Richard Ishmael Class of 2019 graduate on a high

DPI, Guyana, Thursday, October 31, 2019

Richard Ishmael Secondary School’s graduating Class of 2019 today, bade their teachers and classmates their final goodbyes, as they prepared to enter a more challenging phase of their lives.

During the graduation ceremony held at the school’s auditorium, Minister of Social Cohesion, Hon. Dr. George Norton told the graduates that moving forward, their actions will have a greater impact in shaping a prosperous future.

[In the photo, from left to right] Minister within Ministry of Communities, with responsibilities for Housing, Hon. Annette Ferguson, Minister of Social Cohesion, Hon. Dr. George Norton, Headteacher of Richard Ishmael Secondary School, Melanie Jones and Former Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), Dr. Steve Surujbally.

Valedictorian, Tyrese Wright receiving his award.

Richard Ishmael Secondary School’s graduates receiving their certificates.

Richard Ishmael Secondary School’s graduates receiving their certificates.

Richard Ishmael Secondary School’s graduates receiving their certificates.

“This is why the Government has been investing so heavily to ensure that Guyanese, particularly our youths, are well-educated. While we do not expect every child to be an academic… we do expect every child to be equipped enough to pursue their dreams and become strong, respectful and productive adults,” Minister Norton said.

Highlighting the various programmes offered through the Department of Culture, Youth and Sport, the minister encouraged the graduates, particularly those who received awards for their accomplishments in physical education and sport, to continue to push for such dreams that will make them and their country proud.

“When you leave here today you will become part of that incredible legacy. It is therefore important that going forward, you make decisions that will empower you to prosper,” he added.

Former Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), Dr. Steve Surujbally, who also addressed the gathering, stressed the importance of technical and vocational education programmes. “Your choice should be a logical one when deciding your next step forward… do not hustle to make decisions posed by parents or guardians but choose an area where you are comfortable and capable to succeed,” he said.

With a 67.9% CSEC pass rate for 2019, Headteacher, Melanie Jones commended the students for their good work and expressed hope that they will continue to strive to go above and beyond for their goals.

Valedictorian, Tyrese Wright encouraged his classmates to put their best foot forward despite the trials they may face.

“This is something that we work for which we truly deserve and this is the moment we have dreamed about from nursery to secondary school… So, I encourage you guys to follow whatever path you choose… nothing is too hard for us. As you can see, we have achieved our greatest goal for now…continue to push because the sky is the limit,” Wright said.

Since its establishment on August 15, 1949, this institution, once known as the Indian Education Trust College, has moulded many Guyanese.

Also present at the graduating ceremony was Minister within the Ministry of Communities, with responsibilities for Housing, Hon. Annette Ferguson.