Sight of proud parent sums up family story

By GLORIA BAUAI
THE sight of a happy and proud father hugging his son after a school year sums a successful family upbringing story.
Dad John Mombi, a former teacher, had very strict rules at home for his three sons when it came to their education.
“I tell them that you cannot come back to me as liability,” he said. “You must be an asset and education is the foundation.
“If you (do not) build on it appropriately, you throw your future out the window.”
It paid off when second son Vokira was awarded the social science dux prize at Busu Secondary School in Lae last week.
Vokira also topped legal studies among other subjects, setting the foundation for a career in law.
“I would like to pursue a career in law either in criminal or property because of the situation my family has been facing,” Vokira said. “I’ve seen my family struggle with property and land issues with no lawyers to assist them in their fight.”
John described Vokira as “a testament of people who persevere”.
“We live in the settlement (Back Road White Haus) where we don’t have any electricity,” he said.
“We make do with solar lighting.
“People who persevere will succeed.
“I am pleased with my son.”
Mother Doreen said Vokira had always been a bright student.
She said despite their living in a settlement, Vokira had always been focused on education.
Vokira was among the 266 Grade 12 students who graduated from Busu Secondary School last week.