First Minister of Wales returns to deliver Graduation speech
The First Minister of Wales, Eluned Morgan, returned to the school where her journey into public life began, UWC Atlantic, to deliver the keynote address at the college’s graduation ceremony, 40 years after she graduated as a student on a full scholarship.
The First Minister addressed the Class of 2025, composed of 195 students from more than 90 countries. Almost half of this year’s graduates attended UWC Atlantic on some form of scholarship, reflecting the school’s commitment to diversity, inclusion and global citizenship.
Baroness Eluned Morgan, First Minister for Wales
“As a former student of UWC Atlantic, I know how special this place is. It’s more than just a school. It’s where many of us first discovered what it really means to live and learn with people from all over the world. It's where we had conversations that changed how we see things, and maybe even changed who we are. It’s also where some of the deepest friendships of our lives were forged — connections that endure across continents and decades, reminding us always of the common ground we share.”
In her message to students, Baroness Morgan said “As someone who once sat in your shoes, probably with the same mix of excitement and nerves, here’s what I’ll say: stay true to what matters to you. Keep asking questions. Keep listening. Keep building those bridges. Leadership isn’t about having all the answers — it’s about showing up, caring deeply and doing your best, even when things are tough.”
UWC Atlantic’s graduation ceremony celebrated the achievements of a truly global cohort, each student having spent two transformative years immersed in a rigorous academic and service-driven environment.
Principal Naheed Bardai offered his congratulations and reflections to the departing class:
“As you embark on the next chapter, I encourage you to carry forward the values and lessons that have shaped you at UWC Atlantic. Embrace future challenges with the same resilience and enthusiasm that has defined your time here. Recognise that your education is not just a personal achievement, but a tool to serve others and contribute to a more compassionate and just world. We are immensely proud of every one of you and eagerly anticipate the positive impact we know you will make in the world as you become alumni.”
The event marked a poignant milestone not just for the graduating students, but for the college itself, welcoming back an alumna who leads Wales as First Minister for Wales as proof that UWC Atlantic continues to nurture generations of compassionate leaders committed to building a better, more peaceful world.