THE New Amsterdam Multilateral School (NAMS) once again led by example as the premier learning institution in Berbice when it hosted an inaugural exercise in the form of a school leaving ceremony for the class of 2014.

The innovative event was held Wednesday in honour of 181 students who recently sat the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations.

The 2009-2014 batch of 235 pupils is the largest intake in the history of the school so far. However, 54 of them did not complete the five-year programme at the institution.
Guest speaker at the history-making event was former headmaster Elton Lewis who congratulated those who made it through to the CSEC level and reminded them that the learning process is yet to be completed.
“In school, you are taught a lesson then given a test; in life you are given a test that teaches you a lesson.” He added, “This is a proud moment not only for you but for the stakeholders in the education process.”
The retired educator also stressed the need for further investment in the education sector, and quoted U.S. President Barack Obama who said, “We have an obligation and responsibility to pay emphasis in our students and schools; we must make sure that the people who have the grace, desire and the will, but not the money — can still get the best education possible.”

MEMORABLE HISTORY
Deputy headmistress of NAMS, Shaundel Phillips, in her remarks to a gathering of parents, invitees, teachers and students, noted that the class of 2014 is a batch with a memorable history.
“We know the journey was challenging, we have had our moments where we were up, in the center and moments when were close to the bottom but never fell,” she recalled.
It was revealed that the group had a ‘high level of energy’, which kept teachers on their heels and, forced them to develop new ideas in ensuring the effective delivery of education in a conducive atmosphere.
“Even though at times I had to tell you about your utterly disgusting and reprehensible attitude, I did remind you that you have a purpose (at school),” Phillips said. “Unless you stay focused, your goals will not be achieved,” she cautioned.
President of the Parent Teachers Association (PTA), pastor Carlton Charles and school board member Mrs. Gloria Beharry also extended best wishes to the outgoing class and urged them to remember their alma mater.
Medals were presented to each student, while awards were given to those who were consistent in their academic performances and other outstanding performers in sports and co-curricular activities.

(By Michael Khan)