As we come to the end of another academic term, Students’ Council President, Dontae Minto, Chairmen Bobby Francis and Mark Johnson all sat with the media to respond to some of the concerns expressed by students throughout the term. Notwithstanding, the cheerful spirit of Christmas was not neglected as the Council’s Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony closed off a term that was filled with mixed emotions whilst representing the light of a fallen soldier – Jaina Khiani. Following a two weeks period of mourning headed by the Students’ Council, the President, Dontae Minto, Chairman-Advisory, Bobby Francis as well as Head Boy, Andrew McIntosh all signed and closed off the mourning book for fellow council member.
Holding our Leaders Accountable
“Knowing it exists is not enough” October is celebrated as Breast Cancer Awareness Month each year and having had the knowledge of cancer and its effects, what has the council done to really sensitize the student body? Advertence should not be limited to breast cancer only. “In Jamaica, HPV prevalence studies (2010) found that HPV types 16 and 18 were present in 10.5% of the population and in 71% of women with abnormal pap smears. On average, a whopping 185 women in Jamaica have died from cervical cancer. Were our Yorkists or potential victims made aware of this as to understand that regular screening is a necessity? The public is yet to be assured that this drastic issue is relevant but the council plans to continue working with other stakeholders such as the guidance and counselling department to spread awareness.
Additionally, November was recognized locally as Drug Awareness Month and similarly to the previous month, the same approach was taken. Inauspiciously, the council was unable to actively demonstrate public awareness through campaigns. It is important to note that the Council nevertheless, was proficient in their private outreach towards students. “There have been improvements”, says Mr. Dontae Minto. And it is their hope to continuously instantiate this act.
Spreading Good Cheer
In an effort to spread the true spirit of Christmas, the Council planned three main activities to close off this chapter. There was the second Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony which was held on Friday, December 17th moderated by Chairman, Mark Johnson. This entailed several presentations and beautiful rendition of songs as well as the lighting of the tree which was lit in memory of Jaina Khiani. President Dontae Minto encouraged the student population to use this season to lead a selfless act by making someone smile this Christmas. Chairman-Advisory, Bobby Francis commended the council for their resilience, partnership and collaboration especially in this time and looks forward to successful term from this administration.
Christmas is the spirit of giving, and without the thoughts of getting the council's generosity embodies that thought. On Monday 20, 2021 donations will be made to the less fortunate across the parish. Likewise, the council will avail itself of technology to stream a virtual ‘Carnival’ to relieve students of the pressure from the past term as they commence Christmas Break.
As we all embrace greater things and new beginnings, everyone is encouraged to prepare for a possible resumption of face to face classes in January. The upcoming term promises to be an active one and so, the media will continue to closely monitor the performance of the Council.
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