There was all round praise today for 30 students from special units across the island who successfully passed the 2024 Barbados Secondary Schools’ Entrance Examination and are looking forward to entering secondary school in September.
The plaudits came today from several speakers, who offered the students advice at their graduation ceremony, at the Barbados Yacht Club, Bay Street, St. Michael.
Director of the National Disabilities Unit (NDU), John Hollingsworth, giving the rationale for the ceremony, which started in 2023, said students who fall into this category were not recognised for their remarkable achievements.
Mr. Hollingsworth continued: “In our minds, full appreciation was not afforded to them for surmounting the barriers they would have endured. The Ministry of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs, as well as the Ministry of Education, Technological and Vocational Training is cognisant of the achievements of these students, hence why they welcome you here, this morning.”
Noting that it is a remarkable moment in the students’ academic journey, he stressed that the NDU was “thrilled” to celebrate their achievements as they graduate from primary school. He also acknowledged that the NDU, like the families of the students, was proud of their dedication and hard work.
“Today, you all stand on the threshold of a new beginning filled with endless possibilities. Looking back at the years gone by, we know how much you have grown both academically and personally; you have faced challenges, overcome obstacles, and shown resilience in achieving your goals,” Mr. Hollingsworth told the graduates.
Meanwhile, President of the Barbados Council for the Disabled, The Most Honourable Kerry Ann Ifill, in her remarks, said their graduation represented a time to pause on their life’s journey, and everyone was proud of what they had achieved, and more importantly, what they were looking forward to next.
Ms. Ifill said they needed to celebrate every achievement and should not be afraid to make mistakes. She also told them that they needed to know that they are the best.
Noting that going into their new school may be scary, she urged the girls and boys not to hide anything they may fear while at school but rather share those fears as well as stories with others, so others could understand what they are going through.
As she lauded their success, Ms. Ifill stressed: “You are fabulous, wonderful people not just because you are here, not just because you made it through the exam, but because you are an example to those who are coming after you, to those who don’t understand people who work with or live with disabilities. We have a real opportunity to understand what it is when life beats you down to be able to come back fighting, to be strong.”
The 30 students were also addressed by Minister of Education, Technological and Vocational Training, Kay McConney; Minister of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs, Kirk Humphrey; and Chief Education Officer, Dr. Ramona Archer-Bradshaw, who presented them with tablets to aid their educational pursuits at their new schools.