PM says Jamaicans must focus more on the sciences, commerce and industry
KINGSTON, Jamaica (JIS) — As the nation gears up to celebrate 56 years of Independence next Monday
, Prime Minister Andrew Holness has called on Jamaicans to focus more on the sciences, commerce, industry and trade for the development of the economy and to make their mark in those areas across the world.
Speaking at the Governor General, Sir Patrick Allen’s Independence Reception and Exhibition, which was held on the lawns of King’s House on Thursday
, Holness said that although the event was held to celebrate the country’s music, Jamaicans can achieve in other areas.
“We have done well in music, in culture, the arts [and] in the creative industries, but I believe it is now time that we use our freedom and independence for the creation of wealth through investment in the sciences, in commerce, in industry [and] in trade, in developing our economy,” Holness said.
The prime minister also called on Jamaicans to seek better ways of resolving conflicts and not through violence.
“I think now is the time to reflect on what we have achieved in the 56 years and make a decision that we must never allow violence to become a part of the social fabric of our society,” he said.
For his part, the Governor General said music was chosen to be celebrated at the reception, because it is one of Jamaica’s major contributions to the world.
“This evening, we celebrate another of the great Jamaican contributions to the world, our music. Reggae music, which evolved from earlier forms of traditional, home-grown Jamaican styles and rhythms, took the world by storm; a storm that continues to sweep across continents and countries,” he said.
“While we are never likely to forget the name and contribution of the Honourable Robert Nesta Marley, whose song, ‘One Love’, became the millennium anthem 18 years ago, we must always remember the deep roots planted by others before him and those who have since followed,” the Governor General added.
He said that for the past 56 years, the country has celebrated its cultural heritage, “not only among ourselves but with the world”.
