West Hanover MP awards students

WESTERN BUREAU:

The 20 top-performing students from primary and preparatory schools in Hanover Western got an extra boost for their success as they were lauded and awarded for their performance in 2021 Primary Exit Profile examination in a special ceremony put on by their Member of Parliament Tamika Davis.

In the event staged at Global Villa in Lucea, Hanover, the presentation took place in two parts so as to be in compliance with protocols associated with the Disaster Risk Management Act. The students, 14 girls and six boys, who attended with their parents and principals, were each presented with a book voucher valued at J$10,000, redeemable at Sangster’s Book Store.

In her address, Davis told the students that, as a past student of one of the schools which churned out one of the successful students, it gave her much pleasure in sharing their success. She said she was very proud of the performances exhibited by the students across Hanover Western.

“I want to say congratulations to you all, you have done us proud. You are the top students at your schools and that means a lot, do not take it lightly, it is a great honour and privilege, and you are here this afternoon because we want to say to you that we are so very proud of you,” said Davis.

The MP urged the students to keep working hard and to maintain their focus when they transition to their respective high schools, noting that they will be meeting and competing with students of equal grades and some even better, and as such, the onus is on them to maintain the high standards they are exhibiting now.

“As Hanoverians, you have done so well, when you look at the high schools that you will be going ... we have students going to Montego Bay High, Westwood, Manning’s, Rusea’s, Munro, Herbert Morrison – you have done very well,” emphasised Davis.

Susan Smith, an education officer at the Ministry of Education, Youth and Information Region IV, who was also present at the ceremony, commended the teachers and students for their achievements

“It’s up to you to dream it, imagine it, sketch it, build it, go after it, and make it happen,” Smith said, in imploring the students to aim for high standard.

Smith also urged the students not to let the opinions of others drown out their inner voices, while encouraging them to have the courage to follow their heart and intuition.

Insurance executive Donovan Hamilton, who was guest speaker at the event, in highlighting the achievement of the students, also encouraged them to be steadfast in their focus and to continue to make Hanover proud.

“These young people only need guidance to attain greatness,” said Hamilton, in urging the parents and guardians to continue to support the children in the various endeavours.