MYIRC Online Services Internal Revenue Commission IRC PNG

The Internal Revenue Commission is happy to announce the arrival of an exciting new service for our valued taxpayer and public, enter the MyIRC Online Service Platform. This new development has been a long time coming, but it has been developed through a partnership with our financial software technology developer Niupay Limited in the last few months. 

What are MYIRC Online Services?

The MyIRC is an online service that enables the following functions that were previously only available at the counter:

• Payments Online – via scheme cards with all banks and for all tax types
• Lodgements- Taxpayer will be able to make lodgements online for any particular size of the document, significantly reducing physical counter lodgements and improving workflows
• Tax Agents Management Accounts – the platform enables Tax Agents to manage their taxpayers online and make payments, lodgements on their behalf as authorized Tax Agents
• TIN validity look up- TIN’s will be able to be verified online as active or inactive depending on their validity
• Certificate of Compliance (COC) Look Up – COC’s will now be able to be verified online by paying authorities who have confirmed their identities, and this will significantly reduce COC fraud
• MyIRC Online Support Centre – Taxpayers, Tax Agents, and registered account holders will now be able to access the support centre and communicate directly with IRC officers for tax-related and general inquiries
• Other Services – In the coming months, IRC also aims to look into other services such as the online applications for TINs, etc

Secured cloud platform hosted by Amazon Web

These services will be performed in a highly secured cloud platform hosted by Amazon Web Services. Our well-architected service will constantly be evolving to meet the needs of the tax administration and taxpayers even post-launch as we strive to ensure we have a system that fully meets the taxpayer’s needs and is internationally asymmetrical with best practices and security accreditation

In the coming weeks, we will be rolling out our services with a fully enabled service platform available for taxpayers in January 2022. We are honoured to mark this launch occasion with Prime Minister Rt Hon James Marape and celebrate this new service with our loyal taxpayers, whom we aim to best serve through digital technology.

On behalf of our hard-working staff throughout PNG, I welcome you to the MyIRC Online Service Platform.

Authorized for release.

Mr. Sam Koim, OBE

IRC Commissioner-General

Media Release: 20th December 2021

Educational Excellence: Finland's Model of Free and Quality Education

In terms of global education, Finland consistently stands out as a shining example. Despite having an economy and population one-fifth the size of Australia's, Finnish students routinely outperform their counterparts in nations with far greater resources. 

This article identifies key factors that contribute to Finland's success, particularly its unwavering commitment to free and quality education. By exploring these elements, we aim to draw insights that can inspire and guide educational development in Papua New Guinea and other small Pacific Island countries.

1. Minimal Classroom Hours, Maximum Impact

One of the most surprising aspects of the Finnish education system is the amount of time students spend in the classroom. Compared to their Australian and Pacific Islanders counterparts, Finnish children log significantly fewer hours, with the minimum in the first grade being only 20 hours per week. 

However, despite this seemingly relaxed approach, Finnish students consistently rank among the top performers in international assessments. This suggests that quality, not quantity, is the driving force behind their success.

2. Empowering Teachers and Individualized Curriculum

Unlike many countries that employ standardized curricula and assessments, Finland empowers its teachers with the autonomy to tailor their lessons to the specific needs of their students. 

This individualized approach allows educators to incorporate technology, cater to different learning styles, and foster a more engaging and effective learning environment.

3. Free School Lunches and Equitable Funding

Finland's commitment to equality is evident in its education system. Schools receive equal funding through taxation, ensuring that socioeconomic disparities do not translate into educational disadvantages. 

Additionally, students enjoy free school lunches, creating an inclusive atmosphere where everyone has access to nutritious meals regardless of their family's background.

4. Teacher Qualification and Career Prestige

One of the pillars of Finland's success is its highly qualified teaching force. Teachers are required to hold a Master's degree, and only a small percentage of applicants are accepted into teaching programs. 

This rigorous selection process ensures that teaching is a respected and sought-after career, attracting top talent and contributing to the overall quality of education.

5. Assessment without Comparison

Finland deviates from the common practice of comparing schools based on exam results. While regular assessments exist, the focus is on self-evaluation within each institution. This fosters an environment where schools collaborate and share best practices rather than compete for limited resources.

Finnish parents trust the education system, eliminating the need for exhaustive research to find the right school for their child. This trust stems from a societal respect for teachers and the understanding that all schools are equipped to provide high-quality education. This collaborative approach minimizes anxiety and allows parents to focus on supporting their children's learning journey.

What does it mean for Papua New Guinea?

While acknowledging the unique cultural contexts of Papua New Guinea and other small Pacific Island countries, there are valuable lessons to be learned from Finland's model. 

By embracing these principles and incorporating traditional practices, empowering teachers and creating a conducive teaching and learning environment, these nations can build education systems that truly work for their unique landscapes and communities, unlocking the full potential of every child.

It is about adopting and making the teaching and learning methods suitable for a developing country.

Conclusion

Finland's education system serves as a beacon of success, proving that a combination of:

• minimal classroom hours, 
• empowered teachers, 
• equitable funding, and a 
• strong emphasis on teacher qualifications can create a world-class educational environment. 

Finland sets a powerful example for the world. By following its lead, nations like Papua New Guinea and other small Pacific Island countries can create a brighter future for their children and contribute to a more equitable and prosperous global community.