The Editor, Sir:

Jamaica is slowly becoming a place where values and attitudes are compromised and influenced by what is seen on satellite television and what is right becomes second place to what is popular.

We watch MTV, VH1 and BET and other networks with reality shows, from which people become famous and become obsessed with the idea of becoming a star. These programmes mislead some to simply believe that to be successful one has to have the house, the bling, the high profile partners and be at all the hot spots. Anything less would be unambitious.

Young people need to be exposed to people who have truly worked hard for what they have, people who are making a positive contribution to society through their daily efforts, people who live in service to their fellowman and are happy doing so. Many of the characters we watch on TV are empty and incomplete, but they put on a show for our viewing pleasure. That is why there are often cases of drug abuse, promiscuity and senseless behaviour among them. All this is in an effort to fill the void that riches cannot.

Marcus Garvey wanted us to be a nation of scientists etc. A proud people with heads held high, eyes piercing like the sun, free from inferior complexes, exceptional in character and embracing what is right, always! Government needs to provide more scholarships for those who need the financial assistance towards tertiary education. Notwithstanding the importance of the business sector, there should be more career fairs promoting fields which are less popular but which are needed in our island.

Recently it was stated that we only have two government pathologists in the country! There should be more options for our young people to excel in fields other than sports and entertainment. Our African history and heritage need now more than ever to be a part of our school curriculum. It is now obvious that young people are in need of direction, someone to emulate, something that is truly original, something that is ours! We are a mighty people and it is about time we take our place as such.

I am, etc.,

ANN-MARIE PATRICK

ksk_michy@yahoo.com