A Thanksgiving Mass and awards ceremony for 81 students who passed the Grade-12 university entrance examination from various neighborhoods within Myitkyina Parish was held on July 12 at St. Columban’s Cathedral, Aung Nan, Myitkyina, celebrating academic achievement while reminding the graduates of their higher calling.

The event was attended by parents and students who took the Grade-12 exam in the 2025–2026 academic year and was led by the parish priest, Msgr. Peter Hka Awng Tu.

Homily: A Call to Faith and Service

In his homily, Msgr. Peter congratulated the students on their success but reminded them that academic achievement is only the beginning.

“Now that you, my dear children, have successfully passed today’s Grade-12 examination, each of you will still have to pursue various levels of higher education along your future educational journey, and you will have to navigate through many different life situations and circumstances,” he said.

The priest encouraged the students who had passed Grade 12 to strive to live in fear, love, and reverence of God at all times, trusting in Him, and to become individuals who contribute to their country, region, people, and Church.

“To receive these graces, we must always pray to God and live our lives in prayer,” Msgr. Peter said. “Only then will we truly be beloved and genuine children of God.”

Outstanding Achievements

A total of 81 students from Myitkyina Parish passed the 2025–2026 Grade-12 university entrance examination. Among them, three students achieved distinctions in six subjects, three students achieved distinctions in five subjects, one student achieved distinctions in four subjects, two students achieved distinctions in three subjects, five students achieved distinctions in two subjects, and eight students achieved distinctions in one subject. Fifty-nine students passed with regular passes without distinctions.

The awards ceremony recognized the students’ hard work and dedication, while the gratitude Mass offered thanks to God for their success. Parents, many visibly proud, watched as their children were honored for their academic achievements.

A Milestone for the Community

The Grade-12 examination is a significant milestone in Myanmar, determining university admission and future educational pathways. The success of 81 students from a single parish reflects both the students’ dedication and the support of their families, catechists, and parish community.

The event was also a moment for the parish to come together in unity and thanksgiving, celebrating not just individual achievement but the collective strength of a community that values education as a path to building a better future.

Msgr. Peter’s words served as a reminder that while academic success is important, it is the foundation of faith, character, and service that truly shapes a meaningful life. The students left the cathedral not only with awards but with a charge to become individuals who contribute to their country and Church with faith and integrity.

By RVA Rawang Service