PNG Teaching Service Commission Digitises 53 Years of Teacher Records

Papua New Guinea’s Teaching Service Commission has taken a major step toward modernising teacher administration with the rollout of a digital workforce records system launched in Port Moresby yesterday.

The Teacher Workforce File and Qualification Digitization Project replaces the manual filing system that has been used since independence, allowing the Commission to access accurate information instantly when making decisions about teachers’ appointments, pay and retirement.

The initiative was implemented with assistance from the Australian Government through the Partnerships for Improving Education Program.

Teaching Service Commission Chairman Maini Mike Ugaia said the availability of verified data would help the Commission manage the country’s teaching workforce more effectively.

He noted that a large number of educators are approaching retirement, with more than 20,000 teachers expected to leave the profession within the coming years.

Under the new system, the Commission will notify teachers once they reach the age of 55, providing a five-year preparation period before retirement at 60.

“Figures don’t lie,” Mr Ugaia said. “Verified data now allows the Commission to act fairly and transparently, helping teachers plan financially and personally.”