Students Urged To Seize Education Opportunities At SEMESTA Graduation Ceremony
BETONG: The Majlis Graduasi Tingkat Enam dan Anugerah Pencapaian Cemerlang (APC) 2025 for SMK Saint Augustine (SEMESTA) celebrated the achievements of its graduating cohort in a ceremony officiated by Deputy Minister for Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Sarawak, who is also Layar Assemblyman, Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu.
Held at Dewan Tan Sri Alfred Jabu, the event honoured students who excelled academically while recognising the commitment of teachers and parents in shaping their success.
In his address, Datuk Gerald Rentap emphasised the Sarawak Government’s priority in strengthening the education sector, including providing free tertiary education for Sarawakian students beginning next year.
He encouraged students in Betong to take full advantage of these opportunities.
He noted that student success is a shared responsibility between teachers and parents, stressing the importance of continuous encouragement in guiding children towards a better future.
“Teaching is not just about delivering lessons. It is also about shaping the character and identity of our students,” he said.
Datuk Gerald Rentap also encouraged high-achieving students to pursue further studies and return to serve their communities once they succeed.
He added that ICT and technological literacy are essential in today’s workforce, helping young people perform more efficiently across various fields.
According to him, every student represents the next generation of leadership and must equip themselves with knowledge, skills and values to contribute to Sarawak’s development.
He further reminded parents, teachers and the local community to continue monitoring and guiding students with care so that they may grow into “shining gems” for the future.
He concluded his speech by advising students to uphold respect for teachers, parents and society, maintain humility, and never hesitate to ask for guidance as principles he said are key to lifelong success.
Present at the ceremony were SMK Saint Augustine Principal Ujai Sambau, representing the Betong's Resident Office, Florence Bulan Johnny, School Management Board Chairman, Nelson Kloni Kanang, and PIBG Chairman Counselor Horrace Entoi. -UKASnews
