5722(I)_Forward March with Hope
Don Bosco Technical Secondary School holds 28th Graduation Ceremony
Kokopo, East New Britain, PNG, 4 November 2021 -- Don Bosco Technical Secondary School held its 28th Commencement Ceremony on Sunday 24 October, 2021 at the Mary Help of Christians Parish, Kokopo, East New Britain Province. Fr. Gregorio Bicomong Jnr sdb, Salesian Provincial of PNG and SI, presided at the Holy Mass.
The Salesian family was fortunate to have Fr. Greg visit. Prior to the graduation day, he took the opportunity to greet the parishioners, giving the good night talk to the community members of Malagunan, Gelegele and also spoke to the catechists.
On the occasion of the graduation, during his homily, he challenged the hundred and eighty-eight (188) graduands to see the past and the future in line with the graduation theme: “Forward March with Hope” and the Mission Sunday Celebration. He invited them to go forward as missionaries into the world today.
The beautiful liturgy that accompanied the Eucharistic celebration was animated by the residents of the boarding house.
Member for Kokopo, Honorable Emil Tamur, Minister for Planning and Development, was also present and joined in the Holy Mass. During the graduation proper he addressed the graduands and the parents. He reminded the youth of a sense of creativity, especially after being equipped with technical and spiritual skills in a valuable school like Don Bosco.
The presence of the parents of the graduates, families and friends at the event was an enrichment. The Salesian Sisters, the Salesian cooperators and other friends of Don Bosco, such as Dame Sandra Lau, business lady in Kokopo, took part in the event as well.
To appreciate what they have received from their very first day of learning with Don Bosco, Mr. Logan Lagisa gave a speech on behalf of his companions. He expressed their gratitude in detail, and showed how much they value the double certificates they will be receiving: National Certificate 2 of TVET and Grade 12 Certificates, especially for those who were under the academic fields. He also invited those who were still schooling to appreciate the efforts of the teachers and instructors.
The graduates were from the four trades of Electrical, Machine Fitting and Maintenance, Motor Vehicle Mechanic and Carpentry Building and Construction. They concluded the event by making the pledge as Don Bosco Past Pupils now and the singing of the Alma Mater.
To conclude the event, Rector of the school, Fr. Moise Paluku sdb, acknowledged the effort of the parents and their trust in the school. He also appreciated the presence of the Provincial and the response of Honorable Emil Tamur to attend the graduation. He then highlighted that the graduates should truly march forward with hope, and by all means help to bring the message of God to all their dear ones.
The program concluded in the early afternoon with family meals and sharing of memories.
