Wow, what a day it was: Friday, May 30, the convocation for 800 students!
In June 1990, the members of the BC legislative assembly passed the UNBC Act, officially creating the University of Northern British Columbia.
The official opening took place on Aug.17, 1994, with Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II visiting Prince George to officially open the university.
The event attracted upwards of 10,000 people to the campus for the ceremony and events into the evening. Many more watched on television, during a live, nationwide broadcast on CBC.
My thought was: Finally, that was overdue! We as a family attended the UNBC opening day in August 1994. It was a hot and wonderful sunny day.
I again, as so often, was tremendously satisfied to live in Prince George and felt honoured given the opportunity to participate in and be part of special city events.
The convocation ceremony this year was a highlight when Shirley Bond received an honorary doctoral degree. Shirley was a member of the Legislative Assembly for more than 20 years, successful and effective representing her large constituency. She has earned the degree threefold! Congratulations!
Experiencing the convocation as past degree recipient myself and later as a VIP, I had tears in my eyes when all the graduates, together with faculty and guests, sang our National Anthem: “O Canada, our home and native land…”
We must particularly consider the importance of such a special ceremony in the context of U.S. President Donald Trump’s weird attempt to make us the 51st state.
The whole ceremony demonstrated substance, tradition and joy, something truly Canadian.
The fresh graduates are now set to fill the many gaps in our economy, in corporations and leadership positions. Good leadership and a positive attitude are required today in industry and in politics.
In closing, there are educational options for everyone, whether it be a trade or academic education.
Generally, an educated society usually is a better society, and this is exactly what we are all thriving for. Everyone should have access to the education of his/her choice at affordable cost.
Regarding our UNBC, it is regrettable that the student enrolment numbers did not increase, something that needs to be followed up on and new incentives for potential UNBC students must be created.
This is largely the responsibility of our government. The tuition costs must be reduced or even waived, as happens in some European countries.
Albert Koehler, P.Eng., is a former Prince George city councillor.
