By Leo Paraha

Don Bosco Gabutu, Port Moresby, PNG, 12 February 2024 -- His Eminence Sir John Cardinal Ribat, Archbishop of Port Moresby, delivered a powerful message during the Holy Spirit Mass and Official Opening of the School year 2024, at Don Bosco Technical School (DBTS). Addressing the students and staff gathered at Don Bosco Gabutu’s Korongku Hall, Cardinal Ribat emphasized the importance of having faith in God and connecting with Christ, whom he described as the source of our lives.

Fr. Pedro Sachitula, SDB, the Rector of DBTS, urged Salesian Educators and students to pray to the Holy Spirit for guidance and blessings as they embarked on the new school year. Embracing the theme of the year, 'The Dream that Makes You Dream,' Cardinal Ribat underscored the mission of St. John Bosco, both in Papua New Guinea and worldwide. He also shared a heartwarming account of a Bosconian electrician who assisted him in fixing an electrical fault at his residence.

Meanwhile, Fr. Ambrose Pereira, SDB Fr. Shoji Mathew, SDB and Fr. Albert Swer, SDB facilitated the Sacrament of Reconciliation at PCTA Park, allowing students and teachers to prepare spiritually before the mass.

More than 900 students sang harmoniously under the direction of Mr. Vincent Numbos and his music team. As the Mass concluded, the students expressed their well wishes and sang a heartfelt birthday song for His Eminence John Sir Cardinal Ribat, MSC, as he cut the birthday cake.

Following the Mass, a selected group proceeded to bless and inaugurate the newly constructed two-story Administration block. This facility boasts a reception area, front office, accounts office, archives storage, and a designated space for teachers to relax.

Another segment of the program included the introduction of the teaching and non-teaching staff, as well as the Student Representative Council (SRC). The event also featured recognition of outstanding achievements from the previous school year, 2023. Mr. Martin Dai, the Principal of DBTS, commended classes that excelled in attendance and punctuality, including Mr. Enoch’s class of 9 Magone, Mr. Edward's ITC1 Elec A, and Mr. Kevin's ITC1 Elec B, 2023. Mr. Martin challenged the students to strive for excellence in the coming year.

Concluding the event, Mr. Peter N’Drasal, Deputy for Student Affairs, offered acknowledgments and reminders before everyone enjoyed a delicious snack.

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