An Opposition MP warned graduates of St. George's Secondary School that they were targeted for failure.

"People invest money and even build prisons because they don't see a bright future for you,'' said Shadow Youth Minister Dr. Ewart Brown.

But Dr. Brown told the students they could change this by controlling their sexual impulses and being alert to racism.

"Sexual self-control is the key to inner strength. Choose self-control over self-indulgence as the mark of your masculinity.

"Racism is a powerful force. It is put into practice by people, not buildings or tables or chairs.

"Do not be fooled by discussions about institutionalised racism. People designed it and people practice it.'' Dr. Brown told the women graduates: "Keep the faith and continue your struggle against sex discrimination but be ever mindful that your first and permanent concern is the struggle to rid the earth of racism.

"Our women have throughout history played pivotal leadership roles in the right for our human rights and we expect no less from you.'' Dr. Brown had been invited to speak on Friday to the graduates by St. George's Secondary School head Mr. Dale Butler.

He told the students they had reached an "academic crossroads''.

This meant they should always be prepared to study and never be unwilling to learn.

"I call it commitment to excellence.'' He added: "If you'd like to see an example of a commitment to excellence, you don't have to look far at all.

"Your principal, Mr. Dale Butler is a shining example of that commitment.'' Dr. Brown said there were "some Dale Butlers'' among the graduates, and Bermuda would gain by their desire to excel.

"For years now you and students around the globe have been cautioned to avoid the dangers of drugs, unsafe sex and mis-education.

"It was Mrs. Nancy Reagan, the wife of former US President Ronald Reagan who told us to `just say no'.

"And as much as I disagreed with Mr. Reagan's insensitive policies, I too joined the chorus and urged young people to `just say no'.'' Dr. Brown said now was the time for the message `just say yes' -- to hard work and perseverance, "strong and productive family units'', spiritual awakening and religious activism, the struggle against racism, and to excellence .

"And finally say yes to preparation. For if you prepare yourselves for Bermuda than a new Bermuda must prepare itself for you.'' DR. EWART BROWN -- The Shadow Youth Minister said: "Sexual self-control is the key to inner strength.