President Christine Kangaloo has expressed pride in the 2023 and 2024 President’s Medal recipients, praising their commitment to remain in Trinidad and Tobago after completing their studies and using their talents to contribute to national development.
Speaking at the award ceremony on September 10 at President’s House in St Ann’s, President Kangaloo said she was especially moved by the students’ determination to stay and serve, noting that their choice directly challenges the country’s persistent issue of brain drain.
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“The worry was that the country was investing resources in educating our young people, only to see them settle abroad, giving the benefit of their intellect and creativity to other countries,” she said. “I was therefore tremendously pleased to read that the vast majority, if not all of you, have expressed your commitment to staying in Trinidad and Tobago, and to devoting your time and your talents to building our country up. This, to me, is a demonstration of real integrity.”
She also commended the students for presenting a positive image of youth in contrast to the negative headlines that too often dominate. She praised them and their parents for embracing extracurricular pursuits in music, sports, debate, astronomy, and cultural activities, explaining that such involvement fosters civic pride, teamwork, and respect for others. She encouraged younger medal winners to follow the example of their peers by joining groups such as the Scouts, Cadet Force, or cultural clubs to learn lessons that no textbook can provide.
Education Minister Dr Michael Dowlath underscored that the true wealth of Trinidad and Tobago lies not in oil, gas, or land, but in the promise of its young people. He urged parents, teachers, and leaders to reinforce values of compassion, patriotism, and good citizenship, warning that if youth see dishonesty or greed rewarded, it will be difficult to expect them to aspire to higher ideals.
Tertiary Education and Skills Training Minister Professor Prakash Persad told the students that as digital natives, they possess tools and opportunities their forebears could only imagine. He encouraged them to expand networks, pursue passions, and seek balance for their well-being as they advance academically and professionally.
Among the 2023 and 2024 honorees were Ryker Harricharan and Nishka Maharaj of Hillview College, Teddy Mohammed of Hillview College, and Alicia Dipchan of St Joseph’s Convent, San Fernando, who received the CAPE President’s Medals. At the CSEC level, Hailey A. Jeffers of Naparima Girls’ High School and Reginald N. Mohammed of Naparima College were awarded gold medals. Primary school medals went to Mila Zoro of TML Primary School, Ruthvika Sarvana Kumar of Curepe Presbyterian, Aryan Rajbally of Felicity Hindu Primary School, Surya Moonasar of Kubairsingh Penal Rock Road Hindu Primary School, and Kiam Rajkumar of Freeport Presbyterian. In technical and vocational education, gold medals were awarded to Kemuel Matthews of MIC Institute of Technology, Point Fortin, and Shanelle Seales of MIC Institute of Technology, Diego Martin.
President Kangaloo closed her remarks by expressing confidence that the students’ achievements and commitment would inspire hope and strengthen the foundations of a more resilient society.
