Per aspera ad astra

This phrase might tickle auditory nerves of sentimental ‘alumni’ of St. Joseph’s College, arguably the country’s iconic secondary school of yesteryear. For the last nine decades, per aspera ad astra has served as the school’s memorable and treasured rallying cry. A performance triggering premium currency!

It means, ‘Shooting to the stars through adversity.’ An unsubdued call for commitment to greatness. Globally, this dynamic phrase has found a home not only in the hallowed grounds of academia, but also in the arts, the army, governmental institutions and NGOs.