Popular PNG musician Honlly Isaac, widely known by his stage name Jokema, has stepped beyond the spotlight to champion education and national pride. Last week, Jokema personally sponsored a three-day Pre-Independence Celebration for Erap Primary School in the Wampar LLG of Huon Gulf District, Morobe Province. The celebration, held from Monday to Wednesday, brought together students, trainee teachers, school staff, parents, and local communities in a vibrant lead-up to Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence Anniversary. Though widely recognized in the music industry, Jokema is also a local entrepreneur, operating the Jokema Inn, a mini hotel located in Butibum village, Lae. For the event, he donated his professional sound system, assigned his young stage and technical crew from the hotel to manage the production, and even provided cash support for refreshments and logistics. On the second day, Jokema invited fellow PNG artists to perform, and on the third and final day, he closed the celebration with a powerful live performance. Head Teacher Mr. Herman Agregum praised Jokema’s initiative, calling it a rare and heartfelt gesture. “Usually, in PNG, schools or communities spend money to hire artists and sound systems when hosting events,” he said. “But Jokema did the opposite. He came to us, gave us his full support, and asked for nothing in return. That’s a rare thing and it speaks volumes about his heart when Papua New Guinea is turning 50 years old.” The event was themed: “Ask what you can do for your country and not what your country can do for you.” According to Mr. Agregum, Jokema embodied this message fully. “Honlly lived the theme. He showed our students what it means to serve our country — not with words but with actions.” The event attracted attendees from across the Nadzab, Erap, and 40-Mile areas, bringing communities together in unity, culture, and celebration. Through cultural performances, student-led activities, and live music, the school created an unforgettable experience for all involved. Pastor Saki, chairman of the school board, said Jokema’s contribution sent a powerful message. “When someone successful gives back to rural schools, it sends a message that no one is forgotten.” Jokema, reflecting on the experience, shared that his goal was not just to entertain, but to inspire. “I wanted the kids to be proud — not just to celebrate independence but to understand it, live it, and carry it forward,” he said. He added, “You don’t need big money or titles to help. Give what you can — your time, your talent, and your tools. That’s the spirit of independence.” As Papua New Guinea prepares to mark 50 years of nationhood on September 16th, Jokema hopes his actions encourage more artists, businesspeople, and leaders to engage with communities in meaningful ways.