Sandaun’s big school celebrates rich heritage

Locals in Aitape have joined in a major milestone celebration of Sandaun Province's top school on Thursday, showing their continued support for the institution.

Over 800 students and teachers at St Ignatius Secondary School commemorated the school's 60th anniversary and 23rd Cultural Show.

For six decades, St Ignatius Secondary School has been a robust educational establishment in the greater Sepik Region, producing a significant number of human resources for Papua New Guinea.

Frank Evans, one of the school's founder, paid a beautiful tribute to all the parents and students of the present, highlighting that they are the reason for this celebration. He further applauded existing staff members of St. Ignatius Secondary School for their commitment to the school.

"These are the people we are celebrating today because they have maintained what we've set out to do when we set up this school," he said.

Since its inception in 1965, St. Ignatius Secondary School has maintained its core values of being a Christian school that respects other denominations, excellence, and holistic education.

Keynote speaker and former student Erick Kowa thanked the people of Aitape for their continued support towards looking after the school for a very long time as he reflected on some unfortunate schools around the country that have been disrupted by law and order issues.

"The success of this institution to mark 60 years and beyond is a testament to the community here in Aitape and the Catholic Diocese.

Kowa challenged the students, parents, and teachers to build a strong culture that supports strong governance as the school continues to its enduring legacy in the Greater Sepik Region.

The 60th Anniversary celebration concluded with cultural performances as part of their 23rd Cultural show.