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When OC student Vaneet Verma steps to the podium on Saturday to speak to his colleagues at Okanagan College’s Fall convocation, he will be representing more than 450 graduates, including a large proportion that will enter the workforce in different health care fields.  

More than 130 graduates are from health care programs including Health Care Assistant, a program Verma graduated from earlier this year. The course teaches the skills necessary to work in continuing care such as in home support, adult day care, assisted living and complex care, areas that are suffering from a shortage of skilled workers.

Verma is already employed, working in a Kelowna-area long-term care home for people suffering from dementia.

“As graduates, we step into a role that is more than just a job; it is a calling,” Vaneet said. “As we move forward into our careers, let us remember that every person we encounter has a story, a history and a dream. Let's step boldly into the future, armed with the knowledge that our experiences and choices will light the way to a bright future.”

Other Health and Social Development portfolio graduates are from programs in Early Childhood Education, Medical Administrative Assistant, Medical Office Assistant, Pharmacy Technician, Medical Device Reprocessing and Supportive Care Assistant.

“Creating the workforce of the future and supporting industries that have shortages of skilled workers is our focus at Okanagan College,” said OC President Neil Fassina. “We know there are needs in our communities and we offer relevant programs that provide up-to-date training and education, and that get people working. It is so exciting to see these graduates celebrate their achievements at OC and we look forward to what’s next for them in their careers.”  

Along with the large group of health care graduates, students celebrating at OC’s convocation and commencement ceremonies this week have completed programs in Trades, Business, Education, Arts & Foundational program, and Science & Technology.  

For Vaneet, this weekend’s ceremony is a time for him and his classmates to reflect on the efforts it took them to get to this point in their lives, and the incredible support of friends and family members – many who will be in the audience on Saturday.  

“Effort is the cornerstone of success,” he said. “We have experienced long nights studying, grueling days in practical training, and the occasional moments of doubts. It's not always about natural talent or intrinsic genius—often, it's about showing up, giving our best, and pushing through when things become tough.”

The OC Convocation and Commencement ceremony will be held Saturday Oct. 5 at OC’s Kelowna campus at 1000 KLO Road. There are ceremonies at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.