Silver Jubilee of Faith, Learning, and Transformation
Don Bosco Henderson, Solomon Islands: The Salesians in the PGS vice-province joyfully celebrated yet another milestone in their mission of educating the young, with the Silver Jubilee of Don Bosco Technical Institute, Henderson, Solomon Islands. From September 7–9, 2025, students, past pupils, staff, and guests gathered for a three-day celebration marked with gratitude, unity, and the spirit of Don Bosco.
Fr. Raphael Galve, SDB, Rector of DBTI Henderson, set the tone with a heartfelt welcome, inviting all to embrace the celebrations. He warmly welcomed Fr. Ambrose Pereira, SDB, one of the institution’s early pioneers. The first day highlighted the ingenuity and skills of the students through an exhibition of trades and projects ranging from solar-powered pumps, a refitted vehicle, electrical displays, office administration, etc., to serving guests at the mock restaurant of the hospitality students.
The second day came alive with ingrained aspects of the culture, as the nine provinces of Solomon Islands showcased their traditions, joined by vibrant contributions from India and Papua New Guinea. Traditional attire, cultural treasures, and the presentation of the Queen and King of the show brought color and pride to the stage. Special guests for the occasion were Fr. William Mathews, EAO Regional Councillor on his Extraordinary Visitation and Fr. Gregorio Bicomong, PGS Provincial Superior of the vice-province.
The high point of the celebration was a solemn Eucharistic Celebration, presided over by Archbishop Christopher Cardone, OP, Archbishop of Honiara, Fr. William Mathews SDB, and ten concelebrants. It was on the 9th September 2000, that the school opened to 16 students who commenced their two-and-a-half-year technical course in Motor mechanics. Archbishop Chris reminded the over 500 students, parents, and guests of Don Bosco’s mission: “We step up to meet the needs of the times, especially for the young. Let us be grateful. We say thanks be to God for the blessings of Don Bosco Technical Institute, that emerged amid the ethnic tension. Thank you to the benefactors and to everyone who has walked with us on this journey.”
The day’s peak came with speeches and the traditional ‘Chupu’ ceremony of thanksgiving, honoring early contributors and benefactors. Provincial Superior, Fr. Gregorio Bicomong, SDB, reminded all of Don Bosco’s holistic vision: a Home for warmth and belonging, a Playground for healthy growth, a School for learning, and a Church for spiritual nourishment, forming “Good Christians and Upright Citizens.”
Dr Franco Rodie, Permanent Secretary, Solomon Islands Ministry of Education, appreciated the Don Bosco Technical Institution for the contribution to the Technical Vocational Education and Training of Solomon Islands.
Mr Tanaka Yukihiro, spoke of the struggles to build the school, and encouraged the students to face their difficulties with courage. He concluded his talk with the hymn ‘Ave Maria’, which received a rousing applause by all present.
Fr. Ambrose Pereira beautifully tied the celebration to Don Bosco’s famous dream at the age of nine. He reminded the youth that they are “the living testament to Don Bosco’s legacy. Hard work, discipline, commitment and following the ‘Rhythm of Life’ is required”, he said. “Every lesson learned, every skill mastered, and every challenge overcome has been a steppingstone, not just for yourself, but for your family, your community, and your country,” he continued. He outlined the early beginnings and the struggle to secure a piece of land for the Institution. He thanked the Salesian Province of Japan, European Union, AusAID, APTC, JICA and the many collaborators who have been part of the story of Don Bosco Technical Institute, Henderson.
Fr Luciano Capelli, now Bishop Emeritus of Gizo; led coordinated the efforts of the early pioneers, together with Fr Ambrose Pereira SDB, Fr Pedro Balcazar SDB and Tanaka Yukihiro.
With the theme “From Dreams to Reality: Transforming Lives”, the Silver Jubilee stood as a shining witness to Don Bosco’s vision, alive and thriving in Henderson. The celebration ended in true family spirit with a hearty meal shared by all, sealing the jubilee with joy and gratitude. - Lucy Napitalai
