A profound symbolism stands behind the academic gown. The academic gown, distinct black drapes, shield any dress of rank or social standing underneath it. Be it rich or poor, black or white, abled or disabled, students are one in achievement. It’s an achievement of being educated and certified against all odds. This connotation extends to the graduation ceremony – a long awaited momentous occasion with students draped in black gowns to celebrate the long hours, the sleepless nights and amicable dedication put into completing their degrees and diplomas.

The state of quarantine, which a student is already familiar with due to isolation from social life and family gatherings, not to mention the financial commitments put in by parents, families and sponsors is undeniable. It’s the tears, the joy, the sorrow, the mourning of possessions, persons and emotions that have been lost and gained along the way. It’s the setbacks in the forms of repetition, lack of finances and mental illness, but also the perseverance that comes with it. It’s two hands and one heart taking on a task, two jobs, additional classes and added responsibilities. It’s for the battles our peers face, some of which we are aware of and others too taunting to share. A graduation signifies a victor through it all.

As of recent, a pandemic has hit the world, COVID-19 with numerous cases and numerous deaths around the world. Daunting times, indeed. Postponing and possibly cancelling crowd gatherings are a valid reason to flatten the curve but surely one must understand the feelings of a student who is unable to experience their graduation.

Graduations are being cancelled without opportunity for discourse on further arrangements post COVID-19 seems careless, but maybe institutions are right in issuing clear instruction as there is a lack of understanding on the  impact associated with the pandemic.

But surely students’ outcry for postponement rather than cancellation is justifiable and postponement can be put into play. Surely students can be awarded certificates but still have their graduations at a later stage.

Surely students aren’t upset for no reason.