HM graces Shercol convocation

October 23: His Majesty the King awarded degree certificates to over 420 graduates of 2006 and 2007 in Sherubtse college yesterday during its 12th convocation ceremony.

His Majesty said that the biggest achievement of the graduates is that they can now stand on their own feet. His Majesty reminded the graduates that the wealth of our country is its citizens. “You and I – we have our youth in common. We have a blank page to write our own future, to carve our own destiny. Let us make the best of this opportunity,” said His Majesty.

His Majesty also urged the graduates to adhere to the goodness of Bhutanese society. The uniqueness of our forefathers is that they’ve worked with dedication and compassion for the country, and in harmony with each other, said His Majesty.

Graduates from all parts of the country gathered in the college, some even coming all the way from as far as Samtse to take part in the event. Most graduates, Kuensel talked to, said that they decided to come after they heard His Majesty would grace the event. “It doubles the pleasure of being a part of the event. We receive our degree and a photograph with the King, which is a priceless gift,” said Sonam, a 2006 BA graduate.

His Majesty graced the convocation ceremony after having walked through Narang gewog in Mongar and Durung village in Trashigang, visiting the houses and families affected by the earthquake.

His Majesty said that he was very pleased with the work done by the government in its response to the disaster. However, when people lose everything they have built with their hard work and toil, it was deeply saddening. His Majesty said that some of the graduates’ families had been affected. His Majesty said that he would spend the winter in the eastern dzongkhags, personally overseeing the rebuilding of people’s lives and property.

His Majesty said, “It’s not the physical presence of Bhutan that makes it special. The hills, mountains, rivers, valleys and streams have existed for centuries and will continue to do so. What created a special country is that, for generation after generation, our forefathers have served their country with a unique and special love. We’ve always been a compassionate society, based on the values of kindness, integrity and respect for our elders and parents – a nation founded on unity and harmony of the people.”

“Thus, our people have always been the jewel of the nation. We must always uphold these traditions and values of service to people and country, so that they may become stronger year after year, era upon era,” His Majesty said.

15 graduates, who excelled academically in their respective disciplines in the university examinations, were awarded the medals and certificates of the Honorary President, Her Majesty the Queen Mother, Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck.

source: kuensel