• “From a Whisper to a Shout”: COSTAATT Celebrates Graduating Class of 2023

    • 20/12/2023
    • Posted By : Brian Baboolal
    • Comments Off on “From a Whisper to a Shout”: COSTAATT Celebrates Graduating Class of 2023

    Dr. Keith Nurse, President of COSTAATT, addresses graduates of the Class of 2023 at the institution’s graduation ceremony, held at the Centre of Excellence on Saturday 25th November.

     

    In a celebration of academic excellence, the College of Science, Technology and Applied Arts of Trinidad and Tobago (COSTAATT) hosted its annual graduation exercises at the Centre of Excellence, Macoya. The ceremony held on Saturday, November 25th, 2023, conferred degrees, diplomas, and certificates upon approximately 802 graduands, signifying the culmination of their dedication across more than 75 diverse academic programmes, all under the resounding theme of “Speak Out! From a Whisper to a Shout.”

     

    President of COSTAATT, Dr. Keith Nurse, presents a graduate of the ‘Class of 2023’ with his certificate, at the institution’s graduation ceremony.

     

     

    Inspiring Words and Forward-Thinking Vision

    Dr. Keith Nurse, President of COSTAATT, addressed the graduating class, expressing immense pride in their accomplishments. He underscored the institution’s commitment to a forward-thinking approach, highlighting the College’s strategic focus on sustainable futures, digital transformation, and the establishment of global pathways for both present and future alumni. He urged graduates to to inspire hope, advocate for the interests of those without a voice and do good for humankind. He said “The world is changing as we know it and you must have your say in that change to improve the lives of those around you.”

    Perseverance

    The keynote address, was delivered by esteemed COSTAATT alumna Ms. Teocah Arieal Dove. Using her personal life experiences, Ms. Dove painted a vivid picture of resilience, urging the graduates to persevere despite adversities and challenges. She reminded them that their collective voices, once whispers, possess the transformative power to resonate as resounding shouts, capable of effecting change not just within themselves but also within their communities and across the world. She encouraged them to become catalysts for positive change, no matter the circumstances they may encounter.

    The Importance of Education

    The Honourable Dr. Nyan Gadsby-Dolly, Minister of Education, delivered a compelling address that underscored the pivotal role education plays in shaping a brighter future. She re-emphasized the government’s commitment to education, revealing that it accounts for more than 10 percent of the national budget. She urged graduates to recognize the resonance and impact of their voices as advocates for justice, truth, and positive upliftment, emphasizing the transformative power of education and the responsibility that graduates now possess as a result.

    Honouring Collaborative Efforts

    COSTAATT also took a moment to recognize the invaluable collaboration of the Environmental Health Department of the Ministry of Health by presenting them with the annual COSTAATT Partnership Award. This recognition celebrated the department’s steadfast support since the 1980s in developing and implementing crucial certifications and degrees in public health.

    As the ceremony concluded, graduates adorned with their well-deserved accolades, stepped into a world of possibilities armed with the knowledge and skills to take on future challenges. COSTAATT extends its congratulations to the Class of 2023, as they stand on the cusp of a new journey to create a significant and enduring impact on our society.