Addressing the recipients during a formal send-off ceremony, the Minister reminded them that the opportunity is a privilege afforded to only a select few.
“First of all, I want to congratulate you for having received the scholarship,” he told the group. “Every year we are inundated as a ministry with hundreds, if not thousands of applications from students who want the opportunity. But unfortunately, everybody cannot get in.”
Minister Edward stressed that while the students earned their scholarships through merit, the award is not a personal entitlement. “The scholarship is not your property because you are a recipient. It belongs to the government and people of Saint Lucia in partnership with the government and people of Morocco.”
He reminded them that public funds, both Saint Lucian and Moroccan, are invested into their education, making it essential that they carry themselves with dignity and maturity while abroad. “Remember, you are representing a country,” he said. “How you speak, how you dress, how you conduct yourself is a reflection of 180,000 people in this country.”
Minister Edward encouraged the students to balance academics with leisure but warned them against excessive behaviour. He noted that previous groups have set both good and bad examples, and that the new cohort has an opportunity to build on the positive gains.
He further encouraged humility, warning students not to let their academic achievement separate them from their roots or the communities that helped shape them. “Do not use your education as a weapon against people who are not on the same plane as you,” he cautioned. “Let your education be a light that illuminates your community, your family and your country.”
Hon. Edward also urged the scholarship recipients to avoid unnecessary complaints and to remain resilient through challenges, an inevitable part of studying abroad. He compared conditions in Morocco to the more difficult circumstances faced by Saint Lucian students in Cuba, noting that Moroccan infrastructure and amenities would be significantly more comfortable.
“You are making a sacrifice. It will not be a walk in the park,” he advised, stressing that moments of doubt are normal for any student abroad. “Your resolve, your personality, your strength of character will be tested.”
The Education Minister expressed gratitude to Morocco for its long-standing partnership with Saint Lucia in expanding higher education opportunities. He encouraged the students to return home as qualified, grounded professionals. “Whatever you build will be a foundation for the next cohort and future generations,” he said. “On behalf of Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre and my Cabinet colleagues… congratulations for having received a scholarship to study in Morocco.”