SKNCCA welcomes Cuban graduates

By VonDez Phipps
Reporter-SKNVibes.com

BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – TWO students who have successfully completed their studies in Cuba were gracefully acknowledged at a Recognition Ceremony organised by the St. Kitts and Nevis Cuban Alumni Association (SKNCAA).

The event took place last night, September 4, at the UWI Centre and brought together over 20 graduates from previous years.

Gallio Gumbs and Racquel Williams received Bachelor degrees in Psychology and Forestry Engineering respectively and shared the spotlight during the ceremony.

Cuban Ambassador Ana Maria Gonzales Suarez addressed the gathering and, on behalf of the government and people of her country, expressed pleasure to be able to assist St. Kitts and Nevis in the development of its human resources.

Suarez informed that when she first came to the Federation 25 students were on various programmes in Cuba and, today, almost 50 have graduated.

“In the case of St. Kitts and Nevis, besides the Nursing and Medicine students, we have eight specialists. Maybe in the next eight to 10 years this country may not even need any more medical practitioners,” she added.

The Ambassador said what solidified, in a personal way, the relationship between Cuba and the twin-island Federation was the response given after hurricane Gustav. Suarez mentioned that she appreciated the sentiments of sympathy and empathy extended toward her although students had not been affected by it. She declared that she is indeed grateful for the support, which has continually been given to the people of Cuba.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture and Housing Dr. Hermia Morton-Anthony delivered the featured address and focussed on the value of human resources, as its enhancement continues to ensure stronger and more sustainable development.

~~Adz:Left~~ She applauded the graduates and their parents as well as the SKNCAA for their initiative of volunteerism which has helped to “contribute more to the economic buoyancy”.

“It is common knowledge that through volunteerism we can touch lives and, so, you can remake your generation. You must convert this gift of knowledge to help others; your challenge is to remake your generation. You have been given much and so much is expected.

“The high calling of education offered in Cuba inculcates commitment in humanity and indicates the value of human resource. Students are endowed with resilience that surpasses others. With all this collective energy, we cannot gain a critical mass or a diminishing return...the knowledge can only be geometrically multiplied.”

The Permanent Secretary indicated that she is looking forward to St. Kitts and Nevis to be transformed in many ways by the impact of the graduates’ knowledge.

The SKNCAA, during the year 2007-2008, has also worked along with the Cuban Medical Brigade to offer services to the people of Sandy Point, donate food baskets to families in Saddlers, give school packages to families in Newton Ground, and organise health walks for fund-raising.