As graduation season 2025 begins at the University of the West Indies, St Augustine Campus, hundreds of students from the Faculty of Science and Technology and the Faculty of Food and Agriculture crossed the big stage on Thursday, officially becoming UWI graduates.
In his address, UWI Chancellor Dr. Dodridge Miller encouraged graduates to remain humble and embrace this milestone as the beginning of a new Caribbean story.
He highlighted their unique potential to shape the region’s future through meaningful contributions to its growth and development.
“As you step forward today, I ask you to carry three things with you. First, carry your story, never forget where you came from. Whether you grew up in a fishing village or a bustling city; whether you were raised by one parent or many; whether you face hardship or privilege. Your story matters. It is your compass, it is your power.”
The 2025 valedictorian for the Faculty of Food and Agriculture, Josef Paty, urged his fellow graduates to pause and appreciate the significance of their achievement.
Reflecting on his own journey, he shared how the pandemic redirected his path to UWI, a decision he embraced without regret.
Echoing similar sentiments to Dr. Miller, he encouraged graduates to help build a stronger Caribbean community.
“As the past three or four years have taught us, it is our responsibility to pave a pathway to our own success. We have been granted the opportunity to develop our knowledge so that we may embrace it and develop the world in turn.”
He also highlighted the value of a strong support system for those striving to improve themselves and, by extension, the world.
While the spotlight was on the graduates, Mr. Paty made it a point to acknowledge the individuals who played a vital role in building and supporting the graduating community.
“Even as we celebrate, let us never overlook the sacrifices of those who stood behind us. To my mother, who single-handedly devoted much of her life to raising her two sons, and to all the parents and loved ones in the audience, I offer my gratitude. Your unwavering support has been the foundation beneath our success and without it many of us would not have crossed this stage.”
Graduation season continues at the UWI St Augustine Campus on Friday as graduands from the Faculty of Social Sciences take the stage to receive their degrees.
The ceremonies will conclude on Saturday, with graduands from the Faculties of Humanities and Education, Sport, and Medical Sciences.