By Wallace J.A

TELESCOPE, St. Andrew’s (May 11, 2006): Today, the Minister responsible for Youth Development, Sen. Emmalin Pierre, visited her alma mater, SAASS, to speak to the Form Five students who are presently ‘gearing up’ for their external examinations.

The Minister reminisced about her days as a student at SAASS and exhorted the students to work assiduously so that they will be successful in their examinations and in their lives outside the protective walls of the school. She told them that they have a very vital role to play in the present and future development of Grenada.

Sen. Pierre stressed the importance of personal development and advised the young people in attendance that they also need to focus on the building of strong moral, ethical and spiritual values, which will doubtlessly help them to successfully journey through life. She also outlined a number of programs that her Ministry has developed to assist in the development of young people throughout the nation.

Minister Pierre was well received by the young people and was able to ‘connect’ with them in a way that very few persons can. Instead of remaining on the platform at the front of the auditorium, as some speakers do, Sen. Pierre moved through the hall as she spoke to the gathering, making visual and aural contact with every student in the room.

After her address, many of the students commented very positively about her charm, her eloquence, her humility and the special way in which she was able to relate to them at their level. The students spoke about taking the advice and information given by the Minister and putting it to good use.