PM WELCOMES “END TO GRADE 8 AND GRADE 10 DROP-OUT POLICY

Prime James Marape has welcomed the transformative policy that is aimed at ending the practice of Grade 8 and Grade dropouts in Papua New Guinea, as recently announced by the education minister Lucas Dekena.
This transformative policy will be effective in 2027, marking a new era for Education, and a promising future of opportunities for young citizens to complete their secondary education.

PM Marape says, by eliminating grade 8 and 10 dropouts, will break down the barriers that have held back too many of the young people.

The new policy and approach marks a historic step toward ensuring equal access to quality education for all Papua New Guineans, ensuring all students will have the right to progress from Grade 8 through to Grade 12, preparing them for tertiary education or vocational training.

Prime Minister Marape emphasised that the new approach goes hand-in-hand with the government’s commitment to building a stronger education system, including the construction of new schools, recruitment of qualified teachers, and investment in educational resources.

He further emphasised that, high schools will be empowered to incorporate Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) along with Christian ethics into their curriculum, equipping students with not, only a strong academic foundation but also practical life skills and ethical values.

This approach ensures that when students graduate, they step into the world ready to make
a positive impact with both their knowledge and integrity.

The government’s education reform aligns with Vision 2050 and is supported by partnerships with communities, international donors, and NGOs.