PNG Education Department Probes Exam Cheating Scandal in Eastern Highlands

Secretary for Education, Dr. Uke Kombra

​The Papua New Guinea Department of Education has launched an investigation into the leakage of national examination papers at Ivingoi Secondary School in the Eastern Highlands Province.

Secretary for Education, Dr. Uke Kombra, confirmed today that students at the school allegedly accessed exam papers and answer sheets before the official sitting dates. He said the department is working urgently to trace how the materials were leaked and to identify those involved.

“This is a very serious academic crime,” Dr. Kombra said. “Stealing and selling of examination papers is a criminal offence punishable by law.” He noted that similar incidents have occurred since 2012, and the department has taken disciplinary and legal action against those found guilty.

In a separate case last year, examination papers also leaked in Eastern Highlands at Syntax Secondary School. The school was suspended, and the principal along with those involved in removing the exam papers were arrested and imprisoned.

Dr. Kombra warned that both teachers and students caught cheating will be dismissed immediately. “Students and teachers involved in cheating will be terminated on the spot,” he said.

He called on parents, teachers, and communities to take responsibility and report any information about exam paper sales or leaks. “We must protect the integrity of our national exams,” he said.

While social media reports have circulated widely, Dr. Kombra clarified that the department is still conducting a formal investigation to determine the point of breach and extent of the damage. He assured the public that the Ministry of Education remains committed to maintaining fairness and transparency in all examinations across PNG.

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