March 6, 2023

Congratulations to all the future leaders who took part in the 3rd annual Student Takeover Day 2023. Over 30 students from public and private schools in Pohnpei participated this year. The Governor’s Office was happy to receive Student Lt. Governor from Madolenihmw High School, Mr. Keola Johnny Silbanuz. The idea behind student takeover days with government offices and other organizations is simple: to expose students to the working world and to give them a glimpse of what it’s like to work in different fields. Students have the opportunity to work alongside professionals in their chosen fields, learning about the challenges, rewards, and day-to-day tasks involved in various jobs. This provides students with a unique opportunity to explore different career paths, discover their passions, and build valuable networks. Acting Governor, the Honorable Francisco L. Ioanis delivered remarks on behalf of the Governor conveying his appreciation and congratulations to all the students, employers, and the Department of Education for undertaking another successful student takeover day.

The Pohnpei State Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Environmental Surveillance Laboratory has been re-certified by the U.S. Freely Associated States Laboratory Certification Program. Ms. Edna L. Buchan, a USEPA Lab Certification Officer, certified the laboratory and four lab staff members: Laboratory Supervisor Fermin Scaliem (in absentia) certification as Level III Analyst, Acting Laboratory Supervisor Brad Soram certification as a Level III Analyst, Senior Analyst Quinton Lawrence as a Level III Analyst, and new Analyst Elson Elias as a Level I Analyst. Acting Governor T.H. Francisco L. Ioanis attended the recertification program at the Pohnpei EPA office. He delivered remarks on behalf of the Governor and the Pohnpei State Government to congratulate Executive Officer Francisco Celestine, the re-certified Analysts, and Ms. Edna Buchan for their strong work and collaboration. The EPA laboratory has been certified since 2008 to produce scientifically valid and legally defensible data on water quality in Pohnpei.   Congratulations to EPA Executive Officer and Analysts for a job well done!

Congratulations to Nanpei Memorial High School (NMHS)! The winners of the 2nd annual Jeopardy High School competition. NMHS won with 100 points in an academic competition that included subjects like math, social studies, writing, and Pohnpei studies.  Other high schools that participated included PICS High School, Madolenihmw High School, PCS High School, SDA High School, Our Lady of Mercy High School, and Calvary Christian Academy (CCA). The Honorable Herolyn Movick, Pohnpei State Senator and Chairperson of the Public Works, Transportation, and Communication Committee delivered remarks during the opening ceremony.  She noted that while the students are competing in a game today but the same principles they are using to win the competition are the same principles that apply in the real world, “the foundation is built upon from elementary to high school and college and then to the real work: hard work, dedication, and determination.” The Honorable Reed B. Oliver, Governor of the State of Pohnpei also delivered remarks before the competition. He spoke of timing and being punctual as being a way to show respect. Governor Oliver told the students that whatever the students achieve in the competition, they are all great and the best of their schools. He noted that education is a lifetime process and is very proud of each of the students, hoping that this competition will continue in the coming years. After the competition which was held at the Pohnpei Gymnasium (PICS gym), the students were treated to a luncheon where trophies were awarded along with a banner to the winning team to hang proudly at their school.   1st Place: Nanpei Memorial High School 2nd Place: SDA High School 3rd Place: Our Lady of Mercy High School