To enhance the quality of teaching in Papua New Guinea, the Department of Higher Education, Research, Science, and Technology (DHERST) has raised the GPA requirement for Teacher Education Programs in primary Teacher Colleges to 2.8, effective from 2024.
This move aims to capture and trained a generation of highly skilled educators equipped to tackle the diverse challenges within the country's education system.
Why the Change?
The decision to raise the bar for entry into teacher training programs in teachers colleges stems from a shared concern among DHERST, the National Department of Education (NDOE), and the Teaching Service Commission (TSC).
The goal is clear – attracting students with strong academic backgrounds to ensure that our teachers are well-equipped to shape the future of education in Papua New Guinea.
Up until 2023, the GPA for teachers colleges was raised from 2.0 to 2.4, as reported in this article. But, 2024 and onwards, students will have to score a higher GPA to be eligible to enter teachers colleges.
Revised Entry Requirement: GPA 2.8
Starting from the academic year 2024, all Teacher Colleges are mandated to set a minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.8 for aspiring students applying through the National Online Application System.
This adjustment is a strategic step towards producing highly qualified educators capable of meeting the diverse challenges within the country's education landscape.
Implementation and Scrutiny Process
Teacher Colleges and their Councils play a pivotal role in implementing this change. Their responsibility is to uphold the directive throughout the application process, assuring that non-school leavers' applications undergo careful examination.
The objective is to select well-qualified candidates to maintain a balanced enrollment and prevent overcrowding, thus safeguarding the quality of education and the vital student-teacher ratio.
Grade 12 school leavers, your eligibility to apply for teacher training will be determined and indicated within the National Online Application System (NOAS).
Collaborative Oversight for Quality Assurance
To ensure the successful implementation of this new directive, DHERST, NDOE, and TSC are working in close collaboration. Their partnership extends beyond ensuring compliance; it encompasses fostering high-quality teacher training and guaranteeing that graduates meet the most stringent standards.
Non-school leavers should pay close attention to this updated GPA requirement. If your GPA falls below the minimum threshold for entry into teacher colleges, you will not be considered for selection.
Even if you manage to gain admission with a lower GPA and subsequently graduate, you may encounter difficulties obtaining teacher registration. NDOE inspectors may even investigate how you were admitted to the teachers college in the first place. Without registration, you will not receive payment from the TSC. Therefore, it is crucial to heed this directive carefully.
GPA for Teachers Colleges in PNG
The new minimum GPA requirement of 2.8 for Teacher Education Programs in primary Teacher Colleges is a significant step towards elevating the quality of teacher education in Papua New Guinea.
This change aims to attract more highly qualified students to the teaching profession, ensuring that our future teachers are well-prepared to meet the challenges of educating the next generation of Papua New Guineans.
Conclusion (GPA for PNG Teachers Colleges)
To improve the quality of education in Papua New Guinea, the Department of Higher Education, Research, Science, and Technology (DHERST) has raised the GPA requirement for Teacher Education Programs in primary Teacher Colleges to 2.8, starting in 2024.
This aims to attract highly qualified educators. Teacher Colleges and their Councils must carefully review applications to maintain a balance and avoid overcrowding. Grade 12 school leavers can check their eligibility for teacher training in the National Online Application System (NOAS).
Here is the GPA requirement for teacher education & training prior to 2024.
Source: DHERST Circular No. 08/2023, 15th of August, 2023
