Teachers from Adventist schools across East Sepik Province gathered at Sepik Mission headquarters on Wewak Hill yesterday, January 25th, 2024, for their annual Teachers Resumption Day. The event served as a powerful reminder that their classrooms are not just battlegrounds for knowledge, but for the very soul of their students.
Personal Ministries and Sabbath School Director Pastor Cyril Kulanawi, opening the day with a devotional message, drew on Ephesians 6:10-17 to paint a vivid picture of the true enemy Adventist teachers face. It is not mere academic struggles or unruly students, but cunning spiritual forces that seek to corrupt the values and foundations of Adventist education. Kulanawi's message resonated, reminding teachers that their work transcends earthly concerns and carries eternal weight.
Sepik Mission President Henry Monape followed, equipping teachers with the practical tools needed for their work. He emphasized the importance of work ethic, professionalism in dress, and punctuality, reminding everyone that even small actions carried out with excellence become key elements in the work of Adventist education. Monape's message highlighted that professionalism isn't just about outward appearance, but about the dedication and quality teachers bring to their classrooms.
Mr. Lancedown Wirise, Education Director for Sepik Mission Adventist Education Services, took the helm, urging teachers to prepare for the upcoming accreditation process. He acknowledged the successes of Adventist schools in the province, highlighting Nagum's impressive ranking as the second-highest performing school in the province. But Wirise's focus remained on continuous improvement. "It all starts at the local schools," he added. "We have to go back to the basics, fix ourselves, and that's where the accreditation comes in."
Wirise's message went beyond just academic performance. He reminded teachers that their work transcends mere numbers and test scores. "We are impacting lives," he proclaimed. "Our work is more than making money. We are creating new pulpits to spread the love of Jesus to our pupils." He commended Ambunti Adventist Primary for their selfless contribution of their positions to help establish and register new schools, illustrating the ripple effect of each teacher's dedication.
The Resumption Day served as a powerful reminder for Adventist teachers about their work and their mission as an agency of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. It was a call to remind, refocus, and reignite their spirit to begin their work for the new year. As they return to their classrooms, they will not only teach, but also be prepared for challenges, and be ready to shape not just minds, but hearts for eternity.
