Message for Peace Day in schools

VIOLENCE OCCURS in many forms and our children must be taught compassion and love. Today is Peace Day in Schools, organised by the Peace and Love in Schools (PALS) programme, which was introduced in 1996. I am very pleased that the schools already involved in the programme are reporting success in less hostility and aggression among students. The main focus of PALS is to guide the school management in the effective use of conflict resolution methodologies to avoid violent behaviour.

As a nation, we must promote peace within our homes, at school, the workplace, church and the wider society. I endorse the theme for this year's promotion, "Peace! Live it every day."

It is my wish that all schools throughout the island and organisations engage in some activity in recognition of the importance of promoting peace in our nation.

Burchell Whiteman
Minister of Education, Youth and Culture