Papua New Guinea (PNG) has made significant strides in education since gaining independence in 1975, with improvements in services, infrastructure, and educational outcomes; however, significant challenges remain.
According to the Papua New Guinea (PNG) National Research Institute (NRI) Spotlight Vol. 17, Issue 11, titled “Assessing quality of Education in Enga Province, PNG: Factors impacting students’ learning experience”, the Tuition Fee-Free (TFF) Policy was one of the challenges, because it contributed to overcrowded classrooms, resource constraints, and increased teacher workloads despite its intended purpose of increasing student enrolment rates and eased financial burdens on families.
The Spotlight Issue, written by PNG NRI Research Officer Hafford Norea, also mentioned additional factors affecting quality education, and they include the following:
• Poor relationships between schools and neighbouring communities,
• Tribal conflicts disrupting educational activities,
• Transportation challenges for students, and
• High parental unemployment rates affecting student learning.
Addressing these challenges requires strategic and collaborative efforts from the government, local communities, and educational stakeholders.
Implementing effective solutions can enhance the quality of education and improve learning outcomes in the Enga province.
To address the issues raised, Norea recommended the following:
• Improve the TFF administration, procurement process, governance and management to reduce its adverse effects that deteriorates the quality of education.
• Consider constructing schools within the reach of feeder communities, ensuring accessibility to enhance the quality of education, particularly in remote areas.
• Develop community-based initiatives to foster positive relationships between schools and communities.
• Prioritize conflict resolution mechanisms to reduce the impact of tribal conflicts, protect schools and enhance stability.