Strict 2026 Mandate: No Enrollment Fees Allowed

(Derivedfrom Secretary’s Circular Instruction No: 01/2026)

The Department of Education has issued a stern directiveto all education boards and school managers regarding the mandatory processesfor the 2026 Government Free

Education Policy (GFEP). Under this circular, school administrations are warnedthat no student shall be denied enrollment or class attendance due tothe non-payment of any fees. School heads found in breach of this "Rightto Education" mandate will face severe penalties, including suspensionfrom duties without pay, and will be held personally accountable.

To restore financial discipline, theDepartment is rolling out the PNG School - Based Financial Management System(PNG - SFMS) as the only standardized accounting system. A new AcquittalSoftware Application will also be launched, enforcing a strict "NoAcquittals - No GFEP Grants" policy. Schools must submit theirNational School Census Forms by 31 March 2026 to remain eligible forfunding.

Significant structural changesinclude the phasing out of elementary schools under the 1-6-6 Policy,where funding for Preparatory through Grade 2 will now be administered bycentral primary schools. Additionally, every school is now directed to generate10% of its annual budget through local legal self-reliance projects toreduce total dependency on the state.

Key Fee Limits and Responsibilities:

• Voluntary Project Fees:Strictly capped at K500 for Primary and K1,000 for Secondary andVocational schools per year, requiring both P&C and ProvincialEducation Board approval.

• Prohibited Fees: Schoolsare strictly forbidden from charging for registration, admission, ID cards, ortransfers.

• Parental Duties: Parentsremain responsible for providing healthy daily meals, uniforms, transport, andhome study resources such as solar lights.

Click on the link below to view/dowload in PDF:

Secretary’s Circular Instruction No: 01/2026

Authorized for release by

DR. UKE KOMBRA, PhD, OBE.

Secretary for Education