BSK students soar high at graduation and achievement festival

• Heartfelt messages from faculty, parents, and guest speakers echoed across the ballroom, honoring a graduating class whose determination, intellect, and compassion embody hope for a brighter future.

In two inspiring evenings filled with pride, passion, and perseverance, The British School of Kuwait (BSK) held its annual Graduation and Festivals of Achievement 2025 at The Regency Hotel. On April 14 and 15, the school celebrated the academic and personal milestones of students from Years 11, 12, and 13 — a class now ready to embrace the future.

April 14 spotlighted the achievements of Year 11 students, while April 15 honored the graduating classes of Years 12 and 13. Each evening had its own special energy, capturing the hopes, dreams, and determination of a new generation ready to make their mark.

These ceremonies were more than just annual traditions; they marked the culmination of a transformative educational journey—one in which minds were sharpened, characters shaped, and aspirations set into motion. Coinciding with the school’s 48th anniversary, the events celebrated nearly five decades of educational excellence and were attended by distinguished guests, including ambassadors, dignitaries, educators, and proud families.

Throughout both evenings, heartfelt messages from faculty, parents, and guest speakers echoed across the ballroom, honoring a graduating class whose determination, intellect, and compassion embody hope for a brighter future.

Nations thrive through knowledge and youth: Sheikh Faisal Al-Hamoud

In his keynote address, Sheikh Faisal Al-Hamoud Al-Malek Al-Sabah, Advisor at the Amiri Diwan, congratulated the graduates and encouraged them to pursue higher academic goals, including master’s and doctoral degrees. He praised their efforts, as well as the dedication of their families and teachers, noting the joy reflected in the eyes of proud parents.

Sheikh Faisal also commended student Fatima Al-Shawaf for her heartfelt recitation of the Holy Quran, promising to honor her personally at the Amiri Diwan.

Describing BSK as “an esteemed institution with decades of educational expertise,” he emphasized that “No country can advance without the power of learning, the pursuit of knowledge, and the vision of its young people—the nucleus of its future.”

Let passion and curiosity lead you: US ambassador

In her address, H.E. Karen Sasahara, the U.S. Ambassador to Kuwait, congratulated the graduates and encouraged them to remain open to new experiences, embrace discomfort, and let curiosity lead the way.

“Chase your passion, but remember: passion alone is not enough. It must be paired with guidance, strengthened by discipline, and deepened by commitment,” she told the students.

Ambassador Sasahara also warmly welcomed those planning to continue their academic journeys at American universities, emphasizing the value placed on students who demonstrate strong academic foundations, global perspectives, and the courage to dream big.

Embracing innovation, honoring tradition: Sadiq Al-Mutawa

Chairman of BSK, Sadiq Al-Mutawa, expressed pride in the school’s growth and commitment to modern, high-quality education. Marking 48 years since its founding, he highlighted the integration of artificial intelligence into the academic ecosystem.

“AI is no longer a distant concept; it’s now a partner in our creativity, decision-making, and daily work,” he noted, while urging graduates to persevere and give back to their communities.

Vera Al-Mutawa, Founder and Director General of BSK, praised the graduates’ transformation into confident, capable individuals.

“Work hard, but enjoy the journey. Chase success, but not at the expense of kindness,” she advised.

While recognizing the role of AI and virtual tools, she reminded students: “Technology can assist you, but it can never replace your creativity.”

Seek passion, not just a job: Dr. Hamad Yaseen

Dr. Hamad Yaseen, Associate Professor at Kuwait University’s Health Sciences Center and Visiting Researcher at the Mayo Clinic, encouraged students to embrace challenges as the foundation of true resilience.

“Persistence is born not from comfort, but from adversity,” he said, urging graduates to keep learning and pursue their passions, not just a paycheck. While technology may shape the future, he reminded them, it is human values that will preserve it.

Nurturing thinkers, innovators, and future leaders: Emma Bowie

Emma Bowie, Principal of BSK, praised the graduates for their exceptional achievements and highlighted the school’s dedication to preparing students for a world of constant change and limitless opportunity.

“In an era driven by AI and rapid innovation, success will depend not just on knowledge, but on contribution,” she said.

She emphasized BSK’s mission to nurture intellectual growth, emotional resilience, and personal integrity within a supportive, student-centered environment.

“Their success is the result of love, guidance, and relentless effort,” she concluded.