By Edcel David
From investing in new members to spending a night under the stars – the Scouting Movement at Far Eastern Private School Al Shahba thrives on building character, leadership, and community among its members. FEPS’ Main Campus hosted a series of unforgettable events that captured the spirit of this mission – from the Investiture ceremony on March 14, 2023, to the exhilarating Day Camp on March 15, 2023, and the unforgettable Overnight Camping on March 16-17, 2023.
On March 14, 2023, the school held its annual Scout Investiture ceremony, a longstanding tradition that has been a highlight of the school’s calendar for many years. The program began with the entrance of the Outfit/Troop and guests, followed by the opening prayers. The FEPS Marshalls then entered the hall with the colors, leading the way for the singing of the UAE and Philippine National Anthems. The school principal, Ms. Mary Jane P. Onato, welcomed all participants and praised the children and faculty involved in the Scouting program for their hard work and dedication.
The ceremony then proceeded with the candle lighting, the recitation of the scout oath and law, the donning, and the pinning ceremonies. Twinkler Scouts, Kid Scouts, Star Scouts, Kab Scouts, Boy Scouts, Junior Scouts, Senior Girl Scouts, and Senior Boy Scouts were invested in the Scouting program.
In conclusion to the successful Investiture ceremony, it is worth noting that the parents of the young scouts also played a crucial role in the event. As part of the ceremony, the parents of the scouts placed the neckerchiefs on them, signifying their support and encouragement of their children’s involvement in the Scouting program.
The following day, March 15, 2023, came the Day Camp, which was a special event for the Kid and Kab Scouts at FEPS Al Shahba. It was held in three separate locations: Main Ground, Boys Block, and Girls Block – with senior scouts assigned to each base to assist the younger scouts with their activities.
The day began with enjoyable team-building activities that assisted the young scouts in improving their communication and teamwork abilities. Following that, the Scouts took part in a series of courses that focused on fundamental survival skills such as fire making, compass reading, knot tying, and keeping an orderly campsite. These activities not only teach children important outdoor skills but also instilled in them a sense of responsibility and leadership.
As the Scouting Movement neared its end, the school hosted an overnight camping event for its students on March 16, 2023, at the Sharjah Scouts Mission campsite. The event was a beautiful and thrilling experience in which children were allowed to enjoy the great outdoors and participate in various camping activities.
Upon arrival at the campsite, the students quickly got to work setting up their tents and bases, with each crew and patrol taking pride in placing their flags in their designated camping areas. With the guidance of their crew/patrol leaders, the students learned valuable skills such as pitching tents and building campfires. Soon after setting up, the scouts began to prepare their boodle fight – from concocting the appetizing dishes to the salads and dessert, truly, the scouts had a sense of independency during the length of this event.
The assigned leaders and their members were given ample time to prepare for the much-anticipated bonfire event. For the boys, the event was conducted by Sir Ronald Cabanada, a passionate scouter, and the Outfit Teacher of FEPS Al Shahba. The students performed their yells, skits, and cheers, showcasing their creativity and teamwork. It was a memorable and enjoyable experience that brought the students closer together.
Meanwhile, the girls’ camping ceremony was held with sister schools FEPS Halwan Branch and the New Filipino Private School (NFPS). Each school showcased its best performances, from the campfire ash ceremony to skits, yells, and dances. Indeed, it was a moment when these three Filipino schools were given the chance to unite as one – as girl scouts.
The following day, the boy scouts woke up early to go for their morning jog while the girl scouts conducted their morning exercise routine. Afterward, they prepared and cooked breakfast for themselves, learning valuable skills such as cooking over a campfire. The students also played fun parlor games like Pick Me and Tug of War, enjoying their time with their friends and crewmates.
In addition, a final awarding ceremony was performed in the boys’ campsite; each crew was recognized for their hard work and efforts throughout the event. Along with appreciating the crews’ work, the scouts sang the national anthems and recited the scout oath and law. This contributed to the event’s patriotic and moral nature. Finally, the ceremony was concluded by Sir Ronald Cabanada, who delivered his final vows, expressing his gratitude towards the children, crew leaders, and organizers for their hard work and dedication in making the camping event a success.
The girls awarding ceremony, on the other hand, was held in the girls’ block on March 21, 2023, as an extension of the program. This was concluded by Ms. Melanie Baradas, the girls’ scouting master who truly showed her compassion and support to the SSL, ASSL, SPL, and all the members of the FEPS Al Shahba girl scouts.
The Scouting Movement at FEPS Al Shahba remains a cornerstone of the school’s culture and beliefs, nurturing the next generation of leaders and encouraging cooperation, responsibility, and community service. Scouters will carry the skills and ideas they have learned with them as they continue on their Scouting adventure, developing them into responsible and conscientious members of society.