MONTEGO Bay, St James — Sandals Resorts yesterday held their Art Competition Awards Ceremony which awarded seven out of 48 students with top prizes at the John Rollins Success Primary School

The competition was held under the theme, "What would make the world a better place for kids" in recognition of Universal Children's Day.

Councillor for the Montego Bay South Division Suzette Brown made a special appeal to parents, teachers and caregivers to be vigilant in spotting persons who could be potential abusers as well as being able to discern when their child is being abused.

"It is normally the person that is closest to the victims that commit these acts and as a result, parents have to become a little more strident in protecting their children," he said.

"Tell them what is a good touch and a bad touch, and create an environment in which they don't feel afraid to say this does not feel comfortable. Not only does family have a role to play but persons in the educational system have a role to play, teachers and principals also have to pay close attention to each child so that they can easily identify if there are any signs of abuse," she said.

Minister for the Assemblies Church of God Reverend Morrane Chisholm said all adults should take responsibility for children.

"At the end of the day we have to make decisions that will make the world a better place for our children and for other people's children. We can only make the world a better place by being good parents," she said.

First-place winner Neca Peterkin received a day pass for four at Beaches Negril, a trip to Dolphin Cove and a gift basket from Fontana Pharmacy.

Reanne Jarrette, who placed second, received a trip to Dolphin Cove and a gift basket from Fontana Pharmacy.

Third-place winner Andrew Malcolm received a day pass for four at Beaches Negril along with a gift basket from Fontana Pharmacy.