Education Ministry Reaffirms Support for CSEC Awardee After On-Stage Mishap

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Director of Education, Mr. Clare Browne presenting Emya Geness with a floral arrangement. Photo From Ministry of Education

The Ministry of Education, Sports, and Creative Industries has publicly reaffirmed its support for Emya Geness, a CSEC Regional Merit List awardee, following an emotional incident at the recent National CSEC Awards Ceremony.

Geness, who placed 7th in the region in Theatre Arts, experienced a moment that left her feeling embarrassed and a little demoralized when her award fell on stage. The mishap was compounded by an unkind remark from a member of the audience left her questioning her accomplishment

Recognizing the emotional impact of the experience, the Director of Education, Mr. Clare Browne, personally called Emya to enquire about her well-being. Touched by her vulnerability and resilience, he invited her to his office, where he personally presented her with a floral arrangement, a symbol of recognition, care, and encouragement.

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This gesture also served as a poignant reminder that our students’ worth is not diminished by a single misstep. It was reaffirmation that they are seen, valued, and supported and that dignity, grace, and perseverance matter just as much as grades.

“We are immensely proud of Emya’s talent and strength. She represents the very essence of what Education is all about: expression, growth, and resilience. We can assure you that the next  presentation will be of Emya receiving her new award.”

“To every student who has ever doubted themselves after a misstep, know this: you belong, you matter, and you deserve to be celebrated.”

This story was first published by Antigua News on June 21, 2025: antigua.news/2025/06/21/education-ministry-reaffirms-support-for-csec-awardee-after-on-stage-mishap. © 2025 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.

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Cory Wayland

About the author

Cory Wayland is the Social Media Co-ordinator at Antigua.News, where he manages digital content strategy, audience engagement, and real-time news publications across social platforms. With a keen eye for trending topics and a commitment to factual storytelling, Cory plays a key role in shaping the online voice of Antigua.News.

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Comments (11)

  • Patriot. June 21, 2025, 11:26 AM

    Antiguans can be so ugly at times
    Reply
    • Socrates June 21, 2025, 8:35 PM

      People who live in Antigua, you should say! The hurtful remark was not verified to have come from a native Antiguan.national
      Reply
  • Informed citizen June 21, 2025, 11:32 AM

    Mistakes or mishaps can happen to anyone, especially under pressure. It’s truly good news that the Ministry of Education is standing firmly behind the CSEC awardee. They deserve all the encouragement and recognition for their academic excellence.
    Reply
  • Antigua Surf June 21, 2025, 11:36 AM

    Things happen that’s life! But shouting negative remarks at someone who has high hopes after receiving their award at a major ceremony is not part of life! These are remarks that changes a persons whole perspective of life and education
    Reply
  • Rhea June 21, 2025, 11:37 AM

    This is leadership! Reassuring that student!!! That’s what you call support
    Reply
  • Stone June 21, 2025, 2:37 PM

    walk a mile in my shoe
    Reply
    • Apex Jones June 21, 2025, 4:13 PM

      Your shoe soul too worn out
      Reply
  • Randolin Richards June 21, 2025, 2:54 PM

    Informed citizen on Jun 21, 2025.
    Mistakes or mishaps can happen. The Ministry of Education is standing firmly behind the CSEC awardee. They deserve all the encouragement and recognition for their academic excellence. I wish all students great success and the knowledge that mistakes can be put right ✅️
    Reply
  • Rahge June 21, 2025, 4:30 PM

    I’m haply that the MOEa decided to honor that girl irrespective of what she went through. People will be people. So mean and love to bring down.
    Reply
  • Noielse June 21, 2025, 8:46 PM

    Good move by the education officials hut why would anyone make nasty comments over a mishap? Low minded people. From a low minded run country. Black people are thwor worse enemies. Black people are their own downfall. The person who made that remark should apologize to the girl.
    Reply
    • Humble June 26, 2025, 8:45 AM

      If they made that comment there is no way they know what an apology is or how to offer one.
      Reply

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