With new schools popping up in the country, ever wondered what’s the process behind starting a new school in the country. Here’s five things to know about registering a school in PNG according to the Education Secretary Dr. Uke Kombra:

1. Registration Certificate is a Must

No school can begin operations without the official registration certificate approved by the Secretary for Education, Dr. Uke Kombra. The process begins with the Provincial Education Board (PEB) approval, but this does not automatically allow the school to open the following year.

2. Rigorous Inspection Process

After PEB approval, the Department of Education conducts an inspection to ensure the school meets essential standards. This includes verifying that the school has classrooms, qualified teachers, and adequate teacher housing before it can be granted official registration.

3. Teacher Housing is Now Mandatory

A key update to the registration policy requires that schools seeking registration must have adequate housing for teachers. For example, if a school plans to hire 9 teachers, it must have 9 teachers' houses. This ensures teachers are well-supported, especially in remote areas.

4. Junior High Schools Must Meet Strict Criteria

Upgrading a primary school to a junior high school is not automatic. Junior high schools must meet specific requirements such as having secondary-trained teachers, appropriate classroom facilities (including science labs), and a curriculum delivered by specialized teachers. This ensures quality education for Grades 7 to 10.

5. Illegal Schools Face Major Consequences

Schools operating without proper registration face numerous challenges. Teachers in unregistered schools won’t be paid, students can’t sit for exams, and the school won’t be eligible for tuition funding. Dr. Kombra warns that operating a school without the official certificate is illegal and can cause significant disruptions.