SEVERAL students who will be attending traditional and non-traditional high schools in September have been urged to remain focused on their academic pursuits and to form friendships with others, who will encourage and motivate them to do well.

The words of advice came from Principal Director of the National College for Educational Leadership (NCEL) Dr Maurice Smith, while addressing a Grade Six Achievement Test (GSAT) awards ceremony held last Friday at Manpower and Maintenance Services’ head office in Kingston.

“When you go to school in September and you see some children idling about and not making good use of their (parent’s) money, don’t follow them because… there will come a point in your life when you will regret wasting your time at school,” he said.

Dr Smith encouraged the children to always strive for success.

“You have the ability to rise up, you have the ability to do well, you have the ability to change your circumstances and you have the ability to improve your family. Your parents expect you to take the family one step higher,” he said.

He further urged them to value their youth. “This is the best time of your life. Don’t be in a mad rush to grow old. At your age, you have nothing to worry about. All you have to do is go to school and read your book. We want to encourage you to enjoy your time as youth,” he said.

Thirty-one students, who are children of employees of Manpower and Maintenance Services Limited, were presented with cash, school supplies and other tokens by the company, along with contributing clients and corporate partners.

Over 500 students have benefited from the company’s GSAT awards programme, which is in its 12th year.