A catalyst for positive change

COVER STORY

By GELINDE NAREKINE
IN any publication, the title is the most important part.
When we come across an article, a story, or a book, the title is the first word or string of words that catches our attention. It makes an impression on us about the content of that particular material.
Though short, the title sets the tone and conveys the core message of the text that follow. It is therefore, of some relevance that we understand the title before we delve into this article.
The word ‘odyssey’ has its roots in ancient Greek epic poems. It literally means – ‘a long journey full of adventures, associated with a series of experiences that give knowledge or understanding to someone. The word ‘transformative’ means – ‘causing a major change to something or someone, especially in a way that makes it or them better’.
When the word ‘transformative’ precedes the word ‘odyssey’, it gives prominence to its meaning and in its practical use. Therefore, the phrase ‘transformative odyssey’, would now translate into – ‘a long journey full of adventure and experiences that brings about profound and lasting change in someone’s knowledge and understanding to make something better’. In turn, the word ‘catalyst’ literally means – ‘a substance that enables a chemical reaction to proceed at a usually faster rate’. Where the subject of interest is a person, being a catalyst would involve inspiring and guiding others toward embracing change, fostering innovation, and steering progress. The person is now seen as a positive ‘instrument of change’.
In the context of this story, the concept of ‘a change catalyst’ embodies its core message. It is believed that positive change does not happen spontaneously. It requires deliberate action and leadership to bring about meaningful transformation in an educational institution.
The endeavor to educate children and young people to become good and successful citizens of our society is a challenging one. It certainly calls for teachers, and as a matter of fact, good teachers and educators.
Given a backdrop of many challenges and struggles, these teachers show unwavering commitment to educating the next generation of thinkers, learners, readers, dreamers, and leaders. Often times, their efforts, however, go unrecognised.

And in the words of Dr Lino Tom, Minister for Health and HIV/Aids, “these unrecognised teachers in those humble places are indeed the real heroes of our nation. As the essence of leadership is the creation of next generation of leaders, these teachers are the great and true leaders of our society.”
Meet George Noble, the current principal of Busu Secondary School in Lae, Morobe. Hailing from India, Noble has seamlessly woven himself into the fabric of Papua New Guinea’s educational landscape, leaving an indelible mark on the communities he serves.
He is an extraordinary person and educator.
Possessing a bachelor’s degree in botany and chemistry, a master’s degree in language and literature, a bachelor’s degree in education, and a diploma in theological studies, Noble brings a wealth of knowledge to the realm of education.
His journey in this country began when he arrived as a teacher on May 9, 1997. Since then, he has become an integral part of this nation’s educational tapestry. He spent 12 years teaching in two Madang secondary schools; eight years at Malala and four years at Tusbab. After 12 years in Madang, he moved to Morobe in 2007, and taught at Bugandi Secondary School, and then moved to Busu in 2016 as principal, which he is till today.
Since his coming to Papua New Guinea, he has devoted his life to teaching and to school administration. From his initial role as a classroom teacher to ascending the ranks to become the principal of Busu Secondary School in 2016, his commitment has been unwavering.
Under Noble’s visionary leadership, Busu has become a beacon of academic excellence. His exceptional management skills have propelled the school to the top spot in Morobe province and consistently ranked amongst the top five secondary schools in the country. His influence extends beyond school boundaries, as he actively mentors and trains educators, contributing to the development of leaders across the education sector.
His tenure as principal has witnessed transformative changes. Through his dynamic leadership, Busu has seen the establishment of a senior secondary science laboratory, academic staff apartments, ablution blocks, and state-of-the-art classrooms. His dedication to elevating the school from level 9 to level 10 underscores his commitment to providing students with the best possible conducive learning environment.
One of Noble’s most enduring contributions to Papua New Guinea is the introduction of school-based and provincial exhibitions, fostering a spirit of unity in education. Under the banner – ‘Unity and Innovation in Education’ – these exhibitions have not only showcased academic achievements, but also created a platform for schools to meaningfully collaborate, thus, positively contributing to reducing issues such as school fights and uncanny illicit activities.

His commitment to this cause led to his appointment as the coordinator of these events, further solidifying his impact on the educational landscape.
His influence extends beyond classroom and academia. His wife, Sherly Noble, is also part of this positive influence. She has played a pivotal role in enhancing students’ academic performance. Together, they form a dynamic duo that has positively impacted the community, the province, and the nation at large.
Noble’s unwavering dedication has earned him respect and admiration from various stakeholders, including parents, teachers, students, the community, province, government, and non-government development partners.
Chairman of Busu Secondary School governing council Peter Sayama Kesu, aptly captures the sentiment, by acknowledging the transformative journey the school has taken from a struggling school to a model institution in Morobe and the country, in terms of its discipline and academic performance, embracing its culture – “One Busu No Groupings.”
In his 27 years of service to PNG, Noble has transcended the role of an educator. He has become a symbol of positive change, a champion of academic excellence, a shaper and builder of positive character, and a beacon of hope.
His story is not just about a man fulfilling his professional duties but about a visionary leader who has also shaped the educational landscape of this nation.
Noble’s remarkable journey serves as an inspiration for all, showcasing the potential for positive transformation even in the face of challenges. And his heart to serve Papua New Guinea is a testament to the profound impact one seemingly ordinary individual can have on an entire community.
Thus the statement, ‘from teacher to transformer’, perfectly fits George Noble and his amazing journey as a teacher and an educator, daily living a life of service, changing the face of secondary school education in Papua New Guinea.

Acknowledgement: I am indebted to all who have contributed to this story, especially, Mumengte Geoff Narekine

• Gelinde Narekine is a lecturer at the UPNG School of Medicine and Health Sciences.