The event brought together students, parents, educators, and dignitaries to honour the achievements of the Class of 2025, marking a significant milestone in their academic and personal journeys.
The graduation ceremony was marked by powerful speeches that celebrated the resilience and growth of the students while encouraging them to embrace the uncertainties of the future with confidence and courage.
The auspicious occasion was graced by the chief guest of honour, Mrs Cany Jobe Taal, Strategy Petroleum Engineering and Energy Executive, who supported the successful event of a landmark.
Delivering the keynote address, Marina International School’s Director Jonathan Warner shared heartfelt words of encouragement with the graduates. He reflected on the challenges faced by the Class of 2025 and urged them to see obstacles as opportunities for personal development.
“As teachers, we are honored to hand over your certificates, but we also feel a responsibility to offer guidance,” he said. “Remain calm in times of uncertainty. It is during difficult moments that your capabilities and skills evolve the most.”
Mr Warner emphasised that success rarely follows a straight path and that embracing life’s unpredictability is key to growth. “Don’t look for a life free from risk. Challenges are among life’s greatest teachers,” he advised.
Acknowledging the natural fears that come with new beginnings, he reminded the students, “It’s okay to be afraid. True courage means moving forward despite the fear.” He concluded by encouraging them to stay open to unexpected opportunities, which often pave the way to success.
Alpha Amadou Barry, Chairperson of the Marina School Board, also addressed the audience, urging graduates to reflect on how far they’ve come.
“Think of the early mornings, the late nights, the tough lessons, and the friendships that helped you through,” he said, adding: “You are standing on a foundation built with years of determination, perseverance, and hard work.”
Barry reminded the students that there is no shortcut to lasting success. "There is no elevator to success; you must take the stairs one step at a time, with intention, discipline, and courage," he noted, underscoring the importance of the school’s core values - respect, achievement, integrity, service, and empathy - as lifelong guides for the graduates.
He also paid tribute to the school’s dedicated staff, calling them “Marina heroes” for their unwavering support. “Thank you for shaping these bright young minds into Marina stars,” he said.
Mr Barry extended his appreciation to the wider Marina community including school leaders, staff, parents, and security personnel for their collective efforts in upholding the institution’s excellence in education.
Also speaking at the event was Mr Karl Frederick Paul, the United Nations Resident Coordinator in The Gambia, who praised Marina International School for its longstanding contribution to education. He encouraged the graduates to continue striving for excellence.
“If you stay true to the values and principles taught here, your future will be full of promise,” he stated.
At the end of the august ceremony, the graduates left with a sense of accomplishment and a renewed commitment to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
