It has been a busy week here at Loreto, as our girls decorated and planned for our annual graduation ceremony. Our graduation ceremony took place on November 21, 2018, and was filled with voices of encouragement.

The joy from traditional dances, stage plays, poems and speeches was intense. The messages from all supported the pursuit of girl-child education.

A poem from their school ‘daughters’ appreciated the efforts that the Senior Four class made to mentor them.

Brimming with joy, the school ‘daughters’ congratulated their ‘mothers’ for making it through, and vowed to follow in their steps.

In their poem, the graduates thanked their parents for supporting them and asked for more educational support to help them change the nation and shun the beliefs that suppress girls’ education. Their poem reflected on the day’s theme:

I have the ability to change and build.”

In her absence, Sr. Penina read a message of hope sent by the Principal, Sr. Orla to the candidates. In her message, Sr. Orla appreciated their walk and encouraged them to continue growing as they set their eyes further. She advised them to dust off any obstacles and to move on with confidence and faith, as they trust in God. The Principal acknowledged that this wouldn’t happen without the support of the community, staff and donors, who are very appreciated.

A male and female parent representative each presented a speech to the graduating class. One parent encouraged the girls to strive for change,

“This graduation belongs to us all because their success is ours. Work hard in your studies, behave well and we will support you to higher level. Reflect the knowledge you have gathered through good results. You will not be disappointed. Persevere and you will make it to be the agents of change in the nation. Emulate the works of your leaders like Sr. Orla.”

Br Bill, the chairperson of Loreto Rumbek’s board of management also encouraged the girls to continue to work hard as the school grows.

Recognition and Awards

During our graduation ceremony, we appreciated all our candidates by awarding them with certificates and Bibles. In addition, the Mary Ward Award was presented to Sandra Amiok, to honor a student who has portrayed the values of Mary Ward, which include joy, justice, freedom and sincerity.

We also recognized a student who has gone through many challenges but still maintained herself in school. The Award of Perseverance was received by Margaret Achol Wade, a student who persevered in spite of significant health issues.

Debora Abak who has consistently excelled academically and was also active in other fields received the Academics Award.

Congratulations to the Loreto Girls Secondary School Graduating Class of 2018!

We pray that these young women will continue on to create positive change in South Sudan and in the world.