PM Dean Barrow
"Now I believe you have asked here principally because you want to know my thoughts on the sort of society you are entering in your new capacity as graduates of the University of Belize. Where is Belize and where are we going? Fundamental to everything is of course the economy. We have like almost everyone else on the planet been affected by the global recession but the good news is that the first quarter figures for this year suggest that the recovery has indeed begun. Sadly though everything we do concerning growth and development and progress as a nation is not just inflected but fundamentally affected by the great incubus that preys upon our hopes and dreams and aspirations. I speak of course to the matter of violent crime in our urban areas especially Belize City. Of course we all recognize that the current environment of muggings and shootings and murderous disorder is a pot that has been stewing for a very long time. A complete resolution of this psychosis will not be achieve today or tomorrow but unflagging commitment and the proper comprehensive interventions will produce longer term results. The talent of our people, these are things that endure not withstanding our trials. When I look around the region I look at our giant neighbors to the North and I am reminded of all that we have to be thankful for. Here there are no culture wars no divisive debate over tribe, sexuality, immigration. Indeed where the latter is concern you have only to look at the faces of the UB graduates. We could serve as a model; we have welcome people from all over but especially from Asia, the Middle East and very close to home Central America. We have watch the demographics of this country experience and see change without any eruptions, anyone panicking, and anyone going ballistic. We operate a truly plural democracy in which all can aspire and achieve politically including to the highest office in the land."

In total for this graduation season UB is seeing off 736 graduates at various campuses. In January, the University held a commencement exercise for 295 graduates.