January 29, 2024

Kolonia, Pohnpei: January 26, 2024 – In a show of unwavering commitment to the future of Pohnpei’s youth, Governor Stevenson A. Joseph, accompanied by First Lady Dr. Aina Garstang and Lt. Governor Francisco L. Ioanis attended Education Day 2024. The event, held under the theme “Supporting Our Children Today to Succeed Tomorrow” or “Koupwelki Sapwelimatail Seri Kan Rahnwet ohng Pweida kan Lakapw” in Pohnpeian, brought together leaders, educators, and community members to celebrate and emphasize the importance of education. The distinguished occasion commenced with opening remarks by Kolonia Town Mayor, Hon. Kumer Biza, setting a tone of enthusiasm and dedication for the day’s proceedings. Governor Joseph, a stalwart advocate for education, was introduced by Mr. Jerome Silbanuz, who eloquently listed the governor’s notable educational and professional achievements. In his address to the assembled audience, Governor Joseph extended recognition to local leaders, including Senator Mitaro Simina, Senator Merlynn Abello-Alphonso, Mayor of Kolonia Town, Hon. Kumer Biza, and his classmate, the Speaker of the Kolonia Town Council, Hon. Yuko Nakasone. Additionally, he acknowledged the Diplomatic Corps, Ambassador of Australia, H.E. Jo Cowley, Chinese Ambassador H.E. Wu Wei, and U.S. Charge’ d’affaires Alissa Bibb, International organizations, religious leaders, and the Board of Education for their invaluable contributions to the educational landscape. Governor Joseph emphasized the significance of Education Day as a platform to honor and celebrate the pivotal role education plays in shaping the future. The theme, “Supporting Our Children Today to Succeed Tomorrow,” served as a poignant reminder of the collective responsibility to nurture and empower the youth. Advocating for the well-being of Pohnpei’s students, Governor Joseph stressed the importance of a nutritious start each morning. He emphasized that a healthy diet is essential for students to be strong and think clearly, underscoring the vital role nutrition plays in shaping the minds of the precious future of Pohnpei. Highlighting the unique opportunity provided by public schools for all children in Pohnpei to receive an education, Governor Joseph urged parents to take full advantage of this essential resource. He called for a collaborative effort among parents, teachers, and educators to prioritize the needs of children and ensure they are always at the forefront of educational initiatives. As Education Day 2024 concluded, Governor Joseph left the audience with a compelling call to action, reminding everyone present to never forget the paramount importance of educating the youth. He urged the community to work together to create an environment where every child can thrive and become a positive force for the future. The attendance of Governor Stevenson A. Joseph, First Lady Dr. Aina Garstang, and Lt. Governor Francisco L. Ioanis at Education Day 2024 underscores the administration’s dedication to fostering a robust and inclusive education system for the benefit of Pohnpei’s present and future generations. Like and follow our Facebook page, where we have more photos:  

Kolonia, Pohnpei: January 25, 2024 – UN Resident Coordinator Jaap Van Hierden, along with Ms. Kay Schwendinger, Head of Office, and Ms. Mary Ann Eperiam, Partnerships Officer, paid a courtesy call on Governor Stevenson A. Joseph. During the visit, Mr. Van Hierden extended his congratulations to Governor Joseph and expressed appreciation for the support of the One UN Micronesia House at the Pohnpei Botanical Gardens. Mr. Van Hierden provided updates on the project, mentioning potential design changes while assuring that the overall Micronesian design principle would remain intact. He also shared plans for charging stations at the new office location, aiming to stimulate interest in electric-powered vehicles. Highlighting the significant contributions of UN agencies in Pohnpei, Mr. Van Hierden noted the presence of 12 UN organizations already involved in various sectors, including water, migration, health, education, and youth. With the addition of the One UN Micronesia House, the number of agencies in Pohnpei is expected to increase to 18. Governor Joseph expressed gratitude for the visit and the updates, assuring Mr. Van Hierden of Pohnpei’s ongoing support for the One UN Micronesia House project. He also noted that while concessionary requests could be expected, the construction’s full support remains, recognizing the economic benefits the project will bring to Pohnpei for the greater overall benefit of the state.

Kolonia, Pohnpei: January 25, 2024 – Senator Shelten Neth, representing Madolenihmw and currently serving as the Chairman of the Standing Committee on Health at the 11th Pohnpei Legislature, paid a courtesy call on Governor Stevenson A. Joseph. Senator Neth, a former colleague of Governor Joseph in the 10th Pohnpei Legislature, visited to extend congratulations and discuss important matters. During the visit, Senator Neth shared information about an actuarial study conducted in the last administration in preparation for establishing the Pohnpei Health Care Plan. Governor Joseph warmly received this update and engaged in discussions with Senator Neth. The courtesy call was an opportunity for the two leaders to reconnect, exchange insights, and strengthen collaboration on healthcare initiatives for the benefit of the people of Pohnpei.

Kolonia, Pohnpei: January 25, 2024 – The Mayor of Pingelap, Hon. Smithy Clark, made a significant courtesy call to Governor Stevenson A. Joseph, marking the first municipal government visit to the Governor’s office. During the meeting, Mayor Clark introduced Mr. Makio James, Acting Mayor Designate, who will represent the Mayor in his absence. Mayor Clark shared insights into innovative coconut projects on Pingelap, where copra is being utilized for pig grower feed and ice pahr production to sell. These projects not only contribute to the local economy but also demonstrate sustainable agricultural practices on the island. In the discussion, Mayor Clark highlighted some of the challenges facing Pingelap, particularly in the area of health services. However, he shared positive news about school infrastructure, noting that Pingelap’s school infrastructure was recognized as the most improved last year. Governor Joseph expressed his gratitude for Mayor Clark’s visit, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and close cooperation with local governments. He commended the coconut projects as examples of sustainable development and innovation. The governor also conveyed his admiration for the efforts to improve school infrastructure, recognizing the impact it has on the community’s well-being. The courtesy call concluded with mutual appreciation for the dialogue and a commitment to continued collaboration between Pingelap and the Pohnpei State Government.

Kolonia, Pohnpei: January 25, 2024 – Governor Stevenson A. Joseph and Lt. Governor Francisco L. Ioanis convened a significant meeting with the Administrative Officers of the Executive branch of the Pohnpei State Government at the Office of Fisheries and Aquaculture (OFA) conference room. The meeting commenced with a solemn prayer led by the Administrator of OFA, Hon. Dahker Abraham. Governor Joseph delivered opening remarks, expressing sincere appreciation for the pivotal role played by Administrative Officers. He emphasized the imperative need for a uniform and streamlined process in administrative work, stressing the importance of adhering to uniform reporting timelines. Governor Joseph encouraged the thorough familiarization of the Financial Management Regulations (FMR) and advocated for a comprehensive update of the Public Service System Regulations (PSSR). Additionally, he briefly discussed the reinstatement of merit increases for deserving employees as a testament to recognizing and rewarding excellence within the government workforce. The Director of Treasury and Administration, Ms. Christina Elnei, also addressed the gathering, recognizing Administrative Officers as the frontline of their respective departments. Lt. Governor Ioanis echoed Governor Joseph’s sentiments in his remarks, emphasizing that the state’s greatest investment lies in the salary received by every government employee, underscoring the need for dedicated and competent administrative officers to support and appreciate this investment. From a legal perspective, Attorney General Belsip Mikel-Isom reiterated the vital role of Administrative Officers in ensuring the legality of all governmental work. She requested additional time with the Administrative Officers to review relevant correspondence, policies, and regulations to uphold legal compliance. The meeting provided a platform for constructive dialogue and collaboration, reaffirming the commitment to effective administrative processes and support for government employees.

Kolonia, Pohnpei: January 25, 2024 – Governor Stevenson A. Joseph participated in a pre-development partner’s round table planning meeting hosted by the FSM Overseas Development Assistance Office for Pohnpei State. The meeting convened to discuss ongoing and upcoming projects, strategic development plans, data accuracy, and stakeholder engagement, was held to pave the way for the second round table with development partners scheduled for March. Ms. Yvonne Johnny, Special Assistant to the President of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) for Overseas Development Assistance, inaugurated the meeting, acknowledging the history of such gatherings, with the first round table initiated in 2012 under then-President Manny Mori. Governor Joseph, in his remarks, expressed gratitude for the initiative and stressed the importance of a master plan guiding the state’s development efforts. With the new compact in place, he highlighted the significance of thorough preparation for the upcoming round table, ensuring as much as possible, alignment between state and national strategic development plans when seeking assistance from donors and development partners. The meeting, skilfully facilitated by Mr. Patrick Blank, aimed to foster collaboration, align priorities, and enhance coordination for effective and impactful development initiatives. As Pohnpei State prepares for the next round table with development partners, Governor Joseph reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that state and national strategies are synchronized as much as possible, maximizing the potential for successful partnerships and positive outcomes.

Kolonia, Pohnpei: January 24, 2024 – Governor Stevenson A. Joseph warmly welcomed the Board of Education, led by Chairperson Alice B. Ehmes, during a courtesy call at the gubernatorial office. Also joining Chair Ehmes was Vice Chair, Phyllis Silbanuz, Director Joseph Diaz, and staff Merlinda Donre Hawley. Chairperson Ehmes provided a comprehensive overview of the Board’s purpose, functions, historical context, and areas of responsibility. She shared insights into the Board’s commitment to education excellence and presented Governor Joseph with the recently completed board policy manual, offering valuable insights into the workings of the Board and the Department of Education. Expressing gratitude for the visit, Governor Joseph conveyed his vision for the Department of Education in his administration. He highlighted his interest in enhancing Pohnpeian history within the curriculum and sought advice from the Board on this matter. Vocational training emerged as a key focus, with Governor Joseph briefly discussing a proposed World Bank-funded vocational program at the former PATS High School. Governor Joseph and Board members engaged in discussions about scholarships, unanimously recognizing their importance. The parties expressed a collective commitment to exploring ways to increase scholarship support for deserving students. Governor Joseph thanked Chairperson Ehmes and the entire Board for their valuable insights and collaboration, emphasizing the importance of working together to advance education in the region.

Kolonia, Pohnpei: January 24, 2024 – Governor Stevenson A. Joseph was honored to host a courtesy call from a delegation of representatives from non-governmental organizations (NGOs) actively engaged in the MiCoast program under the Kiwa initiative. Led by Mr. Eugene Joseph from the Conservation Society of Pohnpei, the delegation included Mr. Charles Franchi, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of One Reef, Dr. Nicole Yamase a native of Pohnpei and Marine Scientist, Mr. Patterson Shed and Wayne Andrew from One Reef, along with Mahe Charles from the Kiwa Initiative. The meeting, which took place following a successful 3-day inception workshop at the Island Palms Hotel, marked a pivotal moment in the collaboration between the government and NGOs to enhance coastal management through the MiCoast program. Governor Joseph expressed his gratitude for the workshop and emphasized the critical role of community fisheries in his administration’s priorities. Food security emerged as a focal point, with Governor Joseph outlining plans to merge Aquaculture and Agriculture to address this concern. He eagerly anticipated the contribution of initiatives like MiCoast and the Kiwa program to bolster the government’s commitment to food security. Chris LaFranchi, CEO of One Reef, affirmed his organization’s dedication to working in tandem with the Conservation Society of Pohnpei to ensure the success and sustainability of the MiCoast program. LaFranchi highlighted key lessons learned in the sector, underscoring the importance of enforcement, research, community awareness, and collaboration with local communities in conservation efforts. Governor Joseph stressed the significance of cultivating and strengthening relationships with NGOs operating at the community level, recognizing their vital role in achieving shared goals. Mr. Joseph from the Conservation Society of Pohnpei echoed the governor’s sentiments, emphasizing that effective conservation goes beyond restricting fishing areas. Instead, it involves collaborative efforts at the municipality level, working hand in hand with communities to ensure the long-term health and sustainability of marine resources for future generations. Mahe Charles, representing the five donor countries for the Kiwa initiative, expressed satisfaction that the MiCoast program aligned with both government priorities and the community’s needs. Charles eagerly anticipated the positive impact of the project and expressed a commitment to continued learning. The collaboration between Governor Stevenson A. Joseph and these dedicated NGOs signify a united front in addressing critical coastal management issues and working towards sustainable solutions. As the MiCoast program unfolds, the collective efforts of the government and NGOs promise a brighter and more secure future for coastal communities.