CTSS celebrates International Women’s Day

Port Moresby: On International Women’s Day 2025, Grace Kilembe, a law student from the University of Papua New Guinea, gave an inspiring speech to the students of Catholic Secondary and Tertiary School (CTSS). She encouraged everyone to take personal responsibility and help move towards gender equality. The theme of the day was "Accelerate Action in Gender Equality."

(Students clapping as Grace Kilembe and CTSS representatives walk out of the Hall)

The event, organized by Ms. Joy Veve, the school’s program coordinator, started with a fun morning filled with singalongs and a beauty parade. Students from both the Secondary and College divisions competed for the titles of Best Dressed and Best Words of Inspiration. The contestants shared short messages about empowerment, and the winners were chosen by a panel of judges.

The highlight of the day was the speech by Miss Grace Kilembe. She shared her personal story and offered advice to the students. With a warm and friendly approach, Grace encouraged both young women and men to think about how their actions can help create change in society. “Accelerating action begins with you,” Miss Kilembe said. She emphasized that every student, whether in secondary school or college, can make choices today that will help them in the future. She also encouraged the students to use every opportunity for personal growth and to always make choices that reflect their values.

“Even something as simple as having open conversations about gender equality can make a difference,” she said. “It’s not just about what you do, but how you choose to live your life, making decisions that show respect, equality, and fairness.”

Miss Kilembe shared how her own experiences, both in high school and as a law student, helped shape her understanding of gender equality. She spoke about the importance of creating spaces where both girls and boys can participate in conversations about gender equality.

The event was also significant for CTSS, as it brought together both the all-girls secondary school students and the newly co-ed college students. Miss Kilembe reminded everyone that gender equality is a responsibility for both men and women. Everyone needs to work together to create a more equal society.

“I believe that it’s the small decisions we make every day that shape the world around us,” she said. “You have the power to create change. Don’t wait for others to lead. Start by making the right choices yourself and encourage others to do the same.”

The students listened closely and thought about how they could help with the global movement for gender equality. The event was also attended by a few college boys, showing the importance of unity in working toward a common goal.

The event was beautifully organized by Ms. Joy Veve, and the school’s Acting Principal Mrs. Grace Ani and Directress Sr. Mazzarello Choi, CSG, were also present.

As the event concluded, Miss Kilembe’s words stayed with everyone, reminding the students that the journey toward gender equality starts with their own actions, and they can be the change-makers of tomorrow.