By Fabian Hakalits – EM TV News, Port Moresby
Teachers in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville have sought clarification on the Teaching Service Commission’s powers and functions in the new Bougainville Education Act 2013.
These queries were based on the transfer of these powers and functions, as part of autonomy arrangements between the National Government and the Autonomous Bougainville Government.
Samson Wangihomie from the Teaching Service Commission policy section explained that the powers and functions will be fully transferred to the Autonomous Bougainville Government soon.
He said the purpose of Bougainville Education Act 2013, is to ensure it provides for the establishment and implementation of the Bougainville education system and other related purposes.
However at this time, 3000 plus teacher’s welfare, salaries and other terms and conditions will still remain under their jurisdiction.
However, the biggest challenge for the commission he said is how all powers and functions could be drawdown. Wangihomie said Bougainville will decide the type of teaching service commission it wants.
National Education Department Acting Secretary, Dr Uke Kombra, and National Education Minister Nick Kuman said the National Education Department and Teaching Service Commission will continue to support the process of transfer of powers and functions until all are fully drawn-down.
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