Governor Wouwou pays tribute to late Frank Evans

One of the pioneer educators of West Sepik late Frank Evans, who recently passed away in Brisbane, Australia *(Image: Supplied)*

West Sepik Governor Tony Wouwou has paid a heartfelt tribute to the late Frank Evans, describing him as a dear friend, mentor, and pioneer of education in the province.

In an official statement released by his office, Wouwou expressed profound sadness upon learning of Evans' passing in Brisbane, Australia.

On behalf of the Sandaun Provincial Government, Sandaun Provincial Administration, and the people of West Sepik, the governor extended condolences to the Catholic Diocese of Aitape, the St Ignatius Secondary School community, and the people of Aitape, Lumi, and Nuku.

The late Evans arrived in Papua New Guinea in 1974, a year before Independence, joining the staff of St Ignatius High School as a young teacher before later being appointed principal.

He served as principal of St Ignatius for over 33 years, believed to be the longest tenure of any secondary school principal in the nation's history.

Under his leadership, St Ignatius Secondary School in Aitape became one of the top-performing academic institutions in the country, educating generations of leaders across various professions.

"For the people of Aitape and West Sepik, Frank Evans was much more than a teacher and principal," Wouwou said. "He was a father, a mentor, and a beacon of hope who gave his life to serving our people."

Following his tenure as principal, Evans served as the Education Advisor for West Sepik Province and sat on the Provincial Education Board, playing a vital role in regional education reform, including contributions toward the implementation of the Standards-Based Curriculum [SBC].

Even after retiring to Queensland, Evans maintained strong ties with the region, returning in 2024 at age 79 to attend the 50th Anniversary celebrations of St Ignatius Secondary School.

"West Sepik has lost a giant, a beautiful soul, and a true hero," Wouwou said. "The Frank Evans Primary School in Aitape stands as a tribute to his legacy, but his real monument remains the generations of lives he touched."