The Minister for International Trade and Investment and Yangoru-Saussia MP Richard Maru, delivered an inspiring message to the graduating Grade 10 and 12 students of Nagum Adventist Secondary School on 23rd September with the central theme, “If I can do it, you can do it.”
Minister Maru shared his personal journey from growing up in Passam to achieving his dream of attending Papua New Guinea University of Technology (UniTech) and much more. He emphasized the importance of having a clear vision and working hard towards it, while recounting his rise from a humble background to becoming a CEO, a senior Minister in Cabinet, and even the Acting Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea.
Minister Maru encouraged students to partner with God for success, stating that a strong relationship with God is the key to knowledge, wisdom, and blessings. Minister Maru shared that his career took off after he dedicated his life to God, urging students to put God first and remain focused on their dreams.
“The secret of success is your relationship with God because He is the source of all knowledge, wisdom, and all blessings including your future. I found out that when I gave my life to the Lord my career just took off. All you must do is put God first. He has a plan for each of us and He will help you to get there. Don’t let anything distract you in your relationship with the Lord. Focus on your dreams and work hard; you must not be sidetracked by other influences. Discipline, focus, and seek ye first the Kingdom of God. You can do it; the sky is the limit.”
Minister Maru also highlighted the unique role of Nagum Adventist Secondary School as a Christian institution. He urged students to reflect the light of God in their communities and maintain exemplary behavior, avoiding negative influences like drugs and homebrew consumption. He supported the school’s strict discipline policies and called for the termination of students who misbehave.
Proud of the school’s academic achievements, Minister Maru announced that the Yangoru-Saussia District rewarded the school with a new truck for ranking 2nd in East Sepik Province and 22nd nationally in the Grade 12 National Examination results.
Minister Maru concluded by reaffirming the district’s commitment to investing in the school and rewarding excellence.