A total of 48,833 students from all educational sectors in Zone 8 celebrated their graduation as new high school graduates of the Republic of Ecuador, according to a March 10 announcement. The ceremonies took place at schools across Guayaquil, Durán, and Samborondón, marking the end of an important academic stage and opening doors for further education and employment opportunities.
The events were highlighted by a ceremony at Unidad Educativa Fiscal 28 de Mayo in Guayaquil, where Gilda Alcívar García, Minister of Education, Sports and Culture, presided over the graduation of the school’s eighty-first class. In this event alone, 831 students received their diplomas in an atmosphere described as joyful and proud.
Alcívar García said that earning a high school diploma is “the result of years of effort, perseverance and overcoming challenges,” adding that it marks “the beginning of new opportunities.” She told graduates: “Each one of you has traveled a path full of learning, challenges, dreams and effort. Today one stage ends but another begins in which you can build your life project and contribute to the progress of our society.”
She also recognized teachers for their dedication: “Your dedication allows us to build quality education based on values with a vision for the future.” Alcívar García acknowledged families’ support as well: “Behind every graduate there is a story of support, sacrifice and love that also deserves to be celebrated today.”
Danna López Mero, who carried the national flag as top student in her class, shared her feelings about reaching this milestone. “Today is a very special and exciting day for all of us. We have completed a stage full of learning and challenges and we are proud to have made it here. This achievement also belongs to our families and teachers who accompanied us along the way,” she said.
The graduation ceremonies mark an important transition for thousands of young people who now prepare to face new academic or professional challenges with hopes to contribute positively to Ecuador’s development.
