More than 279,000 students across Papua New Guinea have started their National Examinations, with the National Department of Education warning schools and students against examination malpractice.

The examinations for Grades 8, 10 and 12 begin today, with 84,596 Grade 10 students from 547 high and secondary schools sitting their papers from October 5 to 9.

This will be followed by 37,430 Grade 12 students from 250 secondary schools, including the seven National Schools of Excellence, from October 12 to 16.

A further 157,500 Grade 8 students from 3,815 primary schools will sit their examinations from October 19 to 22.

Secretary for Education Dr Uke Kombra said strict measures are in place to protect the integrity of the examinations.

“Students and schools are being warned of serious consequences, which include non-certification for students, termination from teaching for teachers, and banning of schools for a minimum period of three years.”

Dr Kombra said the Department has issued strict supervisory guidelines to external invigilators across the country.

He also said the Department is working with provincial governments, police and security personnel to ensure the examinations proceed without disruption.

Contingency arrangements have also been established to respond to possible natural disasters and other unforeseen emergencies.

Dr Kombra urged parents, guardians and communities to support students by providing a quiet environment for study and ensuring candidates arrive at their examination locations on time.

The Department is also encouraging the public, parents and students to report suspected examination malpractice or paper leaks.

Grade 10 marking in the National Capital District will begin immediately after the first examination, with answer sheets to be sent to the provinces for consistent and uniform marking.

Grade 12 marking will take place in Port Moresby from October 18 to 29, while Grade 8 papers will be marked in the provinces after the examinations.

Dr Kombra also confirmed that the exact number of students who have been nominated to sit for the National exams are from the final confirmation by schools on the Online Student Information Booklets System (SIBS).