March 14, 2024

Kolonia, Pohnpei: February 27, 2024- Governor Stevenson A. Joseph welcomed Her Excellency Mylene Garcia-Albano and her delegation for a courtesy call, fostering diplomatic ties and exploring potential collaborations between the Republic of the Philippines and the Pohnpei State Government. Ambassador Garcia-Albano, in a warm exchange, sought to understand the specific interests and areas where the Republic of the Philippines could extend support to Pohnpei. Governor Joseph, appreciating the gesture, discussed various potential avenues for collaboration, including the establishment of a sister-city or province relationship and assistance in agriculture, aquaculture, food processing, and vocational training. The Ambassador mentioned TESDA, an organization specializing in technical education and skills development, as a potential partner for vocational training initiatives. Governor Joseph, noting the ongoing discussions about the development of a vocational skills academy in Pohnpei, expressed receptivity to exploring partnerships with TESDA. The discussion further delved into the Governor’s plans to address food security by merging agriculture and aquaculture services. Both parties acknowledged the potential for significant cooperation in this critical area. The atmosphere during the courtesy call was friendly and collaborative, with Governor Joseph expressing optimism about the promising future of collaboration between the Pohnpei State Government and the Republic of the Philippines. The exchange sets the stage for further discussions and potential partnerships that could benefit both regions.

Kolonia, Pohnpei: February 27, 2024 – Governor Stevenson A. Joseph held a productive meeting with key officials, including Acting Director of Health Services Norleen Oliver Deorio, Chief of Social Services Noriekka Lekka, Chief of Elementary Education Peter Ramirez, and Mr. Santos Abraham from Social Services. The purpose of the meeting was to provide updates on the preparations for Cultural Day, celebrated on March 31st, a public holiday in Pohnpei State. During the meeting, the officials presented their existing plans to showcase the rich culture and heritage of Pohnpei, primarily organized by the youth. Governor Joseph offered valuable input to enhance and complement the proposed activities, ensuring a more vibrant and inclusive celebration. Governor Joseph’s suggestions will be incorporated into the existing plans, and a comprehensive review will take place at a later date to ensure that the Cultural Day festivities align with the vision of showcasing Pohnpei’s diverse cultural identity. Cultural Day holds significant importance as it provides an opportunity for the community to come together, celebrate their heritage, and foster a sense of pride and unity. The collaboration between Governor Joseph and the relevant departments underscores the commitment to creating a memorable and culturally enriching experience for the residents of Pohnpei.

Kolonia, Pohnpei: February 27, 2024 – Governor Stevenson A. Joseph welcomed a delegation led by the Acting Secretary of the National Department of Education, Mr. Wayne Mendiola, along with Ms. Rachel Salomon, Ms. Hyunjeong Lee project manager, FSM Skills & Employability Enhancement Project, and Angelyne Aten, Project Assistant. The courtesy visit aimed to update Governor Joseph on the FSM Skills and Employability Enhancement (FSM SEE) Project, a transformative initiative addressing skills development and employment opportunities in the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM). Ms. Lee shared key details about the FSM SEE Project, highlighting its focus on vocational programs at the former PATS High School campus. The project aims to establish a solid foundation for skills development and employment opportunities, and Ms. Lee provided insights into the establishment of a project steering committee, which includes state Directors of Education. Future plans, including an estimated start date of 2026, were also discussed during the meeting. Acting Secretary Mendiola explained that the concept for the FSM Skills Academy originated from the recent Micronesian Presidential Summit (MPS). Governor Joseph inquired about the involvement of the College of Micronesia-FSM (COM-FSM) in the project. Ms. Lee clarified that the FSM Skills Academy is designed as a partnership with COM-FSM, emphasizing their full support for the project. Ms. Lee elaborated on the program, stating that the FSM Skills Academy is tailored for high school graduates, offering one year of vocational training after graduation. Participants can choose to continue their vocational training at CTEC COM-FSM or enter the workforce equipped with practical skills. The program ensures the continuation of math and language subjects during the vocational training period. Governor Joseph expressed his commitment to supporting students interested in pursuing vocational studies, emphasizing the importance of providing diverse paths beyond academics. Acting Secretary Mendiola shared research findings indicating that most high school dropouts occur during the Junior year due to a lack of alternative paths. The FSM Skills Academy aims to address this by offering a vocational option and providing students with a tangible goal. Governor Joseph conveyed his full support for the FSM SEE Project and offered assistance as needed. The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to empowering the youth through enhanced vocational education and creating pathways for a successful future.

Kolonia, Pohnpei: February 27, 2024 – Governor Stevenson A. Joseph welcomed Mr. Stanley Lorennij, Executive Director of the College of Micronesia Land Grant, and his staff during a courtesy visit at the Governor’s Office. The purpose of the visit was to extend congratulations to Governor Joseph provide updates and discuss potential collaborative efforts. During the courtesy call, Mr. Lorennij conveyed his congratulations to Governor Joseph. Governor Joseph expressed gratitude for the well-wishes and emphasized the significance of a close partnership with the College of Micronesia Land Grant to benefit the lives of the local population. Governor Joseph shared insights into a new Food Security Policy aimed at addressing local food production. Furthermore, he revealed plans to merge the division of agriculture into the office of aquaculture, creating a unified Department focused on addressing Food Security comprehensively. Both parties highlighted the importance of engaging non-governmental organizations (NGOs), particularly at the grassroots and community levels. Governor Joseph cited successful examples of NGOs cultivating sea cucumber and rabbitfish, contributing to sustainable practices and economic development. In a closing remark, Mr. Lorennij informed Governor Joseph about the upcoming construction of a new building for the College of Micronesia Land Grant. Governor Joseph expressed his full support for the new office and its programs, emphasizing the pivotal role of collaboration in advancing the well-being of the people. The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to continued cooperation, highlighting the mutual dedication of both parties to working together for the greater good of the community. College of Micronesia (COM) Land-Grant Program is a US Government program under the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), a department in the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). As part of the Compact of Free Association agreement in the 1980s, an 1862 Land Grant status was accorded to three Micronesian nations of Federated States of Micronesia comprising four states (Yap, Chuuk, Pohnpei, and Kosrae), the Republic of Palau and The Republic of the Marshall Islands. The College of Micronesia (COM) became the College of Micronesia Land Grant, with its Central Office in Pohnpei, Federated Micronesia. The COM started operating based on the COM Treaty agreement among the three Micronesian governments (FSM, Palau, RMI). You can find out more about COM Land grant at their website: https://comlandgrant.org/