HELP: HIGHER EDUCATION LOAN PROGRAM TO BE READY IN SECOND SEMESTER 2020

The government introduced, Higher Education Loan Program (HELP) will be ready for students to apply in the Second Semester of 2020.

DHERST HELP Load Updated Info

Here are past news articles and information about DHERST HELP student loan programs that you should know when applying. Click on the links to read the latest articles about the HELP loan program.

• Introduction of HELP student loan, 2020
• HELP Studentships: What Are the Benefits?
• TESAS and HELP APPLICATION INFO
• How to apply for HELP Application 

NID & TIN required for HELP application

KEY POINTS

• DHERST will facilitate the Student Loan Scheme (HELP)
• HELP application will open from 27th April 2020
• Prerequisites for loan include National Identification Card (NID) and Tax Identification Number or (TIN)
• HELP will be the only available Students’ scholarship in the future
• Continuity of HELP per student is based on GPA
• Help is available for higher education courses, PhD, Doctoral, Masters and other postgraduate programs
• Student Application for the HELP loan is online

Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology Secretary, Fr Jan Czuba in a statement says this an instruction from Prime Minister James Marape and DHERST Minister Nick Kuman.

Fr Jan Czuba said since it’s a new system being introduced; it requires some time from both the department and the students to finalise everything.

He said it also gives time to students to gather their required documents such as National Identification Card or NID) and Tax Identification Number or (TIN). These are important prerequisite requirements when submitting Applications for HELP.

HELP application will open from 27th April 2020, online via DHERST website and as notified in press and media advertising.

During the period of January to May 2020, there will be a transition from TESAS to HELP. DHERST will be working very closely with all Higher Education Institutions over the transition period to ensure that all students are well informed about HELP.

As of May 2020, TESAS awards will cease for good and HELP financing will commence. HELP will be the only available Studentship for all students for years to come.

HELP will provide student support for multiple years of study as long as students continue to meet the required academic and non-academic criteria.

HELP will also be available for PhD, Doctoral, Masters and other postgraduate programs, meeting the Government’s goal in providing a full range of quality education at the post-secondary level and beyond.

Fr Jan Czuba also announced the total amount of money each student attending tertiary institutions is eligible to apply.

“Students attending colleges and Poly-Technical colleges either public or private, as long as the colleges are registered by us and program accredited, the students will be eligible to apply K5000 per year.

“Students who are doing university level will apply for K10 000 per year.

 “Students who do Masters Degree or other Post-Graduate studies like Bachelors or Honors will apply for K15000 per year.

Students who are doing PhD or Doctorate can apply for K20 000 per year,” the Secretary outlined.

Fr Jan said, for a start, the students will receive less but as the year goes by the loan amount might increase.

“Currently we have the Students Higher Education Loan Program Handbook for students’ ready.“We have the Lease Agreement between students and Government is ready.“Now we are developing this electronic application and it should be ready soon, so students don’t have to go to the bank or come to us to get the application form.“They will go to the Website, they will download the form, fill them online and send them back to us, so the process will be very fast, said Fr Jan Czuba.

The Secretary said this will save time and cost for parents and students as everything will be done electronically.

In the meantime, Fr Jan Czuba said, those students on TESAS will continue but for self-sponsored students will have to meet their own registration fees for the first semester only.

SOURCE: NBC News | 08/01/2020 | Facebook Notes

National Polytechnic Institute of PNG 2026 Application and Enrolment (Lae Polytechnic GPA Requirements)

This article provides information for potential students wanting to enrol at the National Polytechnic Institute of Papua New Guinea (NPIPNG or Lae Polytechnic PNG). The academic programs and non-school leavers' application processes in this article aim to help applicants prepare to submit their 2026 Polytechnic Institute Application Forms for study in 2025.

Credit: FB (National Polytechnic Institute - Lae Students Pictures)

Lae Polytechnic GPA Requirements

To apply to Lae Polytechnic, Grade 12 school leavers need a minimum GPA of 2.5. This is the threshold requirement for eligibility. For non-school leavers, you can apply directly to the institution using your current GPA as a guide. 

Lae Polytechnic, like other higher education institutions in the country, maintains these GPA standards to ensure that incoming students have a strong academic foundation and are prepared for their studies. 

Whether you're a recent high school graduate or a non-traditional applicant, meeting these GPA requirements is essential for your application to be considered.

Polytechnic Non-School Leavers Application Form

Selections for non-school leavers are done at the institution, and the names of the successful applicants are notified via their website or Facebook page. A letter of acceptance is also sent out to the new intakes for 2025. If you are in Lae (Morobe Province), check the notice board at Polytech PNG at Eriku.

As mentioned, the Offer Letter for successful applicants will be forwarded to your forwarding address given in the application form. 

You can also collect the offer letter from the Institute Administration, through a valid ID presentation. If forwarding addresses are changed, call the Institute  Care-takers to give your new forwarding email addresses.

In a recent media statement, DHERST also resorted to bringing the NON-SCHOOL LEAVERS Selection ONLINE. Universities and colleges are not going to make the selections. So, what does that mean for you as a non-school leaver applicant? Find out here, watch the video for more.

School Leavers Application (SL, Grade 12 applicants)

Selection for School Leavers' applications is facilitated by the Department of Higher Education, Research, Science & Technology (DHERST) through its Student Support & Scholarship Branch.

It is important to note that DHERST, through its Student Support & Scholarship, will inform all TESAS awardees through separate offer letters. We wrote this article to give clarity to the process of DHERST selection and the TESAS Award. Check them out.

Any selected school leavers who do not receive a TESAS offer letter from DHERST should not consider him/herself to be self-sponsored students and are subject to all self-sponsor conditions for selected applicants. For queries regarding SL applications, please contact DHERST.

The Grade 12 School Leavers ONLINE Selection started in 2018. It is the best thing that happens. The online selection helps DHERST, the government and stakeholders know exactly how many Grade 12 students are selected for universities and colleges. 

Polytechnic Lae contact

Non-school Leavers and School Leavers offer letters are forwarded to students' respective email accounts provided on either the application form (for the NSL) or the NOSS ( for the SL). That means that applicants to PNG Polytech will receive their Acceptance Letters through the addresses they provided.

If you have not received your offer letter, call or email Polytec PNG at polytec.acad.clerk@gmail.com  or monicaterry493@gmail.com

READ OPEN COLLEGE STUDY INFO and IBS UNIVERSITY PATHWAY HERE. Check out this link if you want to apply for a Police Training Course.

Academic Programs at The National Polytechnic Institute of Papua New Guinea

• Diploma in Applied Science
• Diploma in Architectural Drafting
• Diploma in Building.
• Diploma in Civil Engineering
• Diploma In Business Studies-Accounting
• Diploma In Business Studies-Computing
• Diploma In Business Studies-Management
• Diploma In Business Studies-Office Administration
• Diploma in Electrical Engineering
• Diploma in Mechanical Engineering
• Technical Training Certificate in Science and Technology
• Technical Training Certificate in Drafting
• Technical Training Certificate in Tourism & Hospitality
• Certificate in Meat Processing
• National Certificate in Maintenance Fitting & Machining Level 1
• National Certificate in Metal Fabrication & Welding Level 1

2025 Enrollment Information

Enrollment for all successful applicants and continuing students usually takes place between January and February 2025. 

Make sure to turn up before the registration closing date. A successful applicant who fails to enrol on the closing day loses his/her space to other students on the waiting list.

Present Original copies of documents on enrollment: 

• Acceptance Letter, 
• Certificates, transcripts, and 
• a full school fee bank payment deposit slip or receipt.

National Polytechnic Institute of Papua New Guinea, PNG Course Fee

The institution recommends that students (new & continuing) pay the Full Fee before enrolling; otherwise, enrolment will be denied.

• Full Year Self & Corporate Sponsor fee is K7,300.00.
• The Boarding and lodging Component of K2,800.00 is inclusive for boarding students and K4,500.00 for Day students. 
• HECAS Student Fee (Parent Component) is K4,500.00.

For the latest information and notes on course fees, please refer to the “Fee Schedule” attached to the Offer Letter posted to you.

Method of Payment

All payments must be made through the bank. The Institute account details are:

A/C Name: The National Polytechnic Institute of Papua New Guinea, 

Account No#: For the account number, contact Polytech Lae

Note: All cheques must be made before the student is allowed to enrol. Students can be denied enrolment while waiting for the cheque to be cleared; therefore, it is strongly recommended that all payments be in cash or bank cheque before the enrolment dates.

Boarding Facilities

Accommodation on campus is limited and will be only provided for HECAS students on a “first-come come first-served” basis. Some HECAS students will not be given boarding privileges because of limited spaces. Boarding students must provide their own bedding (i.e. mattresses, pillows and linen) and eating utensils (for example cup, fork, and knife).

All other sponsored students will have to find their own accommodation off-campus. The Okari Campus is a church-owned accommodation facility that has been providing off-campus alternative accommodation for NPIPNG students since 2016 and continues to provide alternative accommodation for NPIPNG students. 

The campus is a 15-20 minute walk from NPIPNG. The Assemblies of God Church owns and manages the facilities, as well as provides pastoral care and counselling services to the students. 

Those willing to be considered for Okari Campus boarding space can contact Mrs Norma Kendi at 72455254 or Mr Paul Kilembe at 76218142 or email pkilembe@gmail.com

Substitute Applicants

Substitute applicants will not be considered during enrollment.

For any queries, contact the Caretakers or the Deputy Director-Academic or Deputy Director of Student Services on Phone # 472 2552 /7530/1505 or Fax: 472 1025. Visit the NPIPNG website www.polytec.ac.pg or the Department of Education Website. www.education.gov.pg

How to Download TESAS List Continuing Students (And Check Your HECAS Status)

The Tertiary Education Study Assistance Scheme (TESAS) and the Higher Education Contribution Assistance Scheme (HECAS) are essential financial aid programs aimed at supporting higher education students in Papua New Guinea. For continuing students, it is crucial to understand the procedures for downloading the TESAS list and checking their HECAS status to ensure they remain eligible and receive the necessary support.

If you are a continuing student wanting to find out about the TESAS List for 2025, you've come to the right place. In this article, you'll get the latest updates and know what to expect - also check out the relevant article in the reference section to know more about the DHERST lists, launching and publication dates, and relevant information relating to you as a continuing student for 2025.

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You should read this article about DHERST expectations for Continuing Students and share it with your friends

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Steps to Download TESAS List for Continuing Students

1. Access the Official DHERST Website:

Visit the official Department of Higher Education, Research, Science, and Technology (DHERST) website. The official website URL is typically provided in official communications or can be found through a simple web search for DHERST.

2. Navigate to the TESAS List Section:

On the DHERST website, look for a section or a link specifically labelled for the TESAS list. This section is often found under the announcements or scholarships tab.

3. Download the TESAS List in PDF Format:

Once you find the TESAS list section, there should be an option to download the list in PDF format. Click the download link and the file will be saved to your device.

Ensure you have a PDF reader installed on your device to view the document.

Check this page to download the DHERST TESAS Award list for New Intakes (SL & NSL) and Continuing students - download the PDFs here 

Important Reminders:

• Double-check that you are downloading the correct year's TESAS list (e.g., 2025).
• Save the downloaded file in a secure and easily accessible location.

How to Check Your TESAS Status?

After downloading the TESAS Award PDF, follow these five simple steps:

• Open the Continuing Students TESAS Awards List saved PDF on your device.
• Use the 'Search' Icon: Utilize the search function within the PDF viewer.
• Type in Your SLF Number, Name or Institution ID Number: Ensure you enter your full name (surname and given name) for accurate results.

Once you find your name, verify other important details like the institution, program, year, and award. This ensures all your information is correct and up-to-date.

Downloading TESAS List Issues

If you encounter difficulties finding or downloading the TESAS list, ensure you are on the official DHERST website. Look for any updates or notices that may indicate a delay or technical issue.

If your status is approved, ensure all necessary steps are followed to receive your assistance.

If additional information is required, promptly provide the necessary documents to avoid delays.

For any issues or discrepancies, contact DHERST or your institution for clarification and support.

Advisory Notice for Continuing Students - 2025

If you are a continuing student and your name does not appear on the TESAS-approved list, your name may likely be included in the Supplementary List, which is expected to be published soon.

While DHERST has not specified an exact publication date for the supplementary list, it would be advisable to check the department's website regularly for updates.

Additionally, institutions that have not yet submitted the list of continuing students are strongly encouraged to do so before the end of January 2025.

Additional Resources and Contact Information

For further information and updates, regularly visit the official DHERST website and NOAS portal. If you have any questions or need assistance, contact DHERST through the following:

Telephone Numbers: 3012076 or 3012058/3012048/3012070

Email: info@dherst.gov.pg

Reference articles for further reading:

• Introduction of HELP student loan

• HELP Studentships: What Are the Benefits?

• TESAS and HELP APPLICATION INFO

• How to apply for HELP Application 

• TESAS stands for Tertiary Education Students Assistance Scheme. There are two categories of TESAS. See this post for more info on TESAS. 

• Changes to TESAS and the introduction of the HELP student loan scheme.

• Higher Education Help Program News Article - READ MORE.

• Check this page to download the DHERST TESAS Award list for New Intakes (SL & NSL) and Continuing students - download the PDFs here 

About PNG Insight

PNG Insight is an education blog. It aims to highlight the key developments in the education sector in Papua New Guinea. Started in 2014 on Google's blogger (now self-hosted on WordPress), PNG Insight strives to be a platform for critical thinking and discussions; and a source of information.

Leave a comment and let us know about your visit. 

Donate to Firefighters Australia

Friends of Australians who would like to support the communities affected by the burning bushfire can donate through the links provided below. Concerned donors can donate to the Australian rural firefighters (donate RFS), bushfire victims or animal care organisations.

Australia High Commission PNG | How to Donate

The Australian High Commission in PNG had acknowledged the prayers and concerns on Facebook... 

A big thank you to everyone who has sent us their thoughts and expressed concern about the fires in Australia. We have had a number of people asking how they can help with the fire response and recovery. Information on how you can help is provided below. Thank you all again; our thoughts are with everyone affected by the fires. Advice on travel to Australia is also provided.

Info from the Australian High Commission

Here are the possible ways to donate to RFS, the Red Cross and other organisations that are at the front line. There are 3 main groups fighting the burning bushfires and those affected:

• Donate to the firefighters who are in the frontline of the burning fires,
• Donate to the charities that are helping the bushfire victims, or
• Donate to the animal welfare organisations taking care of the animals affected by the burning bushfires.

How to Help:

Some of the main organisations supporting communities impacted by the fires include:

• Australian Red Cross

https://www.redcross.org.au/campaigns/disaster-relief-and-recovery-new-years-eve

• The Salvation Army

https://www.salvationarmy.org.au/donate/make-a-donation/donate-online/?appeal=disasterappeal

• NSW Rural Fire Service

https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/about-us/fundraisingc

• Country Fire Association of Victoria 

https://www.cfa.vic.gov.au/home

• South Australian Country Fire Service

https://cfsfoundation.org.au/donate

• WIRES (injured animals)

https://www.wires.org.au/donate/now

Travel Advice:

The Australian High Commission encourages travellers to Australia to monitor their government’s overseas travel advisories regarding travel to Australia.

The travellers can also monitor the ABC News website (www.abc.net.au), which has links to relevant state fire and emergency authorities. Travellers should follow the instructions of these authorities before travelling to areas or residences near the burning bush fires.

2026 Grade 11 Selection List PDF Download for Highlands, Southern, Momase and NGI Regions

Do you want to know when the Grade 11 selection lists for the 2026 academic year, particularly for the intake in the Highlands, Southern, Momase, and NGI Regions? In previous years, we accurately predicted that the Grade 11 selection list would be unveiled in mid-December based on Past years' dates. True to our prediction, last year, the education department officially released the list on 18th December.

Past Year Grade 11 Selection Release Dates

PNG Insight has gathered historical release dates, revealing a consistent pattern of mid-December releases each year. This article has information for 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023,  2024 and 2025.

PNG Insight anticipates that if all goes well this year (2025), the release of the 2026 Grade 11 selection lists for Highlands, Southern, Momase, and NGI Regions will be in mid-December or just before Christmas.

Important update:

 

The Grade 11 Selection List has not yet been officially released by the National Department of Education. However, it has been noted that some school principals, who have early access to their respective school selection lists, have displayed the information on school notice boards and, in some cases, circulated it through social media platforms such as Facebook.

This development indicates that the official national release of the 2026 Grade 11 selection lists by the Department of Education is imminent. Parents, students, and stakeholders are therefore advised to remain patient and rely on formal communication channels for the confirmed and complete release.

Once officially published, the 2026 Grade 11 selection lists for National Schools of Excellence and Secondary Schools across Papua New Guinea will be made available by the PNG Education Department, including downloadable PDF copies through recognised information platforms such as PNG Insight.

Further updates will be provided as soon as the Department makes the official announcement.

Education Department Grade 11 Selection 2026

The education department has not released the actual date for the release of the selection list PDF file on the department's website. PNG Insight understands that the exam results will be released to the principals and provincial selection committee early in December 2024. The Grade 11 online selection will take less than a week, unlike in past, where it took 2 weeks only for the selection.

The department will upload the selection list on its website. Stay updated by following PNG Insight for the latest information on our website via the REGIONAL links below or our YouTube channel.

How to Download 2026 Grade 11 Selection Lists PDF

Here is some quick info on where to download the PDF file. (Note that in 2023, the Education Department has upgraded its website. The menu may be in a different place.)

1. Check the education department website

 

2. Click on the 'Selection List' tab

There, you'll find the following PDF files. (Note: the lists are compiled by the General Education Services Division of the NDOE)

Selection List Tab

3. Click the direct links above. 

Select your region and National Schools of Excellence listed in bullet points under '2026 Grade 11 selection list for National High and Secondary Schools in PNG'. See above.

Upgrade Your Marks at FODE

If you want to upgrade your marks at FODE or at any University Open and Distance Learning Centres, here is some information that you'll find useful. Click on the link to read more.

• Flexible Open and Distance Education (FODE) Application Info
• FODE COURSES IN PROVINCES MEET EDUCATION NEEDS: PM
• Flexible Open and Distance Education (FODE) Enrolment

Last Year's Grade 11 Selection List PDF Links

You can also access and download the PDF list for NGI, Southern, Momase and Highlands regions via the links (Check out the links below for the selection lists for your region).

Past Grade 11 Selection Lists PDF AVAILABLE HERE (Released 20/12/2023):

• >> Grade 11 Selection List for Highlands Region

• >> Grade 11 Selection List for Southern Region

• >> Grade 11 Selection List for NGI Region

• >> Grade 11 Selection List for MOMASE Region

• >> Grade 11 Selections for NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOLS

We hope you have a fulfilling holiday. 

Stay Blessed

2025/2026 UPNG Non-school leavers and school leavers acceptance (Info)

The information presented below is a compilation of news and instructions from the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) website. The information is for non-school leavers (who have applied to UPNG) and school leavers who applied through DHERST's NOAS (National Online Application System). 

The Grade 12 School Leavers ONLINE Selection started in 2018. It is the best thing that happens. The online selection helps DHERST, the government and stakeholders know exactly how many Grade 12 students are selected for universities and colleges. 

In a recent media statement, DHERST resorted to also bringing the NON-SCHOOL LEAVERS Selection ONLINE. Universities and colleges are not going to make the selections. So, what does that mean for you as a non-school leaver applicant? Find out here

THE FORMER DHERST MINISTER, DON POLYE ANNOUNCED AN ONLINE NSL SELECTION TO TAKE EFFECT IN 2025/2026 (SEE VIDEO HERE). BUT, THE DETAILS ARE NOT CLEAR YET. STAY IN TUNE FOR MORE OR CHECK DHERST WEBSITE FOR THE LATEST ON NSL APPLICATION FOR 2026.

Important selections note

If you are a non-school leaver and have applied to UPNG, the university (UPNG) will inform you when you are accepted into a program. 

For example, if you submitted the 2026 UPNG non-school leaver application, you'll hear directly from UPNG - not from DHERST.

The university will directly inform you via the acceptance letter and/or by publishing the acceptance list on its website. Then, you must accept the Offer Letter and let the UPNG know about your intention to take up the offer immediately.

RELATED ARTICLE: PNG Universities and Colleges Last Year's Acceptance List Info, TESAS, HELP Loan and Registration and Orientation - ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW.

UPNG Acceptance Lists for 2026

The University of Papua New Guinea offers Diploma, Bachelor, Bachelor (Professional), Bachelor (Honours), Post-Graduate Diploma, Master, PhD and D.B.A. programs.

UPNG accepts School Leavers and Non-School leavers for admission into its Diploma, Bachelor and Bachelor (Professional) programs.

Here is what SL and NSL mean:

• School leavers - Grade 12 school leavers seeking admission in the next immediate year
• Non-School leavers - Prospecting students who completed Grade 12 in the last 5 years, including FODE and DODL students and international students.

Non-school Leavers Acceptance List

Due to limited space and resources, the University can only admit a limited number of new students into various programmes of study. As a result, competition is very high and priority is given to those with higher GPAs. 

Those seeking enrolment must satisfy the UPNG admission requirement.

The Non-School Leavers are selected based on their application in response to the University’s advertisement every year. The university does the selection and informs the students by publishing the 2026 non-school leavers acceptance list on each university's website. 

If you have a question about the 2026 Grade 12 selection process, PDF list, etc., please leave a comment below or check out this latest update on PNG Universities Non-School Leavers Selection.

School Leavers Acceptance List

School leavers are selected based on the options provided by the Department of Higher Education. DHERST does the selection online and informs the students of their AES or TESAS statuses.

The 2026 school leavers' selection list will be published on the DHERST website like it did in the past unless things have changed. However, it seems that the selection will continue as normal this year. 

So, check this blog post here or the DHERST website for the latest info in regards to the 2026 school leavers online selection list.

UPNG postgraduate programs

The University advertises for postgraduate programs such as Bachelor (Honours), Post-Graduate Diploma, Master, PhD and D.B.A. programs. Candidates with a good Bachelors degree are eligible to apply for Bachelor (Honours), Post-Graduate Diploma and Master programs. 

Candidates with a good Master degree are eligible to apply for the PhD program and D.B.A. program. The University selects the candidates for these programs from among those who apply against its advertisement every year.

Acceptance letters

The University sends offer/acceptance letters to all candidates selected for various programs in addition to advertising the names of selected candidates for various programs in the prominent newspapers in the Country. 

The candidates who accept the offer letters are requested to pay the relevant yearly fee in full and register themselves for the program for which they are accepted usually in February of the year concerned. 

The process of admission ends with the registration of the students for the program for which they are accepted.

If you have any questions about the 2026 Grade 12 selection process, PDF list, etc., please leave a comment below or check out this latest update on PNG Universities Non-School Leavers Selection.

School tuition subsidy and free tuition: Is the school fee subsidy policy feasible?

In the #EducationTalk series on PNG Insight, the writer reflects on the Tuition Fee-Free policy of 2012 - 2019. 

It presents an analysis of the TFF policy and school tuition subsidy (GSTF) model in a detailed (4000 words) article. Read about it here.

The discussion pauses the question if the Governance and Monitoring process of the new Govt's School Tuition Subsidy model can address the challenges faced in the implementation phases of the TFF policy in 2012 - 2019.

READ THE DISCUSSION POINTS HERE.

Perhaps it is important to mention that the conversation aims to raise the challenges of the past tuition fee policy so that proper measures can be taken to address then, going forward.

Quality Education: Secretary Recounts Achievements | Papua New Guinea Education Department

INTRODUCTION

On behalf of the Department of Education, I send Christmas Greetings to all our students and their families, teachers and school administrators and our important stakeholders like the development partners, churches, Non-Government Organizations (NGO) and service providers who supported us in our efforts to provide quality education and training for our children in Papua New Guinea.

I acknowledge the minister for education Hon. Joseph Yopyyopy for his elevation during the change of government and taking up the challenge with the Ministry as a political head. He has served humbly for the past 6 to 7 months with patience and with a spirit of servanthood.

We acknowledge the services of all the officers who passed on this year while providing vital services in their capacities and being committed to the education sector.

Also, at this juncture, we recognize and salute the retirees who will leave the Education Department for their commitment, dedication and tireless effort for their roles and responsibilities in the development of the education sector.

This year a total of eighteen (18) officers will be retiring while the second batch of retirees will leave next year (2020).

Our vision is to provide quality education and training to every citizen in the country. This year we have aspired and advocated our overarching theme to ‘Christian and Values Education for a Better Future.’

We exist to serve the parents, teachers, students and schools so that every Papua New Guineans is given a fair opportunity in education to achieve a better future.

On behalf of the Minister and the Office of the Secretary, I like to acknowledge and thank everyone for contributing to the long-term vision that is to improve the quality of education to every citizen for a better future.

We as public servants are here to serve our people in good and bad times, in rough and calm times, in happy and sad times. We survive to serve our people.

I’m grateful and satisfied that with the guidance of GOD Almighty and the leadership of the Minister, Top Management, line managers, staff and with the partner organizations, development partners and of course the spouses and children with your support and perseverance, we have all worked hard to make this year a success.

We have achieved a lot in terms of policy development and implementation as we remain resilient and strong despite the challenges.

ACHIEVEMENTS IN 2019

Let me highlight some of the accomplishments made this year.

First, the development and implementation of Standard Based Curriculum which we started in 2015. I am pleasured to announce that by 2020 we will complete the whole cycle of the SBC.

This year the officers have worked tirelessly with the leadership of Mr Walipe Wingi, ‘Mrs Annemaria Kona and Mr Steven Tandale for ensuring that the Secondary school curriculum is completed. We thank CDD for your patience and hard work for the completion of this important task despite the challenges faced.

All the curriculum materials that are developed is PNG made. It is something we all must be proud off for the children in the country.

Secondly, we acknowledge that work put in by the Policy & Planning Division for spearheading the ‘1-6-6 school structure’ and completion of the next ‘10-year Education Plan’.

Also, the completion of the ‘Corporate Plan’ which the Minister launched and the implementation of the ‘School Learning Improvement Plan (SLIP).’

Thirdly, to the Guidance and Counselling Division and the leadership for the development of the ‘Scout Policy’ and the ‘Behaviour Management Policy.’

Credits go to the Research & Revaluation Division, Policy & Planning Division, and Guidance Division and other line divisions that contributed enormously to develop the ‘Early Childhood Policy.’ The policy will be launched by the Minister before the end of the year.

Another milestone policy that was developed for the Secondary sector is the ‘National Schools of Excellence Policy.’ The policy is already approved by the National Executive Council and will be launched soon.

TVET Sector also has finalized and updated the ‘Technical Secondary Schools Policy.’ The National Examinations held this year was a success with no major problems.

The Finance Division must be thanked for commitments, despite the pressure in sorting all our claims. They worked tirelessly to ensure our tasks flow smoothly.

I personally acknowledge the commitment everyone in the department has put in. Next year all the divisions will have increases in their recurrent budgets. For example, the Curriculum Development Division’s budget will increase to cater for development, publishing and distributions of school materials.

Likewise, the Guidance Division will ensure that inspectors visit schools throughout the country.

In Tuition Fee Free (TFF) we have almost dispatched K600 million except for the last K100 million that is being held back to be released in early 2020. The TFF team in the department and the provinces must be acknowledged for making sure schools get their allocations.

This year we have decentralized the TFF functions to the provinces. We had successfully given the functions to 5 provinces namely New Ireland, East New Britain, Milne Bay, Morobe and Enga. These provinces were able to ensure all their schools received their funds.

The Department will be passing on the functions to other provinces in the country who are ready to take on the responsibilities.

Lastly, the Department has really embraced the advancement of technology. This year we have developed the ‘Document Management System Application.’ We are now converting all our hard copies of documents to e-copies so all our documents can be accessed by the press of the computer button.

We have also developed and launched “My Payslip Application’ The public servants and teachers can now access their current payslips online. ‘My PNG School Application’ is another intervention that is now been implemented and rolled out with officers from headquarter visiting provinces to impart the use of the system.

With the NID project, we have almost 30,000 teachers registered and working closely with the NID office to ensure all the remaining teachers are recorded. In 2020 all teachers will be required to attach their photos and NID numbers when submitting their resumption forms.

As many teachers have not yet received their NID this will take time however, photos will be a requirement on the forms next year.

CONCLUSION

I would like to conclude by once again acknowledge and thank the many long-serving officers and teachers who retire this year for your commitment and dedication to the education sector and wish you well in your future endeavours.

The onus is now on us to embrace the Government’s education developmental agendas to convalesce education for the betterment of the children of PNG into the future.

As we head into the New Year, I wish for all of us to share the same spirit of togetherness, ownership and teamwork to further enhance education to meet our overall goal of providing quality education and training for all.

Christmas is the time where families get together to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ joyously and peacefully.

Therefore, I wish you all a blessed and safe festive celebration and a prosperous happy new year 2020. May GOD Almighty continue to bless Papua New Guinea.

DR. UKE KOMBRA

PhD SECRETARY FOR EDUCATION