The usual practice of Grades 8s not going back to school after sitting for their exams ceased with the students returning to classes.
Under instructions from First Assistance Secretary Peter Kants, all Grade 8 students were to return to class as well as teachers, to continue teaching due to preparations of discontinuing Grade 8 National Examinations.
Speaking to PNG Hausbung, New Erima High School’s Principal Mr. Yalo Kipungi, confirmed the preparations for the implementation of the education policy of 1+6+6 in which students will spend a year in early childhood education development, six years in primary school and six more years in secondary school, is progressing.
“We are shortly coming into the period where Grade 8 exams will be discontinued, and students will simply proceed into Grade 9 in the education.”
Currently, there is the 3+6+4 program in which children attend elementary school for three years, primary school for six years, and secondary school for four years, with exams in grades eight, ten, and twelve.
When asked about the distribution of the Government Tuition Fee Subsidy (GTFS), Mr. Kipungi responded unsurprisingly that New Erima, like many other schools in the country, constantly faces delays when it comes to receiving funds and consequently many schools find it difficult to continue operating during the academic year.
He further said that the responsible authorities should look into this matter and ensure that GTFS funds are distributed in a timely manner to all schools in the country going forward, as many schools rely on these fundings to function right throughout the year.