ACHIEVING SIGNIFICANT MILESTONES

Education Ministry's Progress Amidst Challenges: A Commitment to Reform and Quality Education

The Ministry of Education continues to reach significant milestones despite the economic and social challenges facing Papua New Guinea. These achievements reflect the unwavering support and commitment of the Marape Government, reinforcing the country’s dedication to education.

At the outset, we extend our gratitude to the Marape/ Rosso Government for their steadfast financial backing and political stability, which have played a pivotal role in advancing education reforms. This progress has been essential in enhancing the quality of teaching and learning nationwide.

Despite ongoing challenges, such as resource limitations and a rapidly growing population outpacing infrastructure and services, the Ministry remains focused on maximizing available resources. Through strategic and prudent management, tangible outcomes are being achieved.

Key milestones over the past five years include the Government’s Tuition Fee Free Policy, the introduction of Early Childhood Education, the transition from the Outcome-Based Curriculum (OBC) to the Standard-Based Curriculum (SBC), the establishment of National Schools of Excellence, the expansion of the Flexible Open and Distance Education (FODE) sector, and the 1-6-6 School Restructure. Additionally, the gradual elimination of selection processes in Grades 8 and 10 has been initiated.

Seven Key Education Policies and Reforms

1. Government’s Free Education Policy (GFEP) In 2019, the Marape/ Rosso Government introduced the Government Tuition Fee Subsidy Policy to ease the financial burden on parents. In 2025, this evolved into the Government Free Education Policy, covering full tuition fees for all students in the general education sector. This policy is inclusive, ensuring that students in Early Childhood Centres, Primary Schools, High Schools, National Schools of Excellence, and other educational institutions can attend school without the stress of school fees.

2. FODE TransformationThe Ministry has made significant strides in reforming and expanding the Flexible Open and Distance Education (FODE) sector. With government support, enrolment has surged from 33,000 students in 2020 to 82,000 today. This expansion provides equal access to quality education, with over 2,000 FODE students securing spaces in universities and tertiary institutions in 2024—a historic milestone.

3. National Schools of Excellence (NSOE) and STEM Curriculum In 2020, the National Schools of Excellence policy was implemented to offer top-performing students a chance to pursue advanced education and training in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). Over 200 students are currently studying abroad under the STEM Scholarship Program, a significant step towards preparing the country’s workforce for the 21st century.

4. Early Childhood Education (ECE) A new focus on Early Childhood Education has been introduced, with a dedicated curriculum and 11 new centers set to open. This initiative aims to give children a strong educational foundation, focusing on literacy, numeracy, and Christian values.

5. Accelerated Christian Education (ACE) The introduction of the ACE system emphasizes moral values and discipline while nurturing a well-rounded, educated population. This pilot project will begin in selected schools in the National Capital District.

6. Teaching Standards and PrestigeThe Ministry aims to elevate the teaching profession by ensuring teachers receive proper training, remuneration, and access to resources. This will make teaching a respected and prestigious career in Papua New Guinea.

7. Curriculum Enhancements Significant progress has been made in developing and updating curriculums, including the ICT curriculum and the upcoming Financial Literacy curriculum. The Early Childhood Education curriculum is also underway.

Infrastructure Improvements

The Ministry is also addressing infrastructure needs. Thirty new science labs are being constructed across the country, with several high schools now equipped with dedicated labs for Physics, Biology, and Chemistry.

Service Standards and Funding Framework

The Department of Education has introduced the Minimum Service Standards (MSS) to ensure equitable service delivery across all levels of government. This framework promotes accountability and transparency in government spending, ensuring adequate resources are allocated to meet the needs of students.

Improved Literacy and Numeracy

The 2021 Pacific Islands Literacy and Numeracy Assessment (PILNA) showed improvements in student performance, with a notable reduction in the gap between boys and girls in literacy and numeracy at the Grade 3 and Grade 5 levels. These results highlight the effectiveness of the reforms in improving educational outcomes.

Looking Ahead

As the Ministry continues to roll out and implement these reforms, significant challenges remain, including overcrowded classrooms and the need for additional learning resources. However, the government’s commitment to education remains strong, with education continuing to receive top priority in the national budget.

The Marape/ Rosso Government’s education reforms are transforming the education landscape in Papua New Guinea. With sustained effort and commitment, the vision for a more inclusive, equitable, and high-quality education system is within reach.

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