VINSAJA hopes for greater achievements in 2009

With the backdrop of what it considers a successful first semester, the Vincentian Student Association, Jamaica Chapter, is hoping to notch up greater achievements in the final semester in the academic year 2008-2009.{{more}}

In an interview with SEARCHLIGHT on Monday, January 12, 2009, Natasha Anderson, President of VINSAJA, used the opportunity to appeal to members who did not participate much in the association’s activities in Semester One to do so this semester.

Anderson disclosed that the association’s main activities during this semester will be participating in Caribbean Day, an event which seeks to highlight the various cultures of the islands that have a student body, and a final year dinner.

Speaking of last semester’s accomplishments, Anderson said the association was successful in staging the largest display about Vincentian heritage at the campus library during the October 2008 Independence Celebrations. During that event three carni-

val costumes were displayed, a head piece, and several local products.

The president said it was heartening to have Dr. Douglas Slater, Minister of Health and Environment, attend the Independence Flag Raising Ceremony. The Minister also gave an address to the students at the ceremony.

During Semester One, the Vincentian students were also able to stage a major fund raiser, participate in Culturama, promote aspects of the Vincentian culture on Hype TV, complete the association’s Constitution, launch a website (http://www.vinsathemonachapter.synthasite.com), enjoy a weekend social and stage a Christmas Carolling.

The students were also updated by Prime Minister Dr.Ralph Gonsalves on the day to day happenings in St.Vincent and the Grenadines during one of his visits to Jamaica.

Meanwhile, Anderson issued a reminder to students who are returning to Jamaica from the Christmas vacation: “Those students who are going back it is quite easy to get caught up in the fast lifestyle. At the same time we want to remind students of their purpose for going to Jamaica, that is academics.”

The president is also warning students to take every precaution when they return.

On this note Past President of VINSA JA, Madonna Corke, said some students upon hearing about the crime situation may choose to stay in most of the time. However, she reminded them that they can participate in VINSAJa activities which take place in safe environments.

Regarding prospective students, Anderson asked them to liaise with someone who had studied in Jamaica before going off to their studies, as well as attend VINSA’s orientation meeting at the University of the West Indies Open Campus at Richmond Hill.

Anderson ended the interview by stating: “Jamaica is a challenge but the opportunities are rewarding”.