Students urged to stand up for what is right

The more than 35 students from the six secondary schools who participated in the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Planned Parenthood Association (SVGPPA)/ Youth Advocacy Movement’s three-day conference have been challenged to stay focused in the face of current adversities.{{more}}

Speakers at Monday’s opening of the seminar at the Anglican Pastoral Centre reminded the particpants that although they are at a stage in their lives when they are at their best physical and academic strength, they are also vulnerable and, therefore, need to be cautious.

Guest speaker Julian Ferdinand called on the students to fortify themselves for the battle that exists in the transitional stage from childhood to adulthood, as they decide the direction that they would like to take to achieve the best that life has to offer.

“(Like a compass), you have to look out for the magnets that you will come across that will try to change your direction…. Very often that magnet comes to you as a friend and tries to redirect your life because sometimes they have messed up and they want to pull you in that misery.”

He called on the students to stand up for what is right and just and to adopt principles that will keep them on the right track.

Ferdinand also challenged the students to develop the habit of reading the Bible on a regular basis.

“There are forces out there that will want you to compromise your principles… don’t be distracted by what people say, focus on the values that comes from inside. Hold firm with honesty, love, patience and principles of purity.”

“The book of Proverbs was a significant guide to me in my youth… it has 31 chapters and I recommend that you read one chapter a day and read it over and over again.”

He also implored the youths to find and hold focus with other persons who would affect their lives positively.

Head of the SVGPPA Verlene Saunders, also speaking at the seminar’s opening, said that the event comes at an opportune time where there are many activities that are occupying the minds of the youths that may not be as positive as the Association would like.

She said that the workshop is an opportunity to impact the lives of the participants in a positive way, and she expressed the hope that the knowledge they gain would help in the choices that they may make.

“When you leave here, share what you learn with siblings and friends. Discuss with your parents and use every opportunity to enhance your community.”

The workshop, which was organized by YAM coordinator Bernadette Warren, covered a range of issues affecting youths on a daily basis including self esteem and peer pressure, teenage pregnancy and abstinence, HIV/ AIDS and behavioral change communication.

Lectures were conducted by Nzinga Sergeant, Ronnie Richardson, Ordan Graham, Scott Sharland and Peace Corp Volunteer Renu Hasan.

The students were certified after the workshop.