KUCHING: The Old Josephians Association (OJA) Kuching is organising the third consecutive `Ora Et Labora Run` themed `Save Mill Hill`, slated for July 27 this year.
Flag-off is scheduled to be held at the premises of SMK St Joseph here, at 6am.
The `Ora Et Labora Run` aims to raise funds for the restoration of the Mill Hill Block.
Apart from that, it is also an opportune time for former students to gather for a reunion and at the same time, render service to their alma mater.
According to Local Government and Housing Minister Datuk Dr Sim Kui Hian, who is also OJA president, this year the alumni body hopes to raise RM100,000 from the annual run.
“An estimated sum of RM3.7 million is expected to complete restoration works set to enable the use of classrooms for lessons. At present, the two front blocks are out of bounds for all as they are deemed unsafe.
“Prior to this, funds raised from annual dinners and contributions by former students have accumulated to RM620,000, which will be channelled into the Mill Hill Block Restoration Fund,” he said.
At the launching of `Ora Et Labora Run 2019`, Dr Sim presented a cheque for RM620,000 to the chairman of SJS Mill Hill Block Restoration Committee, Father Felix Au.
Dr Sim also handed two cheques – each for RM10,000 – to SMK St Joseph and St Joseph Private School for the running of extra-curricular activities for the school-children.
The sum was raised during Ora Et Labora Run 2018.
Dr Sim said generous contribution by companies and individuals would be most welcome to assist in the restoration of Mill Hill Block.
“OJA hopes to start the restoration of Mill Hill Block in August, in phases, and targets to complete the restoration in 2021,” he added.
(Taken from The Borneo Post)