11/06/2026
💔 A Great Loss to Education: Tambul Secondary School Bids a Tearful Farewell to Beloved Teacher Late John Kitipa 💔
Tambul Secondary School is in deep mourning following the loss of one of its most dedicated and hardworking teachers, **Late John Kitipa** of Pabrapug, Nebilyer District, Western Highlands Province.
Born on **12 June 1978**, Late John Kitipa was a loving husband, caring father, and committed educator who faithfully served Tambul Secondary School for six years. He leaves behind his beloved wife and three children—two sons and a daughter. He sadly passed away on **27 May 2027**, leaving a void that will be felt by his family, colleagues, students, and the wider community.
Today, his casket was transported from Kenmix Funeral Home in Mt. Hagen to Tambul Secondary School by fellow teachers and students for a final farewell. Members of the Western Highlands Provincial Education Board (PEB) accompanied the casket to the school, where it will remain overnight before being taken to his home tomorrow morning.
The school community, surrounding villages, leaders, staff, and students gathered in large numbers to give Late John a warm and emotional welcome back to the school he faithfully served. Tears flowed as many paid their final respects to a man whose life was dedicated to shaping the future of young Papua New Guineans.
Representing the Education Department, **Mr. Handy Sikim**, Superintendent for High, Secondary, and TVET Schools, formally handed over the casket and conveyed the department's deepest sympathies to the bereaved family.
Tambul Secondary School Principal **Mr. Power Nips** expressed his gratitude to the Education Department for giving Late John the opportunity to serve as a teacher and thanked the Western Highlands Education Board for standing with the school community during this difficult time.
School Board Chairman **Mr. William Paip** also conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the immediate family, relatives, tribe, and community of the late teacher, acknowledging his outstanding contribution to education and the lives of countless students.
Leaders from Laulga, together with renowned human rights lawyer **Danny Gonol**, also expressed their sorrow and extended condolences to Tambul Secondary School and the people of Pabrapug for losing one of the finest educators in the province and the nation.
Late John Kitipa's dedication, wisdom, kindness, and commitment to education will never be forgotten. His legacy lives on through the many students he inspired and the lives he touched throughout his teaching career.
Rest easy, John. Your work on earth is done, but your impact will remain forever in our hearts.
😭💔 "A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops."
May your soul rest in eternal peace.
