Graduation at Don Bosco Technical School, Gabutu, PNG
Gabutu, PNG, 24 November 2016 -- DRESSED in the black gowns with empire blue silk stoles draped around their necks, the graduating students marched into the Kurongku Hall, of Don Bosco Technical School, Gabutu, to the rousing cheers of their parents, guests and friends.
The 19th Speech Day was held on the 24th November, 2016, had as its theme, ‘Striving for Excellence’. Over 280 Grade 12 and Industrial Training Course 2 students received their certificates, after having successfully completed all the requirements of their course.
Mrs. Rossa Apelis, Assistant Secretary, TVET Curriculum Division School was the keynote speaker on the occasion. She paid tribute to the teachers and instructors for their hardwork, commitment and dedication. She said that it was one of the best technical Institutes in Papua New Guinea. She congratulated the management and the staff who have undergone the required training under the National TVET Qualification Framework (NTQF). “The school can now award its students the NC1 and NC2 qualification”, she said.
Students were awarded for their academic and technical excellence, attendance, deportment, service and other areas. Hebou Constructon PNG Limited sponsored for the last time the Sir George Constantinou Apprentice of the year award. It was presented by Agnes Susuve, Human Resources manager to Snowie Nanoula, Motor Vechicle Technology student. This award completes its 10th year and it will be taken up in 2017 by Rouna Repairs. Awards were also presented by Ela Motors, BSP, International Training Institute, Bishop Brothers and other companies.
Servant Leadership has been stressed and highlighted at the ceremony. Fr. Peter Baquero sdb, Provincial encouraged the students to give and share little things that put a smile on the faces of others. “We have only to look at Don Bosco and be inspired by his generosity” he said as he spoke to the congregation at the Thanksgiving Eucharistic celebration earlier in the morning. Principal, Fr. Angel Sanchez sdb, stressed that the SALT program was not about working and cleaning but it is about being ready to serve. “Be ready to give of your service readily and freely”, he encouraged the students.
In his closing remarks, outgoing Rector Fr. Roger Miranda sdb, thanked the confreres, staff and students for the past three years. He announced the following school appointments – Rector: Fr. Angel Sanchez sdb, Administrator: Fr. Sonny Fajardo and Principal: Mr. Martin Dai.
The Graduation Song ‘Time of our Lives’ by Tyrone Wells was then sung. The Alma Mater song brought tears to many students as they sang with passion, a song that they have sung during their years at Don Bosco.
Reflections:
“We came as strangers, but now we leave as brothers. Throughout the four years, despite the hardships and difficulties we have journeyed as a family. My sincere thanks to all the Salesians, teaching and non-teaching staff of Don Bosco” – Mark Wai, 12 Rua Electrical technology student.
“I accepted the responsibilities of being the Student Representative Council president. It was tough, but it enhanced my qualities as a leader. I will ever be grateful to Don Bosco for the education and for the wonderful blessing of having DBTS as my second home”. – Palep Bigiglen, 12 Rua Motor Vehicle Technology student.
“It has been a very emotional journey for me to be among the over 280 students who graduated in 2016. I will always treasure the fun and laughter, but above all, the call to be a proud Bosconian, a servant leader, for others” – Rowley Karava, Electrical Technology student.
