St Monfort Kiunga Teacher’s College in North Fly District took an important step forward in its development by officially swearing in its governing council, as the institution moves into full operation training future primary school teachers.

The oath-taking ceremony was held at the college campus in Kiunga, officiated by North Fly District Magistrate for Kiunga and Tabubil, Vasiti Mouta.

The event began with a general assembly and opening prayer, seeking divine guidance and blessings for the leadership and mission of the college.

Members of the governing council, comprising tutors, lecturers, the principal, academic principal, registrar, and support staff, pledged to carry out their duties faithfully in line with the institution’s mission and regulations.

The council will be responsible for guiding key decisions and programs to ensure the college’s continued growth and effectiveness in training teachers.

College Principal Brother Lucianus Lakra emphasized the importance of the governing council in steering the institution forward.

“In higher learning institutions, it is the governing council that oversees all decisions and programs. Every member plays an important role in contributing to ongoing teaching and learning.”

The ceremony was witnessed by teaching staff, office personnel, and members of the college community.

Brother Lakra also called on communities in Western Province, particularly those in Kiunga and surrounding areas, to take ownership of the college and respect its facilities.

He noted that the institution will play a critical role in addressing the shortage of teachers in remote schools across the province and the country.

“This teacher’s college is for you and for future generations. It will train many of our young people who aspire to become teachers.”

Currently, 44 students have commenced training in primary teacher education at the college, with programs beginning earlier this month to prepare them as qualified teachers in the near future.

Western Province now hosts three teacher training institutions: Gaulim Teachers College Daru Campus in South Fly District, Balimo Teachers College in Delta Fly District, and St Monfort Kiunga Teacher’s College in North Fly District.

These institutions are expected to play a vital role in producing more qualified teachers and improving access to education, supporting Papua New Guinea’s national vision of ensuring no child is left behind.