By postcourieronline
Copyright postcourier
The Department of Education has announced significant progress in the rollout of the Vocational Education and Training (VET) Curriculum under the 2023–2027 program, with achievements already impacting schools, teachers, and institutions nationwide.
Since its inception in 2023, the VET Curriculum has expanded to 15 provinces, providing training to 1,343 teachers, administrators, VET coordinators, and inspectors through Competency-Based Training and Assessment (CBT&A).
More than 114 VET institutions have been audited, with 57 audit reports finalized and made available.
Education Secretary Dr. Uke Kombra said the achievements to date reflect the Department’s commitment to strengthening technical and vocational pathways as part of the national education agenda.
“Vocational Education and Training is not an alternative pathway, it is a critical education pathway for our young people.
Through VET, we are equipping our students with practical skills, industry knowledge, and opportunities that lead directly to employment,” Dr. Kombra said.
The Board of Studies (BOS), approved by the Minister in 2025, now formally includes General Education Curriculum, VET, and STEM.
Training modules for NC1 and NC2 qualifications have also been developed and launched, ensuring that students across eight priority sectors including ; Business Services, Primary Industry, and Tourism and Hospitality – gain access to standardized and accredited learning materials.
Looking ahead, the Department is working to strengthen partnerships with industries, churches, NGOs, and other stakeholders to improve sustainability and expand access.
Plans include the establishment of provincial Academic Advisory Committees, development of online teaching and learning platforms, and the creation of a dedicated VET Teacher Training Centre.
Dr. Kombra emphasized the importance of stakeholder support in achieving these goals.
“We need strong partnerships and continued commitment from government, industries, and development partners to sustain this rollout.
Our collective responsibility is to ensure that every young Papua New Guinean has access to quality skills training that prepares them for the workforce and nation-building,” he said. The Department of Education has recommended that provinces and districts support the VET rollout as a key education priority and engage with industries to create employment opportunities for graduates.
