B.V.I. - The sentiments at the graduation ranged from a tearful mother who thanked the teachers for not given up on her son to emotional graduates who expressed their gratitude to their parents and teachers for their support and dedication. The Valedictorian Fiona Thomas was awarded a Secondary School Leaving Certificate and a Technical Certificate in Cosmetology. The salutatorian Kalilah Chiverton was awarded a Technical Certificate in Cosmetology. - Thirteen students graduated from the BVI Technical and Vocational Institute this week in a ceremony which was described by many at the gathering as emotional and rewarding.
The other eleven graduates received certificates in the following technical areas: Donte Blair, Jordon Jack, Nichail Chambers and Travis Toussaint in Electronics; Allison Dasilva, Jemoy Gordon, Ivan Gumbs and Glaston Smith in Small Engine Repair; Laverne Davis (Garment Construction); and Ramyrna Wollard (Visual Arts).
Acting Chief Education Officer Dr. Marcia Potter congratulated the graduates for their achievements and asked them not to forget what they have learnt. “As you leave this institution I ask you to remember the many lessons you have learnt both inside and outside of the classroom,” she said.
Dr. Potter urged the graduates to value; respect themselves and all those persons around them. “Set goals and work hard to achieve them. There will be times that the going will get rough but you have to remain focus on your goals,” she said, adding, “Resolve within yourselves to overcome the difficulties and when you get knocked down get up, dust off and try again and do not be shy to ask for help.”
Principal of the Technical and Vocational Institute Mrs. Cynthia Brannigan told the gathering that as parents and educators they must continue to seek out the best in all children. “Do not give up on your child or children and do not think they are bad. Instead begin now to look for the good in them, pray for them, encourage them, so that you can draw the best out of them,” Mrs. Brannigan told the graduates.
She added, “That in order to become a champion they must practice the following six traits self-analysis, self-competition, focus, confidence, toughness and having a game plan. During her remarks Mrs. Brannigan announced that she will retire after 30 plus years of service as an educator.
Guest Speaker Ms. Travonnie Smith, teacher at the Eslyn Henley Richiez Learning Centre told the graduates that they have attained a certificate that will afford them the opportunity to go through “open doors”.
“Your tenure at this school has afforded you immeasurable exposure to the area of trade. Your expertise along with your diploma or certificate can create a platform of opportunities and even entrepreneurship,” she said.
Valedictorian Fiona Thomas expressed her gratitude to the many persons that helped her through her journey and told her fellow classmates that they have achieved a major milestone. “I am sure that for some of us this might be the beginning of our educational journey while others may enter the world of work,” she said, adding, “But whatever part we choose we must be prepared to move on and face any challenges that come next in our lives.”
The students received awards and trophies in the areas of most outstanding work in subject and technical areas, among others.
The BVI Technical and Vocational Institute was launched in September 2004. The overall aim of the programme is to train persons in the school system with an interest and aptitude for work in technical areas.
British Virgin Islands News