NCD Governor and Chairman of the Permanent Parliamentary Committee on Children and Youth, Powes Parkop, has called for urgent and coordinated national action to ensure Papua New Guinea’s children and young people have clear pathways to education, employment and meaningful participation in society.
The call follows the Committee’s first Youth Inquiry, held at the National Parliament this week, which examined barriers preventing young people from completing their education, maintaining good health, participating in governance and securing decent employment.
Evidence presented to the inquiry revealed serious challenges within the education system. Of approximately 400,000 children who entered primary school, only 32,000 completed Grade 12 in 2025. While 24,000 tertiary places were available nationwide in 2026, only 11,000 students met the entry requirements and secured placements.
The conclusion of national examinations this month has further highlighted the urgency of creating more opportunities for young people.
Approximately 250,000 students sat national examinations, including 130,000 Grade 8 students from 3,400 primary schools, 87,500 Grade 10 students from more than 520 high and secondary schools, and 36,500 Grade 12 students from 250 secondary schools, including the six National Schools of Excellence.
“Thousands of young Papua New Guineans have completed examinations that will determine their next step in life. Yet the findings of our Youth Inquiry show that too many face limited opportunities beyond the classroom,” Governor Parkop said.
He added that every child deserved the opportunity to reach their full potential and every young person deserved hope and a pathway to a productive future.
“The future of Papua New Guinea will be determined by what we do today for our children and youth,” he said.
The Permanent Parliamentary Committee on Children and Youth has identified key priorities, including improving student retention and learning outcomes, aligning technical and vocational training with labour market needs, expanding employment and entrepreneurship opportunities, strengthening youth-friendly health and protection services, and ensuring meaningful youth participation in decision-making.
Governor Parkop reaffirmed the Committee’s commitment to practical reforms and accountability.
“The Permanent Parliamentary Committee on Children and Youth will continue to advocate for clear policy commitments, adequate financing, measurable targets and implementation timelines to ensure the aspirations of Papua New Guinea’s young people are matched by real opportunities for success, here in Port Moresby and across the country,” he said.
