By Zahra Fragata & Faith Tuason
On the 24th of October, FEPSians commemorate the United Nations Day 2022 at the multipurpose court of the Al Shahba campus. This was done by dressing up in colorful costumes for the parade and presentation of national costumes, exhibiting creative dances and music to represent countries, and holding a much-awaited awarding ceremony to conclude the various competitions of the event.
The emcees welcomed everyone, including parents and visitors, to the event celebrating the theme “Intensifying Basic Sciences with Sustainable Development.” There was a magnificent parade of intricately-crafted national costumes with colorful flags and artistic banners representing each section’s country.
Each department had the presentation of national costumes, a few intermission numbers, and the eagerly anticipated awarding of winners for the different contests. The advisors of each class were quick to assist and prepare their contestants as everyone was buzzing with excitement to proceed to the presentation of national costumes. The sections patiently waited for their representatives’ time on stage. Soon enough, the entire court was full of applause, laughter, and cheers as the proud contestants displayed their extravagant costumes to the judges. They were not just competing to receive awards but to represent their assigned country with pride and joy.
In between the presentation of national costumes, there was a wide variety of impressive performances. The Kindergarten Department exhibited adorable performances, trained by Sir. Jacinto Javillo. While selected students of the Primary and Intermediate Department, assisted by Ms. Sarah Cepriano had renditions of songs. And of course, the Dance Club, which performed their Spanish dance, and the Maharlika Dance Troupe, trained by Ms. Ermalyn P. Lambaco, showcased their talent multiple times throughout the UN program.
After the spectacular performances, each department proceeded to the awarding ceremony of winners for the various UN Competitions, namely: the Color Me Contest, National Costume Contest, Bulletin Board Contest, Essay Writing Contest, and Poster-Making Contest.
The significance of the United Nations Day lies in its celebration of diversity. This official day is to celebrate differences in culture, religion, and languages all over the world. Countries come together to spread ideas of peace and harmony among people who originate from various backgrounds. It is important that not only during the United Nations Day do we appreciate the uniqueness of nations, but rather, learn to recognize our diversity as having a positive impact on society on a daily basis.
