The Minister of Youth & Sports, Hon. Bakary Y. Badjie, on Wednesday inspired graduating students of Babylon Comprehensive School with a message on courage, choices, and nation-building.
Speaking as guest speaker, the Minister praised the students’ hard work and encouraged them to pursue their dreams boldly. He reminded them that graduation marks both an achievement and the start of a new journey—one that requires patience, resilience, and strong values.
Hon. Badjie urged the graduates to follow their own path and make life decisions that add value, not just follow the crowd. Sharing parts of his personal journey, he spoke about the challenges youth may face—like pressure to choose certain careers, early marriage, or migrating through unsafe routes—and advised against shortcuts such as drug use or irregular migration .
“Life is a marathon, not a sprint,” he said, encouraging students to go at their own pace but remain consistent. He stressed the importance of skills development and further education in securing a better future, both at home and abroad.
Quoting U.S. Senator Cory Booker, the Minister said, “Real courage is holding onto that voice that says, ‘I must keep going.’”
He ended with a call for youth to take responsibility in shaping their future and contributing to national development, assuring that government remains committed to supporting their efforts.
“Go out there, reach for the stars, and serve your country with passion.” Minister Badjie urged.
