Notre Dame of Jolo College (NDJC) College of Education (COE) hosted the 5th Pinning Ceremony and Candle Lighting for batch Aurora Nova (New Dawn) from Bachelor of Secondary Education and Bachelor of Elementary Education on October 14, 2025, at the NDJC Covered Court.

The event began with a processional of candidates for pre-service teaching, accompanied by their parents/guardians, administrators, and COE faculty members. The invocation featured a Muslim prayer led by Abdusakur H. Arasain and a Christian prayer led by Mary Grace L. Dampayla.

After the entrance of colors, attendees sang the Philippine National Anthem, followed by opening remarks from Mr. Moh’d Brian S. Tan. The highlight of the event was the imposition of pins and nameplates among the 43 pre-service teachers, led by College President Fr. Ross B. Kapunan, OMI, MASRC, and College of Education Dean Ms. Rozelda H. Sajiri LPT, MAed, assisted by Ms. Aniza S. Bauddin, LPT, MAed. Pre-service teachers Anniza A. Mallang and Rohelyn I. Ahadin delivered heartwarming messages, expressing gratitude to their parents, guardians, and teachers. The Class Aurora Nova presented flowers to their parents, guardians, and teachers as a tribute.

Keynote speaker Mr. Ian Kenneth N. Barade, LPT, reminded interns to take it easy and embrace flexibility, saying, “Not everything goes to plan.” He stressed the importance of self-care, adding, “Take care of yourself, you cannot pour with an empty cup; a healthy teacher is the best teacher.”

Another pre-service teacher Khadzrina A. Hassan shared words of wisdom, followed by an inspirational message from College President Fr. Ross B. Kapunan, OMI, MASRC.

The ceremony continued with candle lighting, where selected pre-service teachers led the prologue and symbolic lighting. Pre-service teacher Alnidzkan K. Sahisa led the pledge of commitment with Class Aurora Nova, followed by their class song.

The event concluded with the singing of the Notre Dame Hymn, photo opportunities, and an early dinner among attendees.