In simple rites this morning, April 3, 2017, the Ateneo de Zamboanga University held the groundbreaking and contract-signing ceremonials for the construction of the new Senior High School (SHS) building.
The breaking of the ground at the former Grade School, now the SHS grounds, was highlighted by the blessing of the area by members of the Jesuit community and the ceremonial shoveling of the ground led by Fr Karel San Juan SJ, AdZU President and Engr Ibrahim Nuño, president of Metro Stonerich Corporation, the contractor of the new SHS building, together with representatives from Stonerich and AdZU administration.
At the contract-signing held at the Carlos Dominguez Conference Hall, Fr San Juan brought to fore the newness of everything – from SHS being the newest member of the AdZU community, to the new SHS curriculum, staff, and the structure that will be its new home. Citing the challenges confronting the transition to the new SHS program, Fr President asserted that “with determination, courage, faith and prayers, the university remains committed to investing in this project.”
Engr Nuño, AdZU HS ’77 alumnus, on the other hand, recalled his early years of formation at the very site of the new SHS building, which he said was the training ground of his grade school years. He then assured the AdZU community of the quality of work to be expected from Stonerich, stating, “You are in safe hands. I guarantee you that”.
During the program, Fr San Juan also announced that another event for the construction, the laying of the time capsule, will be held sometime soon.
Others present during the program were the delegation from Stonerich, members of the AdZU community from the higher education and basic education units, the faculty and staff of SHS with principal Rey Reyes, and the Jesuit community.
