STUDENTS FROM HANTOA PRIMARY SCHOOL CELEBRATES CHILDRENS DAY

By Angeline KARIUS, Bougainville

The Nazareth Centre for Rehabilitation under the leadership of Sr Lorraine Garasu launched 16/ 20 Days of Activism coinciding with the International Children’s Day.

A colourful array of traditional attire and costumes were displayed by children attending Hantoa Primary School.

Member of Selau Constituency Paul Otto Cheung reminded the people that gathered that every child that was present at the occasion or who is at home, has the power to save our new independent nation.

“We leaders and adults have the responsibility to build a future where every child feels safe, loved and valued.

“Everyone present here today are the stakeholders responsible for the upbringing of our children.

“Parents, relatives, Chiefs, community leaders, ward members, constituency member, government, development partners and non-government organizations including churches,” he added.

Cheung reminded the parents of their priority role in the upbringing of their children.

“To make sure there are fed three times a day, clean clothes to wear, good place to sleep, ensure they attend school, healthy, instil good Christian values including respect, disciplined and God fearing.

“Chief and traditional leaders are chosen by God to look after land, water and sea and also hold the responsibility to ensure our children grow up in a conducive environment.

“Children grow up in good healthy environment free from, alcohol, backstabbing, jealousy, fights, will do well and excel in their studies,” he added.

Meanwhile, Hantoa Primary School Fidelis Magara reminded the parents of their roles and responsibilities.

He stated most times the teachers are the secondary parents to their children who spend most time with them during school hours.

“Teachers are often left to fill in the shoes of some parents who tend to neglect their children of basic needs such as feeding and clothing them.

I encouraged all parents and other stakeholders in the community to look after the wellbeing of our students who are also our children,” he urged.

Pictures Caption: Students of Hantoa Primary School In Selau Constituency, Autonomous Region of Bpugainville, Celebrating Childrens Day