A young man from Kambagora Village in the Passam Wewak Rural LLG, has turned an unexpected academic detour into a remarkable success story. While his initial dream was to become an engineer, Valentine Wasari recently completed his studies and graduated last Friday in Sustainable Tropical Agriculture at the PNG University of Natural Resources and Environment (UNRE), demonstrating that resilience and faith can redefine a career path.
The shift in his academic journey began with his father’s guidance. Although he was initially encouraged to study Tropical Forestry, he was instead selected for the Sustainable Tropical Agriculture program.
Rather than being discouraged by the change, Mr. Wasari embraced the opportunity with discipline, ultimately graduating with flying colours. He credits his success to his unwavering faith and the support of his family, specifically acknowledging his parents, his brothers Jerome and Fidelis, and his sister Noreen and her husband in Lae Morobe province for their financial and emotional backing.
In a moving tribute, Mr. Wasari dedicated his academic achievement to the memory of his late sister, Dephney Wasari, who passed away in 2021 due to a heart condition.
He cited her memory as a profound source of inspiration throughout his final years of study. His educational path was a long journey that spanned several provinces, beginning in 2008 at Numondo Oil Mill Elementary in West New Britain, moving through Healla Primary School, and culminating in his Grade 12 graduation from Kimbe Secondary School in 2021. He then transitioned to the UNRE Popondetta Campus in Oro Province for his Diploma before completing his degree at the Vudal Campus in Kokopo, East New Britain province.
Looking to the future, Mr. Wasari aims to secure employment to support his family while keeping a long-term vision in mind. As the son of a clan leader and landowner, he intends to eventually return home to develop his community’s land, using his specialised agricultural knowledge to create new opportunities for his people.
His story stands as a powerful example for young Papua New Guineans, proving that even when life takes a different direction, determination and putting God first can lead to excellence.
