The Education Minister and Chairman of the Education Council, Hon Alden McLaughlin was singing the praises of some of Cayman's young people recently when he met with future overseas students at an orientation session for scholarship winners.

"I'm very proud to see so many young people seizing the opportunity to further their education, for the future success of these Islands rests on your shoulders. Your country needs you!"  the Minister said.

He took the opportunity to encourage the 79 new scholarship students who are heading overseas for the first time to further their studies, thanks to funding from the Education Council when  they were gathered together for a session to help them prepare for their new life at university.

While most are embarking upon bachelor's programmes, there are also eight master's degree students; seven students pursuing technical/ vocational studies; and for the first time - a doctoral student: Christopher Williams, who is pursuing a PhD in Caribbean history.

"The Council is delighted to support students of such high calibre. They represent the potential of our Islands' young people at an international level," added Mr Mclaughlin.

Speakers included the Ministry Chief Officer Angela Martins; Chief Education Officer, Nyda Flatley; Secretary to the Education Council, Jennifer Smith; and the US. consular representative, Gail Duquesnay.

The Minister thanked the Education Council members for their hard work.

"Government is funding some $3.5 million in education scholarships this year for students from both Grand Cayman and Cayman Brac. The Council is proud to support able and motivated students, some of which I hope to see become teachers at UCCI to help other Caymanians do the same," the Minister told the young students.

"The Council looks forward to working with UCCI to help Christopher Williams achieve his Ph.D and set the example for others to follow."

Mr McLaughlin spoke of students who have not been successful in meeting the standards set by the Education Council to qualify for funding. "Although funding is not an automatic entitlement, the Education Council will support you in your efforts to overcome obstacles to qualification. You are however, expected to do your utmost," he said.

Students attending the orientation will study areas including dance; education; accounting; medicine; information technology; economics; business; engineering; and family counselling.  While a few are attending regional institutions, most are enrolled at schools in North America, Canada and the United Kingdom.

During the seminar, several current overseas students shared their experiences and tips. "Dedication is all you need," said Chantal Byrd, who has completed three years at the University of Western Ontario.

She encouraged the freshmen to get along well with roommates, travel in groups, and find a way to release stress - kickboxing was her choice.

"Focus from day one; don't procrastinate; get involved in at least one extra-curricular activity, and attend the campus church," said Dominic Caudeiron, a University of the West Indies (UWI-Mona, Jamaica) medical student.  He advised the new students to make a friend with someone who is a year ahead of them in studies, and to get tips, advice and past papers from them.

Mr Caudeiron also spoke of the high level of competition.

"There are over 100 students in my class, and each wants to be number one," he noted.

The event concluded with the participants enjoying refreshments, socialising and networking. The Honourable Minister wished the students well for their studies and personal development, and congratulated them on their achievements.