[ad_1]
More than 150 students won back-to-school supplies at a recent St. Thomas student essay contest, organized by Audrey Thomas, a Jamaican living in the United States.
The event was held at the East Gas Square in Yalas and a total of 16 students participated in the competition.
Dozens of students from across the diocese received computer accessories, school bags and other educational supplies. Several teachers and outstanding community figures were also honored at the ceremony.
Ms Thomas told JIS News that the first-of-its-kind initiative aims to equip students with important literacy skills and support their educational development.
“It is also designed to encourage young people to improve their writing skills and expand their imaginations,” she said.
“Every year I do something special to mark my victory over cancer. It’s more gratifying to give back than to receive, and when I told my friends what I wanted to do, everyone was so supportive,” Miss Thomas said.
Michelle Buchanan, retired principal of Yarras Primary School, said the competition would help children develop their creativity.
“I feel hopeful when I see what they have produced in such a short time. The essays are so well written,” she said, adding that the gifts, especially the computers, are “perfect tools” for their education.
Yarras High School principal Mark Malabver, who was honoured at the event for his contributions to education, said he was impressed by the students’ views, which focused on Jamaica’s independence and the extent to which the country is truly independent.
“It’s a great way to get students thinking critically about Jamaica and our independence. I heard some good articles and it’s good for young people to think like that,” he said.
[ad_2]
Source link
