The Tribune

By KYLE WALKINE

Tribune Staff Reporter

kwalkine@tribunemedia.net

MORE than 400 students received their diplomas, degrees or certificates yesterday as they became the newest batch of graduates from the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute. 

The graduates studied a range of trade fields, including barbering, construction technology, office administration, esthetics, electrical engineering and massage therapy. 

The men and women, most of whom worked full-time during their studies, were celebrated by family and friends for the momentous occasion which BTVI’s Chairman Felix Stubbs said is a celebration of their hard work. 

“Today, we celebrate your achievements, but I reiterate that the finality that looms in the air is really just the beginning,” Mr Stubbs said.

“I challenge you to keep on learning, keep on growing and keep that fire for knowledge burning bright. Every day is a new opportunity to learn something new. And whatever you do, I implore you to remain on the cutting edge of developments in your respective fields, whether it’s installing and maintaining a new energy-saving device; learning how to install new computer software; promoting and using natural skin care products for clients or simply attending runway shows to keep updated on the latest bold cuts, hues and trends in the fashion industry. 

“I implore you to join the constantly flowing wave of education and innovation.”

Four of the graduates, Lynderia Clarke, La’Rand Smith, Maletie Etienne-Guillaume and Miriam Stapleton were inducted into the National Technical Honour Society. 

Shakera Forbes, a wife and mother of two who just graduated with her Associates of Applied Science Degree in Construction Technology, said she has been accepted to the Construction Management Bachelors Degree programme at the New England Institute of Technology in Rhode Island. 

“This moment is a great one for me,” she said. “The road wasn’t easy. In fact, it was rough. There were struggles. At one point my car broke down and I was unsure how I would get to and from class. But I made it.

“Going away from my family is going to be a bit tough. But I’m looking it as three years of sacrifice for a better life for my children. God will see me through.”

Ahmad Whymms, 23, was graduated with a certificate in Electronics Installation and said since his first class at BTVI learning was easy for him. 

“I went with it and before I knew it I was graduating,” he said. “Thank God for this certification for me to do something I’m passionate about.”