By DALCY LULUA
The Department of Education is addressing an incident at Kimbe Grammar School in West New Britain Province, where 27 Grade 10 students were unable to sit for the first day of their National Examinations due to unpaid school fees.
Education Secretary Dr Uke Kombra confirmed that the Department has been informed of the situation and is working closely with the West New Britain Provincial Education Office and the school’s administration to ensure the affected students are given an opportunity to complete their exams.
“We have been advised by the Provincial Education Advisor that a formal letter will be issued to the school to allow the students to sit for their examinations starting today, Tuesday, October 7, 2025,” Dr Kombra said.
He explained that the students will also be required to complete a Notice of Absenteeism form to account for the paper they missed on the first day.
Dr Kombra clarified that Kimbe Grammar School is a private institution and operates independently under its own administrative and financial policies.
“Private schools manage their own affairs, including staff salaries and fee structures. Students who enroll in private institutions do so under the terms and conditions set by the school,” he said.
However, the Education Secretary stressed that no student in Papua New Guinea should be denied their right to education or participation in national assessments due to financial difficulties or other circumstances beyond their control.
“Education is a right for every child in Papua New Guinea, whether they are in the public or private school system,” Dr Kombra emphasized.
“While private schools have their own governance structures, we continue to advocate for inclusive and fair practices that prioritize the welfare and learning continuity of all students,” he added.
Dr Kombra appealed to school administrations, parents, and provincial education authorities to resolve such matters amicably to prevent disruptions to students’ learning and examinations.
“We want every eligible student to complete their education successfully. The Department will continue to monitor the situation to ensure that the affected students are given a fair chance to complete their exams,” he said.
The issue gained public attention earlier today after reports circulated on social media that 27 out of 32 Grade 10 students at Kimbe Grammar were barred from sitting their first national exam paper because of unpaid or partially paid school fees.
It was alleged that despite pleas for leniency and assurances from some parents to settle outstanding fees, the students were denied entry to the exam hall.
The Department of Education has since assured that steps are being taken to address the matter urgently and to safeguard the students’ right to complete their national examinations.
I don’t think the education department should force the private institution to accept the students to sit for that exam.
They still have next year to do so should they wish to continue in that institution.
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