ABOUT 41 young women have graduated over the weekend and successfully completed a five-month life skills program at the Mary Mazzarello Development Centre-RTC at Henderson, East of Honiara.
The ceremony was held based on the theme: “Commitment, Patience, and Faith can Lead to Success.”
The program began with a thanksgiving mass celebrated by His Grace, Archbishop Christopher Cardone, OP.
In his homily, the archbishop congratulated the graduates for their perseverance, commitment, and courage in completing the training.
Reflecting on Luke 10:1-9, he spoke about the mission of the 72 disciples and reminded the graduates that they too are called forth into the world with purpose -to serve, to uplift others, and to use their God-given skills for the good of their families and communities.
“Jesus sent the disciples two by two, reminding us that no one is called to walk alone. You have walked this journey together, supported by your instructors, families, and faith. Now, go forward with confidence, knowing that Christ walks with you always,” Archbishop Cardone said.
He encouraged the women to be agents of hope and positive change, especially among other young women in their provinces, and conclude with a blessing over graduates, asking God to guide their hands and hearts in all they do.
Sr. Claudia Aragon, FMA, principal of MMDC, in her address, commended the student’s resilience throughout the five-month journey.
She reported that 48 students began the programme, and only 41 completed it, with most from Guadalcanal and Malaita.
Amongst them were 10 married women, 30 single women, and 1 widow.
She also highlighted the challenges the staff faced due to vary educational backgrounds and the centre’s response through extra literacy support and monthly evaluations.
Some students withdrew due to difficulty adjusting to certain trades, especially in the textile, but Sr. Claudia respected their honesty and celebrated the meaningful growth shown by the remaining students.
“We are strict with them because we know these skills will open job opportunities, and we feel responsible for their holistic formation,” she added.
Mr. Joy Bhattacharya, Manager of Learning & Development at Heritage Park Hotel, was the keynote speaker.
He praised the students for their determination and reaffirmed the importances of hospitality skills in the workforce.
Mr Bhattacharya first met the students during an industrial visit to the hotel in April, where students witness firsthand how the hospitality industry operates.
Among the guests present were Mr Jackson Meke, Education Secretary for Catholic Archdiocese of Honiara; and Sr. Loise Mckeogh, FMA, Provincial of the South Pacific Region.
The graduation marked not only the end of a training program but also the beginning of a new journey.
These 41 young women leave MMDC equipped with hands-on skills, renewed faith, and deepened commitment to build better lives for themselves and their communities.
