Christiana High School collaborates with police to launch youth club
Published:Monday | March 25, 2024 | 12:05 AMNatrawn Wright/Gleaner Writer
In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at fostering community cohesion, the Jamaica Constabulary Force recently joined with students from Christiana High School to inaugurate the Police Youth Club, under the banner ‘Empowering and equipping Jamaica’s Hope’.
The event took place at the Basil Depass Holding Area in the school’s auditorium, marking a significant milestone in fostering positive relationships between law enforcement and youths.
The police youth club, founded in 1954, with the motto, ‘We are helping to build a better Jamaica’, showcased its commitment to nurturing future leaders during the launch event.
Speakers emphasised the importance of initiatives like this in bridging the gap between generations and empowering young people to serve their communities with discipline and a positive outlook on life.
Leecent Wallace, justice of the peace (JP), principal of Christiana High School, and a talented pianist, welcomed attendees with enthusiasm, highlighting the club’s mission to empower youths.
Audley Shaw, member of parliament for North East Manchester, shared inspirational words, urging individuals to recognise their ability to make a difference in society.
“One person can make a difference,” he said to the audience, pointing to the importance of everyone in society and the responsibilities they have to their communities.
Reflecting on the day’s significance, Sandra Whyte, president of the Christiana Police Club, commended the students and staff for their exceptional dedication. She recounted the club’s journey from its inception in Hanover, expanding to other parishes, and ultimately becoming established at Christiana High School. Despite facing challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the club’s official launch was delayed until now, with students initiating communication with the police in 2020.
“I must say a huge congratulations and commendations to the students and our staff at Christiana High School [who have] truly been phenomenal. This club started in Hanover and gradually branched off into other parishes. The momentum, the act of kindness continued, and I learned of the police club in 2018, became a member in 2019, and since then I have been the president of the Christiana Police Youth Club.”
While the event proceeded smoothly overall, Lieutenant Colonel Garfield Green expressed disappointment regarding punctuality, stressing the importance of readiness among young people. He emphasised the need for proper preparation to ensure that youths are poised for success in all endeavours.
The launch of the Police Youth Club at Christiana High School signifies a collaborative effort to empower the next generation and foster positive relationships between law enforcement and the community. As the club takes its first steps, it holds the promise of shaping future leaders and contributing to a safer, more united Jamaica.