PNG Education Minister Denies Economic Crisis Claims

​PNG Education Minister Lucas Dekena [Parliament Photo]

​PNG Education Minister Lucas Dekena has dismissed allegations that Papua New Guinea is facing economic turmoil. In a statement released on Friday, Dekena refuted the claims, emphasizing that the government has fully funded education services as per the current budget.

Dekena outlined several critical initiatives that would continue to receive financial support and be effectively executed:

1. Teachers are set to receive a three per cent salary increase by Pay 14 (July 10)
2. Teachers' upgraded base salaries will be implemented by Pay 14
3. Government Tuition Fee Subsidy (GTFS) for terms one and two will be fully paid and distributed to schools
4. The entire 2024 budget for examinations and certification will be released as planned

Furthermore, Dekena mentioned that additional science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) students would soon be sent abroad for further education.

Dekena expressed gratitude to the government for prioritising education and health, stating, "I look forward to ensuring that education services are fully implemented and that students and teachers receive the support they need."

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