QUEEN’S College graduates were charged to not limit themselves to the acquisition of knowledge in their respective streams they chose while at the country’s premier secondary school, when the school held its annual graduation on Tuesday.The graduation was a bitter-sweet moment for the students, whether they were graduating after being part of the institution for seven years preparing for the CSEC then CAPE examinations, for five years preparing for just the CSEC examinations, for two years to write the CAPE examinations or stumbling into this school along the way.
The ceremony has also been criticised for the timing as it comes months before the release of the Caribbean Examination Council (CXC) results.
The ceremony, chaired by Dr. Sophia David Longe, a former Queen’s College student herself, featured presentations from the graduating classes as they reflected on their time at this institution and motivated each other to be the best in whatever paths they seek in the next phase of life.
There was indeed a resounding uproar when one reflective piece duly noted using the words of the famous ‘Dj Khaled’ that as Queen’s College students, “We the best”.
Guest Speaker, Dr Suresh Narine, also a former Queen’s College student, focused his presentation on many aspects of life outside of school. He encouraged students to not limit themselves to the areas they have been streamed into, but to expand their horizons.
Headmistress, Jackie Benn in her charge to the students, said she is proud of all them.
Valedictorian, and no stranger to the pages of any newspaper, Larissa Wiltshire also reflected upon her seven years “that flew by too quickly in this college”. She encouraged her fellow graduates to be strong academic achievers, as well as being a force to be reckoned with in many co-curricular activities.
The graduates all walked on stage, for what may be their final time for some of them.
The ceremony also featured several musical and other cultural displays. Also present was Minister within the Ministry of Education, Nicolette Henry, as well as scores of parents, teachers and well-wishers.
The graduation was hosted ahead of the release of CSEC and CAPE results.
Meanwhile, one of the graduating students Christopher Belfield in a statement had this to say:
“Most outsiders often question the timing of our graduation and how it’s possible to have it without CSEC or CAPE results. A graduation is the conferral of an academic degree or marking the completion of an academic course. For us at Queen’s College, our graduation is for completing the years at the institution, whether the five years or the additional two. CSEC or CAPE results aren’t necessary for our graduation. However, after results a separate event called ‘Speech Night’ is hosted to reward the performance of the students. Most schools don’t do this. They choose to award their students at their graduation, which means they have to wait on the academic results. Additionally, it’s convenient for us at Queens because many students migrate right after school is closed. And what’s a graduation without an entire family? I’m elated to have spent seven years at the school. It’s definitely a life changing experience, one that cannot be duplicated anywhere. I’m sure the rest of the graduation class mirrors my feelings. And we’re proud to have completed this journey and live up to our motto: Fideles Ubique Utiles; Faithful and Useful Everywhere. Reginae Collegium; Queen’s! Forever. ”
Although results have not yet been released, the valedictorian comes from the Upper Sixth Form graduating class, and this decision of making someone Valedictorian comes from the CAPE results of the Lower Sixth Year.
Students of this institution have long sought to raise their voices against this matter. Many have sought to defend their Alma Matter on social media platforms, but one thing that is clear is that the Queen’s College students will represent and defend the school as the need arises. (Vishani Ragobeer)
