The Tribune

THE Rokers Point Primary School was officially renamed the Pembroke E  Ferguson Primary School during a ceremony in Exuma yesterday, honouring the late veteran educator who officials said dedicated his life to education and community service.

Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis called the renaming a “special day” for Exuma and praised Mr Ferguson for his decades of service to the education system.

He said it was important to honour those who have made significant contributions to the country’s development.

Mr Ferguson, who was born in Farmers Hill in 1908, spent 47 years in education. Throughout his career, he worked in several islands, serving as head teacher in Crooked Island before becoming principal in San Salvador and later Exuma, his home.

Beyond education, he served as a justice of the peace and an ordained minister. He was also a farmer who used his fresh produce to assist families in need.

“Wherever he served, Mr Ferguson built communities,” Prime Minister Davis said.

Mr Davis said Mr Ferguson’s commitment was evident in the extra time he gave to his students, staying after school to help those who struggled and mentoring young teachers entering the profession.

“In Mr Ferguson, we see a generation of Bahamian educators who understood that teaching was never confined to four was. To teach was to serve. To educate wads to build a community and that is precisely why this renaming matters to us.”

Education Minister Chester Cooper called the renaming long overdue and said he was grateful to recognise an icon.

“As the children walk through the doors, some will ask who he was and we must tell them. Tell them that he came from right here. Tell them that he did not begin with any advantage,” Mr Cooper said.

“Tell them he worked, he learned, he taught and served,” he said.

His son, Bishop Franklyn Ferguson, said the family was grateful for the honour.

“We are rejoicing today because as many would have said that this was long overdue,” he added.