15 August 2007, Catholic News

(L to R) Mr Stephen Riady, Mr Teo Chee Hean

St. Joseph's Institution (SJI) International announced on Jul 24 that it has received a $1 million donation for the SJI International Building Fund from Stephen Riady of the Lippo Group. This is Mr Riady's second donation to SJI International. Last year, he donated $120,000 to fund SJI International scholarships for promising regional students.

Brother President of SJI International, Brother Michael Broughton described Mr Riady's donation as a “timely gift”. He said, “We have been concerned about the high construction cost. This donation will assist in defraying the increased cost and enable us to complete the construction of the SJI International campus as scheduled, before the end of the year.”

Currently operating at holding premises, SJI International will move into its permanent facilities in January 2008. This new school's enrolment, which currently stands at 130, is expected to go up to 350 next year.

In appreciation of Mr Riady's generous donation, SJI International will name its new library, which will be the central focal point of student life, after him.

Explaining his donation, Mr Riady said, “I share SJI International's lofty mission. I want to do my small part towards educating our promising young people, regardless of religion socio-economic background and nationality, thus preparing them for leadership positions in the near future.”

SJI International held an appreciation dinner for Mr Riady on Jul 24. The Guest of Honour was Minister for Defence, Mr Teo Chee Hean, an old boy of SJI and Patron of SJI International. During the dinner, Minister Teo presented, on behalf of SJI International, a certificate of commendation to Mr Riady, in recognition of his unstinting support for the school.

Back