Senior Education Officers Conference underway in Oro

The 34th annual Senior Education Officers Conference (SEOC) will be held in Popondetta, Northern Province from September 22-26.

The conference set to be held at the Popondetta Secondary School will see over 100 Senior Education officers from the Ministry of Education as well as representatives from other government agencies, churches and development partners attend.

This year’s theme is Accessible Quality Education Pathways for All. The theme is derived from focus area six of the National Education Plan 20202029; Education Pathways.

Key discussions will focus on technical and vocational teacher education and strategies, Flexible Open Distance Education (FODE), the status of inclusive and special education, the implementation of the 1-6-6 school restructure, and teacher training programs plus many more discussion on education pathways.

Provincial Education Advisors will also present on the progress and strategies involved in the phasing out of Elementary and the Grade 8 selections.

Education Secretary Dr Uke Kombra highlighted the importance of these discussions in ensuring every child in Papua New Guinea has a fair opportunity to succeed.

“Traditionally, our children have followed the path from elementary to primary, then to secondary and Grade 12. But not every child learns in the same way, or succeeds through the same system,” Dr Kombra said.

“While many will complete Grade 12 and move to universities, others will take different but equally meaningful routes through FODE, vocational schools, technical training, or literacy programs.”

He emphasized that vocational education and training, accredited trade courses in secondary schools, the future of FODE, and the work of the National Literacy and Awareness Secretariat are all crucial pathways for learners.

“This is why our discussions and presentations this week will focus on these very pathways. It is timely, because as our country celebrates 50 years of Independence, we must also prepare for the next 50 years,” Dr Kombra added.

Minister for Education Lucas Dekena will be present to officiate the launch of the week-long conference in the province.