By Amadou Jadama in Basse
The principal of Nasir Ahamadiyya Muslim Upper and Senior Secondary School in Basse, Mamadi Ceesay, was rejoicing in what he calls “shining achievements” registered by his school in the past years.
The joy-filled principal was speaking on Saturday as he presides over the graduation and prize-giving ceremony for grades 9 and 12 students.
At least 240 graduated from the schools senior level, with 120 students also graduating from the upper basic level.
Speaking further on the theme ‘Stand up and stand out for the values that will serve you better and your communities’, the principal said the achievements of his school can be felt everywhere in the country as ex-students of his school continue to occupy positions of power in The Gambia and beyond.
“These are men and women who willingly subjected themselves to the rigorous processes of our teaching system and today they have come to testify that intelligence, diligence and hardworking,” he stated.
Turning to the graduates, he said: “We are proud of you because you all have climbed a ladder that gears towards your actual continuous wellbeing and progress in life.
This great institution no doubt nurtured you morally, spiritually, physically and mentally to get on well in life. Your creative credence will aid you to face the society.
“We taught you the rudiments, norms and values of the demands of our contemporary society so that all of you could contribute positively to the common interest of our society and contribute in building a world that will unite all of us for a harmonious society.
Principal Ceesay then advised the graduates to work to be responsible persons in society. “Do not wait for opportunity to come to you. Be willing to learn new skills and build on your experiences.”
Ebrima Darboe, deputy permanent secretary at the information ministry, urged the graduates to inculcate a habit of hard work and discipline. “Be prepared to sacrifice the comfort and pleasure of today for that of tomorrow,” he told them.
Fatou Touray, director of SOS Children Village Basse, spoke on the topic ‘the future in your Hands’. She said: “When choosing your future path, consider choosing the path that will bring you a sense of purpose, fulfilment, pride and most importantly joy.”
Abdoulie Sanno, SIS regional director for West Coast, was also in attendance, and urged the graduates to aspire to be role models.
