Governor calls on Kwikila students to raise standards

By JERRY TSINABI
STUDENTS of Central’s Kwikila Secondary School in Rigo have been encouraged to put extra effort into their studies to raise the level of education in the province.
Central Governor Rufina Peter issued the challenge when breaking ground for a new girl’s dormitory at the school last Thursday.
She said during PNG’s early development stages, Central was the province that educated many leaders from other provinces.
“In the last 15 years, the province’s Grade 10 and Grade 12 exam results were not in the top 10 nationwide.
“The only school that has consistently performed well is Sacred Heart Secondary School in Tapini.
“This is a challenge to you students, especially our Grade 10s and Grade 12s. Do your best to elevate your school to be among the top 10,” Peter said.
She said academic excellence was critical, however, to demand for it and not address factors that were affecting students’ learning was hypocritical.
“That is why we are starting with the girls’ dormitory. We will also look at completing other outstanding projects in the school.
“Once these projects are completed, you (students) should not have an excuse. You must perform.
“I am asking you to study hard. Your parents have sacrificed so much to put you here,” she said.
Reflecting on her childhood and the mountains she had to climb to get to school, Peter said: “The hardships you are going through will make you grow. Embrace your hardships. Embrace your pain.”
She said since the establishment of the school in 1959, it had produced many elites who had contributed to the development of this country. “It’s your turn now to learn as much as you can as you are the future leaders,” Peter said.
She said PNG will celebrate its 50 years of Independence next year.
“But the next 50 years is for you, this generation, to move it forward,” Peter said.
She also announced that the governor’s office would continue assist Central students attending tertiary institutions in the new year. “The tertiary student subsidy programme will offer a maximum K2,000.
“Come to the office around November and December and fill in the application form manually to apply,” Peter said.
She said when the platform goes online, a website will be provided for ease of access.
“Put God first, respect your parents and aim to achieve your goals.
“Never forget that education is power,” Peter said.