BY NED GAGAHE
St. Mary Tanagai Community High School (CHS), located west of Honiara, celebrated its 2024 academic year with a vibrant graduation and prize-giving ceremony, marking a significant milestone for 173 students. The event, attended by parents, teachers, and dignitaries, showcased both academic excellence and student achievements.
The theme for this year’s ceremony, “Excel Through Challenges,” resonated strongly with the graduates, who reflected on the obstacles they had overcome to reach this momentous occasion. The ceremony included speeches, the presentation of academic awards, and the conferring of certificates for Year 9 (Form 3), Year 11 (Form 5), and Year 12 (Form 6) arts students.
A highlight of the ceremony was the attendance of Francis Sade, Member of Parliament for Northwest Guadalcanal and Deputy Speaker of the National Parliament. Sade, who had attended last year’s graduation as well, reaffirmed his commitment to the school’s development.
He made an important announcement during his speech, pledging support for the school’s fencing project and assistance in purchasing a vehicle in 2025, a gesture that would enhance the school’s mobility and resources.
“The future of St. Mary Tanagai is bright, and I am excited to be part of it,” Sade said. “As we look to the future, I want to assure you of my unwavering support for the new initiatives aimed at enhancing our school environment, fostering student learning and success, and improving the well-being of our staff, teachers, and their families.”
The ceremony also marked a special milestone in the school’s history as the first graduation under its new name—St. Mary Tanagai Community High School. The name had recently been changed from the former Marara CHS. The school provides education from Form 1 to Form 6 Arts, and this year saw 68 students graduate from Year 9, 59 from Year 11, and 46 from Year 12.
In his opening remarks, Principal James Mepobu delivered a warm welcome to all attendees, expressing heartfelt gratitude to the parents, teachers, and students for their collective support in making the event a success.
“It is with great pride that we celebrate the achievements of our students, who have worked tirelessly over the past years to reach this significant milestone,” said Principal Mepobu. “Today, we honor not just academic excellence, but the resilience, dedication, and perseverance these young individuals have shown throughout their journey.”
He also appealed to all stakeholders to work together in the spirit of cooperation.
“I humbly call on all important stakeholders to cooperate in achieving our mission for our beloved children,” he said.
John Bosti, the Guadalcanal Provincial Government Minister for Education and former Principal of St. Mary Tanagai, also addressed the graduating class. Bosti, who has a deep connection to the school, offered words of encouragement and praise for the students.
“Fellow graduating students, today’s occasion is your day, marking one of the significant steps in your educational journey. You are the future leaders, innovators, and change-makers of our country,” Bosti said.
The ceremony concluded with a festive atmosphere as students, parents, and teachers gathered to celebrate the graduates’ achievements. Feasting and entertainment added to the joyful mood, marking the end of a memorable day for St. Mary Tanagai Community High School.
