The best is yet to come
Introduction
As the school year concludes, graduations have occurred at the Kindergarten, Primary, Secondary, and Tertiary levels. Congratulations to all as each of you deserve recognition for your performance, dedication and perseverance. I intentionally said each of you because sometimes the focus is too much on position and class rank. Do not worry about your class rank, what matters is that you graduated and so you deserve to be celebrated.
Forty years ago, my classmates and I graduated from Pierson High School, which is now called Majorie Basden High School. We were faced with a world of uncertainty, not knowing what we were going to do. In fact, some of us returned to High School for another year. Therefore, I want to use this platform to offer you some words of wisdom for your journey ahead.
Although I do not recall attending kindergarten myself, my children were enrolled in kindergarten. It is during this time. You learn to identify and memorise colours and alphabets. You also experienced your first classroom environment with peers, which influenced your development.
As you moved into elementary school, keep asking questions. Do not ever feel that your question is not important. Be kind and do not compare yourself with anybody. Keep your imagination alive as each day will be a new adventure.
My first educational journey began in the primary school in 1975. It is during this stage you learned how to read, write and connect with others in a meaningful way. Congrats on completing this vital stage of your development.
As you progress to secondary school, you will encounter new challenges and are introduced to subjects like physics, chemistry, and accounting. Keep a positive attitude. In primary school, you probably memorized a lot. However, in secondary school you make sure you understand what is being taught to you and you can repeat it in your own words. You are building the skills that will shape your future.
Completing secondary school is a major achievement. I was only fifteen when I graduated from Secondary School. Accounting was also my favourite subject and so that is the route I pursued. You need to determine what you truly want. Do not be pressured by anyone to pursue a field that you know you do not want to pursue. It is ok if you make mistakes and you choose the wrong path. The good news is that you are still young and can start all over again.
Whatever your next steps are, whether it is college or entering the workforce, walk forward with a purpose. Be true to your values. Do not easily be persuaded by people. Find a mentor. The path ahead is for you to shape.
To our Tertiary graduates
Congrats to those that graduated from college and University. You have reached a pinnacle of academic achievement. I know you spent a lot of late nights and worked very hard to achieve your degree. Your degree shows not only your knowledge but also your perseverance and vision.
Remember to stay humble, a degree or university background doesn’t necessarily mean you know more than others. You may encounter colleagues at work who did not attend college but possess more knowledge or experience than you in certain areas. Learn from others and share your knowledge when you can offer something new. We need you.
Conclusion
We celebrate every graduate, no matter their age, rank, or stage. You are the thinkers, builders, helpers, artists, and leaders of tomorrow. Continue to grow, dream, and remember your achievements. The best is yet to come.