FREEPORT, Grand Bahama —The Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI) (Freeport Campus) on Wednesday, May 15, 2019 said goodbye to 45 of its graduates during a commencement ceremony at the Grand Lucayan Hotel. Scores gathered in support of the graduates, including officials from the Ministry of Education, numerous community and corporate partners, family members and friends.
BTVI President Dr. Robert Robertson encouraged the graduates to become lifelong learners, as he reminded them that this milestone signifies the beginning of another chapter of learning and advancing.
Admonishing the recipients to maintain their integrity throughout the course of their careers, Dr. Robertson said, “Don’t allow money to taint your character.”
BTVI Board of Directors Chairman Kevin Basden, in his address to the graduates, noted that the technical and vocational field is the backbone of the country and insisted that the notion be dispelled which suggests that such professionals are less valuable than white collar workers.
Mr. Basden further remarked that technical skills training create not only employees, but employers. He challenged the graduates to do their best, to be productive and to assist others along the way.
Bringing remarks on behalf of the Minister of Education was Deputy Director of Education Julian Anderson, who applauded the graduates for their accomplishments and challenged them to “take the workforce by storm”.
“This reputable establishment is always guaranteed to produce a fine complement of specialized young recruits to supplement our labour force,” Mr. Anderson said. “It is important for you to have the right attitude in order to succeed.”
Valdez Russell, Principal, VKR Insights Communications & Reputation Management Agency, received a thunderous standing ovation at the conclusion of his presentation.
Mr. Russell, who was the commencement speaker, iterated the theme, “Rejection is the new Redirection,” and warned the graduates to be vigilant when selecting individuals for their circle. Additionally, he stressed the importance of developing and maintaining the right attitude.
“You cannot expect to be blessed without being a blessing,” he delared. “Remember that your blessings can be best received when you open your hands and your hearts to give without the expectation of receiving anything in return. Be good business owners, staff members and entrepreneurs. Treat people with the kindness and respect that you want to receive when they support your business and organisation.”
Numerous awards were presented to the graduates. Top graduate awards were presented by the institution for the first time. The recipients were awarded with cash prizes donated by multiple corporate sponsors, including Aliv, Bahamian Contractors Association, Bahamas First Insurance, J.S. Johnson Insurance and BGC Ltd.
