Prime Minister Jotham Napat has called on senior education officials to demonstrate greater commitment and professionalism, saying education reform must begin with those leading the sector.

Speaking at the opening of the Education and Training Forum this week, Mr Napat expressed disappointment after several key officials arrived late to the event, saying punctuality is a fundamental part of the reform the Government is introducing.

“I want to ask every Director General and participant to arrive on time. It does not look good when ministers are already here and some of you arrive late. This is part of the reform we are talking about. Punctuality is part of reform. Many of you also arrive late to work. If we want reform, then it has to start with us. It is important that I say this.”

The Prime Minister said the forum provides an opportunity for education leaders to make better use of their knowledge and expertise to strengthen the sector.

“Some of you are performing below par. Many of you have a great deal of knowledge, but you are not using it. How can we maximise this opportunity? If we need to challenge one another for the benefit of tomorrow, then let us do so.”

Mr Napat said underperformance within the education sector has contributed to public criticism of the Government and the country’s education system.

“The Government is receiving much of the blame simply because the majority of us are not performing.”

The Government this week began rolling out a new reform agenda for the education sector, with the Education and Training Forum serving as one of the first steps in strengthening leadership, accountability, and the delivery of education services across Vanuatu.