Recent parliamentary debates in Papua New Guinea have shed light on significant changes to the country's education system, with Education Minister Hon. Luca Dawa Dekena at the helm.
Central to these discussions is the government's decision to retain Grade 8 and 10 exams but not use them as a filter to select students. This policy shift, aimed at promoting inclusivity, will see all Grade 8 students progress to Grade 9 in 2025 and Grade 10 students move to Grade 11 in 2027, regardless of their exam performance.
KEY ARTICLE: Is removing Grades 8 and 10 exams a mistake? READ IT HERE
Key Changes and Trends (Parliamentary Debates and Concerns)
The National Education Plan (NEP) 2020-2029 outlines transformative goals, including the shift away from using exams as a barrier to student progression. This change is expected to ensure that all students have the opportunity to continue their education, thereby fostering a more inclusive system.
During a recent session, Enga Governor Sir Peter Ipatas raised significant concerns about the removal of these exam filters:
1. Quality Concerns: The Governor stressed the importance of maintaining education standards, questioning the rationale behind eliminating Grade 8 and 10 exams.
2. Advisory and Decision: He inquired who advised the removal of these exams, highlighting past issues with imposed education systems that compromised quality.
3. Assessment and Incentives: Emphasising the critical role of exams, he questioned how teacher performance would be assessed and what incentives students would have to strive for excellence without exams.
4. Policy Reconsideration: He urged the Minister to reconsider the policy, allowing exams to continue while still enabling students to progress, and ensuring educational standards are maintained.
In response, Education Minister Hon. Luca Dawa Dekena acknowledged the concerns but reaffirmed the government's commitment to the policy.
He clarified that exams would continue to monitor student performance but would not be used to exclude students from progressing. This approach aims to provide equal opportunities for all learners, accommodating both fast and slow learners.
Education Population Insights
According to the National Statistical Office, school enrolment in Papua New Guinea has seen significant growth, with over 1.3 million students currently enrolled in primary and secondary education.
However, this growth presents challenges such as high student-to-teacher ratios and disparities in educational access between urban and rural areas. The policy to allow all students to progress will further increase pressure on school capacities and resources.
Impacts and Future Outlook
The removal of exams as a filter will have far-reaching implications. While the policy aims to ensure that no child is left behind, it will necessitate substantial investments in school infrastructure, teaching resources, and teacher training to maintain educational quality.
The government is also working on enhancing early childhood education, improving teacher inspections, and introducing a new curriculum to better prepare students for higher grades.
Removing Exam Filter at Grade 8 and Grade 10 Raises Critical Questions
The evolving education policies in Papua New Guinea reflect a commitment to inclusivity and equal opportunities for all students. However, the shift away from using exams as a filter raises critical questions about maintaining educational standards and managing increased school capacities.
As the government continues to implement the NEP 2020-2029, it will be crucial to monitor these impacts and ensure that the educational needs of students and teachers are effectively met.
Sources:
- National Statistical Office Education Statistics
- Oxford Business Group PNG Economic Development Puts Education in Spotlight
- PNG Insight Papua New Guinea National Education Plan 2029
