Education Minister Francis Kikin Siune has condemned the recent outbreak of violence involving secondary school students in the National Capital District (NCD), warning that schools must remain as places of learning and not centres of criminal behaviour.
His comments follow a violent confrontation involving students from two secondary schools that caused public concern, damaged property and disrupted public order.
Minister Siune threw his full support behind the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary's decision to arrest and charge students involved in the violence.
"Schools are for learning, not fighting. No student is above the law," he said.
The Minister commended NCD Metropolitan Superintendent Warrick Simatab and police for taking a firm stance against student violence.
"I fully support Superintendent Warrick Simatab and the NCD Police in treating violent students as criminals," he said. "When a student commits assault, destroys property or acts violently, police action is essential. Being a student is not an excuse to escape the law."
Minister Siune said the National Department of Education, led by Secretary Dr Uke Kombra, fully supports the police response and will continue working with schools to strengthen discipline and student engagement.
He said school boards, principals and administrations have been directed to take swift disciplinary action against students involved in violence, including suspension or permanent expulsion where necessary.
"School administrations that fail to enforce strict discipline will also be held accountable," he said.
The Minister also appealed directly to students to prioritise their education and avoid being influenced by peer pressure, social media or unnecessary conflict.
"Your parents sacrifice so much for your future. Don't ruin your life over peer pressure, social media or foolish pride," he said. "Choose education over violence and respect over conflict. Your future is worth more than a senseless fight."
Minister Siune said while the Government continues to invest in initiatives such as free education and standards-based learning, maintaining discipline in schools requires the combined efforts of parents, schools, churches and communities.
He highlighted the Department's implementation of Christian and Citizenship Values Education (CCVE) from Early Childhood Education as part of efforts to instil moral values and responsible citizenship from an early age.
The Minister reassured parents, students and the wider public that the Department of Education, together with police and school administrations, would continue to enforce a zero-tolerance approach to school violence to ensure schools remain safe, orderly and conducive to learning.
