‘Tiptoe’, ‘thank-you’ and ‘please’ have become golden words of wisdom to all who were present on our Speech Day this year, held on 7th June, 2025 in the SJA Hall. The presence of our honourable guest and alumnus Dr Chow Wing Kin, SBS, JP, really made the day for all S6 graduates, who were nourished with the true definition of civic responsibility - ‘brotherhood of man’ and ‘service to society’s needs’,
Led by our Supervisor, Mr Chuen Kwok Wai, Santiago and Principal, Mr Yuen Cheung Oi, the hall entry of our Chief Guest of Honour, Dr Chow Wing Kin, SBS, JP, and valued official guests, alumna and members of our School Management Committee marked the formal opening of the once-in-a lifetime ceremony of our 24-25 S6 graduates. Dressed in their graduation gowns, S6 students stood in pride and accomplishment, esteemed as the shining stars of the solemn occasion, looking forward to their pivotal moment in their life.
After the Flag Raising Ceremony, Principal Chuen opened our minds in his opening prayer. This was followed by his welcoming speech where a brief introduction of our chief guest of honour and alumnus Dr Chow Wing Kin, SBS, JP was given, setting the scene for more insight to come on the special day for all attendees.
Next, Principal Yuen presented the School Report with a lengthy list of students’ achievements both academically and non-academically. This further proves that it is really the harvest season for our 70 years of hard work – a celebration of efforts made by all stakeholders, namely students, parents and every member of our school staff.
The most touching moment came when class teachers read out the names of their students, who were awarded graduation certificates and prizes from Dr Chow Wing Kin, SBS, JP, the guest of honour of our Speech Day. Each snapshot symbolized our students’ close bond to the school, where bidding had been a sweet sorrow.
The address from our Chief Guest of Honour, Dr. Chow gave everyone a unique experience of nostalgia fused with a worthwhile lesson of Core Values and life motto. The generous sharing of his own life experiences, growing up as a selfless, humble and reflective follower of Christ as an St Joanian, set the best example for all graduates, giving them faith and confidence to withstand all obstacles in life. What else could be more enlightening than to have an alumnus quoting the reminders from his former principal - ‘to walk tiptoe, say thank-you and please’? This is precisely summing up what civic responsibility, is that is to always show compassion, gratitude and humility in our everyday life.
Coming up next was another unforgettable moment of solemnity when two graceful S6 girls gave their vote of thanks to honour everyone who has helped them and shape them into today’s elite students of civilization, academic achievement and high virtues. Knowing how to give thanks and to look back in retrospect to see the transformation in themselves warmed the hearts of all who nurtured them into young ladies with confidence and humility.
The annual Speech Day ended after the short performance by a group of S6 students and the singing of the SJA School Song - the most beautiful lyrics of which would echo in the minds of all graduates whenever they miss their second home.
Shalom, all S6 graduates! Continue to shine in your next phase in life!