WEWAK: Nagum Adventist Secondary School in East Sepik Province has officially closed its 2025 academic year today, marking the occasion with a moving farewell ceremony for five dedicated staff members.

Sepik Mission President and Chairman of the School Board, Pastor Henry Monape, officiated the gathering on December 7. He acknowledged the significant contributions of the outgoing staff—comprising three male teachers, one female teacher, and the school chaplain—while commending the remaining staff for their dedication throughout the year.

School Principal Mr. Bruce Magiar delivered the closing remarks, highlighting the resilience of the school community in overcoming the year's hurdles.

“This year was truly challenging but by God's Grace we have come this far,” Mr. Magiar said.

“We thank God and our supportive parents and guardians for their contributions towards a successful year financially.”

The event featured acknowledgement speeches from Deputy Administrator Mr. Bernard Seneki, Deputy Academic Mr. Bethuel Atio, and School Chaplain Minister Toulik Esseneth.

Teaching and ancillary staff, along with their families, gathered for a time of worship and shared a fellowship meal to celebrate the year's conclusion.

As a token of appreciation, the school administration presented gifts to the outgoing officers. Speeches made on behalf of the school emphasized that the departing staff would continue to be a blessing as they move on to serve humanity in their new appointments.

The school administration extended its gratitude to all stakeholders who were part of the journey in 2025 and wished the community a Merry Christmas and a prosperous 2026.

Nagum, East Sepik – Tears, laughter and strong words of encouragement marked the 5th Grade 12 graduation of Nagum Secondary School on Sunday, 28th September, 2025 held under the inspiring theme “Fragrance of Hope.”

A total of 57 students proudly received their certificates, witnessed by a line-up of high-profile dignitaries who urged them to carry the torch of discipline and purpose into the next chapter of their lives.

Passam National School of Excellence Principal, Mr Samson Pitiki, attended as Guest of Honour, delivering a powerful keynote stressing academic integrity and resilience as the foundation of true success.

Other VIPs included:

•    Pastor Henry Monape – President of Sepik Mission SDA&Chairman of the School Board

•    Sister Janifer Daniel – Deputy Principal, East Sepik College of Nursing

•    Mr Raphael Borungai – Technical Advisor for High Schools, East Sepik Division of Education

•    Mr Lancedown Wirise – Education Director/Secretary, SDA Mission

•    Simona Ouyoumb – Senior Archivist, NBC Wewak

•    Mr Dipson Yehisembi – Director, Cooperative Services ESPHA

•    Mr Ray Kavi – PNC Chairman

•    Miss Jasmine Tom – School Burser

•    Mr Sabma – Ward Member for Japs

•    Mr Bruce Magiar – School Principal

The ceremony was confidently steered by MC Minister Toulik, who maintained order with light humour and spiritual reflection throughout the program.

One of the key features was the Career Discovery Zone, where institutions set up booths for students to collect information and ask questions. Officials also explained the Department of Higher Education’s National Online Application System (NOAS), which Grade 12 students must now use when applying for tertiary studies.

According to Mr. Magiar, the expo helps students make meaningful choices and align their interests with real-world opportunities, instead of applying blindly and later struggling to find jobs.

He said such programs give students confidence and direction as they prepare for their future after Grade 12.

Pastor Monape commended the administration for their leadership and acknowledged Mr Nickson Berak and his team for overseeing the construction. He then offered a prayer of dedication, asking for God’s blessing over the home and those who will live in it.

A ribbon-cutting followed at 1:12pm, carried out by Pastor Monape, Mr Wirise and Mr Magiar. Guests were invited to view the interior, which includes three bedrooms, a kitchen-living area, and an indoor bathroom and toilet.

The houses were funded by the Yangoru-Saussia District Development Authority at a cost of K1 million and were officially opened earlier this year by local MP Hon. Richard Maru.

Today’s ceremony marked the spiritual commissioning of the facility, which is expected to ease accommodation challenges and support quality education delivery at the school.

Nagum Adventist Secondary School has adjusted its registration schedule today to pay respects to the late Sir Julius Chan, former Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea, who passed away recently. The school administration announced that morning registration was suspended to allow students and staff to reflect on Sir Julius Chan’s legacy and contributions to the nation.

According to Jasmine Tom, the school’s bursar, a special assembly was held in the morning where the life and achievements of Sir Julius Chan were commemorated. Following the assembly, students were given a half-day off as a mark of respect.

Registration activities resumed in the afternoon, with approximately 280 students already registered since the process began last Wednesday. The school expects to complete the registration process by this Friday, with late registration and transfers scheduled for next Wednesday to Friday.

Nagum Adventist Secondary School, known for its disciplined and structured approach to education, has assured parents and guardians that the adjustment in the registration schedule will not disrupt the academic calendar. The school administration has urged all remaining students to complete their registration promptly to avoid delays.

Sir Julius Chan, a towering figure in PNG’s political landscape, served as Prime Minister twice and was widely respected for his leadership and dedication to national development. His passing has been met with widespread mourning across the country, with many institutions, including Nagum Adventist Secondary School, taking time to honour his memory.

For further updates on registration and school activities, parents and students are encouraged to contact the school administration directly.

Yangoru Saussia, Sepik Province – Nagum Adventist Secondary School is excited to announce the appointment of Elder Lester Akut of Meni Beach Seventh-day Adventist Church as its new driver.

Akut will be taking the wheel of the school’s recently acquired Hino truck, a generous donation from the Yangoru Saussia District Development Authority. This new vehicle is set to significantly enhance the school’s transportation capabilities, facilitating field trips, student transport, and logistical operations.

Sepik Mission has expressed its warm congratulations to Elder Akut on his new role. The organization is confident that his experience and dedication will be invaluable assets to the school.

With the addition of Elder Akut and the new Hino truck, Nagum Adventist Secondary School is well-positioned to continue providing quality education and opportunities for its students.

Nagum, East Sepik Province – A joyous celebration of faith unfolded on a rainy Saturday, July 27, 2024, as 17 young hearts received Jesus through baptism at the Nagum River. The momentous occasion is the result of a two weeks evangelistic campaign held at the Nagum Adventist Secondary School.

Inspired by the Post PNG For Christ initiative, the evangelistic program was led by Sepik Mission’s Communication Director, Minister Joe Philip. The baptism, a testament to the program’s success, was officiated by Pastor David Kiak, who added to the occasion by witnessing the baptism of his first grandson.

Today, on National Remembrance Day, Nagum Adventist Secondary School paid tribute to those who served our nation. The day began with a solemn assembly, raising the flag and reciting the National Anthem and Pledge.

Students then put their knowledge to the test with a fun quiz challenge on World War II events, followed by some engaging games.

#Nagum #NagumAdventistSecondarySchool #AdventistEducation #SepikMission #Sepik #NationalRemembranceDayPNG