SENIOR journalist Garfield Angus was recently bestowed an honorary school leaving diploma from Jose Marti Technical High School in St Catherine, in recognition of his contribution to education and his work in journalism.

Angus, who never received a high school education, said the award was truly humbling, from an institution that continues to grow and excel and is now recognised as one of the highest-performing secondary institutions on the island.

“Thank you to the principal, teachers, and the Past Students’ Association for making this possible,” Angus, a senior reporter at Jamaica Information Service, told the gathering at the school’s 2025 graduation ceremony on July 2.

“Receiving this award is something I once only dreamed of. Never did I imagine it would become a reality. The road I travelled was filled with struggles — abandonment, a lack of parental support, and limited guidance. These challenges kept me from sitting in a high school classroom. Yet, today, as I stand before you and express my gratitude to the Jose Marti High family, I am reminded of the words of the late civil rights leader Dr Martin Luther King Jr: ‘Occasionally in life, there are those moments of unutterable fulfilment which cannot be completely explained by those symbols called words. Their meaning can only be articulated by the inaudible language of the heart.’ Such is the moment I am presently experiencing.”

Angus’s guardian passed when he was 14, forcing him to drop out of school while still in the primary system.

“I spent two weeks waiting at the gates of a high school in this parish, hoping for a chance,” he said. “When I was finally able to see the principal, I was told there was no space for me.”

He said that same evening he met a schoolmate who told him about another high school in Spanish Town that was accepting students.

“The next day, I went there filled with hope, only to be told that if I had come a day earlier, I would have been accepted,” he said. “Despite these setbacks, I was fortunate to have good people in my life and an unwavering determination to rise above my circumstances. The journey was long — far too long — but I persevered. Through resilience and hard work, I attained a tertiary education, and today, I dedicate myself to ensuring that individuals and organisations are highlighted in the best way possible.”

Angus declared that education has come a long way, opening doors for many young people. Today, there is a place in high school for every student leaving primary school, and as such, he urged students to stay in school and make the most of the opportunities available to them.

“There is no greater path to lasting success, dignity, and honour than a strong secondary education combined with the right skills,” he said.

“Invest in your future and build upon the foundation you are given.”

Angus said receiving the award is not just a personal honour, but a meaningful recognition of his commitment to Jose Marti Technical High School and its values.

“I hope it serves as an inspiration to future generations — encouraging students to engage with their communities and give of themselves for the betterment of our nation,” he said.

“Let this award be a reminder to always strive for excellence and never give up on your dreams, no matter the obstacles, find a way to rise. And when you do, use your education and skills to create positive change, just as I have used journalism to shine light and hope in some of the darkest places.”

Angus said he has reaffirmed his commitment to using his skills and knowledge to make a difference, both in his community and beyond.

“I wish continued growth and success for Jose Marti Technical High School, and with heartfelt gratitude, I accept this award,” he said.

Principal of Jose Marti Technical High School, Reverend Dr Austin Wright (right), in conversation with senior journalist Garfield L Angus, before Angus was bestowed with a special recognition for his contribution to education and journalism.

Senior journalist Garfield L Angus (left), is congratulated by Jose Marti principal Reverend Dr Austin Wright, after Angus was conferred with a special recognition for support to education, and his work in journalism, during the July 2 graduation ceremony at the school in St Catherine. Sharing in the occasion are Member of Parliament for St Catherine Eastern Denise Daley (2nd left), and university lecturer Dr Nadine Barett-Maitland.