THE Japanese Ambassador to Solomon Islands has encouraged students of Wagina Community High School (CHS) in South Choiseul to strive hard in their education by reading more books because it is a source of wisdom.
Ambassador Yoshiaki Miwa was speaking as the Guest of Honour at the school’s annual graduation ceremony on Monday 11November.
A total of 19 Form 3 and 14 Form 5 students graduated in the colourful ceremony.
Ambassador Miwa created history as the first top foreign diplomat to spend a weekend on the island to attend the occasion and engage in other activities.
He was invited by the Member of the Provincial Assembly (MPA) for Wagina Ward Tongaua Tabe to attend the handing over of Nikumaroro community hall “Te Maneaba.”
On Monday 11November, he witnessed the ceremony, making it the highlight of his tour.
“It was a first time to have such foreign dignitary to attend our graduation day since the school was opened 30 years ago,” MPA Tabe said, adding that the school was so honoured to host the top Japanese diplomat.
Ambassador Miwa was the Guest of Honour and in his speech, he challenged students to become self-learners and to be keen to read books.
He challenged students to use the internet wisely because information from internet is not always right and reliable.
Reading books from the library and curriculum materials are the only true sources of knowledge connected to students’ learning outcomes in the syllabus, the envoy encouraged the students.
MPA Tabe took time during the graduation ceremony to express his sincere gratitude to Ambassador Miwa, for gracing the beautiful graduation ceremony.
“Your presence here today is historical for Wagina, for you are the first foreign dignitary to grace a graduation ceremony of the 30-year-old CHS.
“Your presence is also a demonstration of your passion and commitment to grassroots people in the Solomon Islands to be successful in life.
“We, and the people of Solomon Islands, will forever be grateful for the enduring development assistance the Government and people of Japan provide to our beloved country.
“Excellency Miwa, I do sincerely hope that the hospitality and your experience of Wagina will be something that can remind you of us in your assignment here in Solomon Islands,” he said.
By MOFFAT MAMU
Solomon Star, Gizo
