‘We need your skills, we need you to stay’ – Pres. Ali tells new GOAL graduates

In an emphatic address on Monday, President Dr. Irfaan Ali told graduates of the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) to put their new skills and knowledge to good use in Guyana.

 “Guyana needs you, we need your skills, we need your voice, we need your passion, we need you to stay, we need you to lead,” President Ali told the graduates as Guyana is undergoing massive transformation.

At the first graduation ceremony this year being held under the theme “Enhancing the Nation’s Human Capacity,” President Ali applauded the graduates for taking the opportunity available through GOAL to upskill.

The Head of State directed majority of his address to the graduates, acknowledging their sacrifices and celebrated their achievements.

He positioned them as vital agents in shaping a modern, equitable, and globally connected Guyana. This year over 2000 persons are set to graduate with the first 580 were conferred with their master’s degrees on Monday.

“Today is a proud moment not just for you but for our nation.

“You have done more than complete a course of study, you have vindicated the trust your country placed in you. You have shown that learning remains one of the most powerful forces for personal and national development,” the President said.

GOAL was designed to support those who could not afford to study abroad or take time away from their jobs. The programme brought virtual classrooms into homes across the country, breaking barriers of distance, cost, time, and according to President Ali, even self-doubt.

President Ali added that the programme has changed not only how education is delivered, but who gets to access it.

At the ceremony, he also recognised and applauded the 70 per cent of women who have enrolled in GOAL.

“When we speak about empowering women, this is what it looks like,” the President said as he asked all the female graduates to stand as they, particularly single mothers had to balance jobs, parenting and their education.

 “You stayed the course, and now here you are with your certificate in hand, and your eyes fixed on the future. And what a future it is,” the President said.

He told the graduates that their journey is only just beginning and urged them to be role models and leaders to those around them.

“The responsibility begins today, as the future of Guyana rests in its human capital. Go forward not only as graduates, but as ambassadors of positivity,” the President said.

He encouraged all Guyanese, especially those who have not yet applied to GOAL, to seize the opportunity.