First Lady Chantal BIYA, the patroness of “Les Coccinelles” School Complex at Unity Palace, was guest of honour at the 2023 Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, which marks the end of the first term of the academic year, and officially ushers in the holiday season. The wife of the President of the Republic and UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador for education and social inclusion was welcomed at the campus on Friday 15 December by the Minister of Basic Education.
In a welcome speech, Christiane Ngah Bodo, a class six pupil, expressed profound gratitude to their beloved patroness, on behalf of her peers and the teaching staff. She recognised the enormous sacrifices made by the First Lady for their welfare and the growth of the school. The spokesperson highlighted their determination to work hard, obtain excellent results in their examinations, and become better citizens in the future.
This was followed by a one-hour show by the pupils that was characterised by enchanting carols, recitations, a sketch of the nativity, and ballets. They were accompanied by two guest artists, namely: Nyangono du Sud and Lucky +2.
In her traditional style filled with kindness and overflowing altruism, Mrs. Chantal BIYA had a handshake with all the pupils and rewarded them for their outstanding performances - with multiple gifts to grace their holidays. This moment helped to build the spirit of sharing among the pupils and strengthen the bond between them and their patroness. Some top personalities equally had the opportunity to hand over the presents to the happy laureates.
The ceremony ended with a guided tour of the classrooms where the pupils presented their works to the First Lady.
