DAMMAM — The 11th investiture ceremony of Al Khozama International School, boys' section for this year was recently celebrated with splendor. Chief Guest and school principal of International Indian School Dammam Dr. E. K. Mohammed Shaffe, Academic Director of Peeves Group Padmini Shiva, Principal Gopinath Menon, Vice-Principal Jayaprakash Nair, Headmistress of girls' section Sajna Mylanchi, were escorted to the dais by the guards of honor. Saudi Principal Abdul Hadi, Administrative Officer Mohamed Roshan, and Academic Coordinator of boys' section Stani Thomas were also present on the occasion. The four houses of Al-Khozama — Sapphire, Topaz, Amber, and Ruby — mesmerized the audience by marching sprightly to the rhythm of the school band. Menon welcomed the dignitaries on the dais and administered the oath. Shaffe bestowed the badges to the elected School Head Boy Kenneth Augusty and Vice Head Boy Avi.G.Mehta. The school's Head Boy promised to take the school to new heights and resplendence. The other office bearers were also honored with badges by the dignitaries. Shaffe congratulated the members of the School Council, stating that he was very fortunate that he could grace the event. He spoke about responsibilities that one should take in school and outside to become a true leader. He quoted examples of Caliph Umar and the seven sins written by Mahatma Gandhi. The chief guest concluded his speech with a quote “If wealth is lost, nothing is lost; when health is lost, something is lost; when character is lost, everything is lost.” Shiva mentioned that she was humbled by the presence of Dr.Shaffe whose speech symbolizes his life. She affirmed to the children that leaders are the true role models. Nair thanked each and every person for conducting such a grand and successful event. He appreciated the systematic arrangement by Academic Coordinator of boys' section, Activity Coordinator Roshna and Voting Officer Priyadarshini, and appreciated the efforts of Physical Education teachers Sadiq and Israr Ali. The Sports and Cultural activities was declared open by the receiving of the relay torch by the school's sports team . The event concluded with the national anthem. Investiture ceremony at the girls' section was also conducted at the school premises with traditional fervor. The new office bearers were selected through a democratic process and the badges were awarded by the Chief Guest and Principal of Gulf International School Abeda Niyaz and Academic Director, Peevees Group of Schools, KSA Padmini Shambshiva. The chief guest said: “Humility is our perseverance and reiterated the importance of an invincible leader in the society, reminding children about their roles and responsibilities.” Children wore colorful sashes and rhythmically moved to the tune of the drum beats. The swearing of the new cabinet was administered through an oath taking ceremony by Shambshiva. Niha Alsham took charge as the School Head Girl. House captains and vice captains from the respective four houses —Sapphire, Topaz, Amber and Ruby — also took oath to be part of the school cabinet. Head Mistress Sajna Mylanchi delivered the welcome speech and Leena Gogy proposed the vote of thanks. Academic coordinators and teachers graced the function. — SG
