THE education sector played a pivotal role in Papua New Guineas independence in 1975, New Ireland Governor Walter Schnaubelt said.
“One key component that I believe played an important part and key role in pursuing, gaining and appreciating independence is education, Governor Schnaubelt said during the Kopkop College pre-independence celebration at the Sir Julius Chan Stadium in Kavieng.
“If we truly want to be independent we must be educated. All other sectors fall into line when we citizens are educated.
“When we are educated we can promote law and order, defence and health. But without education, I don’t think we will be truly independent. And I want to stress here today for everyone to understand the importance of education.
“Let’s not sweep it under the carpet, thinking that it does not have a place in promoting our independence. Nothing worse than having a society that is uneducated and we are trying to promote development in an uneducated society.
“Therefore, education is key to appreciating our independence in Papua New Guinea and here in our province as well.”
Governor Schnaubelt also paid tribute to the forefathers and women who achieved independence for PNG and ended colonial rule by Australia without bloodshed.
He thanked the Australian Government for their efforts, support and consideration to gift PNG its sovereign status avoiding possible conflict and bloodshed if such transaction never took place.
The Governor also challenged the teachers and staff of Kopkop College and other education institutions to lead by example as first role models for our students will encounter as they enter formal education.
“Their discipline, education and future are on you and staff. Look at your role not as a teacher alone, but influencers of good habits like respect, integrity and caring attributes so in turn students can emulate and disseminate good standing to other students within school grounds, at home and the general public space outside of school.”
Governor Schnaubelt took the opportunity to impart his practical life experiences as a world champion in
karate, a businessman and politician to encourage students to become successful in life after formal education.
He commended New Ireland entrepreneur Dame Maria Kopkop for the school’s milestone achievements and pledged K100,000 to help pay for school fees.
A K10,000 was also presented to the school by the Provincial Administrator, Richard Andia to celebrate the day which was witnessed by Social Sector CEO of the New Ireland Provincial Administration Benson Apelis, Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Inspector Albert Beli, founder of Kopkop College Dame Maria Kopkop and others.