UN praises govt for fee-free policy

TO mark International Literacy Day, the United Nations has applauded the government’s reaffirmation of the tuition-free education for all children, and the extension to include Grades 11 and 12 in the policy next year.
UN resident coordinator David McLachlan-Karr said in a statement: “International Literacy Day is particularly important
in Papua New Guinea as children have to overcome numerous obstacles to receive an education.
“Many have to travel long distances to reach their nearest school, or need to help out at home so there is enough food for the family.
“Prime Minister (Peter) O’Neill’s commitment to a free education for all removes one of those obstacles – the cost – especially for families with many young children.
“The PNG National Education Plan (2005-14) envisages that 1.3 million children will be enrolled in basic education by 2014.
“The UN System, especially the United Nations Children Fund (Unicef), is committed to working with the government to achieve that goal.