Celebrating the Graduation of the 28th Class of EBS High School

Dear graduates, congratulations! You are stepping into the next stage of your lives with the knowledge, experiences and ambitions you have developed throughout your years at EBS High School. On behalf of the entire EBS community, we wish you success in your future studies, careers and endeavors. Be bold, experiment, explore the world – and do come back home. You will always be welcome at EBS.

At the graduation ceremony of the 28th class of EBS High School, students’ academic journeys and achievements were celebrated.

The graduates were welcomed by Kersti Uudla, Principal of EBS High School, and Mart Habakuk, Chancellor of Estonian Business School. They were also addressed by teachers Helen Laansoo, Indrek Vaino and George Franchi, while graduate Henrik Kosemaa delivered a speech on behalf of the class. Musical performances were provided by EBS High School alumna Anette Maria Rennit and her acoustic ensemble.

In her speech, Kersti Uudla reflected on the time three years ago when the graduates first joined EBS High School. She recalled how many students spoke during their admission interviews about wanting to gain the knowledge, skills and experiences needed to achieve their goals. She also thanked the teachers and parents whose support helped the graduates grow into independent and responsible young adults.

“Three years ago, we talked about what you expected from EBS High School – knowledge and skills that would help you succeed in the future. I hope you have found what you came here for. The world is constantly changing, and what matters is not knowing all the answers, but being able to adapt to change. Making mistakes is a natural part of life. If you fall, get back up. Strength is not about never falling; it is about always rising again.”

Mart Habakuk focused on the skills young people need to thrive in a rapidly changing world. He emphasized that the value of education lies not only in knowledge, but also in the ability to learn, gain experience and build meaningful relationships. He also encouraged graduates to seize opportunities for learning and self-development both in Estonia and abroad.

“In today’s rapidly changing world, the most important thing is not having all the answers, but being ready to change. Being prepared for change also means being willing to adjust your direction when necessary. One of the most valuable skills you take from school is the ability to learn – a skill that remains important long after graduation. Skills, experience and networks all matter, because great things happen when people come together.”

Helen Laansoo shared personal stories from her studies and career and encouraged students to believe in their dreams. Referring to Steve Jobs’ famous Stanford commencement address, she urged graduates to remain curious and courageous in seeking new opportunities. She summed up her message with the words: “Stay hungry, stay curious.”

Indrek Vaino spoke about the trust parents had placed in the school and expressed his belief that today’s graduates will go on to create, lead and make a positive impact. Using the Eedu residential tower next to the school as a symbolic example, he encouraged students to believe in their ideas and abilities.

George Franchi reflected on the three years spent together and the subjects explored with students, ranging from history and literature to broader questions about society and human nature. According to him, graduation marks an important milestone: while people legally become adults at the age of 18, completing high school adds maturity and education to that status.

Speaking on behalf of the graduates, Henrik Kosemaa thanked the teachers who had inspired students not only through their knowledge but also through their life experiences. He noted that one of EBS’s greatest strengths is its teachers, whose diverse backgrounds and practical expertise help students see learning as something that extends far beyond the classroom.