Over 20 primary school students who were commended on their outstanding academic achievements this past semester will begin the upcoming school year with brand new laptops however, noticeably of those awarded there was a lack of male presence.
Minister of National Security and Member of Parliament for the Bain and Grants Town Constituency Dr. Bernard Nottage and Youth, Sports and Culture Minister Dr. Daniel Johnson noted the absence of Bahamian boys and admitted that they both must find ways to maximise human resources and change this.
“Where are the boys,” Dr. Nottage asked.
He also used the opportunity to announce the “Every Child Needs a Father” Programme he is currently coordinating that focuses on a find a father figure and role model for the thousands of fatherless boy in The Bahamas.
“This programme also seeks to encourage men to be fathers to the children, particularly boys they assisted in bringing into the world,” he said
Dr. Johnson also added that he too would commit to finding 1,000 men to be mentors for boys.
CEO of Electro Telecom Paul Smith handed the students their new laptops which is a part of his company’s philanthropic initiative to give back that started at his alma matter, Oakes Field Primary.
The programme was shortly thereafter expanded to Gambier, TG Glover, Albury Sayle, Stephen Dillet, Woodcock Primary Schools and other primary schools in the north eastern and north western district in New Providence.
During the presentations at the Paul Farquharson Centre, Police Headquarters, Mr. Smith told the youngsters that their success in primary school is the first leg of their race.
“You will have to work harder and apply yourselves if you want to complete the journey of success,” he said.
He also challenged the students to remain focused, to be leaders and not become followers.
“Students, I want you to know that the rabbit had many friends who could have awakened him and told him that the turtle was closing in on him; instead they allowed him to lose the race. That is what happens sometimes when you get him involved with bad company,” Mr. Smith stated.
