After close to two years of severe disruptions to school operations, learning institutions at all levels across the island were able to return to face-to-face graduation ceremonies this year. CIBC FirstCaribbean facilitated that move with financial support to the tune of XCD 11,000.00 to twenty-two (22) schools from Pre-school, Infant, Primary, and Secondary levels island wide. The contributions came at an opportune time to cover the cost of awards for the contributions and outstanding performance of the students during the academic year. School representatives told CIBC FirstCaribbean that the past two years were very challenging due to the pandemic. Strict protocols, restrictions and financial challenges did not allow for the hosting graduation ceremonies which the bank’s Country Manager Nigel Ollivierre described as “very significant” for students. “Graduation is a landmark event in the school life of students because it a shared moment of celebration of achievement while also signaling the beginning of a new chapter towards advancement and personal autonomy,” Mr. Ollivierre said. He added that “CIBC First Caribbean felt it was a good investment to help our children regain a sense of balance and normalcy as we learn to live with COVID 19. To be able to duly celebrate their achievements with their peers and their families was even more essential as the challenges of the past two years were no doubt a test of their perseverance and focus”.

  Caribbean, St Lucia