Dookeran: No one will sidetrack me

Dookeran was addressing the students on an invitation from the college to discuss matters that could influence the morale of the students.

He advised them that they must "look beyond the moment and emotions of today and focus on the sustainability of tomorrow."

Dookeran said, "Our time would soon come to an end and you would have to decide what kind of country you want and work towards achieving that."

He told the students that as adults "it is our responsibility to create conditions under which you feel safe, have access to a proper education like the one you are getting here."

He said he was working "towards creating a society where everyone can afford to enjoy a decent standard of living, where the only criteria for deciding whether or not you will get a job in the Public Service is merit and not who you know or what political party you belong to; a society where you will have access to jobs in new industries, in information technology, engineering, geo-sciences, and meaningful and large scale agriculture."

Dookeran stressed, "All I ask of you is that you live your lives with passion. Always stand on the side of righteousness. Avoid the temptation to compromise your principles for short-term gratification. Be your brother’s keeper and always be willing to offer a hand to those in need. Never be afraid to speak your mind but remember you never attempt to infringe on the rights of others." "Strength will not be measured by how many people are afraid of you or how many people you can beat into submission. Instead, your strength will be measured by your willingness to stand up for your principles in the face of stiff opposition; your ability to win people over to your point of view without violence," he said.