Celebration mode gains momentum for DWU’s 30th Anniversary

The Divine Word University has begun public awareness activities in the lead up to its 30th Anniversary, Festival of Legacy and Vision, with vibrant motorcades held in Rabaul, Port Moresby and Madang, bringing together staff, students, alumni, cultural groups and supporters in colourful displays of pride, unity and community spirit.

The motorcade is served under the theme, “Celebrating 30 years of Excellence, Service and Transformation to raise awareness of the university’s upcoming anniversary.

The Rabaul campus began its celebrations on August 3 with a motorcade through the Tokua and Vunapope areas. On August 4, students from the Kabaleo Teachers’ College showcased their creativity through songs and artwork, whilst students from St. Mary’s School of Nursing paraded and demonstrated the various areas of nursing service as part of the celebrations.

The Port Moresby campus, however; commenced its anniversary activities last weekend with a successful motorcade through the nation’s capital, drawing participation from staff, students, alumni and supporters. The event provided an opportunity to celebrate the University’s achievement over the past three decades, whilst also strengthening connections with the wider community and inviting the public to participate in the upcoming anniversary celebrations.

As part of the awareness campaign, information was also shared about key events for the Festival of Legacy and Vision, including the Foundation Day Exhibition, Entertainment Program, and Corporate Dinner.

In Madang, the University’s founding campus continued the momentum on Monday, 16th August, with a vibrant motorcade that travelled through key locations of town. The motorcade featured vehicles adorned with DWU 30th Anniversary, banners and flags, whilst students proudly carried anniversary flags and cultural groups showcased traditional performances.

Accompanied by music and public announcements, the procession highlighted DWU’s contribution to nation-building and community development through education over the past three decades.

Students also proudly participated in attire representing their various fields of study and future professions, showcasing the University’s diverse academic discipline and the roles its graduates continue to play in PNG’s workforce.

The enthusiastic response from residents and business houses along the route of the motorcade reflected the strong relationship between the University and the people of Madang.

Meanwhile, University President, Professor Fr. Philip Gibbs said the anniversary celebrations provide an opportunity to reflect on the University’s journey and its contribution to producing graduates who continue to serve communities throughout Papua New Guinea and beyond.

“For 30 years, DWU has remained committed to providing quality education, grounded in competency, integrity, and service. This anniversary is a celebration not only for the institution but of the thousands of graduates, staff, benefactors and communities who have contributed to our growth and success,” he said.

The celebrations will culminate in the Festival of Legacy and Vision at the DWU Madang campus from August 20- 22nd.

The three- day festival will feature academic and faculty exhibitions, cultural performances, alumni activities, scholarship showcases, tree planting initiatives, entertainment, and a gala dinner, bringing together alumni, students, staff, partners and supporters from across the country and abroad.

At the Port Moresby campus, celebrations will continue with a Foundation Day Exhibition and Entertainment Program, at the Taurama Aquatic Centre on Friday, 21 August, followed by a Corporate Dinner at the Dynasty Restaurant, Vision City Mall on Saturday, 22 August. The Corporate Dinner will provide opportunity for alumni, corporate partners, friends and supporters to come together in recognition of the University’s achievements and contributions to national development.

The Wewak campus, with teacher and nursing training, is preparing for 3 days of celebrations from September 14- 16, to coincide with the nation’s 51st independence anniversary.

As DWU marks its 30th anniversary, the institution also reaffirms its commitment to excellence in higher education, research, leadership development and community engagement, whilst continuing to transform lives and contribute meaningfully to the future of Papua New Guinea.