BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – A number of the Federation’s best and brightest young minds were honoured at the Clarence Fitzroy Bryant College’s (CFBC) inaugural Academic Excellence Awards (AEA) on Saturday, November 14.
The ceremony, which was held at the Rivers of Living Water Christian Centre, is a precursor to the college’s 21st commencement on Tuesday (Nov. 17). Minister of Education Hon. Sam Condor, his Permanent Secretary Osmond Petty and other top ministry officials were on hand for the prestigious event.
CFBC representatives divulged that the AEA was conceptualised to shorten the length of their typical commencement ceremonies, which normally hit the four-hour mark. By moving the awards portion to the AEA, they assured that this year’s graduation proceedings would last no longer than two hours.
Of the numerous prizes distributed on Saturday, notable recipients included Cherlese Ruan as the National Technical and Vocation Education Scholar, teaching student Faith Lewis as the 2009 Valedictorian, and Akeem Bacchus and Zachary Getz as the joint winners of the Clarence Fitzroy Bryant Award for Excellence in Academics and Extracurricular Pursuits.
Addressing the awardees, Condor congratulated them for the “perseverance and dedication” that enabled them to excel. He expressed his extreme pride in the education system, noting it had consistently produced outstanding students at practically no cost to them and their families.
“I am pleased to be here to join in honouring our students on their significant achievement. I applaud the CFBC’s decision to publicly award outstanding students,” said the Education Minister. “Nowhere in the world is this level of education given virtually for free. That is a marvellous achievement of this country.”
Condor also had sobering words for the soon-to-be graduates, acknowledging that while strong academic foundations were important, they were only a part of the “complete package”.
“It is quite sobering to contemplate the fast-changing economic landscape, and with it the additional dimensions and skills necessary for survival. We must work to develop ‘soft skills’ such as innovation, resilience, entrepreneurship, teamwork and creativity.”
He added, “I’m aware that you’re expanding the vision at CFBC and have exciting expectations for the future. Please accept highest commendations and every good wish on behalf of my ministry and the government in general as you forge ahead in the delivery of quality education.”
