The Alpha Vocational Training Centre’s graduation ceremony, held on November 20, 2024 under the theme “Upward and Onward in the Pursuit of Excellence,” celebrated a graduating class four times larger than the previous cohort. This milestone was a testament to the students’ perseverance in completing two years of training to earn their trade certifications.
Ms. Marcia Tai Chun, CEO of the Sisters of Mercy of Jamaica, shared the inspiring legacies of Catherine McAuley and Jessie Ripoll. Setting the tone for the rest of the ceremony, Ms. Tai Chun, using a quote from Catherine McAuley, encouraged graduates to “do ordinary things extraordinarily well.” Following this, Principal Poyser shared with teachers, parents and students some of the highlights from this past academic year which included a school reading challenge, achievements in the Royal School of Music examinations, Personal Development workshops and PTA activities. Mr. Poyser reflected on his own experience of growing up at Alpha, and how the institution developed his skills and parts of his character which have stayed with him to this day.
The event’s Guest Speaker was the Reverend Jason Downer whose authenticity and down-to-earth nature allowed him to form an instant connection with his audience. Attendees listened keenly as Reverend Downer recounted remarkable stories of people who, like many of our students, came from rough or tragic beginnings yet went on to do great things. “Don’t think you’re at a disadvantage,” he admonished the young men, “Your skill can take you places.” He left them with four tips on pursuing excellence. These are accepting the past, engaging the present, impacting the future, and doing all things with God at their side.
The event concluded with certificates of achievement being awarded to school-leavers as well as the first and second year students in the Carpentry, Barbering, Music, and Screen printing. Aside from typical awards denoting one’s vocational and academic accomplishments, special awards were given such as the “Most Improved” and the “Principal’s Award”. Eleven barbering students received official licenses (approved by Kingston and St. Andrew Municipal Corporation); seven of whom received training licenses for apprenticeships and four of whom received professional licenses enabling employment in the field. These licenses were given out by Sister Maria Teresa Muhuhu, RSM who, through her work at the Oscar Romero Centre Youth, financially supported these students throughout the license application process. A pleasant surprise came in the form of teaching awards; one of which (i.e. the Long-Service Teaching Award) was bestowed to Ms. Golding who has blessed Alpha with 23 years of her hard work and expertise.
The graduation and prize giving ceremony was a testament to the spirit of excellence and tenacity which we strive to inculcate in our Mercy school communities. We are incredibly proud of this year’s class of graduates and wish them all the best in their future careers!
