Western Highlands schools close for polling days

The Western Highlands Provincial Education Board [PEB] has directed all schools in the province’s four districts to continue normal classes, except on polling days.

The decision follows the start of Local Level Government elections in Western Highlands on Monday, October 27.

The Western Highlands Division of Education has directed schools in districts taking part in the LLG elections to close only on their respective polling days and resume classes the following day.

Executive Manager and PEB Chairman Tony Buldung said schools in Dei District closed on Monday, Mul Baiyer schools on Tuesday, Tambul-Nebilyer schools on Wednesday, and Hagen Central schools will close on Thursday for polling.

Head teachers in Western Highlands have been told to follow the school closure schedule set by the Provincial Education Board during the LLG election period.

Western Highlands Election Manager Philip Telape said polling has been given 14 days to complete, as some wards are in remote areas that take up to two days to transport election materials. He said schools can adjust their timetables to allow polling in their areas.

During NBC News’ visit to Dei District yesterday, students were seen leaving school as early as 9 or 10 a.m. to make way for polling activities.