Under the theme Rising Together – Conquering the World, the Samuel Jackman Prescod Institute of Technology (SJPI), for the first time since the onset of COVID, was able to host an in-person graduation ceremony.
The event, which took place at the Garfield Sobers Sports Complex, incorporated students from both the full-time and part-time divisions of the institution. Welcome remarks were offered by the Chairman of the SJPI Board of Management Coreen Kennedy-Taitt.
The theme was borne out by all of the speakers who made presentations. Minister of Education, Technological and Vocational Training Kay McConney said, “We know that we live in a Barbados that is not accustomed to rolling over and playing dead when things get tough. We are the type of people who are overcomers, who direct our focus and our energy to the tasks. We are the kind of people that will adjust our attitude as is required and look for the kind of support it will take to get us over the hill and beyond.”
An Honorary Award was presented to Agronomist Jacklyn Broomes. The Agricultural Manager at Mount Gay Distilleries was recognised for working closely with SJPI facilitating internships for three students from the programme annually. She is currently developing a scholarship for students pursuing studies in Agriculture. The other recipient was John Vaughan, part-time instructor in Animal Husbandry. He has contributed significantly to the development of that programme, which prepares participants for work in that field with practical experiences. Both recipients were presented with their awards by Deputy Principal of SJPI Brenda Osbourne.
Valedictorian Abigail Mohamed, who attained a diploma in Agriculture, in her address praised the success achieved despite the challenges which this cohort faced. She said, “We have made it, we have succeeded in our various programmes. We had to adapt to the restrictions that were put in place because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the masks, the physical distancing and the online classes even for the practical courses. She acknowledged, “These challenges tested our grit and pushed our limits but in the end everything worked out well.”
Mohamed expressed appreciation for those who assisted her throughout the journey. “I was privileged to have great classmates who walked with me on this journey at SJPI.”
She assured, “Classmates you inspired me when I needed it and added to my experience.” She highlighted the cadre of teachers for their unwavering support. Mohamed noted, “They allowed me to realise the potential and the zealousness I have, qualities which they saw and encouraged in me.” She added, “We are rising together conquering the world armed with determination, the skills that we have grasped, the lessons that we have learned and with God’s direction we can continue the path to even greater success.”
In his message of resilience, Principal Ian Drakes indicated a hybrid approach was adopted with their teaching mediums. The school adapted to the resulting challenges of COVID-19 with an extension of the semester to ensure the quality of their instruction was not compromised. “We can safely say that you rose with us together in the form of collectiveness, yourself, the instructors, parents, friends, staff members, industry partners and I am sure many other well-wishers that would have gotten you to this point this afternoon.”
During the period 2021-2022 technical and vocational training was provided to 693 full-time students and 667 in the part-time division. He proudly noted approximately 207 of their full-time students received merits or distinctions in their studies.
The feature address was delivered by Professor Cardinal Warde, Faculty Director, Office of Engineering Outreach Programmes of the famed Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
The Barbados National Youth Orchestra, saxophonist Romero Greaves and dancer Sharisah Brathwaite provided entertainment. (STT)