Madam Abla Dzifa Gomashie, the Minister for Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts, delivered a compelling address at the Achievers Graduation Ceremony of Shield International School in Accra, emphasizing the importance of patriotism, confidence, and compassion in shaping the future of the graduating students. She urged the graduates to embrace these values as they embarked on their next chapters, stressing that they are essential ingredients for personal and societal growth. According to the Minister, patriotism fosters a sense of belonging and responsibility towards one’s country, encouraging active participation in its development. Confidence, on the other hand, empowers individuals to pursue their dreams and overcome challenges, while compassion cultivates empathy and understanding, promoting harmonious relationships within communities.
The Minister further emphasized the importance of nurturing each child’s unique talents and potential, advocating for an educational approach that caters to individual needs and learning styles. She cautioned against the dangers of a one-size-fits-all approach, arguing that it can stifle creativity and hinder the development of well-rounded individuals. True excellence, she asserted, goes beyond achieving top grades; it encompasses character development, respect for others, and a deep-seated love for one’s country. By nurturing these qualities, students can unlock their full potential and contribute meaningfully to society. The Minister encouraged the graduates to view excellence not as a destination but as a continuous journey of self-improvement and contribution to their communities.
Madam Gomashie also highlighted the significance of parental involvement in education, stressing that it begins at home. She emphasized the vital role parents play in shaping their children’s character and instilling values such as discipline, respect, and a strong work ethic. This collaborative effort between parents and educators, she argued, creates a supportive environment that enables students to thrive academically and personally. She urged parents to remain active participants in their children’s educational journeys, fostering open communication and providing guidance as they navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Mrs. Jacqueline Mmieh Adeti, the Principal of Shield International School, echoed the Minister’s sentiments, reminding the graduates that their graduation marked not an end but a beginning. She encouraged them to embrace the challenges and learning opportunities that awaited them, assuring them of the school’s unwavering belief in their potential. The Principal’s message served as a reminder that education is a lifelong pursuit, requiring continuous learning, adaptation, and a commitment to personal growth. She expressed confidence in the graduates’ ability to achieve great things, emphasizing that the foundation they had received at Shield International School would equip them to navigate the complexities of the world and make meaningful contributions.
The graduation ceremony culminated in the presentation of certificates, a symbolic recognition of the graduates’ achievements and the culmination of their years of hard work and dedication. The occasion was a celebration of their academic accomplishments and a testament to the collaborative efforts of the students, teachers, parents, and the entire school community. The certificates represented not only the completion of a significant milestone but also a promise of bright futures ahead, filled with opportunities for personal and professional growth. The ceremony served as a source of inspiration and encouragement for the graduates as they embarked on their new journeys.
As the graduates transitioned from the structured environment of school to the wider world, they were urged to carry with them the values and lessons instilled during their time at Shield International School. Patriotism, confidence, and compassion, along with a commitment to lifelong learning and personal growth, would serve as guiding principles as they navigated their chosen paths. The ceremony served as a poignant reminder of the transformative power of education and the profound impact it can have on individuals and society as a whole. The graduates, equipped with the knowledge, skills, and values they had acquired, were well-prepared to make their mark on the world and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
