katong convent racial harmony day celebration

Katong Convent marked Racial Harmony Day with several varied activities on 19th July 2007. What made this year’s celebration unique was the ‘Fusion’ theme decided upon by the NE committee. The day began with reflections gleaned from the major religions on the brotherhood of mankind. The celebration kicked off with a concert. The school infused values and lessons learnt from past racial conflicts and social prejudice through enlightening talks by the Principal, Ms Lam Ai-Leen, and Sister Janet Wang, committee member of the Inter-Racial Inter-Religious Council. Students were also challenged by quiz questions that put to the test their understanding of Singapore’s issues.

The highlight of the celebration was the dance segment. In line with the fusion theme, a fusion dance competition was held for all Secondary 1 – 3 classes. The top three teams performed in this concert. Through this dance competition, performers put their creativity to work and infused dance movements and songs that represent the different racial groups in Singapore with much spirit and vibrancy. The dances were very well received by all staff and pupils.

The audience had a part in selecting the winners through a polling process and the proceeds generated have been channelled to the school’s needy

students’ fund. Another heartwarming performance came from our Dance club girls who picked up Balinese dance movements from our very own teacher, Mr Juraimy, who has been actively involved in external public performances.

The celebration extended to recess when pupils had the opportunity to sample fusion food prepared by various classes and the Parent Teacher Support Group. Examples of some creative fusion food sold on that day were satay popiah, naga sari and abok-abok. Secondary 1s also experienced the kampong spirit by competing in traditional games such as five stones, chapteh, congkak and pick-up sticks. To add to the festive ambience, the school made use of spatial areas and decorated them with colours and objects that represent the four races, all tied together in one perfect racially harmonious representation. Staff and students left Katong Convent that day with a lasting memory of a Singaporean identity that will continue to be each and every individual’s treasured heritage.















Submitted by Mdm Wahidah & Ms Mary Ann Tan