At the last Conversations forum held in Maloney on February 7, Rowley evoked heated debate within the population when he made the statement, “I’m not in your bedroom. I’m not in your choice of men.” A subsequent statement from the OPM said some groups misinterpreted Rowley’s remarks and those groups claimed he was blaming the victim of a crime committed a few days earlier This statement said, “The Prime Minister was conversing with the people and his statement has been taken out of context. He categorically rejects this interpretation of his statement.” The statement added that the Prime Minister wants women to be empowered to make smart choices and does not blame the victims of domestic violence but rather sympathises with the victims and the families of both the victims and the perpetrators.”

Initially the WASA women had turned on the pressure to be ahead by two games to nil.

However Maharaj and Spicer managed to draw level (2-2), and then claimed the decisive set to emerge victorious.

Overall, the winners emerged from a field of five women’s pairs.

The WASA Men’s Team also featured in the Men’s Doubles Finals, but likewise were outclassed.

The Arima Hawks team of Reeza Burke and Arun Roopnarine led two games to nil. The WASA team of Curtis Humphreys and Yuuvraj Dookram then drew level (2-2). Then Burke and Roopnarine pulled ahead to be overall winners by three games to two.

They topped an initial field of 31 men’s pairs.

The Mixed Doubles was won by a WASA team of Joseph and Humphreys, who beat Maharaj and Luc O’Young. The winners beat an initial field of nine mixed pairs.

Williamson of Rigtech Sonics and Wilson of Arima Wheelers were dominant in the Under-13 division, claiming four gold medals each. Williamson and Wilson won the 333-metre time trial, 666m individual pursuit, flying 200m and the sprint event in the boys Under-13 and girls Under-13 categories respectively.

Winning four titles apiece in the tinymite category were Ryan D’Abreau and Makayla Hernandez.

D’Abreau (Arima Wheelers) and Hernandez (Madonna) won the 500m time trial, 1333m individual pursuit, flying 200m and the sprint in the tinymite boys and tinymite girls categories respectively.

Kyra Williams (Open Road Challenge) and Judah Neverson (Rigtech Sonics) showed their potential in the Under-11 category.

Williams won gold in the girls 333m time trial, 666m individual pursuit and the flying 200m.

There was no stopping Neverson among the boys, as he claimed the 666m individual pursuit, flying 200m and sprint events.

The second and final day of the Championships took place yesterday.

OTHER RESULTS –
Boys Under-7 200m Time Trial: 1.Jeduthun Henry (Sonics); 2.Liam Wilson (Arima Wheelers) Boys Under-9 200m Time Trial: 1.Jaquan Elbourne (Open Road Challenge); 2.Malik Broomes (Madonna); 3.Jahleil Jacob-Pope (Sonics)

Girls U-9 200m Time Trial: 1.Shameka Hoyte (Open Road Challenge); 2.Renee Fortun (Open Road Challenge)

Boys Under-11 333m Time Trial: 1.Javon Ramroop (Sonics); 2.Judah Neverson (Sonics); 3.Amari Dollaway (Arima Wheelers)

Boys Under-7 Flying 100m: 1.Jeduthun Henry (Sonics); 2.Liam Wilson (Arima Wheelers)

Boys Under-9 Flying 100m: 1.Jaquan Elbourne (Open Road Challenge); 2.Jahziel Gordon (Sonics); 3.Malik Broomes (Madonna)

Girls Under-9 Flying 100m: 1.Shameka Hoyte (Open Road Challenge); 2.Renee Fortune (Open Road Challenge) Boys

Under-7 Sprint: 1.Jeduthun Henry (Sonics); 2.Liam Wilson (Arima Wheelers)

Boys Under-9 Sprint: 1.Jaquan Elbourne (Open Road Challenge); 2.Jahziel Gordon (Sonics); 3.Malik Broomes (Madonna)

Girls Under-9 Sprint: 1.Renee Fortune (Open Road Challenge); 2.Shameka Hoyte (Open Road Challenge) Girls Under-11 Sprint: 1.Shemaiah Hoyte (Sonics); 2.Kyra Williams (Open Road Challenge).

There is no better time to start this programme than the long holiday vacation. Below, you will find a list of books that meet these goals. What’s even better, is that they are books that have been popular in my school library.

A Night Divided by Jennifer A Nielsen – You would be surprised how many upper elementary students love historical fiction like Nielsen’s novel that deals with a brother and sister plotting their escape from East Berlin. Many students don’t know about the Berlin Wall, so they find this book interesting. Children will also enjoy research opportunities that provide historical context to the Berlin Wall. There is much to ponder in this novel about love, friendship, independence, freedom and commitment – all themes and values that resonate with young leaders. A Night Divided is a high interest/low level (Hi/Lo) reading novel that children ten to 14 will enjoy.

The Raft by SA Bodeen – Because of the theme of survival, young readers will find this novel about a girl who ends up on a life raft in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. A riveting read for 12-year-old to 18-year-old readers.

This is a true Young Adult (YA) novel that I found to be a fascinating read even for adults.

Young readers can’t read this book without thinking about the impact of their decisions. Survival novels are always exciting and this one delivers an unexpected ending.

The War That Saved My Life by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley – This is still the most popular novel in my library and most of my students from ten to 14 say it is the best book they have ever read. It is one of my favourite books as well. Set in World War II, Brubaker Bradley tells the story of a mistreated girl with a clubbed foot who gets an opportunity of a lifetime when the British government decides to evacuate London’s children and place them in the countryside. Children must think about family in a whole new way as they read about the mean, unfair mother in this novel. The descriptions will make children, numb from their electronic gadgets, see the world in a whole new way.

Dogs Don’t Tell Jokes by Louis Sachar – Another popular writer, Louis Sachar always writes edgy books that educate and entertain.

In this novel, Gary W Boone wants to be a stand-up comedian.

He thinks that his school is his training ground for this profession.

The problem is, Gary has to learn when his sense of humour is inappropriate. Students from ten to 14 will learn a lot in this novel about appropriate behaviour. In the process, they will learn about different types of humour including irony and puns.

As you can see, the books listed above are popular, edgy and informative books that young readers can use to hone important analytical skills. Because they are so well written and target such important themes and conflicts in young readers’ lives, even teenagers who have not been reading and now want to build their English skills will relate to these novels.

Best of all, parents will enjoy these novels too. That means you can read these novels and have invaluable discussions with your children. By doing that, you will discover many of the issues that are important to your children.

Next week: More suggested books for young readers

In a brief address, Smith congratulated the TTOC on the decision to focus attention on inviting children to the Olympic Day event.

National athletes from various sporting disciplines turned out to support the local Olympic Day celebrations at Lord Harris Square, Port of Spain.

Keron “Sunny Bling” Sealy – Master of Ceremonies – ensured a vibrant, interactive and entertaining experience notwithstanding the inclement weather.

An exciting highlight at the event, which started at 10am and ended at 2pm, was the opportunity for the children and members of the public to see – some for the first time – Hasely Crawford’s 1976 Olympic gold medal.

Many pictures and selfies were taken with TT’s Olympic hero and his historic gold medal.

Children from several primary schools and kindergartens were in attendance where various national sporting organisations, including the National Association of Athletic Administrators (NAAA), Trinidad and Tobago Volleyball Federation (TTVF), Trinidad and Tobago Hockey Board (TTHB), Trinidad and Tobago Rugby Football Union (TTRFU) among others, set up booths, gave demonstrations and exhibited skills, drills and exercises to the young children.

The children hailed from Rosary Boys, St Rose’s Girls, Belmont Boys RC, SERVOL, Gail Cabral, La Seiva RC and Movant Police Youth.

Olympic Day is commemorated annually by over 200 National Olympic Committees worldwide.

The aim is to educate children on the role of sport in society and the values espoused by the Olympic Movement. In keeping with these objectives, the activities strive to encourage the nation’s youth to Strive for Excellence, to celebrate Friendship and to demonstrate Respect.

Assang and Koylass met in the final of the girls Under-16 category at the Lease Operators Junior Tennis tournament earlier this month. Assang prevailed 6-2, 6-2 in the final at the Trinidad Country Club.

Assang continued her form yesterday, easing to a 4-0, 4-0 win over Rhyse Houllier in a girls Under-16 group stage contest.

Koylass also won her opening match comfortably, defeating Kelsey Leitch 4-1, 4-0, while Kimberly Sabga got past Sarika Seenath 4-0, 4-1.

In the girls Under-14 category, Cameron Wong, Shauna Valentine and Isabel Abraham all won in straight sets.

Wong outlasted Kryshelle Cudjoe 4-0, 4-0, Valentine eased past Keesa Lee Young 4-1, 4-1 and Abraham got past Haleigh Fabres 4-1, 4-0.

Kyle Kerry and Sebastian Sylvester were unstoppable in the boys Under-14 category. Kerry, who won the boys Under-14 singles title at Lease, breezed past Joel Augustine 4-0, 4-0.

Sylvester recorded an identical win over Ryan Conyers showing the field that he plans to compete for the title. In other results, Charles Devaux was a 4-2, 4-0 winner over Saqiv Williams, Josh Gonzalves outclassed Andre Augustine 4-1, 4-0 and Ethan Wong defeated Levi Hinkson 4-1, 4-2.

The tournament continues today from 9 am.

OTHER RESULTS – Boys Under-10 Group Stage: Kyle Dalla Costa def Isaiah Boxhill 6-3; James Hadden def Dylan Boocock 6-3; Logan Hamel-Smith def Yeshwah Smith 7-5; Alexander Merry def Kaydon Siewrattan 6-0.

Boys Under-12 Group Stage: Nicholas Ready def Lorcan Chan Pak 4-1, 4-1; Ethan-Jude Trestrail def Sebastien Byng 4-5 retired; Jace Quashie def Alex Chin 5-3, 5-3; Jamal Alexis def Sebastian Ali 4-1, 4-0; Thomas Chung def Zachery Byng 4-0, 4-0; Beckham Sylvester def Tyler Hart 4-1, 4-1; Dominic D’Arcy def Zechariah Permell 1-4, 4-1, 10-8.

Girls Under-12 Group Stage: Charlotte Ready def Sydney Doyle 4-0, 4-2; Ella Carrington def Joy Augustine 4-0, 4-0; Sanjili Seenath def Gabrielle Mackenzie 4-0, 4-1; Zara Ghuran def Jordane Dookie 4-1, 4-1.

There obviously is no real change in that country economically, politically or socially since the death of Hugo Chavez. I wonder who is responsible for this.

The fact remains that because of the closeness of that country and what is taking place there, TT must pay close attention for this can have a spillover effect here.

It is important that no hasty decisions are taken concerning Venezuela, and also our present predicament must be taken into consideration. But I believe that assisting our neighbours in need is a good thing, as we have done this in the past. However, Venezuela is a bit different because of its political troubles. I suggest we be very cautious.

I repeat, our leaders must not rush into decisions on Venezuela, including about nationals of that country seeking refugee status.

ARNOLD GOPEESINGH via email

There is nothing wrong with proudly celebrating academic successes, but what does the continued focus of those deemed to be successful do for those who may have tried their very best but simply do not have the cognitive capacity or motivation for academic studies or even have the same long-term aspirations. In case you have forgotten let me remind you of the newspaper headline of June 8 – “Over 400 students are on suicide watch across primary and secondary schools”. This news story sparked a lot of shock and concern amongst the population, and though there are a myriad of reasons for the increase in depression and suicide in young people, the point is that the importance placed on exam success and doing well academically is a contributor to their diminishing emotional and mental health which should not be ignored.

There have been many studies done on the matter of stress and anxiety in academic studies starting as far back as 1914 and research estimates that approximately 20 per cent of under-18s have experienced depression or anxiety (Costello et al 2003) and that suicidal thoughts are common amongst young people. Yet the unhealthy social phenomenon which perpetrates the notion that exam success defines you as a person continues.

Even the terminology used in discussing the SEA results has the potential to contribute to students’ stress, for example the emphasis on “passing” for their first choice which alludes that not doing so somehow equates to “failing”.

But, the reality is that there is so much more to the nation’s youngsters and they need to be reassured that the SEA results are not everything. There is no denying the importance of a well-rounded secondary school education that focuses on academics as well as life skills, and all youngsters should be encouraged to excel to the best of their ability. However, a one-dimensional approach that ignores the impact of variables and life consequences such as health, socio-economics, environment, parental education, geographic location is a problematic one that does more harm than good. Subliminally, the message received by many youngsters – whether intentional or not, is that a perceived lack of success at SEA means that friends and family are not proud of them and that they are doomed to a second- rate life.

Many youngsters are faced with an overwhelming plethora of challenges which can affect their academic achievements such as bullying, death and loss, physical or mental illnesses or both, abuse, addiction, fears/ phobias, problems at school. In addition which, during adolescent they begin to produce hormones that causes the changes of puberty and the onset of sexual and relationship desires so when those are compounded by the worry about exams, parental pressures, and unrealistic expectations it is no surprise that there is such a high number of them on suicide watch. Another point in relation to the SEA results is around safeguarding, and I question the necessity for publishing the results in the newspapers in an era when most people have smart phones and communication is much easier.

I was made aware of a survivor of domestic violence who is currently living in a refuge and has a restraining order against her estranged husband who feels that her safety and that of her child have been compromised because he is now able to figure out their general whereabouts using the information published. Maybe it’s about time for this practice to be reconsidered.

Finally, I’d like to share a situation that has always stayed with me. During a class discussion, one of my fellow students was asked about his career aspirations and he replied that he wanted to be a refuse collector.

The entire class including the teacher erupted into raucous laughter, however, truth be told, he was aware of his limitations and had set himself an achievable personal goal. Needless to say he has had the last laugh because he went on to become the owner of a lucrative cleaning company.

Dr Yansie Rolston FRSA is a UK-based disability and mental health specialist advisor. She is a social strategist and trainer who works internationally at various levels of government, business and civil society. Contact her at yr@ efficacyeva.com

Delivering the opening remarks, Minister Gopee-Scoon indicated that the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) is the most comprehensive agreement negotiated by the CARIFORUM countries and creates the best opportunity for export expansion and economic development to aid the region’s trade and investment thrust with the European Union.

building the relationship with the EU, new partnerships will be developed which would allow the private sector to better understand the process in entering the European Union Market.” Minister Gopee-Scoon stressed that “a more aggressive approach is required in the utilisation of the EPA.” She encouraged the private sector to use the opportunities negotiated under the Agreement to discover new customers, form new partnerships and constantly pursue new growth prospects to diversify exports and build competitiveness.

Arend Biesebroek, Head of Delegation of the European Union to TT, stated that “we must reinforce the public private dialogue and the private-private dialogue to promote a more effective enabling business environment for Caribbean countries.” The EU Ambassador underscored the importance of creating a business link with Europe. He expressed the willingness of the EU Delegation to assist the private sector in getting their products into Europe.

Robertha Reid, Senior Adviser at CEDA, indicated that the intention of the workshop was to help the private sector understand the opportunities under the EPA and increase the number of companies exporting to the EU. She explained the initiatives being undertaken by Caribbean Export to provide trade and business intelligence and build capacity to conduct market research to optimize the EPA.

The workshop consisted of two very informative presentations.

The first presentation delivered by Mr. Adam Wisniewski from the European Union provided participants with a comprehensive overview of the details of the EPA.

This was followed by Dr. Noel Watson’s presentation on the ways in which exporters can utilize the EPA to increase their market presence in the European Union.

Copeland was inducted as provice chancellor and campus principal at a ceremony held at the Daaga Auditorium, UWI St Augustine.

President Anthony Carmona and his wife and Chief Justice Ivor Archie were among those in attendance. Education Minister Anthony Garcia was among those paying tribute to Copeland on the night. Garcia described him as an “educator par excellence” who had virtually dedicated his life to the teaching profession.

He assured him that his ministry and the Government would work with him as they chart the way forward during his tenure.

Chairman of the campus council Ewart Williams in his remarks said he rejoiced that the future of the campus had been placed in “capable and deserving hands” and noted his “impeccable academic credentials” and proven leadership ability. He added that Copeland is well known for his commitment to excellence, his students and above all, integrity.

“This country and our region face acute challenges of revitalising economic development as well as the social consequences that go with underdevelopment. Principal Copeland is supremely qualified and totally committed to lead the campus in an intensified effort at confronting and addressing these issues.” National Gas Company (NGC) Chairman Gerry Brooks said that Copeland had distinguished himself as a “visionary thinker”, “innovator” and “team builder” and his assumption is principal is “a source of of special pride and cause for optimism in the future of the university.” “Given the development challenges facing Trinidad and Tobago and the wider Caribbean, his appointment to the helm of the St Augustine campus of the University of the West Indies could not be more opportune.” He added: “In Professor Copeland, the University of the West Indies has found a respected scholar, an effective administrator and a leader in whom the arts and sciences converge.” Brooks said the crucial linkage between NGC and UWI must express itself in the acceleration of research and development on themes such as monetisation of marginal gas fields, renewable energy projects including solar and wind programmers and energy efficiency.

He added that NGC welcome UWI’s partnership as they explore opportunities in Ghana, Guyana, Cuba and other international jurisdictions.

President of the University of Trinidad and Tobago Professor Dyer Narinesingh described Copeland as a “respected colleague who has worked tirelessly for the holistic advancement of Trinidad and Tobago and the region at large.” “This is evidenced by his pioneering and innovative work on the steelpan but more so in his distinguished teaching and administrative career.” He said this country and the Caribbean are very fortunate to have someone of Copeland’s calibre “who combines penetrating analytical ability, decisiveness with firmness, and a capacity for strong and clear-sighted leadership.” “Chancellor, UWI has chosen a person to lead the St Augustine campus, one who motivates and energises others, bringing them together in a common enterprise, and doing so with vivacity, resilience, great human warmth and deeply human values.” Cave Hill Campus Principal Professor V. Eudine Barriteau said that Copeland has been appointed in a time of austerity and a need for efficiency. She added that he will have to do the “multi loop corporate prance” to ensure that education remains affordable and accessible.

Mona Campus Principal Professor Archibald McDonald praised Copeland as a “distinguished academic” and predicted that he will continue to make great gains as those before him and transform the campus into a world class institution.

He added that Copeland had proved over the years to be a leader of integrity and high standards and UWI was fortunate to have him assume he reins of leadership of the St Augustine campus.

Principal of the Open Campus Dr Luz Longsworth compared the campus to an orchestra and said that with Copeland they had a “pan man par excellence as part of our orchestra to add to our team as we percuss the region’s needs for development. Principal Copeland, without doubt we know that under your leadership there will be sweet music coming out of St Augustine campus.”