Classes at Palmalmal Secondary School in East New Britain province, have been temporarily suspended for three weeks following a civil unrest among students that led to the burning of the school library.

The suspension, ordered by the Chairman of the East New Britain Provincial Education Board (PEB) Mr. Levi Mano will run starting from Friday, August 28 to Friday, September 18, 2026.

According to reports received through the Provincial Police Commander (PPC) of East New Britain, the school library was burnt down on the night of Tuesday, August 25, following escalating unrest linked to the Board of Governors’ decision to expel students for various disciplinary reasons.

The circumstances surrounding the burning remain unclear, with authorities saying the immediate priority is to protect the safety and wellbeing of students and staff, as well as school property.

According to Mr. Mano, the school administration and authorities will undertake several measures aimed at restoring normalcy during this suspension period.

This includes an urgent meeting for the Board of Governors to review the incident, the disciplinary processes used, and a way forward for the school.

Additionally, parents, community leaders, and other stakeholders will also be engaged through Parents and Citizens cluster meetings at Matong Primary School, Pomio Junior High School, Palmalmal Secondary School, and Uvol Junior High School.

“Full cooperation must be given to the Royal PNG Constabulary (RPNGC) to investigate and identify the perpetrators responsible for the burning of the school library and acts of unrest.”

Meanwhile, the Provincial Education Team including secondary inspectors and provincial education officers, will conduct an internal investigation into the roles and responsibilities of the school administration and Board of Governors in relation to the incident.

Mr. Mano has also directed that assessment and maintenance work on the damaged school property begin immediately, noting that any students found to have been involved in the destruction of school property are expected to face criminal charges.

He emphasized that efforts during the suspension period must focus on restoring peace, order, and confidence among students, parents, and the wider community to ensure a safe resumption of classes for Term 4.

“All students have been instructed to return to their homes or guardians during the suspension period.”

“No student is permitted to remain on the school grounds without written authority from the Care-Taker Principal.”

Furthermore, District Education Officers will conduct monitoring visits to ensure compliance throughout the three-week suspension.

The Provincial Division of Education, District Education Officers, and School Inspectors have also been instructed to continue assessing the situation, provide oversight and management, and prepare a full report before classes resume.