Noted author and publisher Joanne Simpson is of the view that civics education should be offered to all students at the secondary and tertiary levels, citing it not only as an academic subject, but also as a timely and strategic generational initiative.

“It is imperative that we engage all students at the secondary and tertiary levels, before they exit the education system,” she said, “as civics has been absent as a stand-alone subject for decades.”

Simpson, promoting her latest book, the comprehensive New Vision Civics, suggested its use should extend beyond grades 7-9, as currently stipulated by the Ministry of Education and Youth (MOEY), “so that all students would be exposed to this valuable information”.

She is encouraging every member of society — community groups, community leaders, the church, politicians, and others in leadership — to take civics seriously, arguing that “with its transformative component, the shift to a more productive, civil and tolerant society, accountable and responsible, would be put in motion”.

New Vision Civics has been given the thumbs up by leading educators, and remains on the education ministry’s list of endorsed textbooks. The work contains over 25 years of research and includes an ‘How To’ of civic participation, pivoting from the sacrifices of our forefathers and mothers, to build an inspiring legacy for future generations.

“Every citizen has a unique fit in this society. At this juncture of our journey as a people, many have been sidelined because of the absence of this vital information. Many are indifferent. Still, many have lost their sense of identity, do not know their rights, how to protect these rights, and the importance of their vote,” the author said.

Simpson believes that civic education can lift the level of understanding and foster constructive participation in matters such as the current conversation on becoming a republic. She is inviting individuals locally and in the Diaspora to purchase copies of the book to outfit secondary and tertiary students, as well as libraries across Jamaica.