PROFESSOR FRANKLYN Prendergast, a former Rhodes Scholar, was yesterday honoured by the Institute of Jamaica for his distinguished pioneering work in the fields of biochemistry and cancer research. He was presented with the prestigious and coveted Musgrave Gold medal.
"While we honour our scientists in general and Professor Franklyn Prendergast in particular today, we recognise the fact that scientific pursuit is not viewed as an attractive or glamorous career path in Jamaica today, and while we bemoan this fact, my Ministry has begun the process to rectify this situation," said Maxine Henry-Wilson, the Minister of Education.
HOME-GROWN PROBLEM SOLVERS
She commented that Jamaica was in need of 'home-grown problem solvers' like Professor Prendergast "as we tackle first world socio-economic issues within the confines of a third world economy".
During his reply, Dr. Prendergast reminisced on his "humble but privileged childhood" growing up in Linstead, St. Catherine. He also tried to play down the significance of his award, striking a difference between the concepts of attainment and achievement. He commented that he saw the gold medal award as an attainment, but noted that he had attained many things because of his intellect, but that "he hadn't achieved anything yet".
"I've known numerous other people who haven't received such an award, but who I feel are deserving of such an award," he said.
Dr. Prendergast is a past student of Calabar High School. He is also a graduate of the University of the West Indies and Oxford College.
At the climax of the ceremony, Dr. Prendergrast, obviously moved by the rendition of his high school song, stood with his hand over his heart, intoning passionately: "...like an ancient river flowing right from the mountains to the sea...".
He was also joined by Minister of Health John Junor.
There were also cultural performances by the Wallingford All-Age school, New Providence Primary School and Calabar High School during the function.
