CUL DE SAC:--- The United Student Government Front (USGF) has embarked on a series of trainings in parliamentary procedures for high school student councils. The workshops, which started last Friday (February 17, 2012), will run until April 20.Jaycees trainers and senators Elroy Hughes and John Hodge are conducting the sessions, which will teach the students how to plan and execute their meetings.
Last Friday, representatives of St. Dominic High School, St. Maarten Academy, St. Maarten Vocational Training School and Sundial met at the St. Maarten Academy's academic campus for the first workshop. Hughes explained the origin of parliamentary procedures and traced its history from the 19th century to present.
The interactive session explored techniques in planning agendas for meetings, taking control of chaotic situations, and respecting decisions set by the council. Students were encouraged to put aside friendship and be professional in their conduct, especially since they are the voice of their student body.
"It is important that you listen to other leaders when they speak on television and you will learn how to conduct your own meetings. You will also learn leadership skills. As a leader, you must always be prepared," Hughes told the students.
He took them through the steps in planning an agenda, and urged them to send out their agendas at least one week in advance. As the executive body of the student council, he told them, they will be doing all the work for the entire student body; therefore, it is imperative that they meet as a board prior to any general meeting to plan and make decisions.
"When your board sits together, they all have to agree with the final decision. The majority rules. So when the president talks about a project, he/she has the full backing of the majority. But this does not take away the rights of the minority."
The workshops will continue on March 23 at Sundial School and on April 20 at St. Maarten Vocational Training School. All meetings start at 3:30pm and end at 5:00pm.
Aside from the trainings, the USGF is seeking to collaborate with the St. Maarten Youth Council Association. Ms. Connie Francis-Gumbs, of the latter organization, used the forum on Friday to present the roles and constitution of the Youth Council.
The USGF is encouraging more high school students to participate. They can contact their respective student councils to do so. The first workshop was free, but students will be required to pay $1 for each of the remaining sessions. At the end of the three workshops, students will be given an evaluation and a Certificate of Participation.
USGF coordinators Sinatra Rouse, mentor of St. Dominic Student Council; and Kim Lucas-Felix, mentor of St. Maarten Academy Student Government Association would like to thank the presenters for volunteering their time towards enriching our future leaders.
Hughes, who voluntarily conducts training for the youth, said, "Giving these types of trainings to young people always make me feel good, especially when you see they are eager to learn something new."
