CAPD to Host Event to Empower and Support Students May 30

The Children’s Affairs and Policy Division (CAPD) of the Ministry of Education and Youth (MOEY), in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Wellness (MOHW), is to host a significant event in commemoration of Child Month.

Titled, ‘Wellness Bench Lyme – Child Conversation’, this event aims to empower and support students aged 11 to 18 years, under the theme ‘Stand Up! Speak Out! Protect the Rights of Our Children’.

Scheduled for Thursday, May 30, at the Jewel Grande Montego Bay Resort and Spa in St. James, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., this initiative is designed to address the critical issues surrounding the mental health and well-being of adolescents.

A bulletin issued by the MOEY states that children in the targeted age group undergo significant physical, emotional, and social changes and this event seeks to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining good mental health and advocating for children’s rights.

In addition, it aims to provide a platform for young individuals to unburden themselves from the stresses they may face, through open conversations and supportive environments, which will empower the students to speak out against abuse and to connect with others in meaningful ways.

The MOEY is encouraging schools in Region Four to come out and participate in the initiative.

The Wellness Bench Lyme – Child Conversation promises to provide a safe space for students to relax and engage in meaningful discussions.

To maintain a conducive atmosphere, the dress code for the day is jeans pants or skirt paired with their school T-shirt.

The Wellness Bench was unveiled as part of the MOHW #DoYourShare Campaign, which promotes the expansion of safe spaces to support mental health.