Remote Schools in PNG to Receive Increased Funding for Better Access

Remote Schools in PNG to Receive Increased Funding for Better Access

​The Papua New Guinea Government has announced a new funding model for schools, prioritizing those in remote and inaccessible areas. Education Minister Lucas Dekena today introduced the 2025 Free Education Policy, which aims to promote equity in education by allocating resources based on the PNG Access Remote Index (PARI). This approach ensures that schools in challenging locations receive more funding than those in urban centers.

Minister Dekena explained that, for over a decade, tuition fee grants have been distributed uniformly without addressing the unique challenges faced by rural schools. "From 2025, funding will reflect the location of schools, with greater support for remote communities," he said. A study conducted by the Department of Education categorized schools into six levels of accessibility: Highly Accessible, Accessible, Moderately Accessible, Remote, Very Remote, and Extremely Remote, enabling a targeted allocation of resources.

Under the new policy, 80% of the funding will go towards operational costs, while the remaining 20% will be allocated to essential commodities such as materials for science and mathematics. Project fees will also be covered through the K160 million Family Assistance Package, with funds transferred directly into school accounts. To maintain accountability, schools will need approval from Provincial or National Education Boards before requesting additional contributions from parents for specific projects.

Elementary schools will no longer receive government grants starting in Term 2 of 2025, as funding will be redirected to central primary schools under the 1-6-6 School Restructure Policy. Early Childhood Education (ECE) centers in selected provinces will receive increased funding to support early learning. Minister Dekena called on school leaders to manage funds transparently and collaborate with local authorities to address specific needs, including boarding costs for high and secondary schools.

In an effort to promote sustainability, Minister Dekena urged schools to generate 10% of their budgets through self-reliance projects. He concluded by emphasizing the government’s commitment to ensuring access to quality education, stating, "Our aim is to provide every student with the opportunity to complete 13 years of education. This policy is a step towards eliminating dropouts and achieving universal education for all."

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