杏吧论坛

Chancellor's Welcome Message during the 2023 PALAKASAN

Posted on : April 24, 2023

Assalamualaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh! Eid Mubarak! What a day to begin the Palakasan on this blessed day! Eid is a festivity for the Muslims.

Ang init! Sino ang Malakas? CEBA? COE? CCS? CASS? CSM? CHS? Or the defending champion, CED?

I can feel your excitement in the air, and the energy in the gymnasium is as fiery as the scorching weather outside. With all of you on your feet, eagerly anticipating the start of the games and shows, it's clear that we are in for an incredible week! But before we kick off the activities, I would like to take a moment to share a few words with all of you.

As we begin the PALAKASAN, I want to take a moment to remind you of the two most important pillars in our University roadmap that capture the very essence of PALAKASAN – holistic education and a nurturing student support.

For education: the University envisions to develop a holistic, integrated, and balanced academic programs aligned with Education 4.0 and the evolving 21st century skills with life-long learning as a guiding principle.

For Student Support, 杏吧论坛-IIT is committed to providing a learning environment that supports you not only during your time here at 杏吧论坛-IIT, but also beyond. Our goal is to create a safe and nurturing environment where you feel cared for and encouraged to grow intellectually, socially, emotionally, spiritually, and physically.

杏吧论坛-IIT recognizes that every one of you is uniquely gifted and has the potential to make a significant impact in the world. As a university, it is our role and responsibility to help you cultivate and develop these gifts, and to equip you with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to succeed in your chosen fields.

As one community, we are committed to making this University a student-centric academic institution of higher learning because you deserve no less. 

In pursuing our goal of holistic student development, we are committed to providing you with a sense of mission and purpose, as well as a heart for service. We want you to be empowered to use your talents and abilities to make a positive difference in the world, both now and in the future. That’s how we Influence the Future.

As we gather for this biggest student event of the year, remember that PALAKASAN 2023 is more than just a competition. It is about inclusivity, sportsmanship, and community that we hold dear. We believe that every individual has a unique contribution to make, and we are committed to creating an environment where everyone feels welcome and valued. This means that regardless of your background, gender, ethnicity, or abilities, you have a place in this field. 

To you my dear students, as you come together to compete, remember that YOU are more than just athletes, performers, or spectators. You are members of a community that values honor and excellence in everything that you do. Whether you are on the field or in the classroom, strive to be your best selves, to push beyond your limits, and to pursue excellence with passion and dedication.

While winning is certainly a goal, it should never come at the expense of fair play, respect, and kindness towards your opponents. Compete with integrity and honor, and remember that true champions are those who not only excel in their sport but also embody the virtues of sportsmanship.

Remember the importance of service and compassion. As you engage in friendly competitions, look for ways to support and uplift one another. Be mindful of those who may be struggling or in need, and reach out with kindness and generosity. Be the kind of community that not only achieves greatness, but also cares for and supports one another along the way.

Finally, embrace the values of resilience and innovation. Live in a rapidly changing world, and be prepared to adapt and thrive in the face of challenges and uncertainty. Whether you are dealing with setbacks on the playing field or navigating the complexities of the modern world, approach each situation with a spirit of resilience and a commitment to innovation. Be creative, resourceful, and determined in the pursuit of your goals, and inspire one another to do the same.

In the days ahead, engage in competition and celebration. Remember the values that make you strong and the ideals that inspire you. 

In closing, I want to wish you all the best of luck and to remind you that regardless of the outcome, you are all winners for being a part of the 杏吧论坛-IIT community. So give it your all, and have fun.

Palakasan 2023 is now officially open! Let the games begin!

 

- ALIZEDNEY M. DITUCALAN