Push compulsory education, board told

 By CHARLES MOI 

EDUCATION Minister James Marape has told members of national education board to drive the compulsory education policy.

He attended the swearing in of board members in Port Moresby yesterday. 

Marape, who is the Finance Minister as well, said the Government spent close to 20% of the budget on free education. By 2019, there should be 100% basic education enrolment in the country.

He said there was about 74% net enrolment in basic education. 

“The national government and the Prime Minister are serious about (improving) the education sector,” Marape said. 

Sworn in were board members with Education Secretary Dr Michael Tapo as chairman. 

Tapo welcomed the members and said there was a good balance in the board comprising men and women who would contribute greatly to quality education in PNG. 

Marape called on the board members to be innovative and bring in new ideas.