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As Papua New Guinea bids farewell to its founding father, we take a step back to look at an unique picture of an unique class.
Below is a picture taken of the 1962 class of Sogeri Secondary School. You will immediately note based on the names of some prominent leaders the country has produced. Out of this class, 8 of them were Knighted by the Queen for their tremendous services in various fields.
Notably, Sir Michal Somare, Papua New Guinea’s first Prime Minister stands stands at the back first from left.
Sir Michael Thomas Somare – Founding father of Papua New Guinea. Instrumental in gaining independence for Papua New Guinea.
Sir Ronald Tovue – former premier of East New Britain
Sir Tom Ritako – Public Service
Sir Mea Vai – Chief Commissioner for Scouts in Papua New Guinea.
Sir Paulias Matane – Governor General of Papua New Guinea
Sir Kwamala Kalo – Education
Sir Alkan Tololo – First citizen chancellor of UPNG & Unitech
Sir Sere Pitoi – First national chairman of the then Public Service Board (later to be called Public Service Commission).
Here are some interesting facts about Sogeri Secondary School
- Sogeri was a post-war educational institution
- It trained many first local Administration teachers
- In 1969 it became the Territory’s first senior high school
- It trained students up to Form 4
