Words of advice from Minister Roberts

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Parent Category: Sept 2011

Category: Week ending Sept 10th, 2011

Published on Wednesday, 14 September 2011 08:48

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Labour Minister Glynis Roberts is encouraging more private and non-governmental organisations to assist needy students achieve their education goals. "It is indeed a good gesture when organisations can help those who are deserving of help in our communities,'' Hon. Roberts said at an event of the National Insurance Scheme (NIS).

"There's not a better area to invest in than in the education of our young people. I urge those not yet on board to come forward and help our young people achieve their full potential.''

The event brought together students who were the recipients of NIS scholarships for their success in this year's Common Entrance Examinations.

Since 1995, the NIS is reported to have spent more than EC$1.2 million in student scholarships, including some who are enrolled at T.A. Marryshow Community College. Education, said Minister Roberts, is the backbone of personal and community life.

"It is the educational level of our people that propels the development of our country,'' she told the audience that included parents and NIS officials. It is recognition of the importance of education that motivates the government to implement so many education-related programmes and projects, said Minister Roberts, who also has responsibilities for  Social Security and Ecclesiastical Affairs.

"The introduction of the free school books, one month after getting into office in 2008, clearly demonstrates our commitment,'' she said.

"We have all seen the increase in the number of scholarships awarded to our young people,'' the Minister added, "and my colleague Minister for Education has announced the commencement of a Bachelor's Programme in Teacher Education at St. George's University to ensure that more of our teachers can receive the relevant training to make them more effective in the classroom.''

In remarks to the students, the Labour Minister extended "best wishes'' to them and urged them to "aim for the stars'' by putting God first, studying hard and reading consistently.

"The National Insurance Scheme has committed itself to assist you for the five years of secondary education,'' Minister Roberts said.  "You must embrace this opportunity and see it as a partnership between the NIS and yourself, with your responsibility being to succeed", she added.

With regard to parents, Minister Roberts said their role is to support and encourage their children.

"Your children are your responsibility,'' she explained. "Make sure they do their homework, look at their books at the end of the day, make sure they come home on time after school, attend parent-teachers' meetings, know who your children's teachers and friends are and keep in touch with them and follow your children's progress.''

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