Sing along with me. No, it is not “The 12 Days of Christmas.” It is the “12 Events of Graduation.”
On the day of graduation, our school presented to us:
One group parading. Preschool leads the procession to the celebration.
Two models strutting. Not only are they kindergarten graduates, but the Tom Nunnally Sewing Center students made what they are wearing.
Three strong men. The karate instructor makes three.
Four judges judging. Debating is a big deal in our school. The debate was about homework. Is it good or should it be eliminated?
Five friends donated. The Jacksons are from Reston, Virginia, USA, and have been my friends and supporters of Urukundo Learning Center and Foundation for many years. Thanks, Mary, Bill and sons.
Six sewers sewing. They made the outfits they are wearing.
Seven kids reciting. The French Club speaking French thrilled their parents and grandparents.
Eight celebrating. The outstanding student in this year's sewing and tailoring class is 21-year-old Lean Kwizera. He is the recipient of a sewing machine presented by Forest Hills Rotary Club in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA, in loving memory of Tom Nunnally, a true Rotarian and founder of the sewing school that bears his name. In the photo are Lean’s three sisters; a parent presenter; Lean; Mama; Danial Habimana, director of education for the district; and Headmaster Viateur Ngiruwonsanga standing to honor him as he receives his award. We wish him well as he begins a new journey in the workforce.
All students received equipment to begin their sewing careers.
Thank you, Forest Hills Rotary.
Nine drummers drumming. Drumming is awesome.
Ten dancers dancing. Our traditional dancers class demonstrates their dancing skills for parents and guests.
Eleven graduates singing. Look out, Primary 1. The kindergarteners are full of energy and hope.
Twelve students demonstrating. The Karate Club at Urukundo Learning Center has grown from just a few to many. Both boys and girls. Love those belts.
The graduation presentation ended with an excerpt from a poem written by a Primary 6 student, who read it at graduation. In Rwanda, a poem is simply a talk.
This is the message I received:
Mama, you should use this part of the poem in the newsletter.
Esperance.
Here’s the poem:
Mummy built the Urukundo Foundation because she loved children. This one we all see, therefore no child should feel disgusted.
Instead, all children should say Hallelujah.
I'd like to express my gratitude to our loving mother, who greets everyone with a warm hug. She helps the poor and orphans. Help me thank this parent.