JEDDAH, 4 November — In high school, there’s always a sibling rivalry between the senior and junior class, and as usual, the seniors are supposed to lord it over. Not during the UN Day celebration of Al-Hekma International School.
With a graceful modern interpretation of a classic Indian dance, the juniors got the nod of the judges and took the bragging rights that go with the win. They won over equally graceful seniors that performed a Malaysian folkdance.
The Sophomores and the Preparatory class were declared co-winners of the coveted “Best Costume” award.
The theme of the celebration was “Peace through Education Across Cultures.”
The 800-strong student population participated in the competition, displaying some intricate dances original to North America, Latin America, Europe, and Asia.
School principal Dr. Belma Regis said that with an enrolment made up of 12 other nationalities aside from Filipinos, the school is a melting pot of cultures.
The highlight of the program was the induction of the Parents Council officers for 2002-2003 by Vice Consul Angelo V. Amonoy.
Sworn in were Jibreel Luis de Vera, president; Joey Samonte, internal vice president; Fred Castolome, external vice president; Fe Mallari, secretary; Jocelyn Tan, treasurer; Lino Vytiaco, assistant treasurer; Ben Solis, auditor; Jerry Librido, business manager; with Ahmed Abbas and Luisito Santiago as public relations officers.
In the pre-school level, the Preparatory grade won 1st place, followed by Nursery, 2nd place, and Kinder, 3rd place.
Topping the primary level contest was Grade II, followed by Grade III, and Grade I, respectively.
In the intermediate level, Grade V was No. 1. Grade VI placed second and Grade IV was 3rd.
In the high school level, 2nd Year took the 3rd Place, and 1st Year took the last spot.
Singapore Airlines, the sponsor of the program, donated a trophy for the Best Costume award, plus a gold medal and a ticket to Manila for the class valedictorian of 2003 under its “Fly High, Aim High” project.