THE University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) student body has commemorated the 4th anniversary of the founding father late Grand Chief Sir Michael Thomas Somare at the UPNG forum squad yesterday (February 26).
Along with faculty members and university community, the student body assembled at the forum square with special procession and flag raising ceremony led by the UPNG Adventist Tertiary Students Association (UPNG ATSA) to honour the great leader of the nation.
The evening program was graced by speeches from various guests, items presentations by students’ group, a remarkable singing of unity song by the Sogeri Students Association, and lighting of candles to pay tribute at the forum square.
President of the Students Representative Council (SRC), Mr. Clinton Maliaba in his address, reflected on the life of Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare.
He said Sir Michale Somare was a visionary student along with his other colleagues who were part of the Bully Beef Club.
Mr. Maliaba said they were strong enough to make important discussions and decisions which led them to achieving the independence of Papua New Guinea in September 16, 1975.
“Now through these 50 years, we have lived through the visions of our forefathers, who were students and were also missionaries,” he added.
“This year is only a time for reflection, but a new era where we as young leaders must have visions for our great and rich nation.”
Mr. Maliaba challenged the students to take on legacies of the forefathers and set their visions above to build on and make positive contributions to the future of PNG.
He added that the students have greater responsibility to learn and uphold the values of the past leaders.
“Our country is great indeed. It is up to us to make it known to the world,” Mr. Maliaba concluded.
