Educational institutions in Madang Province, particularly Kusbau Primary school and Tusbab Secondary School, are dealing with severe funding delays that are obstructing their operational capacities and directly affecting students’ learning experiences.
Mrs. Biel Towili, the Deputy Principle for Kusbau Primary School, highlighted the critical situation, stating, “We haven’t received the second quarter funds. It really affects the operation of the school.”
The delay in the release of Government Tuition Fee Subsidy (GTFS) funds has led to a shortage of essential supplies such as exercise books, papers for printing and stationeries causing disruptions in the learning process.
This was also agreed by Mr. Michael Kavagu, the Deputy Principal of Tusbab Secondary School, who emphasized the disadvantageous effects of the funding delays on various aspects of school functioning, including purchasing school uniforms, books, and implementing school projects.
Furthermore, Mr. Kavagu expressed concern over the impending written expression exams scheduled for June 6th, as the delay in GTFS funds may delay the distribution of examination booklets, portraying a significant challenge to schools across the province, especially those situated in remote areas like Karkar, Brahman, Malala, Ramu and Rai Coast.
In addition to risking the regular operations of schools, delayed funding compromises the validity of educational assessments, which could have a significant effect on the academic careers of countless children.
“In order to protect the standard of education and the prospects of students throughout Papua New Guinea, it is imperative that streamlined procedures and effective disbursement mechanisms be put in place,” said Mr. Kavagu.
In response to these challenges, both Mrs. Towili and Mr. Kavagu have called upon higher authorities, including the Secretary of Education, to accelerate the release of GTFS funds to ensure the continuous running of schools and the successful administration of examinations.