ST GABRIEL HOST GR: 10 & 12 GRADUATION
By Kenny Romanus
St. Gabriel’s Technical Secondary School in the North Fly District commemorated a remarkable milestone on Friday, November 7, 2025, hosting its 25th Grade 10 and 15th Grade 12 Graduation Ceremony under the theme “Transforming Lives, Building the Future.”
A total of 191 Grade 10 and 135 Grade 12 students graduated, successfully completing their lower and upper secondary education with Bruno Timothy scooping the Grade 12 Dux Award and Marjorie Turumen receiving the runner-up award.
The colorful celebration was attended by proud parents, guardians, invited guests, and principals from various secondary and high schools across Western Province.
In his address, School Principal Brother Mathias Minj congratulated the graduating students for their hard work and commended both teaching and support staff for their dedication.
He also presented the school’s financial report and expressed appreciation to the entire school community for their ongoing support.
Brother Mathias acknowledged the contributions of Bishop Joseph Durero SVD of the Daru-Kiunga Diocese, Provincial Administrator Robert Alphones Kaiyun, Provincial Education Advisor Charlie Buia, Senior Secondary School Inspector Gidu Ludu, Kiunga-Lake Murray Education Coordinator, Catholic Education Secretary Kevin Joseph, and Provincial Guidance Officer Allison Tari.
“Education is the most powerful tool you can use to change your life, your family, your community, and your country,” Brother Mathias told the graduates.
Delivering the keynote address, Miss Allison Tari, the Provincial Guidance Officer, urged the students to move forward with confidence and determination.
“Today is not the end of a chapter, but the beginning of a new and exciting journey filled with promise, opportunity, and responsibility,” she said.
Referring to the graduation theme, Miss Tari emphasized that “Transforming Lives, Building the Future” reflects the true purpose of education — shaping young minds, building strong character, and inspiring students to be positive influences in society.
Quoting Nelson Mandela, she reminded the students that “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”
Miss Tari also extended heartfelt appreciation to parents and guardians for their dedication and sacrifices, encouraging them to continue supporting their children’s educational journeys.
The school administration expressed sincere thanks to the many sponsors and supporters whose generosity made the event possible. Contributors included Ok Tedi Mining Limited (OTML), Ok Tedi Development Foundation (OTDF), Sustainable Development Program (SDP), Star Mountains Women’s Association, Star Mountains Education Foundation, Fly Fuels, Niugini Pride, Balus Bar, Mr. Isaac Linus, Mr. Raymond Singamis, and others.
The celebration concluded with lively entertainment and performances between official programs, creating a joyful and memorable atmosphere for all.
