GOVERNOR-GENERAL Sir Howard Cooke was officially recognised as the patron of the School's Wellness Club yesterday in a signing ceremony at the Blue Cross of Jamaica offices on Hope Road.
The club is jointly sponsored by the Blue Cross of Jamaica (BCJ), Jamaica National Building Society (JNBS) and the Gleaner Company.
The Wellness Club, which was launched in May of last year, seeks to promote healthy, balanced lifestyles among students in preparatory, primary, all-age and secondary schools. It is hoped that there will be clubs in 50 schools by the end of this year.
President and CEO of BCJ, Richard Powell spoke to the care of the nation's children. "It is our belief that with the exposure of our young children to the goals and ideals of the Wellness Club, we will be harnessing our resources to develop responsible and productive individuals who will be an asset to the society." He hoped that through the programme, a richer and more productive society will develop.
Students are eligible for the club if they hold a Jamaica National Schools' Savings Account; are covered under the Blue Cross School Plus Plan or subscribe to either the Gleaner's Children's Own or Youth Link magazines.
In his response, Sir Howard said that he was especially pleased with the fact that the club will seek to address not just the physical, but also the mental and spiritual health of the student.
Drawing on his experience as an educator, he said a child in a clean environment tend to be much happier and therefore easier to teach. He expressed the hope that the programme would be quickly implemented in all schools.
Each club will be supervised by a teacher/co-ordinator and must meet for at least three times each term to maintain validity. Each club must also select its own president, secretary and treasurer.
