From left to right Guard Dog Security gurad Nathan Missian after receiving his degree certificate yesterday during the University of Goroka’s 29th graduation ceremony, his mum (centre) and Goroka Guard Dog Security Services PNG Branch Manager Bojo Benjamin. Picture by Vicky Baunke
By Vicky Baunke in Goroka EHP
In a time when many young Papua New Guineans are struggling with unemployment, rising living costs and the burden of school fees, 23-year-old Nathan Missian’s journey from the guard house to the graduation stage is a story that is inspiring and brings hope.
Earlier this week, Nathan Missian a Guard Dog Security by profession proudly graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Secondary Education during the University of Goroka’s 29th Graduation Ceremony held at the National Sports Institute.
But behind the proud smile and graduation gown was a journey built on sacrifice, sleepless nights and an unshaken belief that hardship should never define a person’s future.
Nathan, from Suwau and Yambil villages in Nuku District, Sandaun Province, was first accepted to study at the University of Goroka in 2020.
Like many students from humble rural families, his dream was almost cut short in the very first year.
With both parents relying on subsistence farming, the cost of school fees became too much, forcing him to stop his studies.
For many, that would have been the end.
But Nathan refused to give up.
Determined to return to university, he began searching for employment.
At first, he considered looking for a shop assistant job, but quickly realised the income would never be enough to meet the high costs of university education, transport and daily survival.
That was when he made a bold decision.
Security work became his first choice.
“At first I considered looking for a shop assistant job, but then I knew that wouldn’t be enough, so my first choice during my job search was to be employed with a corporate security firm,” Nathan said.
He first searched for work with Manaka Security Services and later Corporate Security, but his ultimate goal was always to join Guard Dog Security Services PNG, a recognised firm he believed could give him the better pay package needed to fund his studies.
That breakthrough finally came in 2023 when he was selected for training with Guard Dog Security.
Even then, the road was not easy.
Nathan worked 12-hour night shifts from 6pm to 6am, then attended lectures during the day, often surviving on little rest.
“The company supported me so I was working at night and by day I went to lectures. The drivers were always supportive, picking me up and dropping me off at campus. I owe it to all of them, including all the support staff at the University of Goroka from the administration down to the cleaner.”
When he first enquired about a job at the Guard Dog office in Goroka, Nathan recalled being asked why a university student wanted to become a security officer.
His answer was simple, but powerful.
“I was determined and I knew that I needed that job. My response was simply — I want it.”
That determination carried him through years of balancing work and study until his plan to return, complete his studies and graduate finally came to fulfilment by the grace of God.
One of the most emotional moments of the day was the presence of his mother, Almah Serung, who flew all the way from Vanimo to witness her son’s achievement.
Also present were his business lecturer and mentor Mrs Sailas, and Guard Dog Security Services PNG Goroka Branch Manager Bojo Benjamin, who stood proudly beside him.
Nathan gave heartfelt thanks to Guard Dog Security Services PNG, the company CEO, his senior managers including Bojo Benjamin and “Papa Amex,” whom he affectionately referred to as one of his elderly bosses.
He also acknowledged his big brother Dr Enoch Arunge of Goroka Hospital, family members back home, and above all his faith.
“Thank you firstly to the Heavenly Father for His grace and mercy, secondly to Guard Dog Security and Goroka Branch Manager Bojo Benjamin for having faith and confidence in me. This achievement is for all of us.”
His message to continuing students and young men across the country was one of hope.
“You can make it if you believe in yourself. Never lose hope.”
Guard Dog Security Services PNG Goroka Branch Manager Bojo Benjamin, who patiently waited outside the graduation hall to receive Nathan, congratulated him on behalf of the company.
“Guard Dog Security Services PNG is proud to be part of Nathan Missian’s achievement in graduating with a Bachelor’s Degree in Arts Education, majoring in Economics and minoring in History.”
“Despite working a 12-hour shift at night from 6pm to 6am and attending lectures during the day, he managed to push through and achieve his goal.”
Benjamin said GDSS remains committed to supporting young men and women to further their education, adding that Nathan is one of three static guards based at the company barracks while attending classes at UOG.
He said one other GDSS guard in Goroka had also graduated from Goroka Business College, while two others completed studies at Kamaliki Vocational Centre.
Nathan’s story is a story of what sacrifice can achieve.
A story of faith over fear.
And a reminder that even from the guard house, dreams can still rise.
