The traditional Martin Luther Seminary graduation, held for more than 50 years to honour theology graduates, has now entered a new phase as it becomes part of the Lutheran University of Papua New Guinea (LUPNG). This year’s ceremony reflects that transition, recognising graduates from Theology as well as from one of the university’s new academic programs. As the 53rd graduation in MLS’s history and the fourth since joining LUPNG, it represents both the endurance of its mission and its integration into a wider academic community.
While Martin Luther Seminary (MLS), now a constituent campus of LUPNG, continues its core mission of training theologians to serve as ordained pastors or in various ministries across the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Papua New Guinea—from parishes and circuits to districts and church institutions—other LUPNG programs are also gaining momentum. This is highlighted by the first graduates of the new Postgraduate Diploma in Education (PGDE) program this year.
On November 29th, 2025, a total of 19 students graduated with Diplomas and Degrees in Theology. Among them were four female graduates—three with Diplomas and one with a Degree—reflecting ELCPNG’s ongoing commitment to encouraging and supporting women in theological education.
In addition to the theology graduates, another eight students became the first cohort to complete the Postgraduate Diploma in Education (PGDE). This milestone highlights MLS’s expanding contribution within the broader LUPNG academic structure.
Principal’s Address
MLS Principal Reverend Okuk Gigmai told the graduating students that their theme states, “Here I am Lord, send me – Isaiah 6:8,” and reminded those graduating with theology qualifications that they have heard the call of God and responded willingly.
Rev. Gigmai said they enrolled and studied for five years, facing challenges along the way, but have now graduated, “the fruit of their hard work, sleepless nights, and commitment to excel.”
He reminded them to be servant leaders who take with them not only the knowledge learned but also the Spirit of Christ, bringing light into the world to overcome challenges spiritually, socially, economically, and mentally.
Ministerial Training Department Remarks
Ministerial Training Department Secretary Reverend Giesa Panpan said seminaries are producing servants to continue and expand the faith of the Lutheran Church through its mission of evangelism.
Rev. Panpan said seeing students graduate demonstrates the church’s continuous support to its institutions in producing church workers, and that graduating them signifies that the mission is accomplished.
He encouraged more females to apply for theology studies, noting that although only four women graduated at MLS this year, more can enrol as females are equal partners in the ministry.
PGDE Program Milestone
Alongside the theology graduates, another group recognised were the pioneers of the PGDE program offered by LUPNG at the MLS campus.
LUPNG Vice Chancellor Dr. Miok Komolong said this first batch consists of students who have degree qualifications from recognized institutions, and “they are ready to teach.”
Dr. Komolong said they worked hard to earn their qualification, which will now enable them to teach in high schools, secondary schools, vocational institutions, and colleges.
He explained that the course was introduced to address the shortage of high and secondary school teachers in the country, and that 50 students will be enrolled next year for the PGDE.
“We have Balob Teachers College offering Diploma and Bachelor in Primary School Teaching so we need to response to the need for secondary teachers.
Instead of developing Bachelor of Education in Secondary teaching, we develop our own curriculum for Post Graduate Diploma in Secondary Teaching which I am pleased to reveal that our PGDE materials produces is of standard and quality and its a prove of concept that materials developed works well,”
— Dr. Miok Komolong
