King patronises "Bahrain First Festival"

Manama, Feb. 28 (BNA): His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa today patronised the eleventh “Bahrain First” Festival staged by the Education Ministry at Bahrain National Stadium. HM the King was welcomed upon arrival by Education Minister Majid bin Ali Al Nuaimi and government officials amid cheers by 32,000 students from public and private schools. UN Environment Programme (UNEP) Executive Director Erik Solheim also attended the annual event. After the Royal Anthem was played and verses from the Holy Quran recited by Abdullah Al Saidi, a student with special needs, the Education Minister, in a speech, thanked HM the King for patronising the 11th edition of “Bahrain First” Festival that reflects the strength of the national unity. The minister said the festival is an expression of love and loyalty to the leadership and allegiance to the homeland, noting the ministry’s numerous honourable achievements made thanks to the royal support and the government. Education Ministry’s officials presented two commemorative gifts to HM the King, a painting representing Bahraini students’ achievements in the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS), and a copy of the Holy Quran in Braille. HM the King, in his speech, expressed delight in attending the festival. “In the name of God, the Most Compassionate, the Most Merciful, Dear teachers, parents and students Peace and God’s mercy and blessings be upon you It is with great pleasure that we meet you on this annual students’ festival that we are keen on attending and on sharing with you. We also thank the Ministry of Education for organising this national festival held this year under the theme “18 Years of Giving” in celebration of our national achievements, including the progress of our education process whose centennial anniversary we will celebrate soon, God willing. In recognition of the outstanding efforts and dedication in the educational field, we have dedicated the Excellence Award to honour our esteemed teachers for their outstanding achievements and ambitious initiatives in preserving Bahrain's educational leadership and scientific and cultural standing, of which we are proud. We express our thanks and appreciation to all those who have contributed to this national celebration that highlights the one-family spirit among Bahrainis and the significance of our noble national values. We declare on this occasion that tomorrow will be a day off for all public and private schools. Peace and God’s mercy and blessings be upon you.” A patriotic play was presented by a group of Ministry of Education employees, school students benefiting from the educational services provided by the State, and students who contributed to regional and international achievements of their schools, followed by an operetta “18 Years of Giving.” Bahrain Television will broadcast a special programme on the festival on Thursday evening following the 8pm news.