From ancient Chinese rubbings to PNG language news: Preserving stories across generations

As Papua New Guinea marks its 51 years of Indepdence a lesson in traditional Chinese culture has offered international journalists in Bejing China a different perspective on the role of language, broadcasting, and journalism in preserving knowledge and cultural identity.

As part of their training in China, the journalists were introduced to the ancient practice of rubbing, used to reproduce inscriptions and passed down texts before modern printing became widespread.

That lesson unexpectedly connects to Papua New Guinea's own experience. Since independence, broadcasting in local languages has helped communities access information in familiar, meaningful ways.

The National Broadcasting Corporation of Papua New Guinea has continued that role. From radio to establishing of local language TV news early this year 2026, preserving language through modern journalism.

While tools change, the goal remains, carrying stories forward, so future generations can hear them.