Following is the video speech by the Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, at the Wah Yan College, Kowloon Centenary Gala Dinner today (December 20):
Cardinal Stephen Chow (Catholic Bishop of Hong Kong), Father Stephen Tong (Provincial of the Chinese Province of the Society of Jesus), Dr So Ying-lun (Supervisor of Wah Yan College, Kowloon), Ms Cecilia Chow (Principal of Wah Yan College, Kowloon), teachers and staff of Wah Yan College, Kowloon, fellow Wahyanites, young and old, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
Good evening. I am very delighted to share the joy, with all of you, of the centenary of our alma mater. To all of us Wahyanites, Wah Yan College, Kowloon is way more than just a school. It is where students grow, and thrive, in a nurturing and caring environment. I would like to take this opportunity to wish Wah Yan College, Kowloon a very Happy Birthday.
Founded in 1924, Wah Yan College, Kowloon has stood tall in Hong Kong's education sector for a century, dedicated to bringing out the unique talent and goodness in every student, with a diverse variety of learning experiences. The College nurtures not only students' knowledge, but also their pursuit of the four values of human excellence: competence, commitment, conscience and compassion.
Over the past century of history, Wah Yan, Kowloon has been upholding the philosophy of "Men for and with others". What defines Wahyanites is not their academic capability, or their athletic might – well, although we are very good at both. What defines Wahyanites is their great humility in serving others, and in giving back to society with their excellence in academic, athletic, or other noble pursuits.
Although I have left the beautiful campus of Wah Yan, Kowloon, at 56 Waterloo Road, almost half a century ago, I have always taken pride in being a Wahyanite. I am eternally grateful to the guidance of Father Deignan and all my teachers, as well as the spirit of magis, of the betterment of the self and our pursuits. It has enabled me to brave the challenges that come our way, and remain committed to serving the community, throughout different stages of my career.
Wah Yan, Kowloon gives students the freedom to pursue their developments. I still recall, with relish, the many activities I took part in and outside of the classroom. I learnt to strike a balance between conflicting priorities, and better my decision-making skills. What I have learnt in Wah Yan, Kowloon has been invaluable in my public service, and in my daily work as Chief Executive.
My alma mater has indeed bestowed upon me many lifelong gifts. But what I cherished the most is the excellent tradition among Wahyanites – Wahyanites' fraternity and sense of cohesion. Wahyanites, speaking as both your fellow and as the Chief Executive of Hong Kong, I wish to appeal to all of you to treasure unity and collaboration, for they are essential to creating a better future for Hong Kong, our home. Let's all spread the Wahyanesque spirit of care and selflessness, and bring a positive impact to society.
I would like to end with my favourite line from our school hymn – "To champion, though so lowly, Nor ever fail nor pause, When trials throng and press". Wahyanites, whatever challenges that may come your way, know that you are "men for and with others". Know that you can always be the best of yourself.
On that note, I wish Wah Yan, Kowloon another century of success. I wish you all the best of health. Thank you very much.