We can realize the goal of having a high level of educated individuals within the communities without them having to leave our shores. The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honourable Sarah Wescot-Williams gave the address at the Eighteenth commencements ceremony at the University of St Martin on Saturday. While addressing the forty-three graduating students the Prime Minister emphasised that having served as commissioner of education for many years and now as Prime Minister, she can look back with pride on how far the University of St. Maarten has come notwithstanding so many odds. "We are able to celebrate the achievement of forty three men and women at the University of St Maarten it is important for each and everyone of the individuals graduating tonight to reflect on what it means to be here", commented the Prime Minister.
The Prime Minister emphasized that education is the key in not only the traditional sense of the word in the context of the formal classroom, but overall education in ones life and in ones community is an achievement for which all St. Maarten citizens must strive. "In St. Maarten we are awaiting the outcome of the 2011 population census, however a study conducted on St. Maarten in terms of the various needs within our communities has revealed that the percentage of college graduates on the island is low. And so tonight as we celebrate the achievement of these men and women I want the students, the University of St. Maarten, the community and the Government of St. marten to commit to increasing the amount of people on St. Maarten who have a college degree. If forty-three can do it how many more can. If one can make the sacrifice to make it happen then one should encourage ones peers to do the same. For each diploma or certificate that is received there is an elevating of the level of society of St. Maarten and we need to elevate the level of education on St. marten in all districts and that is my challenge to us all here tonight. Recognize the challenge that is out there and recognize how far St. Martinets can go if given the opportunity. Together with government, the communities and private individuals and businesses I believe we can make that a reality. We can realize the goal of having a high level of educated individuals within the communities without them having to leave our shores," concluded the Prime Minister.
