THE Saraswati Vidya Niketan School held its 6th annual graduation ceremony at Cornelia Ida, West Coast Demerara in Region Three on Sunday last during which top achievers for 2009-2010 Caribbean Secondary Examination Certificates (CSEC) were awarded for their outstanding academic achievement.

Minister of Agriculture Mr. Robert Persaud, in his address to graduates, urged them to take up their role in bringing about change in society as Indian males have failed their family and society.

According to a report from the Government Information Agency (GINA), Minister Persaud said Indian males have not lived up to their responsibility in the home.

GINA said that in his reference to the Neesa Gopaul case,  Minister Persaud said failure of the State and the community were contributing factors to her demise.

He said that, for too long, abuse has been allowed to take course, and he charged young people to take responsibility and address such situations immediately.

He commended the school for its outstanding performance, noting that the institution is an innovative concept reflecting the way in which society should take young people forward.

“It’s not only to instill traditional values but to merge emerging concepts and values”, said Minister Persaud.

Graduates were reminded that the country’s best days are still ahead and success can be achieved by hard work and dedication.

The Minister urged graduates not to be daunted by challenges, stating Guyana has lost some of its greatest minds owing to migration, but “we must work together in ensuring that the best are encouraged to remain and can enjoy a decent and safe life”.

Minster Persaud noted that success is not the only ingredient but having a social conscience is also important and assured them of government’s commitment in ensuring that society becomes a better place for young people.

The Saraswati Vidya Niketan School has achieved commendable academic success over the years.