By Rafiq Vayani
RAS AL KHAIMAH: On Saturday 6th of June 2020, RAK Academy’s annual graduation ceremony was held, this year in a completely different and innovative way, due to the virus outbreak. With everyone’s health and safety in mind, a drive-in ceremony took place to allow students to commemorate the completion of their school careers.His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, delivered a speech to the students at the event, which was attended by SheikhaAmnehbint Saud Al Qasimi, Chairman of RAK Academy and Chairman of Ras Al Khaimah’s Investment and Development Office.
Students drove to pre-assigned parking spacesat Al Hamra International Conference and Exhibition Center, facing a large, high imagery screen for the ceremony, which saw speeches and messages of goodwill played, culminating in students being called individually by name to step out of their cars to collect their certificates. The event was followed by a laser show and afterwards RAK Policeorganised a driving parade to honourthe graduates.
“RAK Academy has a special ecosystem; almost the entire globe is represented there. The school represents the face of the new future of mankind – different races, different religions yet one mankind, united, to live together in peace and progress and together creating a bright future,” H.H. Sheikh Saud told the students during his speech.
Dr. Steven Geraghty, Executive Principal of RAK Academy, said: “We really thought a lot about how we could commemorate our fantastic students, parents and staff in this challenging situation. After such an unusual end to their school careers, they deserved something special.”
During the evening, special awards were given to students who achieved top results in previous examinations and also to those who have made outstanding contributions to school life.
“In addition to some world-beating academic results, so many of our students go way above and beyond in terms of helping our school community and it is very important to recognize them, not least to continue to motivate our future graduating classes,” said Edward Bantry White, Head of Secondary.
RAK Academy put together the unique graduation ceremony with the help of Protocol Department of Ras Al Khaimah;Ras Al Khaimah Government Media Office; RAK Police General Headquarters; RAK Public Services Department; RAK Civil Defense; National Ambulance; RAK Hospitality; Al Hamra; and Ras Al Khaimah Medical District, Ministry of Health& Prevention.
The Academy offers a selection of international schools,with a choice of internationally recognised curricula and a range of locations across the Emirate. It is one of the oldest, vibrant international school groups in the UAE. Originally founded in 1975 and opening under the name RAK English Speaking School, it has operated since 1988 under the royal patronage of His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi.
The Academy has over 3,500 students, comprised of 80 different nationalities, working across five campuses. The Academy group has a large team of dedicated staff, providing a climate of support to help the students better develop their talents, wherever and however they are to be found.
