Honored guests, teachers and students, it is my pleasure and privilege to welcome you here today and make a speech on this special occasion - your coming-of-age ceremony.

Students, the time has arrived for you to fully accept your passage into adulthood. I have seen you grow from nervous Senior 1 students into confident Senior 3 students, who stand before me today, ready to embrace the next phase of your lives. At this critical moment, you must be both excited and anxious about the new experiences that are in store for you. Don’t worry, for you are all responsible young people, well prepared and well equipped to successfully manage the challenges of the years ahead.

As a teacher, and as someone who had been through the same stage of life with you, I have something to share with you today. In a word, be responsible for your life in all aspects.

The first thing we have to talk about is being responsible for your own studies. As students, you ought to take your own studies seriously. This means meeting deadlines for your schoolwork, following your teachers’ guidance, and of course, always aiming for academic excellence. The more you are approaching the final test of the college entrance examination, the more you must monitor your own learning process and make adjustments accordingly. You may notice that you are having more freedom during the class periods of self-reflection, which may remind you that it is you who shall inspire and motivate yourself, thus getting ready for all the consequences.

In addition, your responsibilities go far beyond your studies and reach out towards your daily life. You will encounter many difficult situations where things may go wrong. In that case, instead of being quick to blame others, analyze the problem. If it is indeed your own fault, be ready to admit your mistake and then be brave to correct it. This way, you practise the virtue of courage. Remember to always give your best in whatever you set out to do, however difficult that might be. This way, you practise the virtue of determination. Be honest by saying what you mean and by meaning what you say. This way, you practise the virtue of integrity. Taking responsibility in all aspects of your everyday life, and it surely will help you build a strong character.

Apart from personal development, it is also important for the betterment of society if each of you step into your adulthood with a strong sense of responsibility. Schools are important parts of the society. And as social beings, we have a responsibility to make a contribution. The little things you do can make a difference! For example, picking up garbage around our campus contributes to a cleaner environment. Being energy-efficient leads to savings of our precious resources. Working together, we have the power to gradually but continuously advance our society.

Dear students, take your first step into the adult world by accepting your responsibilities, so that adulthood will be an enjoyable and rewarding experience for both you and those around you. Sometimes, responsibilities may weigh heavily on you. However, just as the Chinese saying goes, “Jade is good-for-nothing if not carved.” A man cannot be perfected without trials. Sow the seeds of success today and your harvest will be great tomorrow. I wish you every success in your adult life!