“READING MAKETH A FULL MAN”: COMMISSIONER OF POLICE DR. KEVIN BLAKE READS FOR STUDENTS OF HIS ALMA MATA
In a memorable return to his formative years, Commissioner of Police Dr. Kevin Blake visited the Jericho Primary School in Linstead, St Catherine, his alma mater, in recognition of the annual Read Across Jamaica Day initiative on Tuesday, May 6. This visit, more than just a ceremonial appearance, carried significant weight, resonating deeply with the students, staff, and the broader community, underscoring the vital role of literacy and the power of positive role models.
Impact on the Children
Commissioner Blake’s visit held immense relevance, primarily due to his standing as a prominent national figure returning to the very institution that laid the foundation for his educational journey. His presence served as a powerful testament to the potential that can emerge from humble beginnings and the importance of education in achieving success. For the students of Jericho Primary, seeing someone who once walked the same halls now holding one of the highest offices in the country is a tangible example of aspiration realised. It connects their present reality with a future possibility, demonstrating that their dreams, nurtured within the walls of their school, are achievable.
Furthermore, the visit highlighted the Commissioner’s personal commitment to education and community development, signalling that even with demanding national responsibilities, giving back to one’s roots remains a priority. This act reinforces the value of community ties and the responsibility of successful individuals to inspire the next generation.
The impact of Commissioner Blake’s visit on the children of Jericho Primary was profound and multifaceted. He read for the students from the book titled Peace and Safety, written by author and policewoman Christan Anderson-Bailey. The story was exciting and informative, and Commissioner Blake had the students’ undivided attention throughout the entire story.
He encouraged them: “So boys and girls, we are to obey the rules of the road. Use the pedestrian.
Crossing to get to the other side of the road and stop at the ‘stop’ sign even if nothing is coming,” said Commissioner Blake. For many, it was likely their first direct interaction with a high-ranking officer, particularly one from the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), in a positive and engaging context. Seeing the Commissioner, not in a formal capacity related to law enforcement duties, but as a former student and a champion of reading, helps to humanise the role and potentially build trust and positive perceptions of the police from a young age.
His act of reading to them directly engaged the students, making the experience personal and memorable. It reinforced the idea that reading is not just a school activity, but something valued and enjoyed by successful adults. Such interactions can spark curiosity, encourage a love for books, and motivate children to improve their reading skills. The sheer presence of a respected figure like the commissioner dedicating time to them sends a powerful message about their worth and the importance placed on their education and development.
The Importance of Initiatives like Read across Jamaica
Initiatives like Read Across Jamaica are fundamentally important for fostering a culture of literacy and promoting educational development across the nation. Literacy is a foundational skill essential for academic success, personal growth, and active participation in society.
Read Across Jamaica, by bringing together volunteers from various sectors, including government, private sector, and civil society, to read to children, emphasises the collective responsibility in nurturing young minds. These events make reading fun and accessible, exposing children to different types of literature and encouraging them to become lifelong readers. The involvement of prominent figures, such as Commissioner Blake, amplifies the message about the importance of reading and education, drawing significant attention to the initiative and inspiring broader participation.
Such programs play a crucial role in supplementing the efforts of teachers and parents, providing additional support and motivation for children to improve their reading abilities. By promoting literacy, Read Across Jamaica contributes to building a more informed, engaged, and empowered citizenry, which is vital for national development and reducing social challenges.
In conclusion, Commissioner Dr. Kevin Blake’s visit to Jericho Primary for Read Across Jamaica was a significant event that powerfully illustrated the connection between education, personal achievement, and community responsibility. It served as a source of inspiration for the students, reinforced the critical importance of literacy, and highlighted the valuable role that initiatives like Read Across Jamaica play in shaping the future of the nation’s youth.
