Queen’s College stages “50 Years of Girls” Exhibition

…as alumna Minister Priya Manickchand delivers feature address

Local Government and Regional Development Minister Priya Manickchand on Thursday delivered the feature address at Queen’s College’s “50 Years of Girls” Exhibition.
Minister Manickchand, an alumna of Queen’s College who attended from 1987 to 1992, was a proud member of Durban House. Her children, who currently attend the institution, and their father, are all members of Pilgrim House.
In her address, Minister Manickchand reflected on the legacy of the college and the responsibility that comes with being part of its rich history. She posed a thought-provoking challenge to current students and alumni alike:
“As I close, I ask you; what is the college we would like to see? What is the QC we would like to see? What human product should live here? What kind of training ground are we to imagine and to realise on this campus?
“I’d like to see a college where the girls and boys who pass through these halls grow into women and men who understand that with the great privilege of attending this institution comes an equally great responsibility to be socially, politically, and personally accountable. To be responsible to yourself, to your peers, and especially to those who never had the opportunity to come here.
“I’d like to see a college that nurtures courage; where students and alumni are unafraid to speak up, to lead, and to hold people and leaders accountable, regardless of the consequences. A college that shapes individuals who look out for each other and for the wider society, always pushing for a better country. That, to me, is the true spirit of Queen’s College.”
Minister Manickchand’s words served as both a tribute and a call to action, reminding the audience that Queen’s College has long stood as more than an academic institution, but a place where ideals are shaped, values are tested, and leaders are born.
As the school celebrates “50 Years of Girls at Queen’s College”, her message resonated deeply, urging students and alumni to continue building on the foundation laid by those before them, to honour the legacy of excellence, and to use their education as a force for good.
The milestone serves not only to reflect on how far the institution has come since girls first entered its halls, but also to envision a future where equality, leadership, and service remain at the heart of the QC experience.