PHILIPSBURG:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten offered special words of encouragement to graduating students and students who are in the final years of their education yesterday. "I would like to encourage all graduating students, students who are moving on to another class or graduating from Grade School, High School or tertiary education to continue striving for excellence and to continue to apply yourselves to reaching your full potential," stated the Prime Minister.
Over the recent few weeks the Prime Minister has attended the graduation of the Milton Peters School, Academy PSVE, Learning Unlimited School, and the University of St. Maarten to name just a few. The Prime Minister encouraged students to continuously raise the bar for what students wanted to attain in their personal and academic development.
"You must control the bar according to the goals you have set for yourselves; according to the standards that you aspire to. Control the achievements you hope to attain. And do not be apologetic for raising that bar; for putting aside short-term enjoyment for your long-term goals. I see many leaders here amongst our students: leaders in the area of athletics, science, academics and yes, also politics. Be that leader; set your bar using the tools that you have been provided and which allowed you to develop academically, socially and culturally. Now it is up to you to use those tools that you have been given and build on your tomorrow. Congratulations to the Graduating Class, Teachers, Staff and Students. You made it and you deserved it. Go out and make your mark," concluded the PM.
The Prime Minister continued by telling the students that in today's world it is easy to feel like the odd-one. "It is students like yourself which make all of the difference. I know that in today's world you might be sometimes called a nerd or similar names by some of your peers because of your dedication, but I would like to encourage you that you are on the right track and that you should stand up and be what you are and don't be afraid to strive towards excellence. So stay focused and continue to strive towards excellence. And to those who did not make it: do not give up; do not give up hope and continue to fight for what you think is important for you," stated the Prime Minister.
From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister
