The Department of Education has clarified that the Kerevat National School of Excellence in East New Britain has not been renamed, following public concerns over a plaque unveiled during the opening of its new infrastructure.

Education Secretary Dr Uke Kombra said the institution’s official name remains as Kerevat National School of Excellence, with its history and legacy intact.

"Kerevat is an iconic institution with a proud, historic legacy deeply rooted in Papua New Guinea’s educational history. That name and identity have not been altered in any way.”

The newly unveiled plaque is specifically for the school’s new 16-classroom block, which has been named the James Marape Legacy Campus.  

Dr Kombra said the decision to name the new facility was made independently by the Kerevat National School of Excellence Governing Council.

The Department said the naming recognizes Prime Minister James Marape’s role in conceptualising the National Schools of Excellence initiative and his contribution, as a former Education Minister, to securing the initial funding for the classroom project.

Dr Kombra acknowledged the strong attachment former students, landowners and people of East New Britain have to Kerevat’s history.

He said the new infrastructure is intended to enhance the school’s facilities and support quality education and STEM learning for future generations, while preserving Kerevat’s longstanding identity and heritage.

Additionally, The Department of Education remains committed to transparency and maintaining the integrity and proud heritage of all national educational institutions.