Chalky Hill Primary students get lesson in conflict resolution
STUDENTS at the Chalky Hill Primary School in St Ann were recently taken through lessons in conflict resolution by the Violence Prevention Alliance (VPA) in collaboration with the Sandals Foundation.
The joint effort forms part of a transformative project for the Steer Town community, which is being conducted as part of a three-year partnership involving the Sandals Foundation, the VPA and Coca-Cola LA. This initiative was officially launched last November.
The initiative is aimed at instilling the values of peace and unity within the young minds, fostering a community of harmony and understanding and introducing the essence of tranquillity and understanding to the school.
The activities commenced with a devotion led by the VPA, setting the tone for a day filled with introspection and enlightenment.
“Peace is not just the absence of conflict; it is the presence of justice,” said Jonelle Llewellyn, research associate of the Violence Peace Alliance, encapsulating the essence of the mission.
Following the devotion, the children engaged with ambassadors from the Sandals Foundation — comprising team members from Sandals Royal Plantation and Sandals Dunn’s River — and the VPA representatives.
Through interactive sessions, the ambassadors introduced the children to words and concepts associated with peace, enriching their vocabulary and understanding of this fundamental virtue.
One of the most impactful activities of the day was when each child composed a single sentence promoting peace. These expressions were then displayed in their classrooms, serving as daily reminders of the importance of fostering peace within oneself and the community.
“As ambassadors of Sandals Dunn’s River, it’s truly fulfilling to witness the enthusiasm and eagerness of these young minds to embrace the concept of peace,” said Katrice Simpson, one of the Sandals Foundation ambassadors.
The day’s proceedings served as a poignant reminder that the seeds of peace are sown in the hearts and minds of the younger generation.
With initiatives like these, the Sandals Foundation and the VPA are seeking to ensure a future where peace reigns supreme, one child at a time.