By: Guilia Malda
In honor of the 53rd anniversary of the U.A.E., FEPSians commemorated with the theme of “Reflecting the Spirit of Unity and Collaboration Among the Emirates and its People as They Celebrate Their Heritage and Progress.” On the campus’ main ground, which the teachers and members of the arts and crafts club expressively decorated.
The program commenced with the delighted spirit of the ceremony masters as they welcomed the FEPS Al Shahba Majorettes, Drum & Lyre band, with a marvelous performance, along with the joyous chants of the audience. Next in line was the parade of students from every grade level dressed in the national costume of the U.A.E. together with their aglets and balloons in the hue of the U.A.E.’s national flag.
The agenda officially began with the Islamic prayer followed by the English prayer, then the singing of the U.A.E. National Anthem, accompanied by the recital of the mission and vision, and lastly the singing of the FEPS Hymn.
Continued by the principal—Ms. Mary Jane P. Onato for the opening remarks of the program as she welcomed everyone to the event with an inspiring speech about the U.A.E. While stating the symbol of the U.A.E. flag, FEPSians raised their balloons in their designated color for the photo opportunity, representing the human flag.
Moving on, selected students from the high school department shared an inspiring piece that reects the rich culture and language of the Arabic world, followed by the fabulous performance of the KG department with their Arabic-themed Dance, leaving the audience in awe of their skills. Hereafter is the Quiz Bee and Poem recital award for the KG department and grades 1-4 pupils.
Henceforth, the representatives from the primary department showcased the vibrant spirit of unity and pride. This was followed by a storytelling presentation and a heartfelt poem recital about the reflection of unity, progress, and heritage from the grade 3 pupils. Moreover, the glamorous representatives from grades 4-6 (girls) and the stunning representatives from the high school department waved their aglets as they embraced U.A.E. Day.
Later, another Arabic dance was hoofed by the charmingly selected students from the lower levels, leaving everyone astonished by their performance. Following this is the awarding of the quiz bee competition, poster making, and essay-writing contest for the intermediate and high school departments, which the esteemed school leaders escorted to hail them for their hard work.
Finally, to wrap up the first part of the program, selected students from grades 6–10 performed a remarkable Arabic dance, which truly impressed the audience.
The second part of the program started with the endearing representatives from the boy’s block taking over the stage alongside the fascinating intermission numbers, poem recital, and awarding of the winners.
To formally conclude the unforgettable program, Mr. Benedict Paul N. Yacap, the vice principal, was called on stage for the closing remarks. This program prompted us to reflect on the joy and pride we have shared with our beloved country, the U.A.E., and the unity and success of this nation.