The 34th annual Senior Education Officers Conference (SEOC) will be held in Popondetta, Northern Province, from September 22–26.
Over 100 senior education officers from the Ministry of Education, as well as representatives from other government agencies, churches, and development partners, will attend the conference at Popondetta Secondary School.
This year’s theme is “Accessible Quality Education Pathways for All,” which is based on “Education Pathways,” focus area six of the National Education Plan 2020–2029.
Key discussions will focus on technical and vocational teacher education and strategies, Flexible Open Distance Education (FODE), the status of inclusive and special education, the implementation of the 1-6-6 school restructure, and teacher training programs, along with many more topics on education pathways.
Provincial Education Advisors will also present on the progress and strategies involved in phasing out elementary schools and the Grade 8 selections.
Education Secretary Dr. Uke Kombra highlighted the importance of these discussions in ensuring every child in Papua New Guinea has a fair opportunity to succeed.
“Traditionally, our children have followed the path from elementary to primary, then to secondary and Grade 12. But not every child learns in the same way or succeeds through the same system. While many will complete Grade 12 and move to universities, others will take different but equally meaningful routes through FODE, vocational schools, technical training, or literacy programs,” said Dr. Kombra.
He emphasized that vocational education and training, accredited trade courses in secondary schools, the future of FODE, and the work of the National Literacy and Awareness Secretariat are all crucial pathways for learners.
“This is why our discussions and presentations this week will focus on these very pathways. It is timely, because as our country celebrates 50 years of Independence, we must also prepare for the next 50 years,” Dr. Kombra added.
Minister for Education Lucas Dekena will be present to officially launch the week-long conference in the province.
