This mortarboard is not only a symbolism of growth, but more so the mark of a new beginning.
At different stages of life, people wear different hats suited to the occasion: soft and adorable hats in infancy, trendy sun hats in adolescence, and chef hats, engineer hats, or surgeon hats in adulthood, depending on one’s profession. Even so, the most precious and unique hat will always be the first mortarboard one wears.
On 7 December 2024, 55 graduates from Tzu Chi Great Love Preschool in Yishun, Toa Payoh and Sengkang attended their first graduation ceremony which was graced by their teachers and parents.
As the 55 graduates attended their first graduation ceremony, their parents captured the moment for remembrance.
During the tassel turning ceremony, the graduates walked onto the stage one by one and the teacher gently turned the tassel on their mortarboards from the right to left side, symbolising their blessings and expectations for the children. They hope that the children can be fulfilled and humbled like the matured ears of rice. Thereafter, the young graduates turned to face the audience and bowed deeply to their parents, whose faces were lit by heartened and proud smiles.
The teachers gently turned the tassel for every graduate present.
Aspire to be diligent and strive to be a good child who cares for others
The majestic sound of bells and drums resounded throughout the venue, accompanied by melodious singing that reverberated. The graduates held onto their drumsticks in an orderly manner, totally immersed as they played the drums, making it so awe-inspiring. The children and teachers performed the “Song of Diligence” which they had rehearsed for three months, in hopes that they would maintain the spirit of diligence, be kind and loving as well as know how to contribute to others in the future.
Soon after, the graduates transformed into many adorable animals to perform “The Parable of the Manifested City” through a mixture of drama and sign language songs. It is also worth mentioning that the costumes and props used in the drama were all handmade by the children themselves, which demonstrated meticulousness and persistence beyond their years. Not only does this leave the children with a sense of accomplishment, it also leaves behind a unique and beautiful memory from the graduation ceremony.
The children performed the “Song of Diligence” which they had been rehearsing for three months.
The graduates transformed into many adorable animals to perform “The Parable of the Manifested City” through a mixture of drama and sign language songs.
Despite being a Malay, graduate representative Abyan Imtiaz Irkiz shared his experiences of growing up in the preschool with fluent Mandarin. He said, “I have made many friends at the preschool. We played and learned together, creating many happy memories. During Ramadan, the teachers were very encouraging, so that I would not feel so tired. I am grateful that besides teaching me a lot of knowledge, the teachers have also taught me to be a polite and caring child.”
Upon completing his speech, Abyan showcased an even more surprising side of himself. He took out a clapperboard from his graduation robe and transformed himself into a “little crosstalk artist”.
“I will never forget the Tzu Chi family tradition, I will remember, remember, remember, remember, remember”
“Work hard, be frugal, overcome difficulties and remain self-disciplined, these are things I will never forget, never forget!”
His humorous language use along with his animated performance drew cheers and applause from the audience, leaving the venue filled with joyous laughter.
Upon completing his speech, Abyan took out a clapperboard from his graduation robe and transformed into a “little crosstalk artist”.
Children kneel and serve tea to express gratitude for their parents' upbringing
“Children, please kneel down.”
“Children, please serve the tea.”
Under the instruction of the emcee, the graduates kneeled before their parents and served them a cup of tea. Although it was a simple tea ceremony, it encompassed much warmth and kinship.
Looking on at their children serving them tea, the parents are greatly heartened.
As her daughter was serving her a cup of tea, parent Lau Hui Yee felt extremely heartened and said, “The moment I saw her kneel down, I almost cried!”
Watching her daughter gradually grow up, she lamented that time really flies, but at the same time, she is also happy with her daughter’s growth. Lau Hui Yee said, “At Tzu Chi, she has learned to be grateful, respectful and loving. Not only does she know to love her parents, she also actively reaches out a helping hand to friends in need. I can see that she is developing in a better direction.”
Although the tea ceremony was simple, it encompassed much warmth and kinship with the parents hugging their children tightly.
Through watching the videos, the graduates and their parents reviewed every moment of their learning and growth at preschool.
From the little children who started out barely able to walk steadily to being able to hop and jump, a graduate’s parent, Clarissa Guo recalls her child’s mannerisms when he first started school. Filled with emotion, she said, “I think the most important things he has learnt are to protect the environment, to respect the teachers and to be filial to his parents. As children are budding, it is important they start off as good seeds.”
Senior Centre Leader Win Moh Moh of Tzu Chi Great Love Preschool Centre, left a message to the graduates saying, “I hope our children will be able to care for others and for the environment, as well as put into practice what they have learned here into their daily lives.”
A group photo that was taken after the graduation ceremony.
“One day, I will have to let go, for you have to walk your own path. When you lose your way, remember to look up to the clear skies above.”
Before the eleventh graduation ceremony came to a close, all the teachers presented the song “Walk on Your Own” with sign language, wishing that the graduates would maintain a pure heart as they enter primary school, their eyes open to endless possibilities and their hearts filled with sunshine and hope.
55 graduates received their first graduate certificates today and embarked on a new journey of learning.
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