Minister in the Ministry of Finance, Ryan Straughn, has pledged to assist with the improvement of disabilityfriendly access at the Combermere School in Waterford, St Michael.
Speaking during Friday’s Speech Day Ceremony held at the school hall, Straughn declared his intention to support the building of a lift connecting the lower floors and the top floors of the school, enabling access for students with disabilities.
“With time, we have to see improvements to reflect the changing environment. I remember when we were at school. Combermere has always set the example as to how you can include people,” he said.
“I was thinking if we go around to the boys’ bathroom there is probably enough space on the outer wall that you can knock out some spaces and erect some sort of elevator going up the three floors.
“So I am sure if you can marshall the troops, that you can devise a project and get me those numbers by January 15, I will ensure this project to ensure that accessibility at Combermere is fulfilled and I give my word on that,” the minister added.
Straughn’s remarks came in response to chairman of the board Reverend Al Walcott’s address, as he shared the goal of creating an accessible environment for students with disabilities. Recently, a ramp was placed to ease access into the school hall.
“We have placed a ramp for the physically challenged. Prior to a couple months ago, if you were physically challenged, you struggled coming down the steps and we are also doing some research to find a way that you would make access to upper floors of the campus available to physically challenged children,” he said.
Blueprint
Adding to his pledge to assist the school, Straughn urged students to build a strong blueprint for their lives.
“Whenever a building is constructed, you usually have an architect who draws a blueprint and that blueprint serves as the guide. And a building is not well erected without a good, solid blueprint, foundation. Each of you are in the process of building the structure of your lives. And the question is whether you
have a proper, a solid, and a strong blueprint,” he said.
Belief, dignity, with strong person-hood are among the principles he said should be included in their blueprints.
Straughn said that as opportunities come their way, they should be prepared to perform well.
“The great challenge facing you is to be ready to face these doors as they open. I would urge you to study hard, to burn the midnight oil and don’t drop out of school, no matter the circumstances.
“I understand all the sociological reasons, but I urge you that in spite of your economic plight, in spite of the situation you’re forced to live in, stay in school and continue learning. And when you discover what you will be in your life, settle to do it as if God Almighty called you at this particular moment in history to do it,” he said.
Friday’s ceremony saw the presentation of awards of achievement to several academically outstanding students.
Principal Robin Douglas disclosed that in the Caribbean Examinations Council CSEC Examinations, the school offered 24 subjects, and the students achieved an overall pass rate of 75 per cent.
Selena Padmore received the highest number of Grade 1s – seven – in biology, chemistry, English B, French, Geography, mathematics and physics.
At the CAPE level, 23 subjects are offered across 43 units at the Units 1 and 2. The overall pass rate stood at 94 per cent, maintained from the previous academic year.
Yusuf Abodat achieved the best results with a 2 in communication studies and 1s in Unit 1 chemistry, pure mathematics and Unit 2 biology.
(JRN)
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