Education in Papua New Guinea is not compulsory, and in the mid-1980s only one-third of the population was literate. The present government aims at upgrading and improving the system and quality of education.
In Papua New Guinea the old beliefs have blended with Christian beliefs that had been introduced in the last century, which now form unique traditions for this part of the world.
In the Trobriand Islands Good Friday is regarded as the most important religious event in the year. About mid-morning a large number of people gather for a service in the settlement of Losuia. The youth from the surrounding villages present musical and other items on an Easter theme at this service. After the service is over people divide into small groups of family and friends for feasts in various homes.
Kina (PGK; symbol K) = 100 toea. Notes are in denominations of K100, 50, 20, 10, 5 and 2. Coins are in denominations of K1, and 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1 toea.