PNG Charts New Course with Strategic Goals for 2026 and Beyond

 PNG Charts New Course with Strategic Goals for 2026 and Beyond

Papua New Guinea has begun 2026 with a renewed national focus following the launch of the government’s strategic goals at the Public Service Dedication Service held in Port Moresby.

The strategy, titled “Papua New Guinea Strategic Goals 2026 and Beyond: A New Journey, A New Reset”, outlines the government’s priorities in strengthening the economy, improving education and health services, and lifting standards across the public service.

As part of the new direction, the government announced plans to carry out a nationwide census and survey to assess how effectively public servants are delivering services to communities.

Minister for Public Service Joe Sungi said the exercise would form the basis of a State of the Public Service Report, which will be presented to Parliament to provide a clear picture of performance across government agencies.

“This report will tell us whether we as public servants are working or not,” Sungi said.

He acknowledged that leadership and administrative gaps exist within the system and urged public servants to return to their duties with honesty and a strong sense of responsibility. Sungi also confirmed that revised pay arrangements for public servants will be implemented from July 2026.

Prime Minister James Marape said the government’s improved financial position has allowed greater investment in key sectors, particularly education, which has received its largest allocation to date for children and scholarship programs.

He said 100,000 school dropouts are expected to be reintegrated through the Second Chance Learning initiative, while Technical and Vocational Education and Training remains central to skills development and small business growth.

In the health sector, the Prime Minister highlighted major medical milestones achieved last year, including the country’s first kidney transplant and heart bypass surgery, with a new cancer facility expected to open in the first half of 2026.

“Let us work together under one National Public Service of Papua New Guinea with honour and pride,” Marape said.