Love and support for kids during Universal Children’s Day

Senior Multimedia Reporter

radhica.sookraj@guardian.co.tt

Schools across the country marked Universal Children’s Day yesterday with various activities emphasising love, support, and protection for children.

Events included treats, prizes, and educational initiatives, as institutions highlighted the importance of nurturing the nation’s youth.

In Mayaro, a peace walk by St Thomas RC Primary School brought the community together to advocate for the well-being of men, women, and children.

Principal Joanne Archer-Lewis emphasised the importance of addressing men’s struggles, saying, “While women have support, men suffer in silence.” She called for support systems to be put in place.

At Debe Secondary School, over 550 students were treated to ice cream cones as part of the celebration. The treats were organised by the Debe Secondary Concerned Parents Council Association, led by president Samantha Harracksingh.

Principal and 2024 Hummingbird Silver Medal recipient Romeo Gunness said children thrive with love and support.

“We need to love and appreciate our children, show support to them during their trials. Children need affirmation, positive messages, and we all have to be good role models,” he said. He also identified lack of attention as the biggest challenge facing children.

Meanwhile, Harracksingh highlighted the importance of instilling good values in children from a young age, noting that many suffered due to a breakdown in family life.

“Bullying is a major challenge that we have to work together to eradicate,” she said.

Her daughter, Keira Harracksingh, echoed these sentiments, emphasising the significance of parental support.

“Our parents might not know how much their support means, but it helps a lot,” she said.

Meanwhile, San Fernando TML Primary School hosted various activities, including snacks, treats, and prizes. They also welcomed a visit from the El Socorro Centre for Wildlife Conservation, which showcased exotic birds such as eagles, vultures, and owls, as well as a giant anteater and a variety of snakes, including a boa constrictor.

Acting principal Wahida Mohammed-Narine stressed the importance of parental involvement in helping students reach their full potential. “Parents have to play a special role, ensuring they spend time with their children, especially at this time when we have so many ills in society,” she said.

The children were treated to free lollies, cotton candy, Indian delicacies, popcorn, and snacks. Mascots, including Sonic, Mickey Mouse, and a Minion, also visited the students.

In a statement for Universal Children’s Day, Police Commissioner Erla Harewood-Christopher highlighted the T&T Police Service’s contributions to youth development. She noted that over 90 active youth clubs across the nation served as pillars of youth engagement.

“For five decades, officers have dedicated themselves to listening to children, providing guidance, and creating opportunities for young people to reach their full potential,” she said.

She also underscored the need to address challenges faced by children. “Their voices must be amplified, and their challenges addressed—from violence, exploitation, and child labour to access to technology and navigating the expanding digital world,” she said.

Harewood-Christopher reaffirmed the TTPS’s steadfast commitment to fostering positive relationships with children and youth across the country.

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