Education Secretary Dr. Uke Kombra has described the transfer of education functions from the National Department of Education to the National Capital District Commission (NCDC) as a move that will strengthen education service delivery in Port Moresby.

Dr. Kombra made the remarks during the official transfer ceremony, acknowledging the occasion as an important moment in Papua New Guinea education.

He said the transfer was the result of continued efforts and persistence by NCD Governor Powes Parkop, who had consistently advocated for the decentralisation of education functions to the commission.

Kombra explained that education in Papua New Guinea has operated under a decentralised system since the 1970s, with provinces taking ownership and leadership of education functions.

However, NCD remained under the direct administration of the Department of Education until this transfer.

“From today onwards, one of the 20 divisions in the Department of Education will now be moving next door to NCDC.”

Dr. Kombra clarified that the transfer covers the overall operations and management of the general education sector, including elementary, primary, secondary and vocational schools, but does not include higher education.

Under the transfer arrangement, a total of 92 schools will move under NCDC management, including 37 elementary schools, 37 primary schools, 12 secondary schools and five vocational institutions.

The transfer includes 2,290 teachers and approximately 107,000 students across the NCD education system.

Dr. Kombra said the move would give NCDC greater authority to make local decisions that directly improve education services.

“The schools will be under your control directly. You will not have to come to the Department of Education. Services and education can be delivered efficiently under your management.”

While highlighting the benefits, he acknowledged there would also be challenges, particularly in aligning the different administrative structures of NCDC and the public service system.

He thanked the Department of Personnel Management (DPM) for supporting the transition process and allowing the necessary movement of personnel.

Dr. Kombra also congratulated Governor Parkop for his leadership and commitment towards improving education in the capital city.

He said the transfer would allow the Department of Education to focus more on its core responsibilities, including maintaining standards, inspections, curriculum development, examinations, school registration and teacher registration.