By Vicky Baunke in Goroka EHP
A visually impaired man hailing from Ialibu in Southern Highlands Province is among a total of 1206 students and eight Higher Degree students who graduated today at the University of Goroka.
Noah Boli Kunz will received Honours Degree in Special and Inclusive Education, marking him as the first visually impaired person to graduate with an Honours degree in the country.
Kunz who already has a Bachelors in Special and Inclusive Education was accompanied by his wife Joyce Kuns and their three children Nandecrawn age 11, Maygrent 6 and the youngest Gleamsgrent four this morning to witness their father graduate in flying honors degree today at the National Sports Institute in Goroka.
An emotional Noah Kunz was guided by his son 11year old son Nandecrawn into the graduation hall this morning as they walked hand in hand, Kunz said it is an achievement for his family because of their unwavering support.
“This greatest achievement was successfully completed with the help and support from God the all Mighty and persons, with willing hearts who encouraged and assisted me to complete my Honours Program,” Kunz said.
“Through the barriers of socio-cultural, economic, and educational constraints, I struggled to find joy, peace and happiness.
“It was not an easy journey like able-bodied people’s experience. With enormous challenges, I broke through and made the world smile to me again. Nothing is impossible. All we have to do is to have very strong faith that will stimulate our interest to move forward and achieve dreams in life.
“Despite the negativity and underestimation of people, I proved myself to bring the credit back to those who are sharing the same darkness that I have experienced. Remember, at the end of the tunnel, there is always a glimpse of light. Never lose hope and be discouraged by your disability. Do not fear stigma and discrimination because they are here to stay. Work along with them in a positive manner and at the end of the day, you will be a proudest person, walking away with bundles of peace and happiness in your pocket.”
Kunz proudly concluded that the achievement was successfully done to the best of his ability as he acknowledged those who played a significant role towards his achievement.
“I would like to thank the University of Goroka Top Management Team (TMT) and staff of Special and Inclusive Education,” Kunz added.
“Finally, to my spouse Joyce Paulus and my three children for your prayers and positive support despite the challenges we went through.”
