By Royan Abrams
Vryman’s Erven Secondary School in New Amsterdam is gaining recognition after a 16-year-old student achieved outstanding results in this year’s Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations.
Shaquille Lindie, who secured passes in eight subjects, has defied the common perception of underperformance associated with his school.
Lindie, who is noted for his reserved demeanor, expressed his astonishment upon discovering his results.
Despite facing interruptions to his education due to the COVID-19 pandemic and teachers’ strike actions, Lindie managed to secure four Grade Twos and four Grade Threes.
He admitted that his preparation for the exams was less intense than it could have been, but attributed his success to additional lessons and consistent support from his teachers and his mother.
Lindie’s achievement is particularly significant given the school’s reputation for lower-than-average results in the National Grade Six Assessment.
Many students from Vryman’s Erven Secondary have faced stigma due to this perception.
Lindie’s success challenges these stereotypes and highlights the potential for high academic performance within the school.
His mother, Lovitta Lindie, expressed immense pride in her son’s accomplishment.
Having relocated her family from Sand Hill up the Berbice River to New Amsterdam to ensure better educational opportunities for her children, she has been a strong supporter of her son’s academic efforts.
Lovitta Lindie shared her joy and surprise upon receiving Shaquille’s results, emphasizing the sacrifices made for his education.
The head teacher of Vryman’s Erven Secondary, Shaundell Phillips, also expressed mixed feelings about the results.
While pleased with the students’ performance despite the numerous challenges, including the teachers’ strike, Phillips acknowledged the difficulties faced in preparing students for the exams.
Shaquille Lindie’s story serves as an inspiring example of overcoming adversity and underscores the importance of perseverance and support in achieving academic success.