OECS students who completed their studies in Morocco were recognized at the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Graduate Recognition Ceremony held at the Rabat Marriott Hotel on Saturday, September 12, under the theme “Through Perseverance Comes Triumph.” Graduates also participated virtually through a YouTube livestream.
The ceremony celebrated not only academic accomplishments but the resilience of students who left their home islands to study thousands of kilometres away, adapting to a different country, culture and educational environment.
As per an OECS press release, Ambassador Ian Queeley told graduates that completing their degrees was also a responsibility, urging them to turn their knowledge, skills and experiences into action. He reminded them that “Triumph is a decision you made,” reflecting the determination required to complete their studies.
OECS Director General Dr. Didacus Jules, who delivered the keynote address, encouraged graduates to view their transformation as the real achievement rather than the certificates they received. He urged them to return home and contribute as doctors, engineers, scientists, architects and agronomists, telling them, “Come home and build.”
Dr. Jules also encouraged the graduates to take lessons from Morocco with them, describing them as a lasting “bridge between two peoples of the Atlantic.” He acknowledged the personal challenges involved in studying far from home, noting that they accomplished it “thousands of kilometres from a small island where somebody was praying for you.”
Representing Morocco’s Department of Bilateral Co-operation (AMCI), Badr Alaoui said Morocco regards human capital as a key investment and has welcomed successive generations of Caribbean students for academic, technical and professional training. He told graduates their experience had made them ambassadors of friendship between Morocco and the Caribbean.
Three Saint Lucian graduates received special awards. Bryonnie Mathurin won the Ambassador’s Award for the highest academic achievement after completing a Bachelor of Science in Radiology. Kendlee Enrique Charlemagne received the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean Students in Morocco President’s Award for significant contributions outside the executive, while Janique Raymond received the Spirit of OECSM Award for bringing energy and encouragement to the group.
Dr. Jules closed by thanking families and Morocco for supporting the students and welcomed the graduates home: “Tonight, you triumph.”
