ML Sultan St Mary’s Primary School recently hosted its annual dinner and dance at the Amanzimtoti Civic Hall, drawing more than 400 guests to a glittering evening held in honour of the school’s 60-year milestone.
Acting Principal, Ravi Singh said the event was carefully planned to acknowledge the school’s long-standing history, its achievements, and the community members who have supported it for decades.
“The dinner and dance is an important occasion for us because it allows the St Mary’s family to come together and celebrate how far the school has come. This year’s event also marks a significant milestone as we reflect on six decades of service to our community. It is a moment to honour the past while looking ahead to the future,” said Singh.
The evening opened with a welcoming programme, followed by a full-course meal, and concluded with an elaborate dessert selection that received positive comments from attendees. The smooth and well-paced programme offered a balance of formal speeches, entertainment, and moments of reflection.
One of the most memorable highlights was the cake-cutting ceremony, led by former principal Roshan Ramdheen, who remains a respected figure in the school’s history. Teachers surrounded him, each holding a ribbon attached to the ceremonial knife.
Former Department Head Ms. M Naidoo delivered the keynote address, offering a detailed account of the school’s development from its founding in 1965 through to 2025. Her speech touched on the challenges faced during periods of educational change, the dedication of staff members over the years, and the school’s commitment to nurturing learners from diverse backgrounds. Her reflections drew appreciation from the audience and set a thoughtful tone for the remainder of the evening.
Entertainment was a major drawcard, with Men in Black opening the musical segment before handing over to Jovan The Quick Fixx from Lotus FM, who kept the dance floor active until the late hours. Guests of all ages joined in, adding an energetic and festive atmosphere to the celebrations. The lucky draw and auction attracted enthusiastic participation, with Craig Pillay from Topline placing the winning bid for a holiday getaway, a moment that generated loud applause and excitement throughout the hall. The photo booth, available all evening, became a popular feature, capturing family snapshots and group memories.
A striking LED screen dominated the stage, displaying a detailed visual timeline of St Mary’s growth over 60 years. The display highlighted significant milestones, historical photographs, achievements, and past leadership, drawing guests into a shared journey of remembrance.
In his concluding address, Singh expressed heartfelt appreciation for the contributions of staff, sponsors, parents, former pupils, and supporters who helped bring the evening to fruition.
“We are grateful for the continued support of our school community,” he said.
He also provided insight into upcoming school developments, including the installation of a borehole to improve water sustainability and the establishment of a new seating area at the recently completed drive-through.
The event not only celebrated six decades of achievement but also reinforced St Mary’s ongoing commitment to growth, excellence, and community-building.
