Greater Noida (NCR-India), October 24: South Sudan Students Association (SSSA) celebrated Fresher’s party on Sunday to welcome their new entrants with a great enthusiasm and energy in presence of dignateries and eminent personalities from media, embassy and academics. This was the occasion when whole India is gripped into festive mood to celebrate Diwali – the ‘festival of lights’.
Gracing the occasion on pre-Diwali evening, Mr. Abdullah president, SSSA reminded the young adults about the opportunity of being in India as a student which has been provided them and to make use of it to bring a change in their country. He also said to the new students that there is a huge possibility to explore and engage through the cultural exchanges.
The formal program began with Secretary General of the South Sudan Student Association (SSSA) delivering the welcome address followed by facilitation of new students.
After the felicitation of the students, President of Afro-Asian Students Connect in India (AASCI), Abdullah also delivered a welcome speech and also motivated the students to concentrate on their studies with a plan and strategies to achieve their dreams. Adonis Boly, president of Association of African Students in India (AASI) also addressed the freshers. He was accompanied by his General Secretary.
The day was filled with music, talent, and enthusiasm. A number of cultural performances like traditional dance and songs were organized. During the event, Mr. and Miss Freshers were also crowned and senior students shown their management skill as gracious hosts and gave their juniors some beautiful gifts along with lifelong memories.
While presenting the awards, Ambassador and Deputy Head of Mission, Embassy of South Sudan in India, Thomas Kenneth describes, “I am so happy and feels good to see our student’s live performance, activities and enjoyment happening. It’s so gratifying to see the fresh faces, their unbridled energy, and their enthusiasm, by transforming such wonderful spirits into tomorrow’s leaders; we will surely make our country proud with young talents. ” He also warned the students about their behaviour in a foreign country. He said to the students from African countries, “You should always respect the tradition and culture of the country you are living. And avoid staying in isolation.”
Ambassador Kenneth in his address said that that in attempt to achieve something one has to endure hardship. He lamented the misuse of time and money which greatly affect the students in their academic performance and hinders their ability towards excellence. At the end of his address he also shared his experiences as a diplomat dealing with student issues and greeted all participants – a very happy Diwali.
Earlier during the event, Prof. Paul Malesh Benjamin, educational & cultural attache in the embassy of South Sudan in Delhi also motivated the freshers as a teacher. He said, “Every student should focus on their studies at most and look for better career ahead by working hard during your stay in India.” He told the students that they can reach them anytime like a caretaker in India. He further said that time management is another factor for the students towards a better goal and urged the students to discipline oneself and endure struggle. Stressing on the need for additional qualifications at this fast changing and competitive world, he appraised the girl students on their performance in education and cited girl as second to none.
Prof. Paul Malesh Benjamin in his address said that sincerity, hard work and one’s choice are the stepping stone to success.“Wisdom first comes from God,” he stated and advised the students to remember God and put their first priority of wisdom in God. He urged the freshers to be an example of change towards the society by following the good steps of the elders.
Mesmerizing dance, solo singing performance by students were also witnessed and enjoyed by the dignitaries with the support of Global Arcus and Aman Enterprises West Union. The program was ended by the vote of thanks and prayer by the South Sudan Student Association (SSSA) president, Mr. Abdullah.
–Dr. M Shahid Siddiqui; Follow via Twitter @shahidsiddiqui
