His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, delivered an inspiring video message to graduates asRAK Academy held a grandin-person ceremonyto celebrate the remarkable achievements, creative spirit, and academic passion of its Class of 2021.

Thesocially distanced event was attended by Sheikha Amneh bint Saud Al Qasimi, Chairman of RAK Academy and Chairman of Ras Al Khaimah’s Investment and Development Office and livestreamed to audiences around the globe. Graduation certificates were conferred to 60 students hailing from over 18 countries at the ceremony, which took place at Al Hamra International Exhibition & Conference Centre.

Following the pioneering drive-thru ceremony initiated last year due to the Covid-19 pandemic, RAK Academy has again organized and delivered an original ceremony, whereby students, parents and teachers were able to attend in a spacious indoor environment while adhering to social distancing guidelines to ensure everyone’s safety.

In the video message, His Highness Sheikh Saud said: “I sincerely hope that you have enjoyed your time in school. Never let Ras Al Khaimah be a stranger to you, as we will always need bright minds to help us on our journey to prosperity.

“Your path may lead you to foreign shores for further study or employment, but please don’t forget where your story began, as this country and this Emirate deserve the best. You have shown by your commitment through these adverse times that you are indeed a special group of people.”

Awards were given to students who achieved top marks in their previous examinations and to those who have made valuable contributions to school life.

Mr. Graham Beale, Executive Principal of RAK Academy, delivered a special message to the graduates when he said: “Whatever you choose to study, wherever your career and life choices take you, my advice is to always be aspirational, aim high and be the very best you can possibly be. Be independent and think for yourself, but also work closely with others, share ideas, and collaborate to solve problems. I have only been Executive Principal at RAK Academy for ten months but, in that time, I have been thoroughly impressed with you, the students of RAK Academy.”

Mr. Edward Bantry-White said “At ISK we recognised that the group of students worst affected by the pandemic was the Class of 2021. For two years they have had exams cancelled and they have shown extraordinary resilience and positivity. We want to give them a special moment to thank them.”

RAK Academy organized the graduation ceremony with the support of the Protocol Department of Ras Al Khaimah; Ras Al Khaimah Government Media Office; RAK Police General Headquarters; RAK Public Services Department; and RAK Civil Defense.

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