PHILIPSBURG:--- The "Students Stand Up" Youth Forum was organized by the USM Alumni Foundation on Tuesday evening in order to provide the opportunity for students to voice their perspective and concerns about various situations prevalent throughout St. Maarten.
With youth of various ages in attendance at the University of St. Martin, the Forum provided an outlet for the youth to be involved in the shaping and direction for reform of the education system, labour market, career development, and other pertinent areas affecting the ability for our youth to grow and prosper.
President of the USM Alumni Foundation Stuart Johnson said, "It surely was an informative and interactive session with our special invited guest."
Josianne Artsen, Immediate Past President of USM and Deputy Minister Plenipotentiary gave a comprehensive presentation on education "From the Cradle to the Grave." "I am honored for the opportunity to hear from my youth and to be a guest at this forum," says Josianne Artsen. "We've been doing a lot of talking over the course of the political campaign. As a visionary leader in education, I recognize the importance of listening to the people we will be representing in parliament; particularly our youth, which is my area of passion and expertise."
Additionally Stuart and Johnson and Paula Gordon, representing as President and Vice-President of the USM Alumni Foundation as the hosts of the event, touched on the importance of this election.
"Regardless of your political party or candidate choice, I urge you to go out and vote massively in this first parliamentary election," Johnson concluded.
