'National Pledge coming' – Hon Myron V. Walwyn
He was speaking during statements by ministers today December 21, 2015 during the Fifth Sitting of the First Session of the Third House of Assembly.
“Madam Speaker in 2012 the Ministry of Education embarked on a quest to create a culture to support the growth and expression of territorial pride in our citizens and residents,” said Honourable Walwyn.
He added that for any country to develop positively people must have within them a deep sense of belonging, respect and loyalty to the course in which they live and work.
“Our government seeks to build a nation of citizens and residents who understands and have a deep reverence for our heritage as Virgin islanders... a nation of citizens and residents that desire to build on our past while developing a solid foundation for our future."
He said government seeks to build a national pledge for citizens and residents who feel a connection to the advancement of the country.
“To develop this sense of pride in our community we have instituted Virgin Islands history in our education system, and we are teaching our children courses in tourism and financial services – the two industries key to the territory’s economic and cultural life,” he said.
Developing national pride
The Minister noted that the territory now has a Territorial Song with words that remind of the territory’s history and beckons persons to use wisdom and courage as they develop the country.
He also spoke about the Virgin Islands’ territorial wear and hat schoolchildren throughout the territory raise the territory’s flag and sing the Territorial Song every morning as they recommit themselves to their education and having a greater sense of purpose so that they too can add to this country.
He noted that the government has also been teaching civics in schools as part of the effort to educate students about the territory’s Constitution, the government and their responsibility in ensuring the effectiveness of the territory’s democracy.
“We intend to go one step further and have instituted a Territorial Pledge to further demonstrate to citizens and residents our commitment to working collectively to advance these Virgin Islands,” he said.
The Minister said the pledge is an oath of allegiance to the country, citing the example of Singapore which see its schoolchildren reciting that country’s national pledge every morning.
It was announced by the Minister that a competition will be launched which will see entries being submitted by Virgin Islanders. He said as plans for this competition is finalised, more information would be made available early 2016 to the general public.
30 Responses to “'National Pledge coming' – Hon Myron V. Walwyn ”
That;s the only way you will get some degree of transparency,...in this BANANA FARM REPUBLIC.!!!!