Dr Joe Pagelio is Secretary of the Department of Education in Papua New Guinea. He was not able to attend the recent Brisbane reunion, but he submitted some wonderful words that were read by Dr Clarrie Burke. Here’s a brief extract…..

Let me explain how I see your legacy in PNG. Your legacy is that you were nation builders. I believe you were aware of the bigger picture at the time. As you worked alongside your PNG colleagues in the education system, and as you involved yourself in the community, you contributed to the building of the independent nation of PNG.

You must draw great satisfaction when you consider the number of young boys and girls you taught, and the number of PNG teachers you worked with, who went on to become future leaders in politics, Government, private enterprise and PNG society more generally. For this you will long be remembered. This is your legacy.

There will be a full account of Joe's remarks in the next issue of The Mail. To subscribe, free, email me here.