CIC schol winners urged to be innovators in post-pandemic world

The academic achievements of students of St Mary's College (CIC) assumed full focus on Wednesday as they received awards in different disciplines and for earning additional scholarships from the 2020 Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examinations (CAPE).

During the ceremony, president of the CIC Past Students Union Brevard Nelson urged the students to challenge the status quo and use their creativity and work ethic to move with the changing times.

Citing the difficulties imposed by the outbreak of the covid19 pandemic, Nelson described 2020 as a "year of disruption" but noted the sudden change in flow was beneficial as it caused society to reassess its way of doing things.

He said despite the uncertainties of the pandemic, now more than ever thinkers and visionaries were needed. He challenged the students to push themselves as they begin their university careers.

"You're being challenged, and this year was a classic example. You are being challenged to push the envelope, make adjustments and changes and be agile in whatever route you want to take so that you can now make an impact in your profession and in the world at large.

"The world needs innovators and people who are prepared to go the extra mile to make a difference. And I think we can expect, as St Mary's graduates, that you all will be successful in your careers and professions."

Nelson also called on the students to make full use of the camaraderie they developed during their time at the school by keeping in contact with their peers.

Referring to his own experiences with his career, he said their friends could be potential investors, colleagues and business partners as they develop their careers.

"I want you to embrace that because the people that you sat next to in class are like your friends and colleagues and you need to nurture that as you go along."

Additional scholarship winner and business award recipient Aiden Carter thanked the college staff for their support and commitment to helping students, and parents for their encouragement during the preparation for exams.

He also commended students and teachers for their flexibility in adjusting to distance learning during the pandemic.

Carter, along with Andre Lewis and Michael Meyer, were honoured for earning additional scholarships.