With some 173 persons graduating from the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College for 2022, Minister for Education Hon Sharie B. deCastro (AL) says the number is testament to the commitment, perseverance, and vision of the instruction with a promise that the government will continue perusing opportunities for development. Photo: Facebook/HLSCC

The Minister made the statement during a speech delivered during the June 1, 2022, edition of the graduation ceremony at held in the School’s auditorium in Paraquita Bay, Tortola. Photo: Facebook/HLSCC

The Minister made the statement during a speech delivered during the June 1, 2022, edition of the graduation ceremony held at Eileene L. Parsons Auditorium in Paraquita Bay, Tortola.

“As the Minister for Education and being an educator by training, I am acutely aware of the level of commitment that is required to be present in this celebratory moment. Therefore, I must acknowledge the contributions of your lecturers who supported and guided you throughout this process,” she said.

The Minister added that she is aware of collaborative efforts in reaching the point of graduation and recognised the family and friends of the graduates for their dedication and sacrifices.

“As such, I wish to focus on the inspiring atmosphere your very presence here today has created. Ultimately, countries, especially smaller territories, must focus on exploring new and innovative ways to build better and stronger. While I implore some of you to continue your educational journey, I am just as excited that our workforce now stands to benefit from the brilliant minds cultivated here,” she said.

Gov't working to explore more development areas - Hon de Castro 

Hon de Castro added, “While this government is charged with the pressing responsibility of reform across all sectors. We also continue to ensure that we deliberately and strategically explore areas and opportunities for development.”

The Minister added that she is certain that for all of the students, their highly accredited training prepared them well to capitalise on the wave of change and to seize every emerging opportunity.

“I am so assured by this fact because my very own life is a testament to the solid legacy of excellence cultivated here at this institution,” in noting that she and current Premier, Dr the Hon Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) are all alumni of the college.

“I believe that another very important legacy to highlight is the principles on which the very foundation of this stellar institution was established. Those are determination, resilience and vision, for you see it was the clear vision of the late Honourable Hamilton Lavity Stoutt, after whom this institution is named, that all and ensured that people were educated and prepared for a world where, as we know it, education is the key to success.”

She urged the graduates to continue a legacy in which they must now build their life, and consider more options for the future, not just in terms of studies, but in terms of work and career choices.