

By S.Browne. Updated 5:53 p.m., Monday, March 30, 2026, Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4).
Prime Minister of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Dr. Godwin Friday, has praised the work of the “Hugo Chávez Frías” Venezuelan Institute for Culture and Cooperation (IVCC), highlighting its role in strengthening cultural ties and fostering closer relations between Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and Venezuela.
The Prime Minister made the remarks on Thursday, March 26, 2026, during the academic and cultural closing ceremony for the January–March 2026 term, held at the Embassy of Venezuela in Ratho Mill. The event brought together students, educators, national officials, members of the diplomatic corps, media representatives, and invited guests.
Dr. Friday underscored the importance of education, language learning, and cultural exchange as essential tools for expanding opportunities and deepening understanding among Caribbean peoples. He commended the IVCC for its continued contribution to Vincentian society, particularly through the teaching of the Spanish language and the promotion of Venezuelan culture.

At the opening of the ceremony, the Head of the Venezuelan Diplomatic Mission in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Francisco Pérez Santana, highlighted the strategic importance of the IVCC as a space for regional integration, human development, and the strengthening of bonds between sister nations. He noted that learning Spanish serves as a valuable asset in areas such as tourism, diplomacy, trade, and international cooperation.
The Academic Coordinator of the IVCC, Dr. Andreína Bermúdez Di Lorenzo, also addressed the gathering, praising the dedication, perseverance, and discipline demonstrated by students throughout the term, as well as the commitment of the institute’s teaching staff in supporting their academic progress.
The ceremony featured a range of academic, cultural, and artistic presentations that reflected the holistic approach to education promoted by the IVCC. These included remarks from Professor Nauris Sam on behalf of the teaching staff, musical performances by students participating in the Venezuelan cuatro workshop, and presentations from various course levels.

A notable highlight was a research presentation by Level 6 student Christiana Moses, titled “The Use of the Media in Wars,” which was recognised for its analytical depth and strong command of the Spanish language as a tool for critical reflection.
One of the central moments of the event was the certificate presentation, during which Prime Minister Friday personally awarded certificates to students who successfully completed the academic term, recognising their commitment and achievement.
The event concluded with the presentation of certificates, an official group photograph, and a moment of fellowship, reaffirming the shared commitment of the Embassy of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela and the IVCC to promoting education, cultural exchange, peace, and stronger ties between the peoples of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and Venezuela.
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This information was sourced from a press release sent to us by the Embassy of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela.





