THE founding members of Jiwaka province were hailed for their tremendous efforts, sacrifices and contributions in ensuring that Jiwaka became a separate province.

The 18 remaining members of the 28 original members in which ten died were paid special tribute by young educated elites on Monday (May 18) during the commemoration of Jiwaka Day and the launching of Jiwaka Separate Province Working Committee Inc. at Banz.

Waghi Valley Secondary School Principal Betty Wena praised them for their tireless efforts and contributions in attaining provincial autonomy in 2012.

"We are what we are today because of you - your hard work.

"Credit should be given where it is due and you all deserve credit.

"I can become the first female principal of a secondary school in Jiwaka because of you the founding fathers and mothers.

"In life everybody have dreams. Your dream was to see Jiwaka become a province, and that dream of yours became a reality.

"On behalf of all the young people, educated elites, working class and those who are proud to call themselves Jiwakans, I salute you all.

"You are all champions. This is your day and our day," Ms Wena said in her speech.

Other speakers shared similar compliments, thanking the founding members for their dreams and aspirations.

Jiwaka Separate Province Working Committee Association chairman Nicholas Kuman said the founding members are so humbled by the tribute and acknowledgements.

"We have dreams to make this province great.

"Our dream is everyone's dream. To make this province great, we need to work together as a team to achieve our development goals and objectives," Mr. Kuman added.

Other members of the association present reflected on their journey towards provincial independence and called on young Jiwakans to seek guidance and wisdom from the seniors.

The association also comprise of former North Waghi MPs William Wii, Yimbal Aipe and Michael Mas Kal who were also present at the occasion.

By Hoffman Gulgarye