Gabutu, Papua New Guinea, 13 September 2020 -- The Don Bosco Technical School (DBTS) community gathered round the Parents, Citizens and Teachers Association (PCTA) Park on the 11th September to partake in the Tri-Celebration Program which highlighted the Papua New Guinea 45th Independence Day, the Birthday of Mr. Martin Dai, the Principal of DBTS and the farewell of Fr. Roger Miranda, SDB, the treasurer of DBTS.
The school campus was well decorated with PNG colours. Students and staff dressed up colorfully as to fit the occasion. As the program commenced, the students welcomed the celebrants in a very cheerful atmosphere and the raising of the provincial flags and Papua New Guinea (PNG) flag. The opening prayer was led by the school religious prefect, Tim Aero. The entire program showcased PNG in the past, present and into the future (Timeline) together with speeches and presentation of gifts to Mr. Martin and farewell and best wishes to Fr. Roger.
Present in the celebration was a unanimous sentiment of gratitude and appreciation to both Mr. Martin - for being “a good Salesian educator, having the charism of St. John Bosco and striving to share it with the Educative Pastoral Community”, said the Rector - and to Fr. Roger for his dedication in the office of the economer as well as for his guidance to the staff.
Mr. Martin thanked everyone for the gratitude and appreciation shown to him. He remarked that gratitude is a virtue very dear to Don Bosco, and every good Bosconian says thank you. Regarding the country’s independence anniversary he underlined that only by becoming good Christians and honest citizens that we can say we are truly independent.
The event concluded with the theme song PNG Paradise by P2UIF, led by the music club members of the school. The whole community harmonized their voices in singing and flags were waved as the place was filled with Independence fever.
The community feasted to a delicious lunch while they were entertained by the Salesian Educators also known as the DIDIMAN band with old independence hit songs from the past. The students danced as the band played on.
After few announcements, reminders and acknowledgements by the Deputy for Students Affairs and Discipline, Mr. Narol Sapak, the students had homeroom formation with their respective patrons and matrons. And the day ended on a happy and joyous note.
