The Education Ministry has issued a Ministerial Policy Statement (MPS) under Section 27 of the Education Act 1983, providing guidelines for the nationwide implementation of the 1-6-6 school structure. This directive aims to guide education authorities, stakeholders, and partners in the establishment of Early Childhood Education (ECE) Centers, phasing out elementary schools, and transitioning them into primary schools.
According to the MPS, all education authorities and schools within the National Education System (NES) are required to comply with this policy. The directive stems from a 2016 National Executive Council (NEC) Policy Decision (No. 315/2016), which mandated the Department of Education to restructure the NES. The Cabinet also directed the implementation of the ECE Policy, albeit at a gradual pace, due to practical policy, planning, and capacity challenges.
Under the ECE Policy, the Ministry clarified that Kindergarten 1 and Kindergarten 2 would cater to children aged 4 and 5, respectively, with ECE limited to two years. The Ministry acknowledged challenges in relocating the Preparatory Grade into ECE Centers, necessitating adjustments to the Pre-School and Primary School structures. The updated 1-6-6 school system structure will be fully operational by 2024.
The Ministerial Policy Statement takes immediate effect, with implementation details to be outlined in a Secretary's Circular Instruction (SCI). The directive underscores the Ministry's commitment to ensuring students progress through to Grade 12 while improving the quality of education.
The Ministry has called on all stakeholders and partners to cooperate in achieving the full implementation of the 1-6-6 school system structure. This policy marks a significant step in enhancing Papua New Guinea’s education system.
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