Kolonia, Pohnpei: March 14, 2025 – The Office of the Governor welcomed a special visit from the 7th-grade students of Saladak Elementary School, providing them with an opportunity to engage with Governor Stevenson A. Joseph and gain valuable insights into leadership, culture, and personal growth.
During the visit, Governor Joseph shared words of encouragement and wisdom, emphasizing the importance of cultural identity and respect. He urged the students to embrace and uphold their Pohnpeian heritage, reminding them that the values of respect and unity are deeply embedded in their traditions and should guide them throughout their lives.
The Governor also spoke about the importance of planning for the future, advising the students to start thinking about their goals and aspirations early. He encouraged them to prepare themselves for the next steps in their academic and personal journeys, highlighting the importance of hard work, dedication, and self-belief in achieving success.
In his message to the students, Governor Joseph reassured them that mistakes are a natural part of learning and personal development. He advised them not to be afraid of making mistakes as they are part of learning. He also noted that none of us can achieve success alone; we all need others to help us along the way. He shared that even as Governor, he relies on his staff every day, from cleaners and maintenance personnel to senior advisors and cabinet members to ensure the government operates effectively.
First Lady Dr. Aina Garstang accompanied the Governor during the visit and joined him in distributing Pohnpei State seals as a token of encouragement for the students.
The visit provided an enriching experience for the students, inspiring them to take pride in their identity, plan for their futures, and understand the importance of teamwork and perseverance. The Office of the Governor remains committed to supporting the education and development of Pohnpei’s youth and looks forward to welcoming more student groups in the future.