The celebration which has been dubbed ‘Passion for Peace Week’ is being organised by the Ministry of Education, to raise awareness and bring about a passion to end any inclination towards a culture of violence in schools.
The week which will be in effect from Sunday 25th September 2011 to Saturday 1st October 2011, will feature a number of events and activities.
It will commence with the official opening. On this day churches throughout St Kitts and Nevis are expected to highlight the features of the week.
Another activity will see Principals of primary and secondary schools delivering a message that should signify a form of positive interaction between students and administration. This is scheduled for Monday 26th September.
Other activities planned for the week are a Tag Drive, Panel Discussions, Parade Day, Youth Rally, Awards Banquet and an Open Day when the public is being encouraged to visit the schools to see students work on display.
One unique activity that is also being planned is a ‘No Punishment Day’. The day which is referred to as ‘Topsy Turvy’ Day would see a ban on corporal punishment and suspensions.
In addition a number youth panel discussions will be hosted on radio and television. These talk shows will allow students to air their views on a number of issues and concerns.
The week will end on Saturday 1st October with an Awards Banquet, one day after the Youth Rally and Fun Day which will be held on FRIDAY 30th September. The schools will take part in a Peace March, followed by a rally and fun day at Warner Park.
Awardees attending the Saturday’s Banquet will be recognized for outstanding achievements, as follows:
- A young person who has recently left school, and who despite challenges is making a positive contribution to society.
- A student who has struggled during their academic years but is now making an effort to change their life for the better
- A student who is an all around good student, but who also demonstrates social conscientiousness through volunteer/community work.