PRIME Minister Hon. James Marape has reiterated his commitment to transforming Papua New Guinea’s education system, calling for urgent and drastic reforms to shape the next generation of skilled and responsible citizens. Addressing governors, provincial education administrators, and key education stakeholders in Port Moresby today, the Prime Minister emphasised that education is the foundation of national progress.
“Education is something very close to my heart. I would not be standing here today if not for our school system,” Prime Minister Marape stated. “I am a product of Papua New Guinea’s education system—from Grade 1 all the way to university. Education must remain our priority because an unskilled population leads to restlessness, lawlessness, and missed opportunities.”
The Prime Minister acknowledged the presence of governors, provincial administrators, and the acting Head of State, Hon. Job Pomat, commending them for their commitment to shaping the nation’s future. He also paid tribute to the tireless contributions of teachers across the country, recognising them as the greatest influencers of PNG’s last 50 years of independence.
“Our teachers—whether in government, church-run, or private schools—have left an imprint on our nation. Teaching is a noble profession. Even Jesus Christ was more known as a Teacher than as a Preacher. If we want the best education for our children, we must ensure our teachers are amongst the highest-paid and most disciplined public servants in the country,” he said.
Prime Minister Marape outlined key education reforms that his government is prioritising, including:
- Higher pay for teachers based on qualifications, not location.
- Eliminating Grade 10 dropouts and ensuring all students reach Grade 12.
- Expanding flexible open distance education (FODE) to support students who miss
schooling. - Investing in early childhood education, with churches playing a leading role.
- Reinforcing discipline and professionalism among teachers.
“We don’t want betel-nut-chewing teachers. We don’t want dreadlocked teachers. We want
good-quality, well-presented teachers who uphold the highest standards of discipline. And we are willing to pay them top salaries to ensure that,” he added.
The Prime Minister stressed that the next 10 to 20 years are crucial for Papua New Guinea, urging education officials to act swiftly rather than waiting for long-term reforms. He referenced World Bank statistics that show every K1 invested in education generates K4 in long-term economic benefits.
“We don’t have 50 years to fix our education system. The time to act is now. If we fail today, we will lose our country to an unskilled and restless population in the next two generations,” he warned.
Prime Minister Marape linked today’s challenges to past education reforms that failed to deliver sustainable results, pointing to the 1991 Matane Report and provincial government reforms of the 1990s as disruptions that led to the current skills gap in PNG’s workforce.
“We have created more dropouts and liabilities than assets. Our education system must
change course so that every child who enters school is given the right skills, character, and
knowledge. By our 70th anniversary in 20 years, we must have a knowledge-based economy with educated, responsible citizens.”
He urged governors, education advisors, and policymakers to focus on the next generation
—not just the next election.
“Politicians may think about the next election, but public servants must think about the next generation. If we fail to shape our youth today, we are failing PNG’s future,” he said.
The Prime Minister reaffirmed that his government is committed to fully implementing the 1-6-6 structure and working with churches, provinces, and education leaders to ensure no child is left behind.
“Our goal is clear: Quality education must shape good character, provide valuable skills, and build knowledge. There is no investment more important than investing in our children’s future.”
Prime Minister Marape urged education leaders to move beyond talk and take
action.
“Education is not about political gain—it is about national progress. If we do this right, we
secure Papua New Guinea’s future. Let’s get to work.”
