Every year, Manado Independent School celebrates Culinary and Cultural Week programs. These two exciting events mark the true identity of our school which is international in standards and curriculum. Various cultural displays through delicious food; amazing arts and crafts; beautiful costumes, and superb talents and skills are presented during these events. These programs aim to teach students to value their local culture and traditions, especially in North Sulawesi, and to understand their origin; and explore diverse cultures and traditions from different countries.
This year’s programs were held from February 20- 24, 2023. The theme chosen was “Beauty Within Diversity.” Teachers and students were eager to participate in these events as they involved unique and diverse cuisines, music, arts, costumes, and even stories from different cultures in local and international settings. Besides, it became extra special because of Dr. Ginger Ketting – Weller, president of AIIAS, and her husband, Dr. Jim C Weller, principal of AIIAS Academy in the Philippines who attended the culmination of the program.
One of the high school students named Elisabeth Kordak expressed her joy in participating in the program, especially on the culmination day. “The vibes from the program were very welcoming, entertaining, and traditional. Additionally, the program was well-organized and engaging,” she said.
During this program, participants wore traditional attire. Moreover, it was filled with awesome performances like kolintang rendition from grade 11, a traditional dance from grade 11C4, a traditional fashion show from grade 10, and a special rendition of “Rewrite the Stars.” However, the favorite according to Elizabeth’s observation was the fashion show. “It was fun to watch pairs from each class wearing traditional costumes representing different tribes of Indonesia. I believe, it was the program’s highlight,” she added.
The Cultural Week program is indeed one of the most exciting activities students can enjoy in our beloved Manado Independent School. Everyone is looking forward to other exhilarating programs like this in the future.
