Education Secretary Dr Uke Kombra

Education Secretary Dr Uke Kombra in a statement reminded schools that the NEC Decision No. 01/2016 of 04th February 2016 still stands – that no fee should be charged by government run schools.

“The National Government hasn’t changed its policy on Tuition Fee Free education for all children currently in schools around the country.

“The Department of Education has received complaints from parents, guardians and students that school administrations and school boards have asked parents to pay fees prior to enrolment.

The Secretary for Education, Dr Uke Kombra, told Loop PNG that the Government has made its full commitment of K602m, with the last payment of K113m made a week ago.

Kombra said they expect the principals to use the money to pay off some of their debts and outstanding bills.

Schools without outstanding fees should keep that money safely for the start of the 2017 academic year.

Kombra stressed that the Government has a policy of no project fees however, there are some schools that parents do agree to give some support as project fees.