(Miri, 16th) Saint Columba High School, National School, and Kindergarten jointly held the 96th anniversary celebration and Saint Columba Day ceremony today, marking nearly a century of the school's outstanding contributions to society by nurturing countless talents.
The Right Reverend Datuk Danald Jute, Bishop of Kuching (Sarawak and Brunei), was invited to officiate and stated in his speech that since its establishment, Saint Columba has been more than just a place of knowledge; it is also a cradle for nurturing wisdom, faith, and a spirit of service.
He said that the true meaning of education is not just about textbook knowledge but more about cultivating humility, love, and a sense of responsibility towards society, enabling students to make the right choices with good moral concepts when facing various challenges in life.
He revealed that Saint Columba High School currently has about 1008 students, 74 teachers, and 9 staff members; Saint Columba National School has 525 students, 44 teachers, and 2 staff members; and Saint Columba Kindergarten has 40 students and 5 teachers. These three institutions jointly undertake the responsibility of shaping a new generation of young people with faith, discipline, and excellent academic qualities for society.
"This campus has witnessed 96 glorious years, becoming an important starting point in the lives of countless students. The dedication of teachers, staff, parents, and alumni is the key to the continual passing on of the Saint Columba spirit. Your efforts have prepared children not only for exams but also for a brilliant life."
He also encouraged the students to remember the responsibility of being a member of Saint Columba, to strive to become future leaders, changemakers, and bearers of hope for society, turning the knowledge and spirit learned here into the driving force on their life path.
"Success lies not only in academic excellence, awards, or career achievements but also in whether one has the character strength, wisdom in decision-making, and the ability to selflessly care for others."
He hopes that all faculty, parents, and students will walk hand in hand, continue to protect and promote the excellent traditions of Saint Columba, and jointly move towards a new century, making it a place where knowledge and mission converge, and where character and faith are equally valued.
The atmosphere at the event was warm and solemn, fully demonstrating the spirit of close cooperation between the school and the community, jointly cultivating outstanding talents, and writing a new chapter in the glorious 96-year history of Saint Columba.
Guests attending the celebration included Headmistress of SK St. Columba and Chairperson of the Patron's Day Celebration, Mdm. Eno Liau, Principal of SMK St. Columba (M), Miri, and Co-Chairperson of the Patron's Day Celebration, Mr. Jimbun Anak Masam, Headmistress of Tadika St. Columba, Mdm. Lily A/K Etin, Vicar of St. Columba's Parish and Advisor to the St. Columba School Board of Management, The Reverend Rodriguez Unak Charles, Chairman of the St. Columba School Board of Management, Mr. Simon Ilus, representatives from the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA), alumni association representatives, and parent support organization representatives.
