Fifty-six students graduated with certificates during the 25th Graduation Ceremony of Don Bosco Technical Secondary School’s Employment-Oriented Skills Development Training (EOSDT), held in Port Moresby on November 5, 2026.
The ceremony celebrated short-term trainees who completed an intensive 16-week program across several disciplines, including House Wiring and Installation, Basic Computing, Graphic Design and Multimedia, Motor Vehicle Trade, Metal Fabrication, and Welding and Plumbing.
Guided by the school year’s theme, “Do whatever He tells you; Believers, free to serve,” the students demonstrated exceptional dedication throughout their training and graduated with flying colors.
The event featured inspiring speeches that encouraged the graduates to apply their newly acquired skills in service to their communities.
School Rector Fr. Ambrose Pereira, SDB, officially welcomed the parents, guests, and graduates, congratulating the students on their achievements.
Following his address, Principal Mr. Martin Dai extended his gratitude to everyone who made the program possible, particularly the parents and guardians.
He reminded the graduates that “the best gratitude is to continue being good in your community and to make little changes.”
“It may not be big, but Don Bosco has given you many tools to make a difference, no matter how small.”
He also urged them to use their God-given talents and skills with honesty and hard work in the spirit of Don Bosco.
Representing the graduating class, Motor Vehicle Trade graduate Hayara Angoea delivered a heartfelt vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to parents and guardians for their sacrifices, dedication, and unwavering support.
He also recognized the school and its Salesian educators for guiding, nurturing, and equipping the students with the knowledge, skills, and values needed to become responsible individuals, thanking them for instilling joy, optimism, and confidence in the cohort.
Fr. Charles Casper, SDB, former Principal and Spiritual Moderator, and current Vice Provincial of the Vice-Province of Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu, reflected further on the significance of the year’s theme.
He reminded the graduates that while they are free to make choices and pursue their dreams, they must first ask themselves an important question: “What do I want?” Challenging them to become believers who are free to serve by choosing the right path and making responsible decisions, he encouraged them to remain guided by the words, “Do whatever He tells you,” as they navigate life’s opportunities and challenges.
Special appreciation was extended to the event's sponsors and invited guests for their support and for funding prizes for top-performing trainees and special award recipients.
Among those recognized were Ms. Deanne Evans of Save the Children, Mrs. Mary Kris Villacastin, owner of Lumino Supply and Technology, and Mr. Pedi Flor Burlat, owner of Meridian System.
Delivering the keynote address, guest speaker Ms. Deanne Evans, Operations Director of Save the Children Papua New Guinea, highlighted the value of practical life skills in empowering youth.
She noted that “your knowledge and skills can never be taken away from you,” adding that “what you have learned will always take you forward in life.”
The ceremony concluded with the graduating class performing their graduation song, “A Million Dreams,” followed by the school’s Alma Mater, marking a memorable close to their journey at Don Bosco Technical Secondary School.
As they step forward into new opportunities, the graduates are encouraged to carry with them the knowledge, skills, and values gained during their training, remaining committed to a spirit of service, faith, joy, and optimism.
