The Hindu : Karnataka / Bangalore News : Crossing a milestone

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Wednesday, Feb 06, 2008
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Karnataka

Karnataka - Bangalore

Crossing a milestone

Correspondent

Students vow to spread the flame of knowledge
‘Internalising good values is important’

BANGALORE: At a solemn yet touching ceremony, St. John’s High School bid farewell to its outgoing students of classes X and XII here on Monday. It was time for yet another batch of students to stride into the future with the principles inculcated in them by their mentors.

The graduation ceremony witnessed by parents, teachers and invitees began with marching in of the graduating students. The former Chief Justice of Karnataka and Kerala High Courts, V.S. Malimath, who was the chief guest, lit the lamp of knowledge. The graduating students then took an oath to spread the flame of knowledge and wisdom.

Delivering the valedictory address, Mr. Malimath told the outgoing students that graduation is a big milestone in their life. It gives them a chance to dream on their own of the future. “Dream high, dream big and dream nobly,” he said.

“Pursuit of excellence in whatever you do must be your motto. Practicing or internalising good values during difficult times is of crucial importance. This is possible only when you leave behind your animal instincts,” Mr. Malimath told the students.

The staff of classes X and XII sang “Let there be joy”, which left the graduating students misty-eyed. The outgoing students spoke of their school life and thanked the principal, teachers and peers for making their stay special. They credited their gurus for instilling in them the confidence to face the future.

Outgoing school captains Umar Farooq and Abigail Yuk Ling Ho spoke. Vijay Chacko said that they are expected to shape their future based on what they have learnt in school.

“Each year has been a learning experience and patience and persistence have been instilled in us,” he said.

As the candles were lit in the fading light of the dusk, the night sky lit up with hopes and aspirations of the graduating students stepping out into the world of challenges.

Principal Rani Rajkumar welcomed the gathering and introduced the guests. She stressed the role of the school in developing the roots of responsibility and wings of independence in its students. The ceremony ended with benediction conducted by Bishop S. Vasanth Kumar.

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