By Lorraine Jimal
More than 100 teachers from National Capital District gathered today at the Papua New Guinea Teacher’s Association (PNGTA) head quarters in Port Moresby to present their 4 points regarding their 2025 leave fares.
Representing the teachers Agnes Kiromat presented the points to PNGTA president that includes;
1. Pay their 2025 leave fares before January 19th.
2. The leave fares must be paid in full as advised by their FAS.
3. Pay their leave fares in due course, and
4. The money must be paid into their accounts and not through travel agents.
She said they want these four points to be addressed before other issues as they are now ready to resume classes.
“We have many issues but we want these four to be addressed before we resume classes on January 19th,” she said.
The President of the Papua New Guinea Teacher’s Association Aita Sanangkepe noted the points down and gave his full assurance that these points will be brought to the attention of the department.
“I will make sure the lawyers will fight for you so you get paid before end of January and you must not worry as I am 100% in support of you teachers,” he told the teachers.
He said Teachers’ leave fares entitlements in Papua New Guinea are primarily governed by the Teaching Service Act 1988.
This Act makes provisions for the terms and conditions of service, welfare, and employment of members of the Teaching Service. The Teaching Service Act is an Act of Parliament (specifically, Section 130 of the Act) that mandates the proper payment of teachers’ leave fares, and teachers are entitled to receive without delay.
“These teachers are the ones who hold this country and their leave fares must be paid and we are fully in support to address this before they resume classes,” he said.
He also mentioned few changes in the Teachers’ Salary Fixation Memorandum of Agreement 2026 to 2028 including risk allowances to cover teachers in towns and cities as well.
The teachers thanked the president for the positive response to step in to address their leave fares issue.
