August 15, 2012 – Mandeville, Jamaica … Nigel Coke/IAD
Prime Minister of Jamaica, The Most Honorable Portia Simpson Miller received a honorary degree from Northern Caribbean University (NCU) during its 2012 Graduation Commencement Exercises on August 12, at its main campus in Mandeville, Jamaica.
Prime Minister Simpson Miller was conferred with the Doctor of Public Service during the first commencement exercise at which she was the keynote speaker.
“I thank you for conferring upon me the honorary doctor of Public service, which I accept with humility and I dedicate to the people of Jamaica whom I have dedicated most of my life.”
She added “The Bible says that a city set upon a hill cannot be hidden, and NCU, formerly West Indies College, has been lit in a bright, shiny educationally beacon which has more than 100 years of contribution in education.”
The Prime Minister praised the Adventist Church for its contribution to nation building.
“I extend the appreciation of a grateful nation to the Seventh-day Adventist Church with its more than half a million members in Jamaica for your sterling contribution to the spiritual, educational, economic and social development of our people and our nation,” she added.
Never Forget Parents
As the prime minister addressed the more than five hundred graduates assembled, she challenged them not to forget their parents as they climb the ladder of success.
“I commend those mothers and fathers who would forgo the church hat or a new dress or new furnishing to ensure your education. You must never forget that or their contribution in ensuring that you are here today,” said Simpson Miller.
“There are times,” she continued, “when people rise to a level and they tend to push their parents or guardian in the background because they do not speak the Queen’s language. If your friend cannot accept them, let those friends move out of the way. I am an example. I am from humble beginning and look where I am today.”
Former Ambassador of Jamaica to the United States of America, Her Excellency Audrey Marks was the second commencement speaker and was also given an honorary Doctor of Public Service degree.
NCU Recognizes Excellence
The University also recognized Digicel Jamaica as its 2012 award recipient of the president’s medallion for being a role model in the society and it contribution to NCU’s growth and development.
Dr. Bertram Melbourne, Professor of Biblical Language and Literature at the Howard University School of Divinity, was named the 2012 Product Sample for being an outstanding alumni who has exemplified the ethos and values of the institution.
Approximately 910 students graduated during this year’s graduation commencement exercises in NCU and its extended campuses.
