LADY Allen, the wife of the governor general, has challenged students to use education as the ladder for upward mobility, and to make their lives meaningful.

Speaking on a tour of the Clarendon-based Race Course Primary School last week, she recalled her young years in the parish of St Mary.

“I did not know what the future had for me, but I knew that education was the key. Do not let anyone tell you that where you are from is going to define you, or that you cannot be what you dream to be,” Lady Allen told the students.

She told them that they must be resolute and determined in their quest to achieve success.

“You must determine what you want to be. Your professional areas are going to vary, a doctor is not more important than a teacher, nor a farmer less important than a pastor, whatever you want to be, you can be,” she added.

Lady Allen also called on the teachers to continue their support of the children.

“Encourage parents to put their money in their children. Parents, you also have to sacrifice for the books that your children need to take them through this journey of life,” Lady Allen said.

Highlighting the discipline at the institution, she said it is an ingredient for academic success and a good life in the future.

“Jamaica will be the best, with the discipline that I have seen here at Race Course Primary. Continue to work hard, success will be yours, and you will be the men and women that we will all be proud of,” she told the students.