Gareth Davis, Gleaner Writer

PORT ANTONIO, Portland:

The 13th Caribbean Jamboree of Scouts was declared officially open by State Minister in the Ministry of National Security, Dr. Donald Rhodd, at Nature's Way, Portland, on Wednesday, August 9.

He described the scouts association as an enduring institution which has sought over the years to instill a sense of discipline in Jamaica's youth, particularly boys, teaching them life-coping skills which are not available in classrooms.

GOOD CITIZENSHIP

"Your mission to develop in boys and girls good citizenship is of paramount importance," he said. "Relentlessly, you must strive to impart obedience and self-reliance."

The Jamaica Scouts Association was formed in 1910 and as host of this year's staging, it has attracted some 140 scouts from across the Caribbean and the American region. The Jamaican contingent consists of more than 200 scouts and their masters.

Dr. Rhodd endorsed the Government's commitment to support the scouts movement.

"Our young people have been fed a steady diet of violence, sexual abandonment, materialism and individualism, by mainstream media. The scouts association should view its mission as a counter-cultural movement, where our youths are resocialised in positive attitudes and values," he further added.

Earlier, the Ministry of Education, through the National Centre for Youth Development, donated $2.6 million, making them the main sponsor of the 13th Caribbean Scouts Jamboree.