MELAKA: The alumni of SMK St. David are encouraging more former students to join its association to give back to the school that has been a cornerstone of education in the state for over a century.
Alumni chairman Dr Joseph Jesudasan Chelliah said the association was represented by only 100 members, despite an average of 400 students leaving the school each year after completing their SPM.
He hopes that more past students would register and take part in the association’s upcoming Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Sept 14, which would be held at Ola Melaka Restaurant along Jalan Parameswara here.
“This AGM is particularly important as we are hoping to pass key resolutions to the constitution that will strengthen the role of the alumni in supporting our alma mater,” he said in an interview on Thursday (Aug 28).
He noted that while many former Davidians connect through chat groups, the alumni remains the only body officially registered with the Registrar of Societies to represent former students.
"For many, the school has been more than just an institution of learning, serving as a place where friendships, values and a shared identity were formed.
"The alumni hopes that with stronger membership and constitutional reforms, it can preserve this legacy while fostering continued support for the alma mater," he added.
SMK St. David, founded in 1912 by Dr Ferguson David from the Anglican Diocese of Singapore, has a long history that is intertwined with the community of Melaka. Dr Ferguson, who also founded St. David’s Hospital, oversaw the transition from healthcare to education when the hospital closed and the site became a school.
In 1956, Commander Hudson from the Christ Church Parish Committee donated a large piece of land in Bukit Baru, paving the way for the establishment of SMK St. David as it stands today.
Former students who need more information on the AGM can contact: 016-6113090.
