Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (DHERST), Mr. Kinoka Feo, in a recent statement, clarified the important matters concerning the funding status under the Tertiary Education Study Assistance Scheme (TESAS) and the Higher Education Loan Program (HELP) for Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). He stated that his ministry is aware of recent posts circulating on social media regarding the de-registration of Divine Word University (DWU) students, which have generated public concern. “I wish to clarify that the de-registration process is not related to TESAS or HELP payments. Therefore, DWU students who are recipients of TESAS and HELP are not affected.” In light of this, he further provided the following updates: 1. 2025 Semester 1 TESAS Payments The Government has placed a high priority on the disbursement of TESAS payments for Semester 1 across all Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). Therefore, over 90% of TESAS funds have been disbursed to the respective institutions, with the remaining payments currently being processed. 2. 2025 Semester 1 HELP Payments The processing of successful applications under the Higher Education Loan Program (HELP) has been completed. Disbursement of HELP funds to all Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) is in progress. 3. 2025 Semester 2 TESAS and HELP Semester 2 of the 2025 Academic Year has commenced across all Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). Upon completion of student registration, all institutions are required to submit their registration lists along with acquittals for semester one. These are requirements for the release of the TESAS funding to the institutions. Institutions will be informed of the semester two HELP cycle. “The Marape-Rosso Government remains firmly committed to the development of our nation's human capital and the strengthening of our human resource base.” “This commitment is reflected in our continued support for the TESAS and HELP programs which play a vital role in alleviating the financial burden on parents and sponsors and in expanding access to quality higher education.” “I encourage all students, parents, and Higher Education Institutions (HEls) to continue working in close partnership with my Ministry. I remain fully committed to ensuring that students are supported throughout their academic journey and are able to complete their studies successfully.” Furthermore, he said that as the country looks ahead in celebrating Papua New Guinea’s Golden Jubilee, his ministry remains committed in developing a highly skilled and competent workforce that will contribute to a sustainable, resilient and prosperous Papua New Guinea.