De La Salle Secondary School has often found itself at the centre of public criticism whenever incidents involving students from all-boys schools’ surface on social media.

But according to Principal Ms. Annette Ingirin, the school refuses to allow negative perceptions to define its identity and instead uses criticism as motivation to improve.

Speaking with PNG Haus Bung during the De La Salle Reunion and Meet-and-Greet on Saturday, June 13, Ms. Ingirin said negativity can either become a stumbling block or a steppingstone.

"Negativity can be viewed in two ways," she said.

"You can allow it to strengthen you and help you move forward, or you can allow it to destroy you. Any negativity directed at our school, we step on it, look for the positive in it, and continue moving forward."

Ms. Ingirin said the school has made significant progress in student discipline over the years and should not be judged solely on isolated incidents that often gain attention online.

"You can attest to that. We don't have many fights anymore, and we are better," she said.

She said the school's reputation should also be measured by the thousands of students who have gone on to make meaningful contributions to the country.

From political leaders and senior public servants to doctors, educators and business professionals, Ms. Ingirin said many distinguished country men began their journey at De La Salle.

"When you look around and see how many prominent people have come through this school, you'll realize we're not that bad," she said.

Ms. Ingirin also challenged what she described as a tendency for people to quickly associate negative behavior with the school because of its status as an all-boys school.

"People automatically assume that because we are a boys' school, any negative behavior must be connected to De La Salle," she said.

Her comments came as former students from different generations gathered to celebrate the school's history, achievements and contribution to the nation during the reunion event.

While acknowledging that challenges exist, Ms. Ingirin said the school's focus remains on building better young men and continuing to improve rather than dwelling on criticism.

For De La Salle, she said, the true measure of the school lies not in the negative headlines that occasionally emerge, but in the generations of leaders, professionals and citizens who have passed through its gates.