STUDENTS from Guadalcanal studying at the Don Bosco Technical Institute, Henderson in Central Guadalcanal have clinched the top prize for their stunning performance, dancing talents and cultural heritage at the school’s Cultural Day last Friday.
The cultural event was held to coincide with the birthday anniversary of the Italian founder of Don Bosco Institutions around the globe, Catholic Priest Don Melchior Bosco. The late Bosco was born on 16 August 1815 and died on 31 January 1888.
The event, held at the school premises, saw great cultural performances by students according to their provincial groupings. The school enrols students from all nine provinces of the country.
Among the performers, the Guadalcanal Province students stood out with their vibrant costumes, unison movements and energetic performances.
The students from Guadalcanal Province captivated the audience as they skilfully blended traditional dances with contemporary twists, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of Guadalcanal with contemporary infusions.
The students’ presentation of the traditional chupu signified the acceptance of the establishment of the school on the land upon which it stands by its traditional owners of Guadalcanal Province and the bond of unity that unites the school and its students from all over Solomon Islands.
A Guadalcanal student leader Osbon Tabua expressed his delight to see students from the different ethnic groups in the country showcasing their identity through their cultural performances.
“First of all, I would like to thank the Don Bosco administration and staff for organizing such program. I believe that this program helps us students to keep our cultures alive not only at home but also at school.
“This program also brings us students together to know about the cultures of other students and learn to respect them wherever we go. I believe our cultures always keep everyone united and to have respect for others in our society, including schools.
“As a Guadalcanal student, I am so happy to have an opportunity to showcase my cultural identity through the songs and dances that we performed.
“I think it is important that we keep our cultures alive not only at home but also in schools. I thank the Don Bosco Institute for organizing the program and I look forward for more such programs in the future.
“Our victory today not only symbolizes our talent and hard work but also served as a testament to the spirit of unity and cultural pride that thrives within the school and community,” Tabua added.
The judges, which comprised Don Bosco staff, were thoroughly impressed by the cultural performances.
“The school decided to organize the event to give students a chance to participate in the school’s launching of its 25th anniversary program on September 10 next month,” Principal Paul Allen Daro said.
“So first, we judges evaluated each group’s performance, carefully watching how they performed through dance and songs, observing every single movement of their presentation,” one of the other judges, Fr Sani Faja added.
Each group was also allowed to compose their own songs based on the school’s 25th-anniversary theme.
The 25th Anniversary celebration is scheduled for 10 September 2025 and will be held at the Holy Cross Cathedral compound in Honiara.
By JIMMY NOLAN
Solomon Star Honiara
