Minister of State in the Ministry of Education and Human Resource Development, Patrick Todd (FP)????
The role of a prefect is one which calls for strong leadership skills, fairness and exemplary behaviour.
This was the advice given recently to newly installed prefects at the Metropolitan High School, by Minister of State in the Ministry of Education and Human Resource Development, Patrick Todd.?? He was speaking the Installation Ceremony, which was held at the Calvary Moravian Church, Roebuck Street, The City.
"As student leaders, you are expected to uphold the high standards of your school and to ensure that your colleagues do likewise.?? Good prefects always lead by example, therefore, your conduct and deportment must be exemplary.?? Students will observe what you do and what you say and will follow your lead….If your behaviour is below the standard expected, you will undermine the usefulness of the corps and bring disrepute to your school," he cautioned.
The Minister also urged prefects to see their role as one which went beyond the enforcement of good behavior on the school grounds.?? "Your role as prefects is not restricted to the school compound, but [is also necessary] in the bus, minibus or ZR terminals, on public vehicles and on the streets….?? Remember you are ambassadors for your school and wherever you may be, you are expected to uphold its good name," Mr. Todd reiterated.
He also advised school leaders to use team building techniques to achieve results while performing their duties.?? "As you work together you will develop your interpersonal skills and you will enjoy the benefits of teamwork.?? It is amazing the amount of camaraderie that is created in teams, especially when the going gets tough….Never underestimate the significance of this in achieving results," the Minister noted.
Mr. Todd counseled members of the student body to cooperate with the prefect corps in an effort to maintain a positive and cohesive school environment.