SIBU: Many former students of SMK Sacred Heart and SMK St Elizabeth would not have become what they are today if not for the sacrifices of their teachers.
This was pointed out by Hii Chang Kee, the immediate past president of Sacred Heart Old Students Association (SHOSA) in his vote of thanks at the grand reunion held here on Saturday evening.
“We cannot deny that the teachers from both schools left indelible marks on all of us and this year’s reunion was themed “Tribute” in recognition of the services and sacrifices of our teachers,” he said.
About 30 former teachers from both schools were present at the dinner to receive personalised plaques with the word “Tribute”engraved in gold.
Hii said without the current and retired teachers, the schools would not have gained the fame and recognition they enjoyed throughout the years.
“Yes, there would always be smart students or for lack of a better word, the ideal students. But it is the last, the lost and the least, who need help the most and often are the hardest to teach.
“So it is to the teachers’ credit that so many of us who fell into this category in the past are no longer the last, the lost and the least,” he said to approving applause from the 1,000 over former students.
Recollecting that former school principal, the late Reverend Brother Albinus, had always stressed discipline and perseverance for students to do well not just in studies but in sports and other co-curricular activities as well, Hii said as a product of SMK Sacred Heart, he was blessed to have been taught by the late principal and the teachers of Sacred Heart.
“We will forever owe them a debt of gratitude in our hearts and the best that we can do to repay them is to ensure that we keep to our schools motto of “Prayer and Labour”,” he said.
Hii also took time to thank the School Board of Directors by saying: “So many of you have always come to our help whenever the school faces financial challenges. If not for you and many others, Sacred Heart school may be in a very sorry state today. SHOSA thanks each and everyone of you for your love and passion for our alma mater,” he said.
To his fellow SHOSA members and school mates, the immediate past president said without all of them, there would not be a SHOSA which he led for two years.
“It has been an honour and a privilege to have served with all of you,” he added. Hii did not seek re-election as SHOSA president due to work commitments which had taken him out of his home town, Sibu. He, however continues, to serve as an advisor to the association in his capacity as the immediate past president.
