KUCHING: The restoration of the historical Mill Hill Block of SMK St Joseph is expected to be completed by the end of next month.
Old Josephians’ Association (OJA) in a statement today (March 20) said the project was made possible by a RM2.5-million grant from the state government and the RM1.5-million contributions by ex-Josephians as well as the present students.
The association applauded the efforts of the school’s old boys, Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg and Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah for their contributions in ensuring that the project gets completed on time for the reopening of the school.
Following that, OJA revealed that an exciting and fun event entitled ‘Josephian Day’ would be held for the second time on March 26 to mark a meaningful and memorable culmination in the restoration of the block.
“It will be different this year with the new normal precipitated by the virus Covid-19. The event will be held virtually.
“The titular event spells out communal effort and participation by all students, parents, alumni and teachers of the four schools, namely SMK St Joseph, St Joseph’s Private Primary School, St Joseph’s Private Secondary School and St Joseph’s International School,” it said.
The event would features a line-up of pre-recorded performances and many interesting activities.
There will also be a live telecast of some activities in school because students are physically in school in the primary and international schools.
“Of course, strict standard operating procedure (SOP) will be followed in these activities. However, most of the activities will be in the form of pre-recorded videos.
“As all secondary school students are learning online at this time, they can participate in the comfort of their homes,” it added.
Students and the public can also take part in online games, competitions, quizzes, various virtual challenges, etc. Links to the games can be found on this webpage: https://stjosephkuching.edu.my/josephian-day/.
Expected to grace the event is Local Government and Housing Minister Datuk Seri Dr Sim Kui Hian who is also the OJA president.
Another illustrious alumnus, Archbishop Simon Poh, the Roman Catholic Archbishop of Kuching, will officiate the blessing of the new Prayer Room of St Joseph’s Private Primary School on the same day.
“As with any event, food plays an important role, but since most students will be at home, food can be ordered online and delivered.
“Grab Food has graciously sponsored some promo codes just for that day and these will be announced during the live telecast,” the statement continued.
