Papua New Guinea’s National Department of Education has just launched the Edunex Learning Management System (LMS) and the Integrated ICT Policy for Education marking the beginning of a nationwide effort to integrate sophisticated technology in the education system.
Speaking at the Port Moresby National School of Excellence, Education Secretary Dr. Uke Kombra said the reforms align with Prime Minister James Marape's directive for government agencies to embrace artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technology to improve public services and drive economic growth.
Dr. Kombra said the Department of Education is committed to turning that vision into reality by introducing digital learning tools that will reach classrooms across the country.
"We would like to see this in every classroom, in every province, in every corner of Papua New Guinea.”
He said the newly launched Integrated ICT Policy brings together years of digital education initiatives into a single framework that sets standards for infrastructure, internet connectivity, digital classrooms, data protection, teacher training and long-term financing.
The policy was approved by the National Executive Council in 2025.
Dr. Kombra described Edunex as the next stage in the evolution of education, following the transition from slates and blackboards to whiteboards and now smart digital classrooms.
"Edunex is going to be transformational, a reform that will disturb the normal traditional way of teaching and learning.”
The platform will connect schools through reliable internet services, including Starlink where required, allowing students and teachers in remote areas to access lessons, digital resources and specialist teachers regardless of location.
AI will also be integrated into classrooms to provide customized learning experiences and help students prepare for higher education both in Papua New Guinea and overseas.
Dr. Kombra said the Department partnered with technology company PowerX and the University of Western Pacific to develop the platform after reviewing learning management systems used internationally and within Papua New Guinea.
Initially, the Department will digitize Grade 11 and 12 curriculum materials before expanding to lower grades.
Students will be able to access learning resources, complete homework online, receive instant feedback, and sit on digital assessments through the AI-powered system.
One of the vital features of Edunex will allow expert teachers to deliver live lessons simultaneously to multiple schools, helping address teacher shortages in remote areas.
An AI presentation at the launch explained that Edunex is designed as a complete digital education ecosystem that enables teachers to create lessons, conduct assessments, monitor student progress, and communicate with learners through a single platform.
Students will have access to digital classrooms, assignments, quizzes, and learning resources from anywhere.
The system is powered by Nexa AI, an intelligent assistant developed in Papua New Guinea to support teachers and students by answering academic questions, generating lesson plans, recommending learning resources and assisting with administrative tasks.
According to the presentation, Nexa AI has been built specifically to meet the needs of PNG's education system.
Edunex will be rolled out in phases, beginning with all seven National Schools of Excellence during the 2026–2027 implementation period before expanding to secondary schools nationwide and eventually all primary schools by 2035.
Participating schools will receive Starlink satellite internet and supporting digital infrastructure to ensure maximum connectivity.
Dr. Kombra said the launch marks only the beginning of a long-term transformation of PNG's education system.
"Today is not the end – it is the starting point – a transformation that we cannot wait for."
