CARIBARENA Antigua & Barbuda

Antiguan student Ariel Maynard, who topped the 2009 CSEC examinations, on Tuesday received her award from the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) and the United States Embassy.

At a simple ceremony in the office of the director of education, representatives from the Embassy in Barbados, education officials, the honouree, her father, along with the principal and students of the Baptist Academy, gathered to share the moment.

Director of Education Jacintha Pringle said the ministry was proud of Ariel Maynard’s accomplishments, and encouraged her to continue striving for success.

“Do not allow any obstacle to stand in your way, as you carve out a niche for yourself in this world," she said. "Choose your friends wisely, since they can greatly influence your thought, deeds and to an extent what you will want to do in the future."

Pringle congratulated Maynard’s parents for supporting their daughter, and encouraged them to continue motivating her so she can always make them proud. She also singled out the Baptist Academy of Antigua for the work being carried out, which is leading to great results.

Rick Switzer of the US Embassy in Barbados said the ceremony reflected the embassy's commitment, along with the CXC, to encourage and honour educational achievement.

“The embassy and CXC are pleased to work to present these awards for a second consecutive year. The United States understands that educating the youth is the key to democracy and social progress,” Switzer noted.

He added that the embassy will continue to support the rewarding of high achievers.

CXC’s local registrar Myrick Smith also praised Ariel Maynard, and encouraged her to continue striving for excellence.

“Let it be part of your aim to not only be an example, but to do your part in encouraging young people, especially our boys to continue working hard, and be dedicated to achieving greatness,” Smith told Maynard.

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The CXC local registrar also issued a challenge to students throughout the country, saying the time had come for an Antiguan and Barbudan to be named the top student for CXC within the region, adding that it has been a while since the country has boasted of such a feat.

In her response, Maynard, now a first year A-Level student at the Antigua State College, expressed how humbled and honoured she was for being recognized by the US Embassy and CXC for her hard work.

To her peers, Maynard noted, “Those of you who will write CXC this year or in the future, set high goals for yourself. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. To parents, children aren’t the only ones who should be working. You need to help motivate them, care for them, love them and help them to achieve their goals."

Maynard secured distinctions in the 10 subjects she wrote at the 2009 sitting of the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate Examination (CSEC), making her the top student in Antigua and Barbuda.

 

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