16 Oct 2018
Kasparina Renwarin is a teacher and a former student at Siwa Lima St Joseph’s Technical School in Langgur, Indonesia. Built in 1970, the school is run by the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart with the aim of educating young people in the region so “they can do something good for themselves and for their families”. In a region where poverty is a pressing issue, St Joseph’s provides the youth of the community with hope for the future. Here is Kasparina’s story:
“My name is Kasparina Renwarin and I am 53 years old. I have been a teacher in St Joseph’s Technical School since 1983.
When the school first opened, it was attended by male students only. Female students did not begin to attend St Joseph’s until 1979. I was one of six ladies who began studying in the school together.
I finished my studies in 1982. In 1983, the headmaster at the time invited me to teach in the automotive department and I was very happy to get this job, even though I was not an expert in the subject. I do my best for my students. Although my salary is low, I wish to dedicate myself and my skills to my beloved alma mater.
I realised that I needed to develop my knowledge and my ability in the automotive department further, so I continued my studies. In 2014, I became a civil employee as a teacher, and I remain teaching in my alma mater.
I hope that St Joseph’s Technical School remains constant, and continues to develop to become the best technical school in the Malucu Province. God bless us all, and our beloved St Joseph’s!”