Prime Minister Hon. James Marape this morning officiated at the opening of a new boys’ dormitory and inspired the graduates at Kambubu Adventist Secondary School’s graduation ceremony. He encouraged the students to uphold Christian values, work hard, and be self-reliant in life, so they can contribute meaningfully to nation-building.
Reflecting on Kambubu’s historic significance and the government’s commitment to supporting its progress, Prime Minister Marape urged students to lead a new era of academic excellence not only within East New Britain Province but also throughout Papua New Guinea.
“This historic school has produced some prominent Papua New Guineans in the past who are serving in public service and in the private sector of the country today, contributing effectively towards nation-building. It is one of the oldest schools in the country and deserves to be supported to enable academic excellence among the students that pass through the system of education it offers today,” Prime Minister Marape said.
He further stressed the importance of the students’ roles in shaping the future: “Our nation’s future is in the hands of young people like you. Therefore, stay focused and achieve your dreams through hard work, dedication, and resilience. You can change your tomorrow today.”
Highlighting his government’s dedication to enhancing education, Prime Minister Marape outlined various initiatives, including flexible learning opportunities, technical vocational training, and the STEM programme.
“My government is passionately supporting education in our country on many fronts – second chance learning through flexible learning education, technical vocational training, the STEM programme, and others. We are allocating more funding to the sector for infrastructure development and other forms of assistance. We are working on increasing opportunities for those who complete Grade 12 in the country so that no one is left behind. So, dream big, pursue, and achieve just like Joseph, Daniel, and other great examples in the Bible.”
Kambubu, fondly referred to as “the blessed school beside the sea” due to its picturesque seaside location over an hour’s drive from Kokopo , is one of Papua New Guinea’s oldest schools. Founded by the Seventh-Day Adventist Church in 1937, the school celebrates its 87th anniversary this year, continuing its tradition of faith-based education.
During his weekend visit, Prime Minister Marape addressed the students at a Sabbath service, urging them to ground their lives in God’s Word and carry Christian principles into their studies, work, and future endeavors. He affirmed that if students across Papua New Guinea embrace these values, the nation will thrive, emphasising the importance of holistic education for all school students.
As he opened the new boys’ dormitory ahead of the graduation programme, Prime Minister Marape acknowledged Pomio MP and Minister for Health Hon. Elias Kapavore for his ongoing support to the school. He also announced plans for a new girls’ dormitory, further demonstrating the government’s investment in Kambubu’s future.
Accompanying the Prime Minister were MP Kapavore and East New Britain Governor Hon. Michael Marum, both of whom committed to providing additional support to Kambubu and other communities in Pomio. MP Kapavore highlighted the school’s potential for agricultural success, supported by its surrounding resources. He stated that the Pomio District Development Authority would offer assistance, creating income-earning opportunities not only in agriculture but also in fisheries and other untapped natural resources.
The graduation ceremony celebrated the achievements of Grade 10 and Grade 12 students, recognising their hard work as they reach significant academic milestones. With Grade 10 students having completed their exams last week, Grade 12 students will soon begin theirs, joining their peers across the nation.