Dame Maria Kopkop calls on students to help build PNG’s future

Kopkop College Executive Director and Founder Dame Maria Kopkop has challenged the next generation of Papua New Guineans to use education, strong character, good health and responsible citizenship to help build the nation over the next 50 years.

Dame Maria made the call during Kopkop College’s 51st Independence anniversary celebrations in Port Moresby, where students, teachers, parents, school management and members of the community gathered to reflect on Papua New Guinea’s journey since independence and look towards the country’s future.

She said education must go beyond academic results and certificates.

She stressed that students must develop the knowledge, values and skills needed to contribute positively to society.

“Education is more than just passing examinations and receiving certificates. Education teaches you how to think, how to solve problems, how to make wise choices, how to respect others, and how to contribute to your country,” she said.

Dame Maria said the young generation would face new challenges as Papua New Guinea moves towards its centenary of independence in 2075.

“You will inherit challenges that my generation may not have completely solved, but you will inherit opportunities that earlier generations could never have imagined.

"Science and technology will continue to change the world, new careers will emerge, climate change will challenge our communities, and our health system will need drastic, important solutions.” Mama Kopkop said.

She said academic achievement must be supported by good character, honesty, discipline, compassion and courage.

“Our country will need honest leaders, skilled professionals, innovative thinkers, entrepreneurs, teachers, doctors, engineers, and importantly, responsible citizens. That is why I say to you today, children. Stand strong in your education. Knowledge without character cannot build a strong nation.”

Dame Maria also urged students to take responsibility for their physical and mental well-being.

“Look after your health. A strong mind needs a healthy body. Eat wisely, exercise, avoid harmful habits, care for your mental well-being, and build relationships that bring goodness into your life.” she added.

Looking towards 2075, Dame Maria said many of the students attending the celebration today would become the leaders, professionals, parents and grandparents of the future.

“In 2075, when Papua New Guinea celebrates 100 years of independence, many of you sitting here today will be the leaders, professionals, parents, and grandparents looking back on the journey.”

She expressed hope that the students would play an active role in building a peaceful, educated, healthy and prosperous Papua New Guinea.

“My hope, children, is that you will see a peaceful, educated, healthy, and prosperous nation, and that you will be able to say, ‘We helped build that."

Meanwhile the Director also encouraged students to understand and respect Papua New Guinea’s history, including the cultures, traditions, knowledge and communities that existed long before independence.

She said the country’s future development must continue to recognise the importance of culture, family values and the contribution of communities to nation-building.

Maria emphasised that Kopkop College’s education philosophy places emphasis on academic excellence, cultural values, family and the development of each child’s individual potential and this pillars will continue to remain.