By DALCY LULUA
Education Secretary Dr. Uke Kombra has condemned the behaviour of students involved in disorderly conduct following their final examinations, describing it as unacceptable and a serious concern for the education system.
Dr. Kombra made the remarks after police in Simbu Province arrested 18 Grade 10 students from various high and secondary schools for disorderly behaviour shortly after completing their national examinations last week.
Police confirmed that the students were detained in Kundiawa for misconduct and creating public nuisance. They are expected to appear in court anytime this week.
Dr. Kombra said the Education Department does not encourage students to participate in parties, informal gatherings, or other activities outside of official school programs.
“We discourage our students. We don’t encourage them to go into parties and all these end-of-year activities outside the school’s official programs,” Dr. Kombra said.
He explained that schools can manage student behaviour within their premises, but once students leave the school grounds, control becomes difficult for teachers and administrators.
“When they go outside the school gates, they are out in the community, and our teachers and headmasters cannot control their behaviour. Inside the school, we can take responsibility, but outside, it becomes difficult,” he said.
Dr. Kombra expressed concern that many students now organise their own social events after exams, often without the approval or knowledge of parents and teachers.
He said the incident in Simbu now falls under police jurisdiction, and those involved must be held accountable for their actions.
“It is not practical to expect a headmaster to leave school and go to a marketplace to discipline a student. Once they are outside the school gate, it becomes a community matter, and police can step in where necessary,” Dr. Kombra stated.
He further urged parents to take an active role in supervising their children, particularly during the post-examination period when students tend to engage in unsanctioned celebrations.
“Our schools can only do so much. Parents and communities must also take part in ensuring our students behave responsibly,” he said.
Dr. Kombra reaffirmed that the Education Department will continue to work with the police and local authorities to help manage and prevent similar incidents in the future.
“We will continue to work with the police and community leaders to help control and curb such behaviour, but discipline begins at home and in the community,” he added.