39 students received Diplomas in Primary Teaching during the 2nd Graduation Ceremony of Balimo Collge in the Western Province.

The ceremony marked an important milestone for Balimo College and the Western Province, drawing key national and provincial leaders, including Governor Taboi Awi Yoto, Teaching Service Commission Chairman, Mike Ugaia, Sustainable Development Program CEO Lesieli Taviri, College Chairman Dr. Brad Shaw, Council Secretary and KTF CEO Dr. Genevieve Nelson, and Principal Brian Wafia.

The Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science, Technology and Sport, Kinoka Feo,who was the Guest Speaker at the 2nd Graduation Ceremony in his keynote address, congratulated the graduates and emphasized the vital role teachers play in nation-building.

“Teaching is a noble profession; it has the power to transform lives and shape the future of our nation.”

“I encourage each of you to go out and make a difference in the lives of your students and communities.”

The Minister commended the Sustainable Development Program for its investment in education infrastructure in Western Province, particularly the establishment of Balimo College’s state-of-the-art integrated facility, which provides a complete learning pathway from elementary education to nursing and teacher training.

“In a province as vast and geographically challenging as Western Province, Balimo College stands out as a model institution and has the potential to become a major education hub for the region.”

Minister Feo also paid tribute to the late Roy Biyama, former Member for Middle Fly, for his vision and leadership in founding the college.

“Today, we witnessed the realization of a vision set many years ago. With the support of SDP and the commitment of local leadership, that vision has now become a reality.”

He further emphasized the Government’s recognition of the contributions of over 75,000 teachers nationwide, repeating the commitment to making teaching one of the highest-paid professions in the public sector.

He also pledged continued collaboration with development partners to expand educational opportunities in the Western Province.

The ceremony concluded with celebrations honouring the 39 graduates, who are now poised to contribute to improving primary education across the country.