everyone and my warmest felicitations too on this remarkable day!
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has brought drastic changes not
only in East Timor but the entire world. It has created challenges and difficulties
in the society that we live. Many aspects of our lives have been greatly
affected and in this context, the educational process of the human person.
Educational institutions were not spared. We have seen over the year the
changes that everyone has to adapt in the light of elucidation and of progress.
Classes were modified to comply with the protocols and guidelines of the
government, health and education authorities; and due to lockdowns declared by
the government, the teaching-learning processes were reformed. During the
remaining two (2) months of the Academic Year 2020-2021, our students stayed
and learned in their homes while their teachers taught in their own places. Technology
then became the driving force, and the world has indeed changed.
These 13th graduation and recognition and 5th
moving-up ceremonies are events that are unique on their own. They have many
novelties to offer. After all, the academic year that was has been a testament
to our faith and to our courage. The spirit of elation and the fulfillment of moving-up
and graduating are marks of excellence and symbols of determination. As someone
who believes in the empowering fruit of education, I commend you all, the graduating
and moving-up students, academic awardees, supportive parents and stakeholders,
insightful administrators, and competent teachers.
I would like to convey a message that will revolve around 3Rs that are essential reflections of a Maharlikan completer or graduate.
The first R is Resoluteness. It is being steadfast amidst hurdles and difficulties. Being resolute calls for an unwavering faith and hope for better days to come. It solidifies the vision of a self-made Maharlikan. People will always have something to say when you are building upon your dreams. Some will try to take away all the positivity that you possess but let them be the wind beneath your wings as you carry on with your aspirations in life.
The second one is Resiliency. The oceans of life will test your sails and rudders. It will try to bend you into someone you are not. It will test your ability to withstand all the pressures of being out in the open seas. Resiliency then makes you an unyielding Maharlikan who will call out to the waves and storms that you have prepared for it and that you will see yonder towards the safety of the welcoming shores of success.
Finally, Resurgence. This global pandemic may have affected us all but it cannot bring down the human spirit of choosing life over defeats. The process of growing up and of renewal is a painful one but the result will always be a universal panacea that will eradicate our battle scars. We do not raise the white flag whenever we are tested. We may rest if we must but we do not simply quit. As the mythical and symbolic Maharlikan Phoenix, we rise up from our own ashes - we create a better version of ourselves.
It is with high hopes and prayers that you will be the best version of yourselves and that you will never forget the ideals and visions of your alma mater - of a truly Resolute, Resilient and Renewed Maharlikan.
My warmest congratulations! Let us be one as we celebrate this momentous occasion and may God bless us all!
Founder & Executive Director
