In the world of education in Papua New Guinea, stories of resilience and triumph often highlight the incredible potential of young minds. For the past three years, girls have consistently dominated academic awards at the prestigious Sogeri National School of Excellence. The 2025 graduating class continued this trend, with 18-year-old Melsie Wakinda standing out as the dux of the Science Strand. Her story of consistency, perseverance, and quiet determination is a beacon of inspiration for students across PNG facing similar challenges in their educational journeys.
From Disruptions to Determination: Melsie’s Early Education Struggles
Melsie Wakinda, the eldest of five siblings, hails from a family rooted in Hela and Madang provinces. Her father, Rockey Robert Wakinda, serves as a health extension officer in Margarima District, Hela, while her mother, Evelyn Wazami, is from Bogia District in Madang. Melsie’s educational path began at Madang Christian Academy in 2014 but was far from smooth. Plagued by illness, frequent relocations due to her father’s work, and tribal conflicts, she never completed a full year in one school during her early years.
Despite these setbacks, Melsie’s academic performance remained strong. After finishing Grade Eight at St. Joseph Kuluanda Primary School in Hela, she was selected for Wabia Secondary School. However, delays and transfers led her to Hoiebia Secondary for Grade Nine, where she excelled among her peers. Tragically, a tribal fight forced another move back to Madang, enrolling her mid-year at Tusbab Secondary School. Catching up was tough, and she missed out on the dux award in Year 10. Yet, her father’s unwavering belief—”My girl will be the Grade 12 dux”—fueled her motivation to push forward.
These experiences underscore the realities many students in Papua New Guinea face, from tribal conflicts disrupting education to the challenges of relocating across provinces. Melsie’s story highlights how parental support and personal resilience can turn obstacles into stepping stones for success in PNG’s education system.
Adapting to Excellence at Sogeri National School
Selected for the renowned Sogeri National School of Excellence, Melsie initially battled homesickness and the rigorous routine. The first week was overwhelming, but the friendships she formed transformed the school into a second home. Choosing the Science Stream, she committed to giving her best despite early struggles.
“In my previous schools, I usually made only one or two mistakes,” Melsie recalls. “But in the first term of Year 11 at Sogeri, I had 15 to 20 errors. I felt devastated, thinking I couldn’t achieve what my family expected.” However, she refused to let failures define her. Excelling in Biology and Chemistry while maintaining consistency across all subjects, Melsie rose to the top, earning the title of dux for the Science Strand in 2025.
Sogeri National School of Excellence, known for fostering academic brilliance among students from diverse provinces, provided the environment where Melsie thrived. She credits the teachers for their guidance and the school’s spirit of excellence and teamwork. “All praise and honor belong to God because all good things come from Him, and He blesses hard work,” she says gratefully.
Lessons in Consistency and Positivity: Melsie’s Advice for PNG Students
Melsie’s achievement isn’t just a personal victory—it’s a milestone for her family and a testament to the growing dominance of girls in academics at Sogeri. “This means the whole world to me and my family,” she shares. “I’m happy to have made them proud.”
Her key mantra? “It’s all about consistency, giving your best at every stage, and not letting failures hold you back.” For students navigating the complexities of education in Papua New Guinea, Melsie offers timeless wisdom: “When you face challenges, remember, it’s all in your mind. You have the power to control it. Tell yourself that you can do it. Then everything trying to stop you will eventually pass.”
This advice resonates deeply in a country where educational disruptions from conflicts, health issues, and relocations are common. Melsie’s journey encourages young girls in PNG to pursue STEM fields and strive for academic excellence, proving that with determination, even the toughest paths lead to success.
Celebrating Female Excellence in PNG Education
As girls continue to lead in academic awards at Sogeri National School of Excellence, stories like Melsie’s inspire a new generation. They remind us of the importance of supportive families, quality education institutions, and personal grit in overcoming barriers. Whether you’re a student, parent, or educator in Papua New Guinea, Melsie’s triumph is a call to action: Stay consistent, stay positive, and aim high.
If you’re inspired by tales of educational success in PNG, share your own stories in the comments below. For more on student achievements and tips for academic success, explore our education category or check out resources from the Papua New Guinea Department of Education.