East Sepik teachers to receive part of outstanding leave fares before Christmas

The East Sepik Provincial Education Division and the PNG Teachers’ Association East Sepik Branch have assured teachers that their outstanding leave fares will soon be paid.

Payments for the 2024 and 2025 leave fares are expected to begin before or during the Christmas holidays.

In a joint statement released today, the Division and the Union confirmed that funds have been secured to commence payments. However, the allocation will only cover half of the total outstanding amount of K6.2 million owed to teachers over the two years.

Teachers’ Association Representative Thompson Wangipari and Executive Manager for Education Timothy Yavu said both offices are working closely to find the best possible solutions to ensure that all affected teachers are eventually catered to. They emphasized that fairness and transparency will guide the process.

According to the statement, priority will be given to clearing the 2024 outstanding fares first, before addressing the 2025 balances.

Mr Yavu and Mr Wangipari also took time to acknowledge the East Sepik Provincial Government under Governor Allan Bird for securing the funds to address these long-standing issues. They said the provincial government’s support has been vital in ensuring that teachers’ welfare remains a priority.

The Division and Union further thanked teachers for their patience and understanding during this period, reaffirming their commitment to resolving the matter responsibly and in the best interest of all teaching staff in East Sepik Province.