Happy Graduation: LaValla Cambodia Celebrates Graduation Ceremony for 22 Grade 6 Students

maristbrothers
Sep 22
2 min read

On 3 September, LaValla School in Cambodia held its major event of the year: the formal Graduation Ceremony for its 22 Grade 6 students. The celebration began with a national flag-raising ceremony, followed by a ceremonial procession. Each graduate, announced two at a time, received a traditional Krama from teachers Samart and Ly, along with a framed certificate recognising their achievements.

The programme featured three speeches addressed to the graduates. LaValla School Principal Um Sreynan delivered the opening remarks, followed by Dr. Sothun Nop, Executive Director of Marist Solidarity Cambodia, and Br Allen Sherry. Expressions of gratitude were offered by two Grade 6 representatives - one in fluent Khmer and the other in flawless English.

A creative programme, involving all 84 students, ran for two hours. The school band accompanied several singing groups, and a Buddhist prayer song echoed with the chant: “May the gods protect the land, the forest, the Khmer temple….” Among the Grade 6 performances, a Boat Song featured six students rowing a large paper-crafted boat, delivering a poignant message: “It is through the kindness of you all that we have studied and built a new destiny.”

The school band showcased the talents of student keyboardists, guitarists, and drummers. A standout performance came from Thanet, a Grade 5 student, who impressed everyone with his versatility on keyboard, guitar, drums, and a traditional instrument similar to an Indian sitar.

As always, a surprise act by teacher Im’s Grade 2 students delighted the audience. This year, six energetic boys aged 11–12 performed a Middle Eastern dance in tutus, tights, wigs, makeup, and veils, executing intricate group movements to sustained applause and laughter.

The ceremony concluded with a cheerful holiday song performed by the youngest boys, joined by two members of the Middle Eastern ensemble. Dressed in matching bright holiday outfits, the boys’ lively performance brought the celebration to a joyful close.

A celebratory lunch of beef, rice, and a small pasta entrée was served for all attendees. This year saw increased participation from parents and grandparents, many of whom stayed for several days.

Looking ahead, four of the Grade 6 graduates will not return in late October. Three will attend local high schools near their families, while one will pursue vocational skills training.