Cuban trained economist urges new graduates to remain humble and serve

Cuban-trained economist and Secretary of the Cuban Alumni Association of St. Kitts and Nevis, Mr. Theodore Phipps

ST. KITTS, SEPTEMBER 30, 2010 (CUOPM) – Recent graduates from Cuban universities have been urged not to be carried away by their achievements but to remain humble and serve St. Kitts and Nevis.

Giving an overview at the 2010 Cuban Alumni Association Graduation Ceremony, Alumni Secretary Mr. Theodore Phipps of Saddlers urged the 23 graduates of their commitment to serve St. Kitts and Nevis.

“You are no stranger to trabajo voluntario (voluntary work) don’t leave it in Cuba practice it here as well,” he advised.

He told the new professionals in nursing, accounting, medicine and early childhood education that their academic achievements act as a base for their career.

“Learn all you can about the institution and try to incorporate the positive qualities and characteristics you have, be it in personal attitude or knowledge gained. Do not go there feeling you know it all as each organisation has its own way of operating. Respect your superiors. They were put there for a reason. It is true that some might be placed for the wrong reasons; but just demonstrate what you are capable of with humility. Humility is the greatest asset or skill which you can take to your workplace. When gain it places you a level higher, it promotes you, it speaks well of you and it is indeed a rare skill which many of us fail to achieve, so have no fear about the job market, humility will be your marketing department,” the Cuban trained economist advised during the ceremony at the Anglican Church Hall (Old Basseterre Girls School).

St. Kitts and Nevis Minister of Education, Sen. the Hon. Nigel Carty (left) presents to Nursing graduate Ms. Jennifer James

Mr. Phipps noted that there will be challenges of superiors “who believe you have come to take their place and could make your environment seem like a living hell.”

“I would tell you a secret; though it is true you are going to take their places, they shouldn’t be intimidated they should find it a privilege to pass on their knowledge to you. They are not going to be there forever, eventually they will have to leave. So as it is, you will have to continue the work,” said Phipps.

He used the opportunity to thank the Government of the Republic of Cuba and the Government of the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis “for having given you the opportunity to realise your career dreams you and your families should be proud.”