WINDHOEK â€" The International Training College Lingua held its 2011 graduation ceremony at the Windhoek Country Club Resort and Casino last week.
A total of 275 students received certificates, diplomas and advanced diplomas in different courses.

Speaking at the ceremony the founder of the college, I W Mettler-Kloppers, said the purpose of graduation ceremonies is to celebrate success and highlight the institution's academic calendar.

She urged the graduates to maintain interest in the college and contribute to the development of the country.

"This graduation is a celebration of all your stories, a recognition of the journey that each of you has walked to be here â€" a celebration of the sacrifices, the tears, accomplishments, disappointments and friendships. It is a recognition of the support of families, friends and partners and of the many lecturers you have had along the way. It signifies obstacles overcome, goals attained, and personal growth," said Mettler-Kloppers.

Of the 275 students who graduated, 150 received certificates, 76 diplomas and 49 advanced diplomas, compared to the first graduation of only 50 language students.
The Executive Director of the National Council of Higher Education (NCHE), Mocks Shivute, was the main speaker at the event.

"Graduating does not mean the end of hard work; you will have to work even harder in the world of work. What you will do and how will you fare in the world of work will reflect on the institution you have graduated from," noted Shivute.

The International Training College Lingua has to date produced nearly 760 graduates in business management, information technology, travel and tourism and languages.
These, Shivute said, are some of the priority fields identified in the realisation of the country's long-term objective Vision 2030.

Shivute reiterated the Minister of Education Dr Abraham Iyambo's remarks that "the education system must produce quality products who understand who they are, where they originate from and where they want to be in terms of the nation's vision and goal."

The NCHE launched a trace study in November last year to trace all graduates from all institutions who completed their studies in 1999-2008 to find out whether or not they are employed and if their experience of higher education has prepared them for the workplace and their intended careers, Shivute revealed.

Mwahi Tuwilika, who received an advanced diploma in travel and tourism, was the overall best student of 2010.