THE inaugural staging of the St Thomas Community Safety and Security Branch (CSSB) Safe School and Empowerment Programme has been hailed as a resoundingly successful initiative that fostered transformation, personal growth and self-discovery among participating students.

The programme, which commenced in September 2025, was implemented through a partnership involving the St Thomas CSSB of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), several high schools across the parish, and stakeholders from various government agencies.

Designed to empower students by strengthening their self-confidence, critical thinking, and decision-making skills, the initiative aimed to equip participants to make informed choices, take ownership of their learning, and achieve academic success while striving to become the best version of themselves.

The programme was delivered using the DRIVE framework (Destination, Responsibility, Identity, Vision, and Evaluate) as guiding principles for personal development and success.

Manager of Teen Hub St Thomas, Chantal Williams (left) presents the ‘Most Consistent Participant’ award to Paris Francis during the closing ceremony of the Safe School and Empowerment Programme.

The initiative culminated in a closing ceremony at the Anglican Church Hall in Morant Bay on July 2, during which 29 students –15 females and 14 males – were formally recognised and presented with certificates commemorating their participation.

Programme Coordinator, Corporal Dwight Henry, described the experience as both “humbling and inspiring”, noting the remarkable changes demonstrated by the participants.

“Those who were defiant became more compliant and cooperative, [while] others who struggled with consistency started to show up with greater purpose and responsibility,” he said.

Deputy Superintendent of Police Neville Gordon (left), presents a certificate of participation to Tyrese Buchanan during the closing ceremony for the Safe School and Empowerment Programme.

Henry urged the students to regard the completion of the programme not as the end of their journey, but as the beginning of a new chapter in their personal growth and development.

“This ceremony is not a finish line; it’s a launching pad for greater achievements. The lessons you learn must continue beyond these walls. Continue to dream boldly, take responsibility for your own actions and choices, remain true to your identity, pursue your vision with determination, and consistently evaluate your progress. Remember that your circumstances now do not define your future,” he said.

Participant Dejanae Aldridge emphasised the lasting impact of the special intervention programme (SIP), describing it as an experience that extended far beyond the classroom.

“Over the weeks and months, SIP became much more than just a programme. It became a place of growth, learning, self-discovery, and transformation,” she said.

Recipient of the ‘Most Improved Participant’ award, Shamaula Mortluck during the closing ceremony for the inaugural St Thomas Community Safety and Security Branch Safe School and Empowerment Programme. (Photo: JIS)

Aldridge noted that while the closing ceremony marked the conclusion of one chapter, it also signalled the beginning of another.

“As we leave this programme, we do so with greater knowledge, stronger character, and a renewed determination to become positive influences in our schools, homes and communities. We are leaving this programme, not only as participants who completed a course but as young people who have been empowered to become the best version of ourselves,” she declared.

— JIS