DVIDS – News – PACIFIC PARTNERSHIP 2025 STRENGTHENS COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS THROUGH SPORTS AND MUSIC AT SANTO EAST SECONDARY SCHOOL

LUGANVILLE, Vanuatu — Students and workers at Santo East Secondary School welcomed members of Pacific Partnership 2025 for a full day of cultural change and sports activities, Nov. 8, highlighted by soccer video games, dancing, and a efficiency by the Pacific Partnership Band.

The day’s occasions introduced collectively greater than 2,000 college students and 43 lecturers for pleasant competitors and neighborhood celebration, underscoring PP25’s mission to strengthen ties and construct goodwill via shared experiences.

“This is the first impression that the U.S. recognizes Vanuatu in the Pacific Ocean,” stated Jonathan Lavere, chairman of the Santo East Secondary School Board. “Partnership is very important to us, and this visit shows the friendship between our countries.”

Located on 4 hectares of land in Luganville, Santo East Secondary School is likely one of the largest within the space, serving greater than 2,100 college students. Lavere stated the varsity hopes to transition from a day faculty to a boarding faculty sooner or later to raised assist its rising pupil inhabitants.

During the go to, college students and PP25 individuals performed soccer and American soccer, danced, and shared in native traditions. Lavere stated the introduction of American soccer was an particularly memorable a part of the day.

“One thing that sports can do is unite everyone, regardless of tribe, religion, or language,” he stated. “We can use football to teach teamwork and discipline while strengthening our relationship with Pacific Partnership.”
Capt. Mark B. Stefanik, mission commander for Pacific Partnership 2025, stated occasions just like the Santo East Secondary School go to embody the mission’s function.

“Sports and music transcend boundaries,” stated Stefanik. “They help us connect on a personal level, celebrate friendship, and build lasting trust with our partners across the Pacific.”

As the day concluded, college students and repair members shared smiles, songs, and handshakes—symbolizing the enduring bond between Vanuatu and the Pacific Partnership mission.

Pacific Partnership, in its twenty first iteration, is the U.S. Navy’s largest annual multinational humanitarian and civic help mission performed within the Indo-Pacific. Each yr, the mission group works alongside host nations, allies, and companions to strengthen relationships, improve regional resilience, and enhance capability to reply to disasters.