The valedictorian of the 2023/2024 graduating class of the Eternal Life Winning Africa (ELWA) Christian Academy High School, Eric H.S. Perry Jr. is cautioning his colleagues to take pride in how far they have come and continued to strive for excellence. Accordingly, as they prepare to step into the next chapter of their lives, they are grateful for the challenges that were overcome, the friendship forged and the memories created, something they will cherish for the rest of their lives. Delivering his valedictory address at the school graduation ceremony over the weekend in Congo Town, Student Perry said it is an honor for him to represent his colleagues in expressing all of their unheard mixed emotions of gratitude, joy and accomplishment. The Valedictorian told his colleagues that with the limitless potential at their disposal, they should face the world with courage and determination, and give their best in making their parents, teachers and school proud. He then commended authorities of the institution for their dedication, hard work, knowledge, support, and for believing in them even when they doubted themselves. “Today, as we all have gathered here to celebrate and mark the completion of our high school journey, I am grateful to be standing here as the valedictorian of the graduation class of 2023/2024. First and foremost, I would like to pay our heartfelt gratitude to our great principal, Justine Tokeh, teaching staff and the 2023/2024 12th grade class sponsor, Dabi Bangali under whose guidance and direction, we have learned and flourish,” he said. According to him, they have enriched their journey with valuable lessons that will be a guiding light in their future, adding “you all have transformed this rollercoaster ride into smooth sailing by supporting and cheering us throughout”
He said whether it was late night study sessions, helping one another with assignment, or cheering each other at sporting events, they have built a bond that will remain with them for a lifetime. “My dear fellow graduates, take pride in how far you have come, have faith in how far you can go, but do not forget to enjoy the journey. We all have our own passion, story and capabilities which will lead us in our own different paths, so remember to embrace this individuality as your own superpower and take failures as opportunities for growth,” he warned. He indicated that remaining focus to their studies over the years greatly contributed in preparing them for future endeavors. He then called on his fellow graduates to carry with them the values and lessons that they have learned, thus encouraging them to strive for excellence and knowledge and try to make a positive difference in whatever they do. “A popular quote by Helen Mirren “You will stumble and fall, you will experience both disaster and triumph, sometimes on the same day, but it’s really important to remember that like a hangover, neither triumphs nor disasters last forever.” He continues: “As we are going to take our next step towards our future, I want to express my profound gratitude to each one of you, you all embrace the challenges and opportunities that lies ahead of us and shine bright in making our dreams a reality. To our pillars of strength, our parents and families, thank you for all the love and care that kept nurturing us to learn and grow. Thank you once again and congratulations to the class of 2023/2024, we did it.”
Valedictorian Eric H.S. Perry Jr. dux the school with 86 average, as 40 students graduated from the ELWA Christian Academy High School. Macpherson C. Marbiah writes/0886442881-0777250370