One year ago, airline pilot Israel Duncan issued a challenge to students of his alma mater, Holy Cross College. He said he would give his entire month’s salary, minus expenses and deductions, to any student of the school who won a national scholarship.
On Friday, Duncan returned to the school and kept his promise by presenting a cheque for $8,000 to Dinesh Daniel who earned a Natural Sciences scholarship.
Daniel, who was honoured at the school’s Achievement Day, is the second Holy Cross student to be awarded a national scholarship.
Duncan received a thunderous applause when he walked on stage to make the presentation to a surprised and elated Daniel.
The young scholar said he was grateful for the much needed financial assistance as he furthers his studies and is looking forward to making a positive difference in society.
He told his former schoolmates their only limits are what they are prepared to achieve for themselves.
He pledged to follow the moral values and teachings of Holy Cross and to keep the school’s flag flying high.
Keynote speaker Chief of the Defence Staff Rear Admiral Hayden Prichard, who is also a past student of Holy Cross College, told the students making good choices is a long-term plan for the welfare of all.
He said they should not only think about today but what is 15 to 29 years ahead of them.
“Be strategic and do not allow adults to underestimate you in your development and growth,” he said.