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Last Updated: Feb 13, 2017 - 1:45:37 AM |
Minister for Grand Bahama Dr. Michael Darville addresses the Fresh Start 2014 Spring Graduation Class Saturday, June 21.
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FREEPORT, Grand Bahama – Minister for Grand Bahama, Dr. Michael Darville on June 21 told a group of young graduates that it was new day with tomorrow not yet having mistakes.
“This means that all of you have a wonderful opportunity at this time to decide that you will utilise everything that has happened in your past as a stepping stone, as you turn your attention to a better and brighter future,” he said.
The Minister was addressing the Fresh Start Spring Class of 2014 Graduation held at the Pro-Cathedral of Christ the King Parish Hall. Some 100 persons graduated.
Minister of Grand Bahama Dr. Michael Darville accepts a gift June 23 during a courtesy call by the president and past president of the Concord Sister Cities Association of Concord, North Carolina. They expressed an interest in forming a sister city relationship with Freeport, GBI. The meeting was facilitated by Immerse Bahamas Co. Ltd. Pictured from from left: Miguel Taylor, Immerse Bahamas Co. Ltd.; John Dunlap, President; Dr. Darville; Ginger Moxey, Immerse Bahamas Co. Ltd.; Mary Loftus, Past President, City of Concord Assoc.; John Loftus, husband of Mary Loftus. (BIS Photo/Vandyke Hepburn).
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He told the young people that that their graduation exercise represents the end of the 15-week employment skills training programme, that provided them with the training and skills to assist them in finding and retaining a job; and the beginning of their journey on the road to new opportunities.
Continuing, he told the graduates and the large audience in attendance that “life is not always easy, and is marked by times of disappointments. However, it is our response to failure and the ability to persevere that determines success.”
Minister for Grand Bahama Dr. Michael Darville held a meeting with the Heads of Government Departments at the Ministry, June 23. He spoke about the future of the island and the duty free concession for East and West Grand Bahama, and of the redevelopment of the Fishing Hole Road area. (BIS Photo/Vandyke Hepburn.
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Dr. Darville reminded his audience that he is a living example of that, having come from a poor family and taking advantage of every educational opportunity offered to him.
He took note that 20 of the students received certifications in Quick Books; 20 in Welding; 17 in Customer Service and Sales, while others obtained certificates in Hair Braiding and Weaving; and in General Maintenance from the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute.
He was also pleased that all the students completed their core subjects, along with Mathematics, English Language, Soft Skills and Computer Science.
Minister for Grand Bahama Dr. Michael Darville is pictured centre with K. Darron Turnquest, Director of Youth and seven outstanding students from the Fresh Start programme on June 21, 2014, during graduation ceremonies at the Christ the King Parish Hall. Left to right: Allan Prosper Jr., top student in Welding (practical), Markesh Forbes (Quick Books), Eudia Riley (Sales and Customer Service), Mr. Turnquest, Dr. Darville, Rudell Higgs (Acrylic Nails), Katria Moxey (Hair Braiding), Dexter Edwards (Welding/Theory), and Breon Hinsey who was outstanding in General Maintenance. (BIS Photos/SimonLewis)
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“Tonight’s graduation confirms that each of you have capitalised on this great opportunity, developed personally and professionally, successfully completed this programme and as a result are and will be able to function effectively in the workplace going forward,” he stated.
The Minister also reminded his audience that the last unemployment statistics on the island of Grand Bahama verified that young people were severely impacted due to the global economic crisis.
“As a result, for those of you who may have to seek employment in the near future, finding a job is not always easy but failure is not an option. You must set your mind, soul and heart upon doing everything necessary to become your best,” he said.
He also reminded his audience of a quote from Harriet Tubman, legendary African American liberator who once said, “Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.”
Minister Darville reminded the group that they must be willing to make personal sacrifices and prioritise. Also, that they must determine what it will take to become the best and make daily choices to stay on the narrow road and stay on course.
Dr. Darville encouraged them to make the right choices about their time management and friends and that they should associate with people who will build them up and not tear them down.
“Do not spend time with persons who participate in illegal, immoral and foolish activity. This will lead you into the wide road that will carry you far away from fulfilling your goals,” he warned.
The Minister told the gathering that the stability and economic success of Grand Bahama Island relies heavily on the synergistic efforts of public-private partnerships.
“That is why the Government of The Bahamas remains committed to training programmes to develop the Bahamian workforce and decrease our unemployment rate on Grand Bahama,” he said.
Dr. Darville acknowledged that the three weeks internship for the graduates was very fruitful, and he thanked the private partners including Memories Resort, Bahama Rock, City Associate Stores, Pineyard Steel, Bank of The Bahamas, Ritchie’s Calypso, Park’n Shop, Pelican Bay Resort and others who accommodated the students.
He challenged parents to continue to support and encourage their children as they seek to become good productive citizens.
© Copyright 2014 by thebahamasweekly.com
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