BY NED GAGAHE
Foursquare Gospel Light Christian School in Henderson, East Honiara, celebrated the successful close of the 2024 academic year on Wednesday, November 20, hosting distinguished guests from the Ministry of Education, the PNG High Commissioner, and the private sector Bemobile.
The event was attended by distinguished guests, the school community, parents, teachers, and supporters.
Deputy Secretary for Corporate Services of the Ministry of Education and Human Resource Development (MEHRD) Coldrine Kolae, PNG High Commissioner to Solomon Islands Moses Kaul, and Chief Executive Officer of Bemobile Devan Kula were among the guests at the event.
A key highlight of the day was the presentation of dux awards to three top students from grade six, form three, and TVET. The awards were sponsored by Bemobile.
Foursquare Gospel Light School provides Early Childhood Education up to Form Three level, as well as Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET).
The school was founded by PNG missionaries to Solomon Islands, Reverend Titus Luther and his wife Aiva Luther, who have been serving with the Foursquare Mission since 2005. For the past 19 years, they have dedicated their lives to empowering, inspiring, and fostering social change and development through the transformative power of God’s word.
Speaking at the event, Reverend Titus Luther acknowledged God for His faithfulness.
“Let us begin by acknowledging the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. We serve a truly good and faithful God, one who remains faithful to us even when we fall short. He is good at all times, even when we fail to do what we should. We are grateful for His presence here today, especially in this Christian country, where we enjoy freedom in Him.”
Reverend Titus Luther also expressed his deep appreciation for the hardworking teachers, emphasizing that without their dedication, the professionals shaping the nation and the world—such as engineers, doctors, pilots, pastors, and more—would not exist. He added that every individual has been touched by a teacher, for which they are truly thankful.
“By the grace of God and with His help, we began this journey on the right path. With the support of our dedicated teachers, board members, and parents, we were able to establish a strong foundation for this education center.
“Last year, we were blessed to see our efforts bear fruit, culminating in the commissioning of our facility in July. This year, we faced many challenges, but we embraced them as opportunities to grow. Despite setbacks, our committed staff worked tirelessly, teaching and inspiring our students while navigating the challenges. Their dedication has been a powerful motivator, continuously driving us forward in our mission to provide quality education,” Reverend Titus Luther said.
Guest of Honor, MEHRD Deputy Secretary for Corporate Services Coldrine Kolae, congratulated the school leaders, including the ECE, Primary and Secondary teachers, Education Provider, the school board, parents, guardians, and supporters.
“The 2024 year has been one of the most successful for our education system. Despite the challenges of the past few years, including the impact of COVID-19 and the hosting of the Pacific Games, our education system was disrupted.
“However, I am proud to say that we were able to complete the academic year successfully, maintaining high educational standards. One thing I am particularly proud of is that we were able to finish our schools in line with the school calendar set by the Ministry of Education,” Kolae said.
His Excellency Moses Kaul, Papua New Guinea’s High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, said today is a special day for Foursquare Gospel Light School.
“I am incredibly proud to be part of today’s celebration. Congratulations! You truly deserve it, and you deserve a loud round of applause.”
Excellency Moses Kaul inspired the students by sharing how, during his primary school days in PNG, he would walk long distances to school every morning.
“It’s not easy; it requires hard work. I never imagined that one day I would be where I am today. I stand here with deep pride, thanking God for the blessings He has bestowed upon me,” High Commissioner Kaul said.
Devan Kula, Chief Executive Officer of Bemobile Solomon Islands, inspired the students by sharing the story of the lion as the king of the jungle.
“Why is it the lion seen as the king of the jungle?”
“The lion is not the biggest animal, the smartest animal, or the fastest animal, but still, it is seen as the king of the jungle.
“Because lions have an attitude and mindset to be the king of the jungle,” Mr. Kula said.
CEO Kula encouraged students to have the right attitude.
“Graduates, as you move into this new stage of your life, remember: you must strive to be better than you are today. Leave behind any misbehavior and embrace change, especially in your attitude. Be kings and queens in your community, adopt the mindset of a lion, and lead with strength. This is a new chapter for you, and the future begins now.
“Don’t wait for tomorrow—be the leaders of today, in your classrooms, homes, and communities. Our country needs you to rise up and contribute to a brighter future. Congratulations on reaching this milestone, from early childhood through to secondary and TVET. Enjoy your celebration, but come back next year with renewed energy and purpose!” Mr. Kula said.
Foursquare Gospel Light Christian School was founded in 2007 as a Bible school, and in 2014, it expanded with the opening of a kindergarten.
Since then, the school has grown to include both primary and secondary education. In 2018, the school further broadened its offerings by establishing a TVET Centre.
Looking ahead, the school plans to expand its secondary sector to include Form Four next year.
