Madang, 22 October 2025 – As Grade 8, 10, and 12 students in Madang wrap up their final examinations this week, Provincial Police Commander Acting Superintendent Robert Baim has issued urgent warnings to curb unruly behavior, both during and after the testing period.
The alerts come on the heels of a disturbing incident reported by NBC News at Jomba Primary School yesterday, where a Grade 8 student allegedly arrived intoxicated and slept through the first exam paper, prompting concerns over student preparedness and safety.
School authorities reported the boy was under the influence of alcohol, and he failed to complete any work before dozing off until the session ended.
He did not write anything but slept through to the end of the exam. It’s hard to understand this sort of behavior
PPC Baim said, adding that despite repeated awareness campaigns, some youth continue to disregard advice.
In response, Baim announced that police officers would intervene directly with the student, as teachers expressed feeling unsafe. The incident has left uncertainty about whether the boy will be allowed to sit for the remaining exam papers this week, with school officials yet to decide.
The Post Courier reports that with exams now concluding for many students, Baim expanded his admonitions today, urging all Grade 8, 10, and 12 pupils to “behave well” post-exams.
Students must go straight home after finishing their exams and avoid getting involved in fights, drinking, or damaging school or public property.
he emphasized.
The commander, who has been vocal in media outlets leading up to the exams, stressed the importance of abstaining from alcohol, drugs, and other unlawful activities.
Baim reiterated a zero-tolerance policy, warning that misbehaving students who threaten school authorities—particularly if facing expulsion—could receive suspension notices from police.
I will not tolerate such animal brain kids. Every child is a man. We are not teaching children.
he stated bluntly
He underscored the police’s role in safeguarding lives, property, and educational institutions:
We are here to protect lives and properties, and the school concerned is a government entity and must be protected for our community.
This dual call for discipline highlights ongoing challenges in maintaining order during high-stakes exam seasons in Madang. Local education leaders and parents have echoed Baim’s sentiments, calling for community-wide efforts to support student success without compromising safety.
As investigations into the Jomba incident continue, authorities hope these measures will prevent further disruptions and ensure a smooth transition to post-exam periods.