Four outstanding young people have been awarded the Rotary Club of Barbados West scholarship for 2024-2025, a testament to their academic promise and potential to shape the nation’s future.
The promising quartet of Shaniah Graham, Emilie Wharton, Rakaya Goodridge, and Scott Wharton was honoured as recipients of the annual educational grant, valued at $5 000 per year for the duration of their studies, will support their academic pursuits at a Caribbean university.
At the 2024–2025 scholarship presentation on Monday, Minister of Training and Tertiary Education Sandra Husbands and Rotary officials celebrated the scholars’ achievements while urging them to embrace their roles as leaders and role models for the next generation.
Husbands commended the scholars for their dedication to excellence and encouraged them to use this opportunity not only to achieve their dreams but also to inspire others.
“This successful fundraising is what has formed the foundation to support you in your dreams,” she told the recipients. “I’m trusting that in your understanding of what other Barbadians have done to invest in you, that you in turn will invest in another generation of young Barbadians not only by serving in a club and helping to raise funds but also by the example and role model that you will place in front of them so that they can emulate what you have done.”
Husbands highlighted the government’s commitment to transforming education in Barbados, aiming to create a system that empowers students like the four scholarship awardees to reach their full potential. She stressed that education is not only a personal achievement but also a cornerstone for national development.
“The Government of Barbados is determined in the pursuit of its educational transformation goal to foster a culture of excellence which requires all stakeholders to collaborate in shaping an education system that is fair, inclusive, relevant, and modern. Our goal is to establish an education system that empowers students to reach their full potential, fostering a future where opportunities are limitless and comprehensive,” she said.
She added, “Education is the leading determinant of economic growth, employment, and earnings. Therefore, I say to you, seize this opportunity, excel in your studies, and go and secure that bright future. It will encourage another young person behind you to do the same. Remember also to give back to your country in meaningful and sustainable ways.”
The scholarship winners were celebrated not only for their academic achievements but also for their potential as future leaders who can contribute meaningfully to Barbados’ growth. The minister emphasised that these scholarships are investments in the nation’s future.
“Over the years, the contribution of the Rotary Club of Barbados West to our country and society has been a significant development in the education system, given its commitment to the awarding of scholarships to our young Barbadians who’ve shown interest in developing academically and who have a clear need for financial assistance,” Husbands said. “The Rotary Club of Barbados West scholarship is not just a recognition of past achievements, but it is an investment in the future of Barbados.”
The scholars were urged to embrace their roles as examples for others. Husbands reminded them that their success would inspire younger generations while contributing positively to their families, communities, fields of study, and society at large.
“What is being planned within the Ministry of Educational Transformation is really an exciting change that will make learning an engaging adventure for our children that will excite them to want to learn. That will teach them a broad range of skills that will help them to be very effective Barbadians,” she said. (SB)
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