IEA marks 50 years of education service in PNG
Kundiawa International Primary School [KIPS] hosted the golden jubilee celebration today as International Education Agency [IEA] schools marked 50 years of education service in Papua New Guinea under the theme “Celebrating 50 Years of Excellence in Education”.
Air Niugini Captain Joe Bomai, a former KIPS student, drew the biggest cheers with his motivational address.
He shared his journey from the KIPS classroom to the cockpit of Airbus A350 and Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft.
“If I can do it, so can you. Your background does not define your future,” Capt Bomai told students.
He urged them to work hard, stay focused, and believe in their dreams despite limited resources.
Captain Bomai added that the discipline taught at IEA schools prepared him for the responsibility of flying hundreds of lives daily.
Assistant Commissioner of Police, Eastern End Command, Senior Inspector Clement Dala, also a former KIPS student, spoke directly to students on discipline and respect for authority.
“Obey your parents and teachers. Discipline is the foundation of every success,” Snr Insp Dala said.
He reminded parents and students that law and order begins in the home and classroom. The commander also commended teachers and the school board for maintaining standards despite modern social challenges.
Electoral Officer for Kundiawa-Gembogl District, George Ewaiye, represented MP Mugua Dilu at the celebration said the MP, also a former KIPS student, has pledged to assist with school infrastructure development.
“KIPS is known for producing many educated men and women who serve this nation,” he stated.
He added that the MP recognizes the school’s critical role in shaping leaders for Simbu and PNG.
Mr Ewaiye further said government support will prioritize classrooms and facilities to match the school’s long-standing legacy.
Board Chairman Dr. Raymond Saulep closed the speeches with the school’s strategic vision.
He spoke on the need to upgrade learning materials to cope with a changing world.
“IEA must move with technology while keeping our core values of character and service,” Dr. Saulep stated.
He said the board is planning new investments in digital learning tools and teacher training programs.
Dr Saulep emphasized that the next 50 years must build on the foundation laid by pioneer teachers and students.
"From its first classrooms five decades ago to producing pilots, doctors, police commanders, and public servants today, IEA schools have shown that education is about more than exams", he said.
Kundiawa International’s jubilee was a reminder that discipline, service, and faith remain the heart of IEA’s mission as it prepares for the next 50 years.