The School of Accountancy and Business (SAB) of Saint Mary’s University (SMU) successfully mounted its annual Sports and Socio-Cultural Competitions, collectively known as SAB Week, from October 13 to 17, 2025. More than just a cherished tradition, the event served a dual purpose: a spirited celebration of student life and the official selection process for the college’s representatives for the much-anticipated University Week competitions.

The week-long celebration transformed the campus into a vibrant arena for athleticism, artistry, and digital prowess, featuring a diverse array of events to ensure every student had an avenue to participate and demonstrate their skills. Sports enthusiasts competed fiercely in physical tournaments like Basketball and Volleyball, alongside intense competition in online games. The Socio-Cultural side showcased the deep pool of student talent with contests across various Dance and Singing categories, including vocal solos, duets, and contemporary dance. A significant highlight was the elegant and highly contested Mr. and Ms. SAB beauty pageant, which evaluated not only physical presence but also intelligence and advocacy. These varied activities underscored the concept of multiple intelligence, recognizing that true learning and excellence extend far beyond traditional academic performance.

A crucial component of SAB Week was the consistent emphasis on sportsmanship across all categories, whether on the court or online. Participants were constantly reminded that the ultimate measure of success involves respect for opponents, adherence to rules, and graciousness. This focus promotes learning beyond the classroom, instilling vital values of fair play, discipline, and community spirit essential for future professionals. Furthermore, the annual SAB Week served as a much-needed period of relaxation and a necessary slowing down from academics, offering students a crucial mental break, promoting holistic well-being and fostering strong camaraderie.

The event consciously modeled several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), linking collegiate fun to global objectives: SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being (through physical activity and mental breaks), SDG 4: Quality Education (promoting holistic learning and multiple intelligence), SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities (fostering unity through inclusive department-based teams and sportsmanship), and SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions (modeling non-violence, respect for rules, and community spirit).

The week culminated in a spectacular Awarding Night, with attendees embracing the grand theme: “House of Dragons.” The competition saw students from the schools’ three departments vying for the championship title under three departmental ‘Houses’: Vhagar (The Department of Business), Balerion (The Department of Accountancy), and Vermithor (The Department of Hospitality and Tourism). After a week of intense but friendly rivalry, the Department of Business, known as House Vhagar, was crowned the Overall Champion of SAB Week 2025. The memorable evening celebrated the hard work, unity, and outstanding talent displayed by all participants, officially closing a successful and enriching event that truly lived up to its legacy.