By Quinton Alomp, EM TV – Port Moresby
A sum of K90 million was facilitated by the government to ensure schools operate normally in the second term.
Prime Minister, Peter O’Neill, announced this second batch of tuition fee free payment last Friday.
The outstanding payment will be made directly to individual schools starting this week.
As investigation into misappropriated TFF fees continues; Prime Minister O’Neill said the investigation team will provide details of schools that have limited funds so the money can be directed to them.
O’Neill said free education is a core policy of his government and will make sure schools are fully funded.
This K90 million funding comes after many primary, secondary and vocational schools threatens to shut down in term two following a shortfall in the first batch payment.
Opposition Leader, Don Polye, throws his support behind compulsory education, but warned the government to spend money within the budget as PNG’s economy slows down.
PNG Teachers Association National General Secretary, Ugwalubu Mowana, raised concerns that Education Department has unreliable data to make payment appropriately.
Government’s Chief Secretary to Government, Sir Manasupe Zurenuoc, issued directives for an investigation into the use of over K6 billion TFF funds for 2014 and a similar amount this year.
The investigation is ongoing.
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