By Ken Jacob, DWU Journalism Student
Goroka International School (GIS) is preparing to mark a major milestone on September 10, with a special celebration commemorating the 50th anniversary of the International Education Agency (IEA) and Papua New Guinea’s 51st Independence anniversary.
The celebration will be held under the theme, “Celebrating 50 Years of Inspiring Minds, Friendship and Community,” bringing together students, teachers, alumni, dignitaries and members of the wider school community to celebrate five decades of the school’s legacy.
GIS Principal Albert Benny said the occasion would be more than an ordinary celebration, describing it as a milestone opportunity to reflect on the school’s history and look towards its future.
“This celebration is not an ordinary celebration but a milestone one,” Mr Benny said.
Goroka International School is one of more than 17 schools, including TAFE colleges, owned and operated by the International Education Agency of Papua New Guinea.
Located at West Goroka, Lot 11, Section 14, Griffiths and Morchhauser Streets, the school provides internationally recognised education from Early Learning to Grade 8 and is approved by the National and International Education System.
Mr Benny said the school caters for both international and national students in an environment conducive to learning and designed to encourage students to reach their potential in all aspects of their education.
He said GIS students are taught by qualified and registered IEA teachers who provide quality teaching practices, supported by ancillary staff who assist with the daily operations of the school.
The school’s educational philosophy is reflected in its motto, “Learning for Living,” while its culture is captured in the statement, “Friends We Make at GIS Are Forever.”
Its core value is “Be Respectful,” with students expected to be respectful to themselves, others, their learning and the environment.
One of the highlights of this year’s celebration will be the return of GIS alumni, with Mr Benny confirming that alumni will attend the event for the first time.
Among the dignitaries expected to attend is current Opposition Leader Hon. James Nomane, along with other special guests.
The programme will showcase the talents and culture of the GIS community, with students presenting both traditional and contemporary dance performances.
Guests will also be entertained by Eastern Highlands comedian Zozakao and performances from the Asaro Mud Men.
A range of stalls featuring different displays will also be available for guests to view as part of the celebrations.
In preparation for the milestone, GIS students have taken part in a special initiative aimed at connecting the present generation with future students.
Mr Benny said the students had buried a time capsule, with each student placing a personal message to future GIS students inside it.
The time capsule is scheduled to be opened in 2036, when the IEA celebrates its 60th anniversary.
The initiative will allow future students to look back at the thoughts and messages of those who were part of GIS during its 50th anniversary celebrations.
Mr Benny said preparations for the event had received an overwhelming response from students, teachers, the GIS community and alumni.
He said the event would be different from previous celebrations because of the dual celebration, the attendance of dignitaries and the scale of the organisation and set-up.
With the school celebrating 50 years while PNG prepares to mark its 51st Independence anniversary, the occasion is expected to serve as both a celebration of GIS’s history and a reflection of its continuing role in the community.
Mr Benny said the school had been part of the community for the past five decades and would continue its legacy into the future.
“GIS has been here for the last 50 years and will continue. We are here in our time to celebrate this legacy before we pass on the baton to those who will come after us,” he said.
He invited the GIS community, including parents, students, alumni and members of the public, to attend the September 10 celebration and be part of the milestone occasion.
