KOLONIA, Pohnpei, FSM: October 16, 2024 – Governor Stevenson A. Joseph officiated the swearing-in ceremonies for two key appointments to the Pohnpei State Government. Mr. Thomas Kostka has been appointed to the Board of Directors of the Pohnpei Transportation Authority (PTA), while Mr. Henry Norman joins the Advisory Board of the Office of Fisheries and Aquaculture (OFA).
The event took place at the Office of Fisheries and Aquaculture conference room, where Governor Joseph delivered the oaths of office and presented certificates of appointment to both appointees. This moment marks a significant step in the continued efforts to improve the state’s infrastructure and fisheries management.
In their remarks following the ceremony, both Mr. Kostka and Mr. Norman expressed their sincere gratitude to Governor Joseph and the Legislature for their trust and confidence in their abilities. Both pledged to fulfill the duties and responsibilities placed upon them as members of two important Boards for the State of Pohnpei.
Governor Joseph, speaking at the event, highlighted the importance of both appointments, noting the essential roles that the Transportation Authority and the Office of Fisheries and Aquaculture play in the state’s economic development. For PTA, Governor Joseph spoke of the vision of one day becoming a subcomponent of Pohnpei State, in a similar fashion to Pohnpei Utilities Corporation. For OFA, Governor Joseph called for “thinking outside of the box” and to leave no stone unturned in the pursuit of excellence, efficiency, and innovation in both PTA and OFA.
Mr. Kostka and Mr. Norman’s appointments come at a crucial time as Pohnpei continues to pursue sustainable development goals in transportation and fisheries, vital sectors for the state’s economy and the well-being of its people.