COMMUNITY members have been called on to not co wer in the face of brutal attacks on the nation’s children, but to play their part in ridding the society of people with criminal intentions.

Making the call, former youth parliamentarian Claudine Duncan said as communities and “people of goodwill”, focus should be on being guardian angels for children, looking out for each other, and exposing people who seek to make communities unsafe for those who can’t defend themselves.

“[There’s] too much news of bad things happening to children, and I am deeply convinced that if we let go of fear and stand up for our children, there will be no safe space for paedophiles and other criminal elements,” she said while speaking at the recent graduation ceremony for Naggo Head Infant School in Portmore, St Catherine.

Duncan, who is also vice-chairman of the school, told the parents that their love and sacrifice have helped to shape the “excellence we are celebrating today”, and dedication and patience from teachers and staff have laid a solid foundation for the students.

The event was held under the theme, ‘This Child is Great, Excellence is Within Me’.

Adding that the students have been prepared for success, Duncan said they will become men and women who will “make our community and country great”.

“Stay close to your books. Stay close to your teachers,” she advised. “Continue to listen to your parents and avoid people who hide and want to get rich by doing things that are evil and wrong. You have already shown that you can learn, grow, and shine. As you prepare to move on to primary school, we know you will continue to do great.”

Graduate Tahila Clarke is embraced by former youth parliamentarian Claudine Duncan, during the ceremony..