Graduates celebrate success
Sabhal Mòr Ostaig’s (SMO) graduation ceremony in Sleat on Skye earlier this month saw graduates, employees and guests gather to celebrate achievement and success.
Forty eight students graduated from the National Centre for Gaelic Language and Culture’s undergraduate and postgraduate programme.
Chairman of the board of directors at SMO Angus Macleod addressed those present, telling them Sabhal Mòr Ostaig is unlike anywhere else.
‘It is always appropriate, and especially today as we celebrate another year of success at the college, to remember why we exist. As the National Centre for Gaelic Language and Culture in Scotland, Sabhal Mòr Ostaig has a pivotal role in bringing about the revitalisation of Gaelic,’ he said. ‘We all witness here tonight the fruits of your hard work, your commitment and the help and support you received from loved ones and friends, over and above the teaching staff at the college.
‘When you take your next step on your onward journey, and each step thereafter, be sure and use your Gaelic. It has value and meaning and its honour is always worthy of defending. Be proud of your language, of your community, of your culture and of yourselves, as sure as we are all proud of you.’
As part of the evening’s events, two SMO students showcased their tremendous musical talents. Michael Steele, from South Uist, opened the evening with a lively set on the Highland pipes and Saffron Hanvidge, from Inverness, sang the famous Soraidh Leis an Àite by Màiri Mhòr nan Òran.
The blessing was given by the Rev Doctor Roddy MacLeod, from North Uist, currently a student on the BA Gaelic and Culture programme.
The graduation lecture was delivered by past college student Catriona MacPhee, from Glasgow. Well-known for presenting Gaelic programmes on BBC Alba for many years, Catriona is now teaching history in Gaelic.
Dr Gillian Rothach, principal of Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, added: ‘It is highly encouraging to see the number of students graduating from Sabhal Mòr Ostaig in 2019.
‘Sabhal Mòr Ostaig is proud to add to the number of graduates in Scotland who go out into the world of work, particularly, the Gaelic world.’
Some of those present were the first graduates from the new BA (Hons) Gaelic and Education degree. This year a new prize, in memory of Duncan MacQuarrie, was awarded to the student on this course who excelled in teaching skills in the class. This was awarded to Steven MacIver from Poolewe.
In addition to celebrating the academic achievements of students, the annual honour of Sàr Ghàidheal was awarded to two individuals in recognition of their contribution in community development, publishing and Gaelic media – Agnes Rennie, from Lewis, and Cailean MacLean, from South Uist and the Isle of Skye.
The award for Sabhal Mòr Ostaig’s Student of the Year went to Shannon Maclean from Mull.