Schools arrive for Lae Independence ceremony

School children have arrived for the 51st Independence Day state ceremony in Lae this morning.

The students are among groups taking part in the official programme at the stadium, where they are expected to march and take their positions ahead of the main ceremony.

According to the programme, schools were scheduled to arrive from 7.30am, with VIPs and dignitaries arriving from 8am.

The Guard of Honour will prepare before the arrival of the parade host, Colonel Michael Percy Marai, at 9am.

Morobe Governor and Finschhafen MP Renbo Paita is scheduled to arrive at 9.05am, followed by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Lands and Physical Planning John Rosso at 9.10am.

The national Independence Day celebrations are being held today, September 16, marking 51 years since Papua New Guinea gained independence in 1975.