Government of the Federated States of Micronesia

Third Annual Close-Up Local Program

PALIKIR, Pohnpei (FSM Information Service): May 20, 1997 - The third annual FSM Close Up Local Program (FSMCULP) is scheduled to be held on Pohnpei from May 26 to the 30th this year, bringing together from all four states about 60 high school students and teachers.

FSM Close Up Local Program is a civic education program to promote unity among citizens and to develop good citizenry, Nena said.

While in Pohnpei, the participants will be touring the FSM Executive Branch office facilities. In this connection, Nena urged everyone to welcome them and "kindly accommodate their visit." The FSM Department of Education which is coordinating this program will respond to any questions relating to the FSMCULP.

The proposed agenda includes an opening ceremony in the morning of May 26, at COM-FSM Campus in Palikir, with welcome remarks by Damian Sohl, Pohnpei State Director of Education, a keynote address by Dr. Catalino Cantero, Secretary of Education, a briefing by COM-FSM President Susan Moses and a tour of the campus.

On Tuesday, May 27, students will visit the Pohnpei cultural sites and be exposed to Pohnpei cultural activities. On the third day they will visit Congress and observe its session, meet its leadership and also visit the FSM Supreme Court and its offices.

On Thursday, May 29, a visit to Nanmadol Ruins is scheduled with a boat ride. Nanmadol Ruins is a well-known basalt rock slab fortress constructed thousands of years ago with spectacular architectural and engineering skills. The program will end on Friday, May 30, with the closing remarks to be delivered by Honorable John Petewon, Chairman, Congress Committee on Health, Education and Social Affairs.