of the considerable wealth of oral and traditional information resources that are part of Papua New Guinea's information heritage.
4. Promotion of use and awareness of information
It shall be the policy of the government to maximise the use of information resources and services through positive programmes of assistance.
Strategies:
The objective will be achieved through the adoption of the following strategies by:-
i) creating an awareness of the importance of information through user education programmes;
ii) ensuring that users receive maximum benefits from the use of information materials;
iii) developing programmes that will encourage literacy and inculcate the reading habit;
iv) ensuring effective participation by the people in appropriate programmes.
5. Human resources for information services
It shall be the policy of the government to promote an support the development of qualified personnel for the efficient management and operation of information resources and services in papua New Guinea.
1. The successful development of the nation's library, archives and information services will depend on the provision of an adequate number of staff with requisite knowledge and skills.
Strategies
The objective will be achieved through the adoption of the following strategies ensuring that:
i) staffing of library, archives and information services is in keeping with national standards;
ii) library, archives and records management education and training and required supporting facilities are rationalised and that opportunities for continuing library and archives education are encouraged to meet appropriate standards;
iii) manpower needs are satisfied.
6 Organization and coordination of The National Policy for Library Archives and Information Services.
It shall be the policy of the Government to establishment and strengthen the national coordination to ensure effective implementation of a national policy for libraries, archives and information services
1. That a suitable organization structure is established whose main functions will include carrying out the provisions of this policy;
Strategies
i) Establish an organisational structure to oversee the development and implementation of the policy
7 Information technology and systems
It shall be the policy of the Government to encourage the modernization of information handling methods and technology.
1. In developing and implementing services due attention will be placed on the opportunities for enhanced services and sharing of costs and resources made possible by technological developments.
Strategies:
This objective will be achieved through:
i) coordinated automation of library and archives systems to facilitate information exchange;
ii) encouragement of better use of telecommunication advances;
iii) provision of appropriate training/research in information technology.
8 Regional and international information participation
It shall be the policy of the Government to play a key role in regional and international information programmes and systems.
1. The development and improvement of services will be achieved through full participation in regional and international initiatives.
Strategies
This objective will be achieved through:
i) membership of appropriate regional and international organizations;
ii) organization of and participation in related regional and international meetings including conferences, workshops, etc.;
iii) developing regional and international initiatives. Provincial Information Services: Role of information in provincial developmentWorkshop Discussion Summary
Kabakada, East New Britain Province, Papua New Guinea Dr. John Evans Neither those providing services or the users are satisfied with the situation at present and all wish to see real improvements so that greater benefit could be obtained from the information already available. Positive contributions to alleviate existing problems exist but these need to be coordinated to minimize duplication of effort and wastage of scarce resources.
At the seminar Mr. Jack Lahui outlined the intricate nature of the publishing industry involving as it did authors, printer, publishers, government agencies, etc. It was also an industry that cris-crossed national boundaries and whose operations adhered, in most cases, to international agreements and conventions. Here were issues such as copyright (not observed here) and ISBN ( sometimes observed). The field of publishing was divided as a result and foreign agencies were involved in addition to indigenous ones. The creation and work of the Literature Board was meant as a device for harnessing the talents and voices of Papua New Guinea writers. Uli Beier after his African experience was responsible for much initial activity. Mr. Lahui mentioned the National research institutes publications and also mentioned the work of the NRI's Cultural Services Division in relation to the national Writing Competition. Provincial Governments should extend this competition work. As a result of the endeavours of the Literature Board and the NRI there were now thousands of entries, and the support of culturally conscious people was needed to support this work. It was patently absurd to continue to rely very heavily on foreign material for curriculum work while such a vast collection was waiting to be utilized. This material consisted of novels and materials that could be gathered to provide anthologies. There were problems associated with copyright. In addition to the duty to Papua New Guinea there was also a duty to contribute to the pool of world literature from which we were drawing but no longer contributing to. There was also a contribution to be made to literacy ad the process of reading and writing needs to be backed up by appropriate materials from a recognized background. There should be a national body of literature to back up the new skills. If material from the literacy competitions was returned back it would complete the cycle of literacy and engender new work. In addition there is a need for specialist literature and for the development of children's writers and book designers. It was suggested there be a Central Publishing Organisation to encourage National writers and produce materials for local use. Recommendations and Provincial Information System guidelinesRecommendationsThe Participants noted the importance of information for the economic, educational and social development of the province and its people. During the seminar they analysed the problems facing the information services in the province at present. This analysis and comments are presented here in seven sections which are consistent with the major information policy objectives on information to be found in the draft National Policy on Library and Information Services prepared by a working Party of the Library council of Papua New Guinea.
It was agreed that this resolution be forwarded to the provincial government and that the Terms of Reference of any committee established by them would flow from the Guidelines established by the participants. The Guidelines could form the basis of a Provincial Information Policy for East New Britain and this could, in turn, serve as a model for other provinces in their discussion on information issues. Stages after the approval of policy are shown in the figure. It was further agreed that written versions of the various contributions be obtained for the proceedings of the workshop. What is available is given in section 4 above. During the course of the workshop reference was made to previous work on communications, namely the Report of the Review of Information Services in Papua New Guinea (The Morgan Report). The "principles and recommendations" of this report are given in section 4.8 above. Draft Provincial Information Service GuidelinesThe initial draft has been provided by John Evans, Marae Knothole and Margaret Obi. This was circulated to all participants for comments by the end of November 1991. A final drafting committee consisting of Marae Knothole, Lisa Sakias, Sam Piniau, Apisai Enos, Wesley Waninara, Esekia Mel and Samson Kove was to provide the final version. The Guidelines were to be directed, it was suggested, to the Secretary of the Department. Working DefinitionThe following definition was presented for discussion. It appears in the Unesco publication on National Information Policies and as such has been used in the draft National Policy on Library and Information Services.It was agreed to use this as a working definition for the discussions.
ScopeIn these guidelines: "information" is understood as problem solving and publicly available information which serves for development. The term excludes classified information which is restricted to a limited number of users. It also excludes news of a general nature and advertisement media. It also excludes entertainment media such as videos. It was agreed that at the provincial level what should be excluded and how to control these should be an issue for separate discussion. On the issue of information agencies it was agreed that, as the list of attendance showed, there were numerous agencies involved in the dissemination of information. These include the National Broadcasting Commission, the Provinces Media and Communication Services, Church and Community Groups, Formal and Informal Education system, literacy workers, community leaders, etc. It was agreed that the Province should provide a guide to the information sources available and utilize the co-operation of the workshop participants in this respect. GoalIt was further agreed that the general goal of the document should be as follows:
Role of information in provincial development
particularly in relation to a philosophy of relevant life long learning. It also serves for social and economic development and has a cultural and entertainment role. It is a tool in the process of development. A major additional role was felt to be the dissemination of government policies to the people and making available reviews of progress that had taken place in the province. For developmental benefits to occur the right type of information would need to go to the right people and at the right time. The following points are to be noted in relation to the role of information in development:-
Access to informationthe Province shall facilitate access to information in all parts of the province and by all its peoples. While information was available, there were concerns that access is limited and that there are not sufficient appropriate channels or media to get this information to the peopled. Information at an appropriate level on core issues should be readily available. The following points were determined as being important in the issue of access:-
Development of provincial information resourcesThe Provincial shall strengthen the production of all types of information and improve on range, scope and quality. The need for preservation of the existing heritage and for appropriate research is also acknowledged. The following are issues in the preservation , development and research on resources:
Development of provincial information resourcesThe Provincial shall strengthen the production of all types of information and improve on range, scope and quality. The need for preservation of the existing heritage and for appropriate research is also acknowledged. The following are issues in the preservation , development and research on resources
Promotion and use of informationThe Province shall maximize the use of information resources and services through positive promotional activities. Even the best resources and services will be of little benefit unless there is a climate encouraging their use This will involve issues such as:-
Human resources for information servicesThe province shall promote and support the development of qualified people for efficient management and operation of resources and services. The development and improvement of the Provincial Information System will be limited by the abilities of the people running it. While employers would find difficulties in release of employees there were schemes for staff development and training was fast becoming a priority area. They therefore had an obligation on this issue and should plan accordingly. Provision of suitable opportunities was essential and the workshop participants noted that because of the diverse nature of information activities there was a need for a formal course of training. The following are issues that need to be addressed in terms of training:-
A suggested curriculum, for further discussion, is:-
Organisation and coordination of information activitiesThe provincial shall strengthen coordination to ensure effective implementation of these guidelines. The province shall participate, where appropriate in national and regional information activities. A major problem brought out throughout the seminar was the lack of coordination of information activities at both the national and provincial level. This was felt to be not unexpected on such a "hazy" topic. As a result the subject had become something of an organizational football being passed between Departments. Reference was made to the defunct Officer of Information and Extension Service's and to the Review of Information Services of 1979. Information activities were described as fragmented and scattered, with many government and private agencies being involved. Information was a neglected industry in Papua New Guinea. Problems extended to issues of control, ownership, and standards employed by agencies. The findings of the previous Information review Committee was also considered as still relevant to the situation. This vagueness extended through issues of legislation, policy and Ministerial responsibility. The ensure the concerted build up of provincial services integration of services was felt to be essential. Most ideas related initially to the National level. For improved coordination the following points are to be observed:-
Information technology and systemsThe Province shall stimulate the modernization of information handling methods and technology To assist in this it will be necessary to:-
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