Hillview College celebrates Carnival in style

From : http://www.newsday.co.tt/features/0,192286.html

By STEPHON NICHOLAS Saturday, March 22 2014

It was a grand affair at Hillview College recently as the school held their annual Carnival celebrations on February 28 at the compound. Apart from the fun, cash prizes were also awarded to the winners of the various competitions including Original Calypso, Humorous Calypso, Most Promising Calypsonian, Know Your Icon and Engine Room competitions.

Also, it is the first time in the history of Hillview that the Canboulay Riots were reenacted. In addition, the students of Form One portrayed traditional Carnival characters with their own band of Midnight Robbers, Dame Lorrines, jab molassie, sailors, fancy Indians, and moko jumbies. And to cap off the celebrations, soca artiste JoJo (Joanna Hutton) made a guest appearance to sing her 2014 hit “Shake That.”

Estevan Ollivierra blew away his rivals in the Know Your Icon competition with a sterling rendition of Machel Montano’s “Happiest Man Alive”. Backed up by an energetic group of dancers, Estevan demonstrated his vocal skills as well as his prowess on the piano for which he received vociferous applause. Coming in second was Michael Benacia while Randy Jacob, Stefan Horrel and Shaquille Salick tied for third.

Meanwhile Johan Richards was crowned king of Original Calypso with his rendition of “The Remedy.” Rounding out the top three were Christon Joseph and Jonathan Jacobs who placed second and third respectively. Ken Holder took home two prizes for his song “Gideon,” winning the Most Humorous Calypso competition while also being named Most Promising Calypsonian.

A Carnival would be incomplete without the infectious music from a rhythm section and Hillview did not leave out this staple. Winning the Engine Room Competition was the Lower VI Form while Form IV placed second. The Upper VI unit placed third.

The Canboulay Riots reenactment was written and directed by Roshni Tewarie-Mohan and Kurtis Gross. The Musical Director was Everald Watson with Rondel Benjamin of the Bois Academy as the consultant for the production. The production was mounted by the Form Two year group as part of their Theatre Arts programme for the term. The students designed the set themselves and made the tamboo bamboo instruments. 

Brief History of Hillview College (1960-1980)

Brief History of Hillview College (1960-1980) 

by Mr. Stephen Seepersad (Present Principal)

  The early history of Hillview College indicates that the College started at the Old Presbyterian Primary School ( Canadian Mission Indian School as it was in those days) at Sheriff Street, on Monday January 17th, 1955, under the Principal-ship of Rev. Dr. Swann. Its name was then Naparima College - Tunapuna Branch.

  In the article copied from the Parnassian, which was written by Stephen Alisharan the historical background of the college as well as activities up to 1959 has already been recorded.

  Towards the end of 1960, staff and students saw the completion and occupation of block 3 & 4 to accommodate six or more classes. By this time the College had begun to look commodious and impressive. This year also marked the employment of three graduate members of staff namely Andrew Roopsingh, Clyne Boodoosingh and Stephen Seepersad.

  In May 1962, Rev I.W.M. Kirkpatrick retired as Principal to return to Canada. The new Principal appointed was Dr. Stephen Moosai-Maharaj with Mr. Stephen Alisharan, who had returned to Hillview College the previous year, as Vice-principal. The period also saw Effle Mohammed, one of the graduate teachers who had started to teach at the school when it began, leave on promotion as Principal at Couva Government Secondary School.

  The new Principal initiated several changes in the structure of the Administration. The College saw the introduction of Deans, Heads of Departments, Sports Master etc. Also introduced were a new name, that is, Hillview College, a crest with a motto, a school flag and a College song.

  A couple of years later saw the introduction of a Sixth Form ( Higher School Certificate Class ). Shortly after it started, the Cambridge Syndicate changed the name of the examination from School Certificate to General Certificate of Education and so Hillview College has recorded the name of only one student, namely Gunness Bisram ( now a Physician ) who ever gained a Higher School Certificate from this institution.

  Later the Main Building was convert to its present design and architecture with a second floor to accommodate staff and offices etc. Construction of a classroom, store-room and a games-room to the north of the Main Building was also effected. This building recently (1979) has been renovated, redecorate and converted to its present structure.

  In 1968 Dr. Moosai-Maharaj retired as Principal. Stephen Alisharan and Stephen Seepersad were appointed as Principal and Vice-principal respectively. A Fund-raising project was launched not too long afterwards in order to build a Library. Unfortunately, this dream has not yet become a reality though funds raised have been placed in a commercial bank to be used for purchasing books and equipment when the library is built. This will take place when the college is converted shortly, as we are informed, to a Composite School with Sixth Form, in keeping with the National Model.

   The years that followed saw the normal changes in staff and the school becoming better established especially the Advanced Level classes.

   On June 24, 1975, Stephen Seepersad assumed the principal-ship of the College on the retirement of Stephen Alisharan. Hubert Nagina was appointed to act as Vice-Principal. Eighteen months later Richard Kokaram was appointed Vice-Principal.

  The College continued to develop in every respect of its life. Among the new facilities that were added : The New Toilet Block, eight outdoor security lights, renovation the Annex and the Cafeteria, restoration of electricity in the classrooms and repainting the entire school.

  Over the years there have been many outstanding academic achievements by the students. These are well-known and too numerous to mention. In the midst of all these events there has been a heavy annual turn-over of staff. However, there have several persons who have remained at the College for a long period of time. They are Hubert Nagina, Richard Kokeram, C.P. Maharaj, Rafeek Mohammed, Ashra Supersad, Bedoor Maharaj, Dayanand Maharaj, Carol Lee-Look and Eleanor Singh. In this respect also Phylliss Dickson, Vercille Huggins, Harrylal Jawahir and Wildred Drayton, have remained at the College for a very long time, particularly the latter two have been employed from the inception.

  John Ragbirsingh (deceased) affectionately referred to as 'Sahib' by the staff and the students who assisted in pioneering the college until his retirement, will be remembered for his fine job at landscaping and dedication generally to the development of the college.

  Of much significance also was the excellent contribution in various capacities that was made during the early years of the college by Albert Soodeen. He passed away unfortunately while he was performing night duty at the college.

  The Cafeteria which is a vital part of the school was efficiently run for over fifteen year by John Rampersad and his wife. The won the hearts of all as they served clean and wholesome foods at very reasonable prices.

  The Administrative Committee under the guidance of the late Wilard G. Grant for over twenty years administered the college wisely and well. This position of Chairman is now being held by Dr. S. Moosai Maharaj whose leadership too is most vibrant.

   This short account of the development of the school may not have placed the many events in true historical perspective. The period of time and the space accorded to this sketch do not permit full and proper treatment of the topic. As a result it is mainly descriptive. The intention is to give the readers an over-view of most of the highlights of this period. I trust this has been achieved.

Staff Portrait : Mr. Effle Mohammed, Mr. Andrew Roopsingh, Mr. Hayden Forde, Mr. Selwyn Ramsaran,
Mr. Hubert Nagina, Mr. Clyne Boodoosingh, Rev. Isaac W.M. Kirkpatrick, Mrs. Margaret Kirkpatrick,
Dr. Stephen Moosai Maharaj, Mr. Stephen Alisharan, Mr. Stephen Seepersad,
Mr. Ralph Persad, Mr. Winston Douglas, Mr. Evans Ramnath,
Mrs. Lilian Bonaparte, Mr. Tara Persad, Mr. Keith Rameshwar .

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this document was provided by http://www.naactoronto.ca/  from Naparima Alumni Association of Canada's 30th Anniversary Edition of their Broadcast magazine. Thanks to Lystra Charles of Naparima Alumni Association of Quebec http://www.naaq.org/ & Merle Ramdial, President, Naparima Alumni Association of Canada .

Cool Down Car Show & FundRaiser

Hillview College Photography Club : Car Show Album

Canboulay Riots : Re-enactment .

2014 is the first year that Hillview College held its own Canboulay Riots Re-enactment .
Photo supplied by : https://www.facebook.com/rondel.benjamin

Benefit Concert

Benefit Concert

Hillview College Annual Walkathon & BBQ

Photo Album : Courtesy Hillview Photography Club . . .

A Carnival workshop

A Carnival workshop was held for the students of Forms 1 and 3 on Friday 7th February, 2014. The students were trained in the arts of the Midnight Robber, Moko Jumbie, Sailor, Blue Devils and were given the opportunity to learn more about the Dame Lorraine. 

Photography Club present LIGHTT

Flyer

Trinidad Guardian Article 

Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/HCPhotogClub

Press Coverage : http://www.trinidadexpress.com/sunday-mix/Photo-club-243122091.html

Ramdin to speak at Youth Awareness workshop

http://www.trinidadexpress.com/sports/Ramdin-to-speak-at-Youth-Awareness-workshop-241398161.html

Story Created: Jan 21, 2014 at 10:39 PM ECT

Story Updated: Jan 21, 2014 at 10:39 PM ECT 

 West Indies wicketkeeper Denesh Ramdin will give a motivational lecture to students at Hillview College today, during a workshop entitled “Building Youth Awareness” project which was started by the Zaheer Ali Foundation late last year.

The foundation, which was founded by former Trinidad and Tobago cricketer Zaheer Ali, will be continuing the initiative in various schools throughout the country after receiving positive feedback from the principals and staff that were part of the project last year.

Ali said that the idea behind the workshops is to take a proactive approach to fighting crime in light of the prevalence of youth violence and criminal behaviour in schools. 

Today, police officers from the Criminal Gang and Intelligence Unit will speak about criminal gangs and gang related activities, drug use and bullying, with the objective of discouraging youths from getting involved in those activities.

Prison officers, a psychologist and a psychiatrist will also be on hand to speak to the children.

Ali also noted that Flavorite brand has partnered with the foundation to provide refreshments for the students and facilitators to show their support for the workshop.

The programme is scheduled to start at 8 a.m. and run until 12.30 p.m.

59th Founder's Day Celebration

Hillview College celebrates its birthday each year on the 17th of January, encouraging our students to appreciate the rich history of our school. The guest speaker for the 59th Founder's Day celebration was none other than Rev. Damien Sieunarine, brother of our current College Chaplain, Rev. Adrian Sieunarine. 

HOBA AGM 2013 : Annual General Meeting . . .

    

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From User : http://www.panoramio.com/user/1139419

Photo taken in Tunapuna-Piarco, Trinidad and Tobago

10° 39' 12.30" N  61° 22' 52.18" W

Divali Program 2012

Divali was observed in Trinidad & Tobago on November 13th 2012.

We believe the school held this Divali Program on Friday 9th 2012.

(seeking confirmation)

the feature address for Founder's Day 2011

Don't ever dare to take your college as a matter of course - because, like democracy and freedom, many people you'll never know have broken their hearts to get it for you.

Alice Duer Miller

Mr Chairman

Principal of Hillview College, Mr Leslie Mahase

Representation of the Synod of the Presbyterian Church in Trinidad and Tobago

Representative of the Ministry of Education

Students and Staff of Hillview College

Specially invited Guests

Ladies and gentlemen

It is indeed a pleasure to be with you today as you celebrate the fifty-sixth anniversary of the Founding of this great institution, Hillview College. I wish to thank your principal, Mr Mahase for his kind invitation to deliver the feature address on this auspicious occasion. On behalf of my husband, himself a past student and myself sincere congratulations to the entire Hillview Community on achieving this milestone in your history. The Staff and students of SAGHS also extend their love and best wishes.

Hillview College opened its doors on the 15^th January 1955, at Sheriff Street in Tunapuna under the principalship of Rev Dr HF Swann. The staff consisted of Mr Effle Mohammed and Mr Stephen Alisharan who later served as Principal of the college. Forty-five young men made up the student body. (Their names are imortalised on the wall just south of this auditorium.) Its name was Naparima College (Tunapuna Branch).

Dr Allan McKenzie, Principal of Naparima College, in his greetings to the Hillview College community on their 25^th anniversary stated, “At the time we felt the need to bring to the community of Nothern Trinidad the rich traditions and quality of Education which Naparima College tried to nuture among its own student.” Today HIllview College can boast of not only living up to these expectations but building a valued reputation as a beacon of quality education in its own right.

Here are some milestones in the life of the College .

• 1951 – Official Board of the Aramalaya Church wrote to Presbytery urging the opening of a Boys Secondary School in Tunapuna. Of Interest is the Founding of SAGHS on September 17^th 1950 on the initiative of the same church.
• 1953 – Naparima College was instructed by Presbytery to proceed with plans for Secondary School Expansion which including Naps North.
• 1954 - A committee of members of the Aramalaya Congregation met with Rev Swann and Rev Gallagher of the Board of Overseas Missions to identify lands and buildings to accommodate the college. Sherrif Street was chosen as a good location since the church hall could serve as a class room and the grounds and the cowshed could be used for games.
• 15^th January 1955 classes began with 45 students a staff of 2 under the principalship of Rev Swann.
• 2^nd March 1956, 5 acres of land at El Dorado Rd was leased for 99 years at a peppercorn rental of 24c per annum.
• November 1956, work started on the new site.
• 20^th August 1957, the College was formally opened by Rt. Rev JS Thompson, Moderator of the United Church of Canada
• November 1957, the College received recognition as a Government Assisted Secondary School

As we celebrate 56 years of existence we must remember persons whose names are an integral part of our history.

• Earle Kalloo and Clarence Darsan who together with George Jitman, Harold Sukhbir, Charles Kalloo and CM Chatee who worked with Rev Dr Swann to make Naps North a reality.
• Mrs Swann, Mrs Kirkpatrick, Rev Alcorn and Rev Paul Sharma who assisted the staff of two with the teaching of Music, Religious studies and Mathematics.
• Lewis Campbell, Robert Moosai-Maharaj and Sydney Martin who freely gave of their knowledge and skill in the construction of the first permanent building at El Dorado Road in Tunapuna.
• And of course past principals Rev Swann, Rev Kirkpatrick, Mr Stephan Moosai-Maharaj, Mr Stephen Alisharan, Mr Stephen Seepersad, Mr Richard Kokaram and Mr Jeremiah Seepersad who all contribution to the Hillview College we know and love.
• I also wish to remember the many persons who I have not named who also worked to make Hillview College the school that it is today

What makes Hillview College the unique institution that it is?

This quote from an article by Mr Stephen Alisharan, member of the original staff of Hillview College and Principal from 1968 to 1975 gives a good picture of the vision of the Founders for Hillview College.

“This is a church-inspired and God-centered institution. The College is interested in imparting knowledge to the students and enabling them to acquire and develop certain skills to make them useful members of the community. But we are much more interested in deeper and basic things. Education is not merely the giving or acquiring knowledge. Education has the more difficult function of guiding the learner in the best development of his capacities for the efficient living in the most revolutionized society that Trinidad and the West Indies Federation are becoming. Education is essentially interested in producing a socially useful person”. He goes on to say “In this College be believe that God’s Holy Spirit pervades our whole lives, every moment of it, a constant guide and help, and the source of all goodness and love. In the final analysis the concerns of the Spirit and more important that the concerns of the intellect or mind.”

The Motto “Humani Nihil Alienum” – “I am interested in everything concerning mankind.” guides all matters concerning the school. Not only have students of Hillview College made a name for themselves in the Academic arena winning numerous awards and scholarships including several president medals but Hillview continues to excel in Cricket, Football, Astronomy, Scrabble and numerous other fields. The Principal and staff must be commended for the emphasis placed on the all-round development of their students. The College Song written by Dr Stephen Moosai-Maharaj and sung to the tune of a well-loved hymn proudly proclaims “All things concerning Human Ken are ours to Champion, Hillview Men”.

Here are just a few Hillview Men who have made their mark on the Landscape of Trinidad & Tobago and the world. (These are all graduates that I know personally and are just a few of many who have made us proud.)

• Vijay Naraynsing ,World renown vascular surgeon
• Satanand Sharma, Chief Justice of Trinidad and Tobago
• Mark Mohammed, Director of Public prosecution
• Stephen Kangal, member of Diplomatic Corps, Deputy High Commissioner to Canada
• Rawle Sukhu, Moderator of the Presbyterian Church in Trinidad and Tobago
• Anthony Garcia, President of T&TUTA, Principal of Fatima College
• Satanand Sharma (son of Rev Paul Sharma) Head of the Creative Arts Centre UWI.
• Dyer Narinesingh & Anderson Maxwell, Head of Chemistry Department UWI
• Roger Boynes & Rudy Indarsingh, Ministers of Government and members of parliament
• Anil Kokaram, Academy Award winner.
• Tyron Rudolfo & Ekatma Mooleedhar, Officers in the protective Services
• Dennis Puckerin, National Footballer
• Anil Rajah, National cricketer

A most impressive list that is far from complete.

In “The Hillviewer “ - 25^th Anniversary yearbook we read.

“We are not just buildings and blackboards and books. We are people”

It would be remiss of me if I did not mention three qualities that I admire about Hillview College Graduates.

• Hillview Graduates love their school.

During my 19 years as a teacher at this esteemed institution and in the 15 years since I have kept in touch with many of my students (close to 500 with the help of facebook) and a common thread are their fond memories of their days at Hillview.

• Hillview Graduates “Stay in touch”.

Muhammad Ali once said “Friendship... is not something you learn in school. But if you haven't learned the meaning of friendship, you really haven't learned anything.”

Hillview College teaches the meaning of friendship

It never ceases to amaze me that the same groups who used to “get in scrapes” at school now meet for their children’s weddings, their kids birthday parties, birthdays, to lend supports at funerals and other difficult times. What a wonderful legacy.

• Hillview Graduates are committed to their families.

Hillview has always been family and this has influenced the lives of its graduates. My experience has been that Hillview graduates have a strong sense of commitment to their families be it their wives, their children or their parents. The anecdotes are too numerous to share with you today but I believe that the example set by the adults in their lives certainly influence Hillview Men and their relationships later in life.

And finally a few thoughts as we look to the future,

Hillview College as any well-established, successful institutions is guided by policies, practices and traditions that have served it well. I humbly wish to make a few observations to the members of the Hillview Family.

To the Principal and Vice-principal, congratulations on a job well done. Remember the dream that led to Hillview College. Continue to be anchored in the vision of the Founders of providing quality all-round education for young men in Northern Trinidad.

To the staff of Hillview, you have been role models for your students. Continue to treat your students with love and kindness so they will be kind and loving adults.

To the students of Hillview, You are part of a proud family. Everything you do and say reflects on you school. Be role models in society. Keep the flag of Hillview flying high.

Remember that your background and circumstances may have influenced who you are, but, you are responsible for who you become.

Best wishes to you all.

I now wish to ask you all to stand and salute our Founders, “those we know and many we will never know” with a hearty round of applause.

Kathleen Anderson
Teacher III Hillview College (1976 – 1995)

Principal St Augustine Girls’ High School (1996 – present)

Death Notice

Trinidad Guardian : http://legacy.guardian.co.tt/archives/2008-12-06/classified/104.html

SEEPERSAD: STEPHEN RAMSUMAR M.O.M. Retired principal of Hillview College- peacefully departed this life on Monday 1st, December, 2008 at 4:40am at 107 Savannah Drive, Trincity. He was 79 years of age. Loving husband of Berla Vester Seepersad. Father of Mavis Gitanjali Seepersad and Neil Rabindranath Seepersad. Grandfather of Nikhita Kerensa Seepersad. Son of Lutchman and Mungaree Seepersad (dec). Brother of Sookdeo Seepersad. In-law of Charles Morton Bharath and Mildred Bharath (both deceased). Cousin of The Ramroop, Ramkisoon, Bharath families and many more. Uncle of many. Friend of many. The funeral service for the late Stephen Ramsumar Seepersad take place at the Aramalaya Presbyterian Church, Cochrance Street, Tunapuna, on Friday 5th December, 2008. followed by cremation at Belgroves Crematorium. No flowers by request. Donation for charitable cause will be picked up. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to belgroves Memorial Centre and Creematorium, #10 Orange Grove Road, Trincity. 645-2178.

Funeral today for former principal

Trinidad Express

Richard Kokaram



The funeral of former Hillview College Principal, Richard Kokaram will take place today at the Curepe Presbyterian Church, Lyndon Street, Curepe.

Kokaram, 67, passed away at the St Joseph Medical Associates on Monday evening, leaving behind his wife Lynette, three sons and a daughter - Dr. Anil Kokaram, Professor at Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland, attorney Vasheist Kokaram, of M G Daly and Partners, Dr Kavishti Kokaram, of Northwest Veterinary Associates and Dr Nalini Kokaram-Maharaj at the Mt Hope Medical Complex, as well as two grandchildren.

In 2000, after more than 30 years in service at the school, Kokaram retired as Principal of Hillview, where he had also served as teacher and Vice Principal.

In 1993, he received a national award for his outstanding service from the Trinidad and Tobago United Teachers' Association (TTUTA).

Kokaram served as Elder of the Curepe Presbyterian Church and also served on several Boards of the Presbyterian Church of T&T.

The funeral service begins at 1 p.m. followed by cremation at the Belgrove's Funeral Home at 5 p.m.
Link : https://web.archive.org/web/20080501132334/http://www.trinidadexpress.com/index.pl/article_news?id=161316817



Nqparima College Staff 1962 : Richard Kokaram can be seen second from left in the back row

Retired Hillview principal dies

Former Hillview College principal Richard Kokaram and his wife Lynette.



Former principal of Hillview College, El Dorado, Richard Kokaram died yesterday at Medical Associates, St Joseph. He was 67-years-old.

Kokaram spent more than 30 years at Hillview during which he served as teacher, vice-principal and principal. He served as chairman of the National Textbook Committee and was a member of the National Advisory Committee on Education and Committee appointed to examine the delinking of the teaching service from the Public Service.

Kokaram was the recipient of several commendations for his service to education and national educational development. In 1993 he received a national award for his outstanding service from the TT Unified Teachers Association.

He served as elder of the Curepe Presbyterian Church and on several boards of the Presbyterian Church of TT. Kokaram leaves to mourn his wife Lynette, three sons and a daughter.

Linnk : http://www.newsday.co.tt/news/0,77896.html

Calypso Competition

Hillview College Graduation Address

Posted: Wednesday, October 19, 2005

By Stephen Kangal
On Thursday 13 October 2005

Forty -Sixth Graduation Ceremony

Mr. Chairman
Today we honour and pay tribute to our 46th class of graduates. You the graduates have applied themselves in true Hillview tradition. You have accordingly brought honour and glory to yourselves, your parents and the Greater Tunapuna community as well as to your Alma Mater, Hillview College. You have also brought glory and renown to Trinidad and Tobago because you attained top world ranking in Mathematics and Physics.

Fiftieth Golden Anniversary
This ceremony is also being held to commemorate a landmark event- the Golden, 50th Anniversary of Hillview College. From the humble makeshift beginnings in Sherrif Street in Tunapuna to this modern educational plant located in a most idyllic setting.

I congratulate all those students who have received Certificates based on the results of the CXC and the Cambridge Advanced Level Examinations.

May I also convey to the Chairman of the Administrative Committee of Hillview College as well as to The Principal my sincerest gratitude and deep appreciation for having kindly extended to me in my capacity as member of the First Graduating Class of Hillview College, this unique and special opportunity to deliver the Feature Graduation address this evening on the occasion of the 50th Anniversary of the College.

You have done me and our pioneering class of 1955 a great honour by inviting me to speak to this distinguished assembly on this very historic occasion. I will do so with great humility.

Mr. Chairman
I have always cherished and strengthened the very close emotional link and connexion that binds and conjoins us the graduates to this College- our BELOVED ALMA MATER This connexion is what I have always fondly regarded as the Hillview Imperative- the student-school bonding and relationship.

Mr. Chairman,
Ladies and Gentlemen

The Early and Humble Beginnings

On 17 January 1955, more than 50 years ago, a group of students that included our current Chief Justice The Honourable Mr. Justice Sat Sharma assembled at Sherrif Street in Tunapuna in a make-shift building to launch what has evolved as the success story of Hillview College. We feel a sense of achievement to have been the pioneers of the great Hillview legacy- to have initiated the Hillview social mission. That old building located in Sherrif Street, the current Minister of Education would have found to be unfit even for early childhood education. But we persevered with God's help, the support of the Aramalaya Congregation and succeeded against enormous odds.

This Hillview mission was geared to serve as a catalyst:
* For human capital development;
* for pushing the transformation process of T&T from an agrarian society to one that is now industrial, knowledge-based but also agri-based.
* for the total development of the human personality to equip our graduates to respond positively and adequately to the challenges of the external operating environment.

From today you graduates are expected to become missionaries bearing the good news of Hillview College to the world. You are each a firefly trained and equipped to light the way in an area of darkness. You must be like the flickering lights of the deyas on Divali.

Our initial teaching staff in 1955 consisted of the late Rev. Harold Swann, Effle Mohammed and Stephen Alisharan. When we occupied this Hall as our first classroom in 1957 the terrazo floor was still wet. No secondary school today in T&T will begin in the same surroundings as the humble beginnings of Hillview College. Hillview has now risen to the top. It is the school of first choice of students from 36 primary schools stretching from Sangre Grande to San Juan as well as to Couva in the central heartland. You the students have a mission and sacred duty to defend, preserve and enhance this image.

What is This Hillview Mission?
Beginning 1955, Hillview College has made fifty years of outstanding contribution:
* to nation- building
* to educational excellence;
* to fostering and promoting social and economic mobility and equality;
* to the development and transformation of our untutored and vital human capital living within the suburban and rural communities of the East-West Corridor.

Urban-based Secondary Education in the 50's
Hillview College started in Tunapuna in 1955. Access to secondary education then was largely the exclusive preserve of the urban-based populations of the cities of Port of Spain and San Fernando. The Presbyterian Church broke this urban strangle hold by establishing SAGHS in 1950 at the corner of the EMR and Austin Street, St. Augustine outside of the cities.

That was also the era in which secondary education, except for the state-established QRC and St. George's College, was pioneered by the churches. I will later in this address give my own take on the need to reinforce and expand the merits of this tried, proven and successful system of denominational secondary education. This is the system that gives us choice.

Today we are also celebrating the crowning achievement of the College in its 50th year by winning for a third time the coveted President's Medal by our very own Amrik Singh Kochhar in the Mathematics, Science and Environmental Science category. Amrik placed first in the world in Further Mathematics and fourth in Physics. Aiyejina placed 5th and Anderson St. Hill placed 6th in the world in Further Maths. The College also secured 12 other Scholarships. In fact the 5 Presbyterian Secondary Schools won 70 of the 200 Scholarships on offer. Take a bow Mr. Gardner.

Let me offer my congratulations to the Principal and staff for continuing to forge, deepen and expand a teaching/learning culture of excellence and relevance. We are proud to be Hillview. I also extend congratulations to SAGHS and Lakshmi Girls' College for securing scholarships as well.

Participation in the Alumni Association

I earlier referred to the loyalty and bonding spirit shown by the early graduates. Mr. Chairman, today it is challenging to the Hillview College Alumni Association to get past students to realise and appreciate that they have a continuing moral and ethical duty and obligation to contribute to the further enhancement of the Hillview legacy. You the graduates have a natural duty, having regard to the many training and development benefits that you have derived from Hillview- to give back to mother Hillview something that can help to expand and consolidate the Hillview legacy. Gratitude breeds grandeur. Graduates you cannot achieve genuine success, however phenomenal without first manifesting gratitude.

This Hillview legacy that I speak of is:
* firstly, as a place of educational excellence;
* secondly, for Hillview to continue to open career development paths and excite new goals for all our students;
* thirdly, for Hillview to continue to inspire and evolve a sound code of spiritual and sound moral values and personal attributes. It is this that can serve as a potent antidote to counteract the current decline and decay of the moral and social fabric of our society.

May I issue an appeal to this 2005 class of graduates to participate in the activities of the Alumni Association. After 50 years of Hillview's existence we do not have a viable and credible vehicle to channel responses of gratitude of the graduates in terms that are beneficial to the Hillview legacy.

Gratitude to Parents
Today is the day dedicated to recognise, reward and celebrate not only the outstanding academic success achieved by all our graduants. I am also sure that you graduants will want me to pay tribute and to recognise the joint contribution of the staff as well as of you the devoted, loving, caring and supportive parents. The critical parenting role tends to get marginalised at graduation ceremonies over the euphoria generated by the excellent achievements of our children. But I want to recognise and pay tribute to the parents of our graduants.

The Parent-Teacher Association

I must pay tribute to the Hillview College Parent-Teacher Association. Since the inception of Hillview, the PTA has supported the school to achieve its mission that I referred to earlier. The PTA has contributed to a culture in which the students assume a sense of ownership of and loyalty to Hillview because of the active involvement of their parents in assisting the school and interfacing with the staff.

School Boards in the State System

In this context I wish to welcome the introduction of the School Board experiment in state-run secondary schools. Management boards are successfully used by the churches including the Hillview Administrative Committee. The composition of such boards in State schools must be insulated from political patronage and favouritism because the education of our children must be freed from our own brand of divisive polarised politics. All the management and technical resources present in the host communities must be harnessed for the success of the Government School Board system. If not, it will fail due to political contamination.

The Emergence of the Concordat

When Hillview began in 1955 it immediately preceded the emergence of the nationalist movement spawned during the 1956 full internal government elections. The granting of assisted government status in 1957 to Naparima College, Tunapuna Branch as Hillview was then known up to 1964 was touch and go. The new nationalist movement wanted to monopolise all aspects of national life including education. This culminated in the Concordat concluded between the churches and Government of 1960 that placed an embargo on further school building and expansion by the churches.

Today in spite of consistently delivering quality education there is a moratorium on school building by the denominational boards even though these schools are community-inspired, community- based and community- managed and driven schools. They are in fact superior to the 17 State Companies established to carry out projects and deliver services. But why is the creation of these 17 State Companies right and further expansion of the denominational system of education wrong? Why?

Constitutional Right to Choice of Schools
We the Citizens and parents enjoy a constitutional right enshrined in Part I (4) (f) of our Constitution to select the schools in which we wish our children to be educated. The church secondary schools to which Cabinet Ministers send their children have outperformed the State system both in terms of excellence of the final product as well as in achieving a stable, almost incident-free teaching-learning environment and a physical plant that is non-vandalised. Why not allow this success story of community-driven education to work and expand for the benefit of our multicultural community? Church schools constitute a form of effective decentralisation of the management of the educational system?

May I take the opportunity today to pay tribute to the late Roy Joseph, Former Minister of Education in the Executive Council of 1950-56 for the critical role he played in encouraging and facilitating the expansion of the denominational system that has always delivered total quality education. As for Hillview we cannot thank adequately the late Canadian Missionaries such Reverends Swann, Alcorn and Kirkpatrick- all who served as former Principals.

Ten years ago a feature speaker at a graduation function was expected to provide Hillview graduates with some guidelines and advice on how to enter and perform well on the job market. But this has changed. You graduants are not about to enter the world of work just yet.

The Societal Challenge

Today we launch you the brilliant and intellectually mature A Level graduants into the wider world away from the safety net and protection provided by the Hillview Community. Most of you now must proceed to tertiary education having regard to the current free access to University education effective 1 January 2006.
You the promising O' Level graduates must approach your A' Level studies with a broader vision:
* that will identify your future career paths;
* enhance the reputation of Hillview College;
* and improve the school environment.

I need not remind you all that O and A Level passes do not know qualify you for meaningful employment. Both A and O Level graduants must now aim to be part of 30% target enrolment at the tertiary level.

The Nature of the Societal Environment

What then must be your response to the new challenges that we the multicultural community of T&T face? You the graduants must address and factor these growing challenges:
* in forging your future career paths;
* training and development initiatives?
* Your preparation for your nation-building role
* In your plans to make a difference in T&T

Never in the history of Hillview College graduations must an understanding of the fundamentally changed social, economic and technological environment in T&T occupy such a pivotal place in the career determination of you the graduating class. That is the societal challenge.

His Excellency The President Professor George Maxwell Richards, The Honourable Chief Justice Sat Sharma and the Principal of UWI have recently alluded to the crime/Kidnapping pandemic that is ravishing Mother T&T.

The Leadership Crisis in T&T

We also have a crisis of leadership in T&T in spite of our affluence and our high levels of literacy. The country needs a new cadre of leaders who can help us- a multicultural community of communities to realise our full potential as gifted and well-endowed people. Those challenges manifest themselves within our immediate community level, at the national as well as at the globalised level.

You graduants must kindle a community consciousness geared to improve the lot of your own home and school communities that nurtured you. The villages need leaders and activists to articulate their legitimate concerns. In T&T there is sadly a correlation between illegal agitation, demonstrations, burning tyres and blocking the roads and the delivery of your entitlements- to get basic community needs. That is how uncivilised and uncaring we have become.

Those of you graduates proceeding to A' Level studies at Hillview have an obligation to seek out and assist slow learners in the lower forms of Hillview. This is called Peer Group Learning. It is also an expression of the volunteer culture into which you graduates must immerse yourselves.

It may help to reduce the O' Level failure rate considerably. You can make a difference even in the life of one lower form student.

Loyalty and Patriotism
You must develop within your psyche a commitment to Trinidad and Tobago. You must put a stop to the brain drain that is a form of injustice to Dharti Mai T&T. You cannot be obsessed exclusively with developing your professional career to promote your own well being - to achieve all the trimmings and trappings of material, professional and social success. We need genuine nation- builders and real community leaders as well. We need models for our youths to emulate and surpass. You the graduants have to nurture patriotism and loyalty to T&T. You cannot assess your civic role exclusively by how well you do professionally. You must develop a social and community-oriented conscience. You must cultivate honesty and integrity- the spiritual side to your personality. You cannot afford to be sucked into the sub-culture of drink, drugs, drive and death on our roads. That is robbing us of some of our vital human resource. Order Graduates! Please do not cross the border! Heaven's first law is obedience to your parents and teachers. Drugs and weaponry do no make you a big man!

That is the standard of ethical conduct that your motto HUMANI NIHIL ALIENUM expects of you the members of the Hillview community. Your life must be humanity-centred and people driven.

You graduates must go back to basics. That will be the true measure of genuine success.

THANK YOU GRADUATING CLASS, LADIES AND GENTLEMEN

50th Anniversary

Today marks the 50th Anniversary since Hillview College was established.