Press Release

PNG Government Releases K225.8 Million in School Grants Ahead of 2026 Academic Year

Port Moresby, January 26, 2026 The Department of Education has commenced the disbursement of K225,845,619.86 in School Operational and Functional (SOF) Grants and Project Fees for Quarter 1, 2026 ensuring schools across Papua New Guinea are well-resourced to kick off the new academic year.

In a press release issued Monday, the Office of the Secretary confirmed that funds will be paid directly into all registered school bank accounts this week. The allocation includes:

·         K181,499,999.40 - SOF Grant (Q1, Payment 1, Batch 1) for All School Sectors

·         K4,418,250.00 - SOF Grant for FODE & IERC sectors

·         K39,117,620.46 - Project Fees (Q1, Payment 1, Batch 2) for All School Sectors

·         K809,750.00 - Project Fees for FODE & IERC

Total Disbursement: K225,845,619.86

Secretary for Education, Dr. Uke W. Kombra, PhD, OBE, underscored the government’s unwavering commitment to its Free Education Policy a cornerstone initiative designed to remove financial barriers and guarantee every child access to quality learning.

“Our mission is clear: we must ensure that no child is left behind,” Dr. Kombra stated. “By prioritizing these payments early in the term, we are providing school administrations with the stability they need to focus on delivering quality teaching and learning in the classroom.”

He urged all Heads of Schools, School Administrations, and Provincial Divisions of Education to manage funds transparently and accountably and to use them specifically to enhance teaching and learning outcomes.

The Department will also publish the full list of payments per province on its official website (www.education.gov.pg) for public scrutiny and accountability.

In a special message to families, the Secretary called on parents and guardians to continue supporting their children’s attendance and well-being:

| “We thank everyone for working with us to build a stronger education system for our country.”

Dr. Kombra concluded by wishing all teachers and students a successful and productive 2026 academic year.

Authorized for release by

DR. UKE W. KOMBRA, PhD, OBE.

Secretary for Education