PPLP Wisuda XXVI (2011)

No special occasion would be complete without several of these

On Thursday 25^th August, 2011, the Dhyana Pura college held the Wisuda for PPLP students receiving certificates and diplomas across a range of hospitality and tourism study areas.  Apart from the change of venue, it was very much like Wisuda XXV.  That’s a simple observation, not a criticism.  I enjoyed the Wisuda last year, so for me "familiarity" was welcome, and a reminder of last year’s event with its familiar activities.  Besides, most of the students only have a single Wisuda ceremony and celebration, so for them it will always be unique. 

Ika holding the memento each student receives at the Yudisium

Fabbi checks that the Director has the correct trophy

If you recall my blog of last year, or check it in the Archives (at right of screen entry of 29/8/11) you will notice that this blog, like the Wisuda itself, is just like last year! To repeat last year’s note, the end of course awards procedure is a 2 stage process. The first stage -  Yudisium - is an in house, no frills occasion for the students only (and volunteer teachers!). That was held last Tuesday (23/8/11). The successful students are congratulated by the director and 3 vice-directors, and they receive a personalised memento of their time at the college. They hear a range of formal speeches, and presentations by 3 recruiting agents. 

Students hold their trophies and listen to speeches

Two days later is the Wisuda, a more formal, more colourful affair to which family members are invited.  The boys wear formal college uniform with blazer, but the girls come splendidly attired in national costume, and with hair specially coiffed and held in place by beautiful jewellery.  Student welcomers and helpers are dressed formally in traditional costume and look very beautiful (or handsome) and colourful.

The girls arrived at 5 to begin dressing and applying makeup
(that's me in the mirror - just to prove I was really there)

Kawi and Ika welcome guests to the occasion

Ayu, Juni and Putri dressed in formal costume look very
different to the shy young students I recall from last year.

I Made Mudayasa, student and member of the college
housekeeping team, with Ika before the presentations

I was graciously included with dignitaries and VIPs and entered to take a place at the front of the auditorium (the convention room of the Patra Hotel at Tuban).  The gamelan band played a vigorous welcome, the dancers performed graciously as before, and the ceremony began. 

Dhyana Pura dancers at the start of the event

The "Wibusani" gamelan band members
watch and keep time with the dancers

Soon after the guests, students and families were welcomed the presentations began.  Director Joko presented 220 students with certificates and diplomas.  Amongst that number were 2 members of the college housekeeping staff whom I see regularly, and several students I worked with last year.  It was a pleasure to see them achieve success in their studies.

Mr Eko and Bu Widya manage the student movement to the stage

Ni Luh Putu Wiranti, college housekeeping team
 member, proudly displays her certificate.

Arista, one of my English students,
prepares medals for presentation

The most successful students in their courses were acknowledged and for me it was a delight to share the occasion with Cherista (“Cherish”) Lanjani, one of the students I spoke with in the first days of her new course last year.  In common with the STIM students who graduated from their degree course 2 weeks ago, there were oaths of allegiance, and the singing of the school hymn. 

Top student Cherish leads students in the Oath of Allegiance

Top students and prize winners receive recognition from the audience

Many college occasions end with a lucky draw or door prize, and I “won” a surprise parcel which turned out to be a clock with the face displaying the college name and logo.  Good, I need a clock, but it will be tricky to pack.

Yeni and Eko (Mr Personality) manage the "door prize" draws

An enjoyable buffet in the dining room beside the beautiful pool with sea views followed the formal event.  Just as at the STIM Wisuda luncheon, “English bread and butter pudding” was on the desserts table.  It’s one of my favourites from way, way back.

Another Wisuda.  New places, new faces, but pleasingly much the same as last year – the way I liked it.  Congratulations and thanks to students and staff, helpers, and all who welcomed me to their celebration

Paul in Bali

More photos can be seen in my Web Album "PPLP Wisuda".  You can access them via the blog entry:  "Photo Gallery - PPLP Wisuda XXVI" in the Archive section of this Blog page.
-or-
Click the link
https://picasaweb.google.com/110038041647560744460/PPLPWisudaXXVI#
to enter the Web Album to view the pictures.  Please note that the last image is a
LARGE movie file, so do not attempt to view this across a slow network connection.