The Saturday Urdu class students of Al Siraat Community Language School marked a significant milestone today by celebrating the 76th Pakistan Independence Day with great enthusiasm and cultural pride. The event was held at ÃÛÌÒµ¼º½, acknowledging the deep roots of the Wurundjeri Willum Clan, the First Peoples of Epping, upon whose land the celebration took place. Special recognition was given to their Elders, past, present, and emerging, at the beginning of the ceremony.
The program commenced with the recitation of the Quran by Yusra Malik, setting a respectful and spiritual tone for the day. In a show of unity and respect for their dual heritage, children and parents stood together to sing both the ÃÛÌÒµ¼º½ and Pakistani national anthems. The singing was followed by the cutting of a Pakistan-flag-coloured cake, symbolizing the joy and pride of the community in their heritage.
Ms Najma, the academic coordinator, took the stage to brief the parents on the progress and performance of the students in the Urdu classes, which had only started four weeks prior. She praised the students for their hard work and dedication in preparing for the event in such a short time. The highlight of the event was a skit performed in Urdu by the students, which received enthusiastic applause from the parents and other attendees.
One of the students delivered a compelling speech on the significance of Pakistan's independence, reflecting the depth of understanding and patriotism among the young participants. The event also featured an engaging quiz on Pakistan and Australia, conducted by the MC of the day, Rana Shahid. The quiz, which included questions for both students and parents, was met with great enthusiasm. Souvenirs from Cricket Australia were awarded to those who answered the questions correctly, thanks to Cricket Australia's generous sponsorship.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Rana Shahid, who expressed his gratitude to the students, parents, the Pakistan Australia Association of Melbourne (PAAM), and Cricket Australia for their support and participation in making the event a success.
The celebration was a true reflection of the community's dedication to preserving and promoting their language and culture while fostering a sense of unity and pride among the younger generation.