A new initiative at Mount Hagen Provincial Hospital in Papua New Guinea is now providing mothers with official birth certificates immediately following their child’s birth. The program, a collaboration between the PNG Civil and Identity Registry, the Western Highlands Provincial Health Authority, and UNICEF, aims to secure legal identities for newborns. This breakthrough integrates birth registration directly into existing healthcare services, streamlining the process for families. Previously, obtaining birth certificates required a separate and often complex procedure. The on-site registration ensures children’s rights are protected from the start, facilitating access to essential services like education and healthcare. This pilot program marks a significant step towards universal birth registration in the country. Further details are available via subscription to Post Courier.