Ground-Breaking Ceremony
The ground-breaking ceremony was held at Australian International Islamic College (AIIC) on the 9th of April 2015 to officially signify the start of the construction of state-of-the-art library and preparatory building. The guests in attendance for the event included Mr. Duncan Pegg MP – representing the Premier of Queensland, Councillor Angela Owen-Taylor, Dr. Grant Watson from the Block Grant Authority, Mr. Indra Hassan – special envoy of the Indonesian Government, Ms. Mariana Lane from the Independent School of Queensland, Mr. Rod Morris from the Block Grant Authority, AIIC staff, students and parents.
Watch the Ground Breaking Video
The ceremony started with the recitation of Quran followed by the national anthem by AIIC Nasheed Group. Mr. Shahid Khan, the education advisor, welcomed the guests, while AIIC teacher Ms. Samantha Hestlehurst read the message from Senator the Hon. Scott Ryan, the parliamentary secretary to the Minister of Education. In his message, the Senator highlighted the commitment of the government to provide the Australian students with the infrastructure that will help them learn and equip them to face the increasingly challenging world.
The College Principal Mrs. Mariam Banwa outlined the academic and extra-curricular achievements of the College and the need for the preparatory and library building. She expressed her gratitude to the State and Federal Governments for the generous funding received and thanked the Block Grant Authority for their support and contributions towards this major project. In her address, Councillor Angela Owen-Taylor emphasised the importance of reading and promised to donate the first book to the library. Dr. Grant Watson also explained the need for a dedicated preparatory and library building in a school. Mr. Duncan Pegg emphasised the importance of inclusiveness in countering extremism and lauded the contribution of Muslims to Queensland economy and society. At the end, the vote of thanks was delivered by Dr. Abdul M. Ziyath, while Imam Yusuf Peer made the dua for successful construction of the building. The bricks were laid by the dignitaries and the representatives of AIIC staff and students.
Everyone took the opportunity of meeting and socializing with each other over the scrumptious lunch provided. Our heartfelt thanks and appreciation to all for your attendance and support.