By: Enoch Jabeth and Fr Ambrose Pereira sdb

Gabutu, Port Moresby, PNG, 18 August 2023 -- Don Bosco Technical School, Gabutu, had their Foundation Day with a series of celebrations that commenced on 13 August and concluded on 16 August. The events held were: 13 August - Homecoming of the Past pupils; 14 August – Open House and Talent Show and 15 August - Battle of the Bands and 16 August - Thanksgiving Eucharistic celebration in honour of Don Bosco. The theme chosen for the celebrations was “Like Don Bosco, we are Yeast: Agents of Change”.

14 August: Talent and Trade Show

The event on 14 August commenced with the rhythmic beat of the Garamut and the traditional Manus Dance performed by the students. Present on the occasion was Mr John Dobunapa, Human Resource Manager for Holiday Inn. Students and staff from St. Francis Primary School, Maino Heduru TVET School, La Selle Technical School, Hohola. The event was opened by Fr Ambrose Pereira, Spiritual Moderator, Mr. Martin Dai, Principal and Mr. John Dobunapa.

Dwelling on the yeast that works in silence, Fr. Ambrose encouraged reflection, prayer, and the presence of God in the lives of each person. “Young people can achieve great things with guidance, direction, cheerfulness, faith, commitment to duty and in doing good to others. This is the recipe for holiness that brings about a change in themselves and a change in others”, he said.

Guests and students were then able to view the school’s academic displays and the display of Don Bosco’s history. They visited the workshops, and the students explained the intricacies of what is involved in the different trades. “It has been a very impressive visit and I am happy to give the OJT students who have a good attitude and are open to learn a chance at Holiday Inn. As renovation works are planned for the months ahead, we would want to offer possibilities for dedicated and committed tradesmen and women, ready to join the workforce”, said Mr John Dobunapa.

15 August: Battle of the Bands

Words of Don Bosco, “A house without music is like a body without a soul” was quoted by Fr Ambrose Pereira, SDB, Spiritual Moderator and echoed by Mr Martin Dai, principal. “For Don Bosco, music and singing were great ways to communicate with young people. Music teaches us harmony, discipline, and commitment”, said Fr Ambrose as he encouraged everyone to sing and praise the Lord through music. “Spread joy and happiness to friends and families, as you run, jump and make noise but just avoid sin”, concluded Mr. Martin.

A total of twelve bands competed in this music competition. While most of the Bands were from Don Bosco Technical School, Gabutu, Jubilee Catholic Secondary, Waigani; La Salle Technical School, Hohola and St. Joseph College, Boroka also joined in at the event. The judges for the day were: Ms. Rica Lavilla, Mr. Jeremy Malir and Gideon Giyovadulu.

The competition was energetic and entertaining. Students were dressed in their traditional attire and sang local songs. The judges: Ms. Rica Lavilla, Mr. Jeremy Malir and Gideon Giyovadulu were pleased with the result. The Balas Band was the overall winner. Then came Jubilee Catholic Secondary School, Waigani which was followed by La Salle Technical School, Hohola.

16 August: Thanksgiving Eucharist in honor of Don Bosco.

The atmosphere was serene and prayerful as the students prepared themselves for the Thanksgiving Eucharistic celebration in honor of St John Bosco. On the well-decorated stage was the theme for the celebration: Like Don Bosco, we are Yeast: Agents of Change.

A beautiful rendering of the dream of Don Bosco at the age of nine, artistically set to music and dance by Rical Lavilla set the tone for the celebrations. The solemn Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Bp Peter Baquero, Bishop of Kerema. He was joined by Fr Gregorio Bicomong, Provincial Superior of the PGS vice-province, 7 priests, lay religious men and women, staff, students, and guests. Presents were the sisters and family members of Br Francis Mallol to witness and congratulate him as he made his perpetual profession.

In his homily, Fr Gregory invited Br Francis and the entire congregation to reflect on the following points: 1. God is the creator, and we are his humble sons and daughters. 2. Vocation is a gift, and as we profess our vows, we need to treasure it as it is fragile and vulnerable. 3. God is in control and while there is an element of fear, it is He who gives us courage. 4. We strive to build up the Kingdom of God.

The liturgy was well prepared with singing led by Vincent Numbos, and custom dances by different groups. The solemn Litany of Saints was sung by Rica Lavilla and Eusebius Pasbon.

After the Eucharistic celebration flowers were placed at the statue of Don Bosco. Parlor games were then held after which a delicious lunch was enjoyed by staff, students, and guests.

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