Strengthening Catholic Education: Commission Holds First Board Meeting for 2026

The National Catholic Education Commission of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands held its first board meeting on 3rd -4th 0f March 2026, bringing together Church leaders and education representatives to reflect on the progress of Catholic education and to plan for the year ahead. The meeting created an important space for dialogue, collaboration, and shared decision-making among those responsible for guiding Catholic education across the country.

Leaders Gather to Review the State of Catholic Education:

The Several key Church leaders attended the gathering, including Bishop Pedro Baquero, SDB, Bishop Deputy for National Catholic Education, Bishop Paul Sundu, Assistant Bishop Deputy for National Catholic Education, Fr. Lawrence Arockiaraj, General Secretary of the Catholic Bishops Conference, Mr. Vincent Sobo, Deputy Secretary for the National Catholic Education and Sr. Roshni Kachuwa SJC, Deputy Secretary for the National Religious Education. Their participation highlighted the continued commitment of the Church to support and guide Catholic schools and educational institutions throughout Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands. During the meeting, members shared updates and reflections on the work being carried out in different areas of Catholic education. These discussions provided a broad overview of the challenges and opportunities currently faced by schools and education offices.

Focus on Collaboration and Educational Development:

The board engaged in thoughtful discussions on how to strengthen cooperation between Church agencies and national education authorities. The Attention was given to improving coordination in teacher appointments and addressing matters related to grant-in-aid support and agency responsibilities. Members also emphasized the importance of maintaining the strong Catholic identity of schools. Ensuring that Religious Education remains a central part of the formation of students was reaffirmed as a key priority for Catholic institutions.

Supporting Schools at the Parish Level:

The meeting also recognized the valuable role parish priests play in supporting Catholic schools within their communities. Board members encouraged priests to maintain close contact with schools in their parishes through regular visits and pastoral engagement with students, teachers, and school leadership. This connection between parish and school life is considered essential for nurturing the spiritual growth and faith formation of young people.

Understanding the Role of Teachers in Catholic Schools:

Participants also discussed the structure of teaching positions within Catholic schools. While these positions are created within the Church’s agency system, teachers are remunerated through the Teachers Service Commission under the provisions of the National Education Act 1983. This arrangement continues to reflect the partnership between the Church and the government in delivering quality education across the country.

Commitment to the Future of Catholic Education:

As the meeting concluded, members reaffirmed their shared commitment to strengthening Catholic education and promoting greater collaboration between the Church, schools, and national education authorities. Through continued dialogue and cooperation, the Commission aims to ensure that Catholic schools remain places where academic excellence, faith formation, and holistic development go hand in hand for the benefit of young people and communities.