GFEP 2026: Ministerial Policy Statement

This document outlines Papua New Guinea's Government Free Education Policy (GFEP) for 2026 under the Marape Rosso Government. Key points include:

• Continued Free Education: The government will cover all tuition and project fees for students enrolled in registered schools across the national education system, including Early Childhood Education centers, primary/secondary schools, vocational institutions, Special Education Centers, and FODE programs.
• Increased Funding: A total budget of K904.5 million has been allocated for 2026 a 10% increase from 2025 distributed as:
• 80% (K595.2 million) for School Operation and Functional Grants paid directly to schools
• 20% (K148 million) for teaching materials focused on English, Science, Mathematics, and eLearning
• K160 million for project fees to support school capital works
• Fee Structure: School fee limits are set according to the PNG Access Remote Index (PARI), with differentiated rates based on geographic accessibility (from Highly Accessible to Extremely Remote areas). Parents remain responsible for non-tuition costs such as uniforms, meals, transport, and approved voluntary self-reliance projects (capped at K500/year for primary and K1,000/year for secondary schools).
• Key Policy Changes:
• Elementary schools will be phased out in 2026; their funding will be channeled through central Primary Schools under the 1-6-6 School Restructure Policy
• New TVET Equipment Voucher System introduced to support vocational training
• Schools must generate 10% of their annual budget through self-reliance projects
• Strict prohibition against denying students enrollment or attendance due to non-payment of fees
• Accountability Measures: A new PNG School Based Financial Management System and acquittal software will enhance transparency, with mandatory financial reporting and audits required for continued funding eligibility.

The policy reaffirms the government's commitment to "leaving no child behind" while promoting equity, quality education, and shared responsibility between government, provinces, and parents.