Bayelsa State Governor Henry Seriake Dickson has described the 21 students on the state’s scholarship at the prestigious Lincoln University in the United States as worthy ambassadors, pride to the state and their families.
In a congratulatory message to the students, who graduated on May 12, Dickson said they made the state proud, having concluded their studies in flying colours and having been found worthy in character and learning.
The governor expressed his delight over Perewari Victor Pere, who graduated with First Class Honours in Maths/ Computer Science, emerged as the overall best graduating student and was named the University Valedictorian.
Pere’s brilliance has endeared him to the foremost ICT giant, Apple. There were indications last week that Apple was considering employing the young Bayelsan.
By Pere’s accomplishments, Dickson believes he has carved a niche for himself and placed the name of Bayelsa on the global map of states with exceptional and unique academic endowments.
The governor said the exploits of the 21 students in the U.S. were indications that the huge investment in free/compulsory education was beginning to yield dividends, even across the shores of the country.
The governor hailed the management of Lincoln University for their understanding and cooperation, despite the state’s inability to remit the fees of the students, as at when due.
He, however, assured the university that, with $500,000 already released to them, concerted efforts were being made to pay up the balance within the shortest possible time.