High School International Peace Day 2022

OFS High School observed the United Nations' International Day of Peace with a full school assembly in the Auditorium. This was organized by students and teachers of IBDP Global Politics.

After observing a minute of silence and a video message from UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, the assembly welcomed guest speaker Ms Nazhath Faheema, founder of hash.peace, to talk about her work in building sustainable social harmony in Singapore through youth-led advocacy. Ms. Faheema was the recipient of the President's Volunteerism & Philanthropy Awards (People of Good) in 2021 - a pinnacle award that represents the highest honor for volunteerism in the Singapore community. It was a rare privilege for OFS students to have her speak to them on this solemn occasion.

OFS students, including a Grade 9 dance group, poetry competition winners from the English department and the OFS Choir, also put on amazing performances exploring the idea of peace. It was the Choir's first public performance since Covid, showcasing a medley of John Lennon's Imagine and Give Peace a Chance.

In addition to the assembly, students from across the Elementary, Middle and High Schools painted Peace Poles which were on display in the Atrium. A Peace Pole is an internationally-recognized symbol of the hopes and dreams of the entire human family, standing vigil in silent prayer for peace on earth. Each Peace Pole bears the message "May Peace Prevail on Earth" in different languages on each of its 4 or 6 sides. It is estimated that there are over 250,000 Peace Poles in every country in the world dedicated as monuments to peace. Adding a festive air, Global Politics students also arranged lunchtime activities to commemorate International Day of Peace, including bracelet making and tattoo painting of peace images, which proved very popular!

This was a wonderful opportunity to promote this year's theme from the UN of 'End Racism; Build Peace' and involved contributions from across the departments and schools of the OFS community.