Papua New Guinea: Fr Arockiaraj assumes as a member of National Education Board

In a landmark moment for education in Papua New Guinea, Fr. Lawrence Arockiaraj, general secretary of the Catholic Bishops Conference (CBC) of Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands, was officially sworn in June 21 as a member of the National Education Board (NEB) during a formal ceremony in Port Moresby.

Fr. Arockiaraj’s appointment, made under the PNG Education Act and endorsed by Education Minister Hon. Lucas Dawa Dekena in February 2025, reflects the growing recognition of the Catholic Church’s contribution to national education and a renewed commitment to strengthening Church-State collaboration.

The swearing-in ceremony marks the beginning of Fr. Arockiaraj’s official duties on the NEB, a role with both symbolic and practical influence on national education policy.

The event was more than ceremonial for the Catholic Church, which has long been one of the country’s leading education providers, especially in rural and underserved areas; it recognized decades of service.

“This appointment is not about me—it is about the collective efforts of the Catholic Church over the last century in educating our children and forming the moral and intellectual character of our nation,” Fr. Arockiaraj said. 

The Catholic Church currently runs or supports over 30% of schools in PNG. Its contributions span primary and secondary schools, teacher training colleges, and technical institutions, all emphasizing both academic and spiritual formation.

Fr. Arockiaraj brings to the board years of institutional experience, especially in advocating educational access, rural support, and youth empowerment.

Minister Dekena praised the appointment as a “step forward” in inclusive policy development.

“We recognize the Catholic Church not merely as a service provider but as a strategic partner in national development,” he said. “Fr. Arockiaraj’s voice on the NEB will ensure that values of fairness, inclusivity, and compassion are reflected in our educational decisions.”

Other government and Church leaders at the ceremony echoed this sentiment, affirming the importance of faith-based contributions to national policy.

The NEB is Papua New Guinea’s principal body for education policy and oversight. It includes representatives from government departments, civil society, and faith-based organizations.

The NEB is responsible for reviewing and recommending national education policies, overseeing curriculum development and teacher education, ensuring compliance with the Education Act, and promoting equitable, high-quality education across the country.

Fr. Lawrence Arockiaraj’s appointment brings the Catholic Church’s perspective to the Board and is expected to enrich dialogue on several key areas:

• Strengthening faith and values in education

• Promoting inclusive education for marginalized communities

• Enhancing teacher training and welfare

• Supporting the development of rural school infrastructure

Fr. Arockiaraj brings to the National Education Board a clear and forward-looking vision shaped by years of pastoral and educational leadership. His strategic priorities include enhancing teacher formation by improving training and accreditation, particularly in remote Church-run schools.

He also aims to advocate for greater rural support, calling for fair funding and improved infrastructure in underserved areas. Fr. Arockiaraj strongly supports the integration of a values-based curriculum that fosters respect, peace, and cultural integrity.

To strengthen the education sector, he is committed to deepening Church-Government collaboration through improved coordination and shared resources. Additionally, he plans to promote youth empowerment by expanding access to vocational training and job readiness programs. Warm reception from Catholic Educators

Catholic teachers and staff across PNG welcomed the news with enthusiasm.

“Having someone like Fr. Lawrence at the table means our perspectives, especially from rural dioceses, will be heard,” said a teacher from Enga Province.

“It’s not just a church victory; it’s a national moment of unity,” added a teacher from Wabag Diocese.

Though appointed in PNG, Fr. Arockiaraj represents the Solomon Islands as CBC General Secretary. His position on the NEB may serve as a model for regional church-state cooperation in education reform.

As Fr. Arockiaraj begins his work on the National Education Board, he is expected to engage actively in addressing some of the most pressing challenges in education in Papua New Guinea.

These include tackling the shortage of trained teachers in rural areas, promoting culturally relevant and inclusive curricula, expanding access to early childhood education, and supporting the integration of digital learning technologies in schools.

He will also work to strengthen partnerships between the government, NGOs, and church institutions in education governance.

Fr. Arockiaraj has affirmed his commitment to being an active and accountable member of the Board, working not only for the advancement of Catholic schools but for the benefit of all students across the nation.

His swearing-in is more than a procedural event; it marks a turning point for education in Papua New Guinea. His presence signals that national progress depends on unified action between state and church, rooted in shared values and mutual respect.

“This is a hopeful sign and a call to action,” the CBC said in a statement. “Together, we can build a future where every child, teacher, and community thrives.”