Prof Pikay Richardson urges UGC graduates to choose integrity over convenience

Professor Pikay Richardson, Chair of the Governing Council at the University of Gold Coast, implored graduates to embrace integrity, courage, and hope as they step into leadership positions. Speaking at the 2026 graduation ceremony, Prof. Richardson challenged the graduating class to remain principled, even when faced with difficult or inconvenient choices. He urged them to "Choose curiosity over complacency. Choose courage over comfort. Choose kindness over indifference. Choose integrity over convenience and choose hope even when circumstances make it difficult."

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Choose curiosity over complacency. Choose courage over comfort. Choose kindness over indifference. Choose integrity over convenience and choose hope even when circumstances make it difficult.

Richardson defined leadership not by titles or financial gains, but by the character individuals display and the positive influence they have on others. "People may remember your achievements, and some may not even remember at all, but all of them will remember how you treated them," he stated. He encouraged the graduates to practice kindness, honesty, and compassion, highlighting that integrity is most crucial when navigating complex decisions.

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People may remember your achievements, and some may not even remember at all, but all of them will remember how you treated them.

Drawing from his own diverse career path, which spanned electrical engineering, management, academia, and leadership development across more than 26 countries, Prof. Richardson shared that his journey was not linear. He noted that unexpected turns often lead to the most meaningful experiences, comparing life's navigation to a maze where growth emerges from uncertainty and the courage to adapt.

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Never confuse confidence with certainty. The wisest people know there's always more to learn.

Furthermore, Prof. Richardson encouraged the graduates not to fear failure, characterizing it as an integral part of the learning and success process. "Failure isn't the opposite of success. Very often, it's part of success. Every mistake teaches you something if you are willing to learn from it," he said. He concluded by urging the University of Gold Coast Class of 2026 to use their education for societal betterment, to support others' success, and to "dream boldly, work diligently, treat people with respect and never stop learning."

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Life can be like a maze that you are navigating through.