Education and Training a Top Priority – PM

Prime Minister, the Most Hon. Portia Simpson Miller, says the provision of education and training opportunities for all the nation’s children remains a top priority of the Government.

“My Government places (great) emphasis on education. I urge parents and other stakeholders to continue to play your part to improve the education of our children,” she said.

The Prime Minister was addressing a Youth and Children Community Meeting held at the New Testament Church of God in Old Harbour, St. Catherine, last evening (December 3).

She encouraged young people to make the most of the educational opportunities that are available to them in order to become productive citizens and effect change in the society.

The Prime Minister also commended those parents and guardians “who are doing their best and making great sacrifices to ensure that their children get a good education.”

She encouraged them to treat their children well, listen to them, talk to them, and teach them positive values and healthy attitudes. She also warned parents not to take out their frustrations on their children.

“Love your children. Let them know that you love them….help them to build trust in you…let them be confident that should anything happen to them, they can talk to (you) about it,” she said.

The Prime Minister noted that the meeting was part of a series organised by the Government to facilitate discussion with children and youth about the issues that affect them.

“My Government considers the issues affecting children and youth to be very important. As a result, the decision to have these meetings was taken at the level of the Cabinet. Together, we are working to chart a better way for our children and youth in this country,” she said.

Youngsters from Old Harbour and throughout St. Catherine got the opportunity to pose questions and receive responses from the Prime Minister; Minister of Youth and Culture, Hon. Lisa Hanna; Minister of Education, Hon. Rev. Ronald Thwaites, and other Government officials.

Minister with responsibility for Information, Senator the Hon. Sandrea Falconer, also addressed the gathering.