The "Population Education in Schools" project, PNG/96/PO2, to be implemented by the Department of Education, is designed to incorporate population concepts into the formal school curriculum and involves the development of the curriculum and teaching materials as well as the training of teachers. The project, to be nationally executed, was formally endorsed by the Government of PNG and UNFPA in February 1996. The Department of Education is in the process of establishing a Trust Account and finalising Terms of Reference and advertising project positions, including a National Coordinator, setting in place the necessary mechanisms to implement the project.
In meetings between the Department of Education and the CST Population Education Adviser, Mr. Allan Kondo, during the latter's visit on 16-19 April 1996, the work plan for PNG/96/PO2 was revised by the Superintendent of Curriculum, in view of the fact that the project coordinator had not yet been recruited. In addition, the process of integrating population education into the curriculum from Class 1-12 was discussed with some examples provided. A briefing on national execution was given to key Department of Education staff, which included substantive responsibilities, financial management and monitoring and evaluation. The meeting was also important because it stimulated action to recruit the project coordinator. It is hoped that the mission will facilitate the launching of the project by catalysing the recruitment of the project coordinator, opening of the trust account, and arranging for the study tour. The discussions on national execution, project planning, and integration of population education into the curriculum will enhance the management skills of the project staff (Curriculum Development Division) when the implementation of the project begins.