The Naweab District Development Authority (DDA) is planning to expand its educational infrastructure, including building more classrooms and teachers’ housing, to accommodate an increase in grade 9 students next year. District Administrator Buds Botikie explained that the government’s decision to abolish grade 8 exams will affect the district’s education budget. With this year’s budget set at K1 million, the DDA intends to increase funding to address the growing number of students advancing to grade 9. “If grade 8 students move on to grade 9 without exams, we will need additional classrooms, teachers, and staff accommodation.” This follows the recent announcement of significant changes to the national education system, including the removal of grade 8 and 10 exams. Botikie mentioned that the district has been using its current education budget to improve infrastructure at both primary and secondary schools. A K2 million fund for the new Labuta High School is in place, with construction set to begin in January 2025. Meanwhile, the DDA has supported Boana High School with water supply and dormitory facilities. The district is also focusing on Naweab High School, which has recently transitioned to a secondary school. The DDA has built six staff houses, and the Morobe Provincial Government has provided a dormitory. Botikie emphasized that Naweab High School remains a key priority, with Bumayong and Malahang schools receiving less focus due to their location within Lae City.