As the Written Expression exam date passes, Malabunga Secondary School, in East New Britain Province like most schools in the country, has been facing its fair share of difficulties in continuing the academic year. Principal for Malabunga Mr. Bruno Kulai, stated that he’s seen the student numbers grow since he first started teaching in 2019. “When I first started teaching, there were approximately 850 students; presently in 2024 the number has increased to 1438.” While Kulai is pleased to see more primary students making it into secondary school, he is also concerned about the uneven distribution of GTFS funds within the province. “Malabunga is a boarding school that houses 668 students and over 770-day students, yet it receives less funding compared to large day schools.” He told PNG HAUSBUNG that Malabunga may consider diminishing its boarding status and become a day school due to financial issues. “Cost of living is high and it’s putting a strain on the school’s finances.” Additionally, he stated that schools in province were considering closing on exam week if funds did not get through. “The worst-case scenario would be closing the school, with exceptions to the Grade 10s sitting for their exams, but we do not want that to happen.” Malabunga received its GTFS during week 6 of term 2. Apart from late fees and overpopulation of students, Malabunga also has challenges of frequent blackouts.