by Nancy Q. Echavez
The season of yuletide and togetherness has never been celebrated with much vibrance and energy in the MSU-IIT campus as the Institute graced its five-day Christmas event called Pasko sa IIT 2008.
The festivity was highlighted in two parts: the first parts being the formal launching of the Institute-wide Christmas celebration last December 15, 2008, where no less than the Chancellor himself, Prof. Marcelo P. Salazar, welcomed the IIT constituents to another part of the season’s fanfare, the Tabo sa IIT, a bazaar which showcased products from local artist and entrepreneurs. Ms. Pat Cruz, chairperson for the said bazaar, introduced the exhibitors.
The opening program was continued at the IIT Mini Park, where the switching on of the symbolic lights was held. Throbbing lights of myriad colors shrouded the park, giving signal to a start of joyous celebrations. Chancellor Marcelo P. Salazar, along with the three Vice Chancellors, Dr. Arnulfo Supe (Academic Affairs), Dr. Olga Nuñeza (Research and Extension), and Dr. Polaus Bari (Administration and Finance), spearheaded the activity.
The second highlight of the celebration was the Foot Parade of Lights last December 17, 2008. Students and faculty alike from the different schools and colleges of the Institute participated in the procession along areas near the MSU-IIT campus. To give color to the parade, the participants donned in colorful shirts and either carried lanterns of vibrant lights or held glimmering torches, marched along the given route. An ecumenical thanksgiving prayer and Christmas message was delivered afterwards by Father Benjamin Mkeri of the Catholic Center Campus Ministry, The day’s event wrapped up with the awarding of prizes to the Biggest Delegation (which was determined by percentage) and the Most Lighted and Colorful Delegation. The College of Arts and Social Sciences (CASS) won both awards.
The two-part celebration was topped off with a 15-minute display of fireworks at the Mini Park.
The year-end party of the faculty and administrative personnel concluded the festivities. The Yearly Daygo Contest was held and was participated in by different cost centers of the Institute. The CASS faculty once again had proven their prowess in singing when they bagged the first prize, The party’s hightlight was the special number of the administrators who showcased their hidden dancing skills as they animatedly danced to the tune of pop music medley, much to the delight of the audience.
In spite of negative atmosphere generated by the recent explosions in the city, MSU-IIT still managed to find reasons for a jovial celebration, underscoring the significance of unity through very trying times.
Topics : celebration christmas pasko