Christmas Tree Lighting: Lots Of Gifts, Merry Making At “Les Coccinelles”

Cameroon’s First Lady, Chantal Biya, handed over admirable parcels of Christmas gifts to pupils of “Les Coccinelles” School Complex at the Unity Palace on Friday December 15, 2023 in a colourful ceremony that has become one of the hallmarks of life in the school as the world prepares to commemorate the birth of Jesus. The event was the 2023 traditional Christmas tree lighting ceremony at the State House School. The matron of the institution, Mrs Chantal Biya, honoured the rendezvous. The event was marked by joyous songs and dance to celebrate the birth of the Son of God, which is a special time of the year to make merry.
Mrs Chantal Biya has set the ball rolling in the lighting of the 2023 Christmas trees.  Pupils, teachers, parents and invitees thronged the school premises by noon on that festive Friday of December 15, when the ever-smiling Madame Chantal Biya arrived to personally grace the occasion with her presence. She was received on arrival by several members of government amongst whom the Minister of Basic Education, the Minister of Youth Affairs and Civic Education and a host of other dignitaries. Her arrival was marked by a joyous sound from the kids who were not only happy to see the First Lady whom they fondly call “Mama Chantal”, but also because they knew she came with special gifts for them. Thereafter, there was the singing of the National Anthem and a welcome address from one of the kids. The pupils thanked their matron for all the sacrifices in ensuring that they have a conducive school environment. In return, the pupils promised to work hard in their academic works.
In the second part of the event, the pupils reserved Christmas carols, sketches, recitations, flute presentation and ballet dancing to entertain their guests, while wishing them Merry Christmas and a prosperous year, 2024. In a welcome song, the kids expressed joy in the birth of Jesus and said “Oh what a happy day, when Jesus was born and what a joy to welcome their matron and parents at the school premises.” Through a recitation, the children said Christmas is more than just a day for it is a story of love, peace and a baby boy born to save the world.  In a recitation ‘The Christmas Rush”, the pupils revealed that the season is not just about gifts sharing, but more about t...