PANIAI, CENTRAL PAPUA – A message of unity and respect for diversity was highlighted during the commemoration of Pancasila Sanctity Day and the 32nd anniversary of SMA Negeri 1 Paniai on Monday (October 5, 2026).
Around 500 students and teachers took part in a series of activities held under the theme, “Noken and Pancasila, Weaving Unity in Bhinneka Tunggal Ika.” The theme encouraged members of the school community to explore the values of Pancasila through Papua’s local wisdom and cultural heritage.
Noken was chosen as a central symbol of the event because it is not only an important part of Papua’s cultural identity but also carries a strong message of togetherness. The various strands woven together into a single noken represent diversity that can become a source of strength when built on mutual respect.
The activities began with the singing of the national anthem, Indonesia Raya, followed by the song Tanah Papua. Students and teachers then participated in a variety of activities combining character education, local culture, student creativity, and recognition of academic and extracurricular achievements.
The program also continued a Pancasila Sanctity Day Speech Competition held on October 1, 2026.
One of the highlights was a speech delivered by Ria Korina Nawipa, a Grade 10 student from Class X-7 who previously won first place in the Pancasila Sanctity Day Speech Competition. She once again delivered her speech before students and teachers as part of the school’s commemoration.
Head of SMA Negeri 1 Paniai, Marcelina Mote, said the event was more than a ceremonial celebration. It provided students with an opportunity to understand the meaning of unity through direct experiences within their school community.
She said schools should serve as spaces where students from diverse backgrounds learn to live together, build a sense of community, and develop their individual potential.
This diversity is reflected in the student body of SMA Negeri 1 Paniai, which includes students from various backgrounds, including the Mee and Moni communities as well as people from migrant communities.
“Education is not only about learning in the classroom, but also about building character, respecting differences, strengthening togetherness, and encouraging children to continue achieving,” Marcelina said in a written statement on Tuesday (October 6, 2026).
She expressed her appreciation for the participation of students and teachers throughout the series of activities. According to her, the commemoration of Pancasila Sanctity Day and the school’s anniversary should encourage students to strengthen their discipline, remain committed to their studies, and have the confidence to develop their abilities.
Meanwhile, Ria Korina Nawipa expressed her gratitude after winning first place in the speech competition. She also thanked her teachers and parents for their guidance, motivation, and support throughout the competition.
Ria encouraged her fellow students to continue learning and to have the courage to develop their potential. She said student achievements are not only a source of personal pride but can also bring pride to their families and school.
The spirit of togetherness was also reflected in other activities, including a joint religious service, a traditional rhyming competition, and student dance performances. The school also provided development awards to the winners of the Pancasila Sanctity Day Speech Competition in recognition of their achievements and courage.
Students also received school stationery packages and snacks. The 32nd anniversary celebration of SMA Negeri 1 Paniai concluded with the blowing out of candles and the cutting of a birthday cake.
The entire series of activities took place in a safe and orderly atmosphere. The school hopes the occasion will remind students that diversity is not an obstacle to building unity and togetherness.
Just as the strands of a noken are woven together into one, diversity within the school community is expected to become a source of strength in building unity.
From Paniai, the message is being carried through education: preserve cultural heritage, respect differences, strengthen togetherness, and continue learning to prepare Papua’s younger generation for the future.
