[Points: Introduction—where held—decorations—the proceedings—distribution of prizes—the President's speech—conclusion]
Almost every school holds a prize-day to distribute prizes to the meritorious students of the previous session. It is a ceremonial function of great joy not only to the teachers and students but also to the guardians and the general public.
The last prize day of our school was held on the 10th March in the school compound. A big pandal was erected for the purpose. It was tastefully decorated inside. On one side was raised a platform covered with a nice carpet. The President's chair and table were placed in the middle. Near them were-two other tables on which were arranged the medals and prizes in proper order.
The President-elect, the Principal of the local College, arrived at the gate just a few minutes before the ceremony was due to commence The Headmaster and some members of the staff received him and took him to his chair. He was then garlanded by a child amidst the cheers of all present. The pandal had already been filled with the elites of the town.
The formal ceremony now began with a song specially composed for the occasion by a teacher. Then the Headmaster read his report, which showed all-round improvement in the affairs of the school. This was followed by an interesting programme of recitations and physical feats by the boys of the institution. These kept the audience spell-bound by their excellence.
The President then gave away the prizes which included several gold and silver medals. Next came his speech in which he earnestly pleaded for parental cooperation as much more important than any reform in the administrative machinery Turning to the boys, he laid particular stress upon the necessity of obedience and discipline for the building up of character, and urged them to be firm in purpose, catholic in outlook and charitable in views. In this connection he pointed out their duties as the future citizens of their motherland. The function then came to a close with a vote of thanks to the chair and the persons assembled proposed by the Headmaster.
