By Ms. Deborah Saru

Henderson, Solomon Islands, 14 October 2016 -- 107 students from 7 trades graduated at DBTI on Friday, 14th October 2016. 20 others are expected to graduate privately before the end of the year, when they complete the requirements of the OJT (On-the-Job training). The trades of specialization: Automotive, Construction, Electrical, Machine Fitting and Maintenance, Life Skills, Information Computer Technology and Fabrication-Welding. The theme chosen for this year’s graduation was “Keep your head held high”.

The day’s program commenced at 9.00 AM with the thanksgiving Eucharist sponsored by the graduating students and presided over by Archbishop Chris Cardone op, Archbishop of Honiara. Concelebrating with him was Archbishop Emeritus Adrian Smith sm and 7 other priests. The school students combined with the graduands made the singing loud and solemn. The Archbishop, in his homily, emphasized the efforts that DBTI was making to help young people become good Christians and honest citizens, and to prepare the students in skills and knowledge as well as attitudes needed to join the industry and business.

At 10.30 AM, the graduation ceremony commenced. Prominent guests of honor were: Archbishop Chris Cardone, Archbishop Emeritus Adrian Smith, H.E. David Ward (British High Commissioner), Mr. Michael Hasset (Deputy H.C. of Australia), Mr. Tommie Angau (Deputy H.C. of PNG), Mr. Calvin Yen (Deputy Ambassador of Taiwan), Mr. James Bosamata from the MEHRD, the appointee of the Hon. Minister to give the keynote address, since he could not be present.

The graduands marched-in with the solemn music, followed by the school leaders marching in with the National flag and School flag. This was followed by the singing of the National and School Anthems led by Dickson Ramo and Lydia Maeitorana. Fr. Srimal, the Principal presented the candidates for graduation to the School Rector who accepted them as the graduating batch of 2016. Fr. Dominic, the Rector, in his speech, highlighted the challenges the graduands had to face during their 2 years in school and almost 1 year in industry. He also highlighted the important events of the academic year. “It is on days like today that DBTI holds its head high “, he said. He also quoted St. Paul to highlight “You are our pride and our joy”

The long-awaited march up to the stage to receive their certificates was emotional. For the first time DBTI students wore a ‘gown’ prepared by the Life Skills Department. Memorable clicks were made to capture the cherished moment, and at the photograph booth.

The 2nd year students and the EOSDT (Employment Oriented Skills Development Training) students who completed the SALT (Servant Leadership Training) were presented their Certificate of Achievement, on this auspicious occasion.

Mr. Bosamata in his speech highlighted the role DBTI played in catering to the non-selected students of the country. He was happy with DBTI’s partnership with APTC.

The ceremony concluded with a speech by Moses Tahitorea representing the graduands. The graduands sang with gusto “Today my life begins” by Bruno Mars, and the photograph session.

The guests of honor proceeded to the ISLES CAFE (Hospitality Lab) for refreshments while the hall was being set for lunch.

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