Dirima, Kundiawa: In a colorful and inspiring ceremony, 13 young women from Mary Immaculate Girl’s Technical Secondary School celebrated their graduation on Friday, October 18, 2024. Despite a year faced with both natural and man-made disasters that led to a significant drop in enrolment, the girls persevered and succeeded in their education, making this graduation particularly meaningful.
(Graduating students listening to speeches during the graduation.)
Located in the Guminie District of South Simbu Province, the all-girls Catholic school offers both academic and trade skills National Certificate courses. The institution, run by the Sisters of the Missionaries of Mary Immaculate (SMMI) and under the care of St. Anne’s Parish, has remained steadfast in its mission to provide quality education to young women despite the year’s adversities. The school is home to 20 teaching staff, 7 ancillary staff, and 12 board members, with students ranging from Grade 7 to Grade 12.
The theme of this year’s graduation, "Perseverance in Girl’s Education, Despite Obstacles," encapsulated the spirit of the event, as graduates, staff, and guests reflected on the strength and resilience that characterized the academic year.
Bishop Paul Sundu of the Diocese of Kundiawa, in his address to the graduates, emphasized the importance of valuing and respecting life, while Mr. Witus Geluva, Director of Nursing College, Kundiawa, commended the hard work of the missionaries and encouraged the graduates to remain steadfast in their journeys ahead.
Guest of honor, Mrs. Kutna Bepwick, Simbu Education Provincial Advisor, delivered a powerful and motivating speech that encouraged the young graduates to embrace leadership as women. Her words ignited a sense of potential among the attendees, urging them to "fly high" and continue pursuing their goals with determination. Mrs. Bepwick also praised the staff for their tireless efforts in nurturing and guiding the students, despite the challenges faced by the school community throughout the year.
In her official school report, Sr. Jenifer SMMI provided an overview of the school's performance in 2024, acknowledging the struggles brought on by the disasters but also highlighting the success of the 13 Grade 12 graduates. She reminded the girls that their educational journey, though challenging, had equipped them with the tools needed for future success.
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