Nassau, THE BAHAMAS – Chief Executive Officer of the Nassau and Paradise Island Promotion Board (NPIPB) Joy Jibrilu has delivered a profound message to the University of The Bahamas’ (UB’s) newest alumni: embrace innovation, but never lose sight of what makes us human.
Addressing nearly 600 graduates at UB’s Spring 2026 Commencement Ceremony on Thursday, May 28th, at the Nassau Cruise Port, Jibrilu challenged members of the Class of 2026 to prepare for a rapidly changing world by developing attributes that technology cannot replicate.
“The future will reward people who can do what algorithms still struggle to do: exercise judgment, show integrity, care deeply about other people, and lead with wisdom,” she noted.
“So yes – embrace technology, learn AI, innovate boldly, but never outsource your humanity because the world does not simply need smarter people it needs wiser ones.”
Jibrilu, the first Bahamian and first woman to lead the NPIPB, was the commencement speaker under the theme, “Honouring the Journey that Shaped Us, Embracing the Future that Calls Us.”
Her message helped set the tone for a ceremony where the emphasis was on character, service and leadership as well as academic achievement.
Class Valedictorian Zoe Turner, a BA Media Journalism graduate and recipient of the prestigious Governor General’s Award, told her fellow graduates to look beyond personal success and commit themselves to making a meaningful difference in their communities and country.
“The University of The Bahamas has profoundly impacted my life. This institution did not simply educate us, it prepared us. It taught us to adapt, think critically, persevere, and perhaps most importantly, rise to the challenges that life will inevitably place before us,” said Turner.
“To my fellow graduates: never underestimate how far you can go from where you started. I used to think ‘I’m just a girl from Cat Island’. But humble beginnings catapult you to a powerful destiny. Just ask the giant-slayer, David. And look where I’m standing now.”
Turner encouraged graduates to embrace lives of purpose and service, adding that the world does not simply need more degree holders, but people willing to our nation and the world. Leyhanessa L.C. Rolle, a BSc. In Electrical Engineering Technology grad, earned the prestigious President’s Award, as the class salutatorian.
In his remarks, UB President Dr. Robert Blaine, III, reminded graduates that their education carries responsibilities beyond personal advancement. President Blaine told them The Bahamas needs leaders capable of navigating challenges that have yet to emerge.
“Excellence is never grown in isolation,” said President Blaine. “Today is possible not because of a few, but because of many. I am so honored to have joined this important and expansive collective effort. And now, Class of 2026, as UB alumni so have you.”
Chair of the UB Board of Trustees Allyson Maynard Gibson, KC, highlighted the significance of the graduating class at a pivotal moment in the nation’s development, describing graduates as agents of lasting change.
“You are a transformational ripple in the ocean. You are living proof of what happens when a community and a nation invest in its people. You are the hope our country leans on and, in many ways, the answer our country has been yearning for,” she said.
“That is not a small thing. It is a very big deal, especially at this defining point in our national growth and development.”
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Science and Technology the Hon. I. Chester Cooper also urged the graduates to anchor their future success in strong values and personal integrity.
“Your qualifications, that paper, they are critical. But in this world what matters most are character and integrity. This University has not only educated you. It has shaped you,” he said.
“Because character is built in challenge. Character is built when integrity is tested. Character is built when you choose discipline over excuses, courage over fear, and truth over convenience.”
The commencement ceremony brought excitement and celebration to downtown Nassau. An academic procession, which preceded the ceremony, led by the Royal Bahamas Police Force Marching Band made its way from Rawson Square to the Nassau Cruise Port amphitheatre, where hundreds of family members, friends, faculty, staff, students and alumni gathered to witness the milestone occasion.
Rounding out the highest honours, Javan Johnson, a BSc in Hospitality Management graduate, received the UB Alumni Association Leadership Award while Travis Cartwright, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing graduate, received the Arlene Albury Scholar-Athlete Award.
