Enga Province

Last sunset from Papsec for the Grade 12s of 2014

In the resplendent aftermath of the Papsec clap, a symphony of triumph reverberated through the mess hall, its echoes cascading like a torrential burst from a pressurized tank. The rhythmic applause and table-thumping reached a crescendo, marking the grand finale of the Grade 12 National Examination. As the month-long gauntlet of rigorous testing concluded, an undeniable hush descended upon the campus, shrouding it in complete silence.

The thunderous resonance proved so formidable that even the diligent occupants of grade nine and eleven classrooms, entrenched in their period four studies, found concentration elusive. The tangible energy of achievement filled the air, momentarily disrupting the academic routine and casting a spell of celebration, forever etched in the memory of that hallowed institution.

Amidst the buzzing distractions, anticipation had been brewing since the crack of dawn. Today marked the poignant farewell of the senior comrades from the venerable grounds of Papitalai Secondary School—a day etched with bittersweet emotions of parting from the well-worn corridors and classrooms that had been witnesses to countless memories.

Just as the collective restlessness threatened to breach the dam of patience, a divine intervention manifested in the form of the recess chime. Like trumpets signaling a grand exit, it serenaded the air with its melodic proclamation, releasing the younger students from the confines of their classrooms. With infectious enthusiasm, they surged forward, abandoning their instructors and cascading into the jubilant farewell procession that awaited the departing seniors.

The atmosphere crackled with intense energy as the vibrant procession weaved through the school grounds—a display of emotions echoing in laughter, shared secrets, and lingering glances. It was a moment suspended in time, a mosaic of farewells painted against the backdrop of a school's legacy. In that fleeting expanse, the students found themselves entangled in the magic of transition, bidding goodbye to the past and embracing the unknown future that beckoned beyond the familiar walls of Papitalai Secondary School.

The air crackled with a symphony of feelings, a tangible energy enveloping the surroundings. Tears flowed freely from the eyes of the female students, their sobs composing a heart-wrenching melody that echoed through the classrooms like a poignant soundtrack. On the flip side, the mischievous boys, having abandoned their mundane morning classes, let loose unrestrained shouts. A torrent of tears painted their faces as they offered heartfelt farewells to the departing final-year students. It was a scene painted in vivid emotions, a canvas where the bittersweet dance of goodbyes played out in the most unforgettable hues.

In the sacred corridors of Papitalai Secondary School, bidding farewell was no mere formality for those who had immersed themselves in its embrace for the past four years. Saying adieu meant parting ways not just with classmates but with confidantes, comrades in courses, and companions in the dormitory. The separation stirred a poignant ache, a testament to the profound connections forged in the crucible of time.

Although my tenure at the institution was a mere blip in comparison, the graduating seniors had enveloped me in their camaraderie, seamlessly bridging the temporal divide. I became an integral part of the tapestry, a thread woven into the fabric of shared experiences. They lovingly bestowed upon me the title of 'kande,' a term of endearment that transcended linguistic bounds, cementing our connection in the heart's registry.

As I ventured beyond the school gates, the echoes of "Manus tokpilai" lingered in the air, an anthem of shared memories and the infectious symphony of laughter. The bond we created became a living entity, breathing life into the corridors and resonating in the hearts of those who dared to call Papitalai home.

In a world where teachers typically wield their influence within the confines of a classroom, my home emerged as an unexpected sanctuary for young minds in search of a refreshing gulp of cold water or a hastily grabbed snack. Amidst the everlasting whirlwind of eager students, I couldn't help but ponder the imaginary scenario of a wife, someone accustomed to the serenity of solitude. How, I wondered, would she navigate the ceaseless ebb and flow of activity that animated our home? Would she, in attempting to stifle the excitement of my passions, strain the delicate fabric of our relationship, or perhaps, choose to embark on a departure from the lively symphony of my domestic haven?

As the curtain fell on the last day, a departure from the ordinary unfolded, heralded by the whimsical spectacle known as the 'dawn service.' In stark contrast to its solemn name, this tradition saw the seasoned seniors happily orchestrating a waterlogged symphony upon their unsuspecting junior counterparts at the break of day. A cacophony of laughter and splashes disrupted the tranquility, a boisterous affair that even the tolerant teachers in proximity had no choice but to endure, reluctantly embracing the lively disruption of dawn.

As the sun rose, I couldn't help but feel a pang of regret for missing the early morning spectacle. Imagining the chaos that unfolded, I pictured students abruptly awakened by splashes of cold water, followed by a cacophony of laughter and shouts. The vivid scene of final-year students rallying their peers for breakfast and concluding exams lingered in my mind.

The determination and vibrant energy radiating from the seniors as they adorned their yellow-green outfits for the last time were unmistakable. Instead of visible plans for celebration, what caught my eye were students meticulously checking and rechecking their calculators in preparation for the final Mathematics Paper 2. A departure from the notorious exam-period problems of previous years.

Amidst the crowd, I traversed, offering handshakes and silent prayers for the seniors' success and a safe journey home. As I took final snapshots and exchanged heartfelt goodbyes, tears welled up in their eyes, revealing the emotional undercurrent. Sensing the intensity, I swiftly moved to the assembly area.

The once bustling court, witness to five batches of nines and tens and three batches of elevens and twelves, now stood almost empty. Grade nines and elevens remained, continuing their academic journey until December. Every moment with my 'kandes' overflowed with joy, excitement, and laughter, etched in my memory. The realization hit that today marked our parting, and I fervently wished this day had never arrived, knowing I would deeply miss them. As they closed one chapter and opened another, I wished them the very best and saluted them for making 2014 a year of remarkable change. Apo kile! Adios! Sayonara!

     Grade 12 boys pose before the last examination:

     Back L-R: Christhoper Lami, Mathew Bensley, Richmond Zoppy, Paul Mohe, Kauyap Kauyap, Jacob Itariri, 

     Mr. Kapial, Joe Pomatou, Watah Wallen, Selarn Kisokau; Front L-R: Mathew Sale, Graham Kuop, John Mathew, Charles            Mangeu, Chauka Mespal, Michael Perikei