THE EDITOR, Sir:
PLEASE PERMIT me to share with your readers two wonderful experiences that seemed orchestrated to set the stage for 'Education Week 2004', as these two events underscored the critical role of education in the building of this nation. These events gave me hope and strengthened my confidence in our ability to work together as Jamaicans.
On Thursday, April 29, I attended the 13th annual conference of The Joint Committee for Tertiary Education at the Hilton Kingston Hotel, under the theme 'Successful National Development Through Private Sector and Tertiary Education Partnerships'. The most outstanding features of this conference were the level of commitment, fixity of purpose and the time management skills displayed. It is abundantly clear that the organisers and participants are committed to nation building and development. Despite the challenges we face, there is hope for a bright future.
On Saturday, May 1, I had the honour of attending the annual luncheon of the Shortwood Old Students' Association. This function brought together women who have made sterling contributions to the building of this nation. The people who were in the spotlight were five ladies from the class of 1954: Mrs. Beverley Bourne Lyn, Mrs. Olive Gray Mason, Mrs. Hyacinth McKenzie Heaven, Mrs. Sylvia Robinson Thompson and Mrs. Taylor Laird; Mrs. Iris Shepherd -- an octogenarian who graduated in 1949; and Dr. Ivy Mitchell and Mrs. Maisie Clunis. These two ladies, who graduated in 1955 and 1941 respectively, had their names placed on the honour roll.
These educators have had illustrious careers beginning up to 63 years ago. These women are repositories of the history of education in Jamaica and represent the struggles and triumphs of our nation. The guest speaker Audrey Hinchcliffe, a woman whose accomplishments are well-known, gave the audience valuable lessons on how to grow any organisation and keep it vibrant.
I salute all educators who have made and continue to make an invaluable contribution to education and encourage all Jamaicans to work together to build a better Jamaica.
I am, etc.,
WINNIE ANDERSON-
BROWN
winab@cwjamaica.com
Bagatelle district
Ashley P.A., Clarendon
