PNG Education Department launches GESI policy for public servants

PNG Education Department launches GESI policy for public servants

PAPUA New Guinea's National Department of Education has introduced a new policy aimed at creating a fairer, safer and more inclusive workplace for its public servants.

The Public Service Gender Equity and Social Inclusion (GESI) Policy 2026 was launched in Port Moresby today, marking a new step by the department to strengthen inclusive leadership and workplace practices across the education sector. The initiative was developed with support from the Australian Government.

The policy follows a broader public service push for government agencies to establish their own GESI frameworks and sets out measures to promote equal opportunity, accessibility and support for officers within the department.

Education Secretary Dr Uke Kombra said the policy was intended to ensure both women and men had opportunities to contribute to the direction and development of the organisation.

He said promoting women's leadership should not be viewed as limiting opportunities for men, but rather as a way of drawing on the skills, knowledge and experience of the entire workforce.

“Women play an essential role in our community, as do men in their own right. The public service recognizes gender equality as a fundamental human right for all. It is a critical foundation for building strong, balanced, and effective education systems for Papua New Guinea,” Dr Kombra said.

National GESI Coordinator Claribel Waide said the policy was designed to benefit the department as a whole rather than focus on one section of the workforce.

She said greater participation by women in leadership would also create opportunities for men and women to work together more effectively in sharing responsibilities and making decisions.

“This is not just a policy for women. It is an opportunity for the whole department—men included—to work together to create a more inclusive and supportive workplace. Gender equality benefits everyone. When we strengthen women’s leadership, we also open doors for men to collaborate more effectively, share responsibilities, and contribute to decision-making in new ways. Stronger women’s leadership means stronger institutions for all of us,” she said.

The policy is also aligned with Papua New Guinea's National Gender Equality and Women's Empowerment Policy 2025–2035, which focuses on improving women's participation and leadership, strengthening safety and rights, and reducing barriers to participation.

The department said the approach recognises that lasting progress requires women and men to work together as partners in building an inclusive public service.

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