New Catholic Secondary School opens in West New Britain.

Kimbe: The people of Talasea in Valupai Parish gathered for the opening ceremony of St Joseph Valupai Secondary School on Sunday, March 23, 2025.

(Picture: Blessing of classroom facilities by Bishop John Bosco Auram.)

His Lordship Bishop John Bosco Auram, Member for Talasea Open Hon. Freddy Reu Kumai with some government officials were present as dignitaries to witness the historical moment.

The program began with an opening mass at St Joseph’s Parish that had Bishop Auram as the main celebrant and Parish Priest of Walupai Fr Richard Wawa and Fr Ivans Amani, Parish Priest of Bitokara as concelebrants followed by the opening of the school.

In his homily, Bishop Auram emphasised on promoting Lenten observances saying that it is more fitting that this period gives us an opportunity to observe penance, sacrifice and prayer.

Mr Kumai in his speech urged everyone to take good care of the facilities and to work in collaboration with the school staff to ensure that the school is well managed and students receive quality education and do well in their studies.

The students thanked Hon. Freddy Reu Kumai for providing them this great opportunity of having a Catholic Secondary School in their home soil.

The school welcomed its first intake this year.