BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
The Solomon Islands National University New Vice Chancellor, Professor Transform Aqorau said he want a resourceful University when speaking to attendants of this year’s SINU Graduation ceremony.
Commending the class of 2023 graduands during his keynote speech at the friendship hall on Friday 5th May, Professor Aqorau said he want nothing but the best for the future thought leaders of this country.
“This year the University celebrated its 10th Anniversary a landmark for the University, the Alumni, Staff, Government, and students. We were graced by the Honourable Prime Minister and a good number of Government Ministers. It was a momentous and auspicious occasion, worthy of celebration. I am confident about the future of the University,’’ said Professor Aqorau.
“I want nothing, but the best for the future thought leaders of this country, for as John Dewey said. “Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself.” I fervently believe in what Malcolm X said Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.” he said.
He told Graduand that their achievement was a momentous occasion that marks the conclusion of years of hard work, dedication, and perseverance.
“You have all demonstrated a commitment to excellence and have proven that with determination and effort, anything is possible. Congratulations on graduating from the Solomon Islands National University,’’ said Professor Aqorau
The Vice Chancellor said a total of 700 Graduands received their Certificates, Diplomas, Graduate Diplomas, Bachelor, and Post-Graduate Diplomas.
“I am extremely pleased to report that of the 700 Graduands, 460 or 65% are females, while 242 or 35 % are males, indeed a remarkable achievement for females and worthy of special commendation,’’ said the vice-chancellor.
He said that 95 students graduate with Certificates, 2 with Advanced Certificates, 408 with Diplomas, 155 with Bachelor Degrees, 23 with Graduate Diplomas, and 17 with Post-Graduate Diplomas.
“ 36 of those Graduating today are from the Faculty of Agriculture, 260 from the Faculty of Education and Humanities, 238 from the Faculty of Nursing, Medicine, and Health Sciences, 122 from the Faculty of Business and Tourism, and 44 from the Faculty of Science and Technology,” he said.
“What you hold on to today and can be proud of is what you have learned. The sleepless nights, the stress of completing assignments, the worries over school fees, the lack of bus fare and not having enough to eat. You can set aside those thoughts for a fleeting moment today, as I ask you to join me in applauding your hardworking, Parents, Guardians, and Family Members who are here today to share this joyous occasion with you,’’ expressed Professor Aqorau.
As Graduands embark on the next chapter of their life, Professor Aqorau also told them that there are a few key messages for them to keep in mind.
He told Graduands to remember that while accomplishing their tertiary journey, it is just the beginning of their voyage and they need to continue to work hard and learn from experiences to achieve their goals.
He urged graduands not to be afraid but to take risks and try new things as this is the time in their life as the most freedom to explore different paths and take chances.
The vice chancellor also reminds graduands that building strong relationships with their peers, professors, and mentors can be helpful to help them navigate their career and personal life.
He said they must always stay curious and continue to learn as the world is constantly changing and evolving, and it is up to them to stay up-to-date and adapt to new challenges.
“Remember the lessons you learned here at the Solomon Islands National University – the importance of education, the value of perseverance, the importance of giving back, and the power of unity, use them to make a positive impact in the world. As Martine Luther King Jr once said, “The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character – that is the goal of true education”.
“Congratulations again on your achievement, and best of luck in your future endeavours, always remember as William Ralph Inge said that “The aim of education is the knowledge, not of facts, but of values.” Professor Aqorau.
