South-based school La Romaine Secondary (LRSS) recently completed an annual male retreat programme at the school's compound. With focus on the male pupils and the theme Real Men-Reloaded, the school's organising committee sought feedback from the 247 male pupils, with the intention to bridge the gaps between where they are now, and where they ought to be. Emphasis was placed on holistic development.
Interest groups, both internally and externally, facilitated five lectures/workshops to address issues based on male sexuality and hygiene, the multifaceted benefits of sports and academics, how to treat a woman, and anger management.
At the end of the one-day programme, the boys, with fists clenched and hoisted in the air, repeated the Real Men pledge. The pledge commits the boys to fulfil as their responsibilities as males, as well as their responsibilities in school, at home and in the wider community. School principal, Wilfred Lyons, in his closing remarks said, "I highly commend the members of the organising committee for their commitment to the vision and mission of the school.
This annual intervention strategy has been extremely effective in reducing the student indiscipline, enhance teamwork and collegiality among major stakeholders of the school, including members of the teaching and non-teaching staff, parents, students and residents of the community. We look forward eagerly to the female students retreat in February 2011."
Facilitators of the educational forums included Reynold Samuel and Jevonn Thompson of Families in Action, Football coach Kendell Crawford, national and Olympic quarter miler, Alvin Daniel, and a team from the Sports Company of T&T.