Petty said that the councils could only be strengthened by the two-day, workshop. He added that at least two students from the executive in each High School and Primary School around St. Kitts and Nevis would be involved in the upcoming seminar and that every effort would be made to make the training available across the board.

He disclosed that the White Paper on Education referred specifically to the inclusion of students in governing their schools, both for their own personal growth and development, as well as to address the needs of the entire student body.

The April 12-13 workshop, organized by the Ministry of Education, will be held at the Red Cross building in Nevis and promises to be a learning experience with a high level of hands-on activities for the students.

Consultant in the Ministry of Education in Nevis, Dr. Bronte Gonzalves said students councils have already proven effective and have implemented a number of programmes in schools that may not have been possible were it not for the foresight of students.

The workshop is designed to assist in upgrading the communication and procedural skills of the students and their councils.

Dr. Gonsalves referred to examples projects undertaken by the students, resulting in positive changes in their respective schools. For example, said Dr. Gonsalves, the staff at a Nevis High School reported that lateness was an issue among students, the students’ council went into action immediately and began to identify and place signs on doors of classes that were exemplary in early attendance. As a result, students have taken it as a challenge, and are now seeking to arrive at school earlier to maintain a competitive edge.

Dr. Gonsalves also referred to the tiling of school floors as well as other maintenance as a direct result of the benefits of the students’ councils.