By GEORGINA MICHAEL
Twenty-nine of the 30 members of the National Education Board were sworn in today, officially commencing their three-year term to strengthen governance, accountability, and policy direction in Papua New Guinea’s education system.
The Board comprises 14 full members and 15 alternate members, with one full member yet to be sworn in.
Secretary for the Department of Education, Dr. Uke Kombra, officiated the ceremony on behalf of Acting Minister for Education Kinoka Feo.
He congratulated the new members, describing their appointment as both an honour and a privilege, and urged them to embrace the responsibility of shaping the future of education in PNG.
Dr. Kombra noted the board’s mandate to provide strategic oversight, robust governance, and sound policy advice.
“This Board is responsible for the strategic oversight of the national education system,” he said. “I ask each of you to familiarize yourselves with your roles and responsibilities, knowing your primary mandate is to ensure accountability and deliver sound policy advice and direction to the Government.”
He outlined priority areas for the board, including implementation of the National Education Plan 2020–2029, expansion of early childhood education, strengthening of flexible open and distance education, and promotion of STEM education.
Acknowledging the challenges ahead, Dr. Kombra highlighted the pressures of increasing student enrolment, limited resources, and the need to maintain quality education.
“The growing population and increasing demand for education are significant challenges for the Board and the Ministry, particularly in terms of infrastructure, teacher numbers, and ensuring quality education delivery,” he said. “This includes both academic and technical/vocational career pathways.”
He said that the diversity and expertise of the Board members were deliberately chosen to drive meaningful change.
“The next three years will be exciting yet challenging. I believe we will work together to ensure our education system is strong, and that every child receives the highest quality education possible,” Dr. Kombra said.