Students of the Enis Adams Primary School (EAPS) were encouraged to continue to take pride in the Territory of the Virgin Islands at the official flag hoisting ceremony this morning.

Minister for Education and Culture, Honourable Myron V. Walwyn told students that the purpose of the flag hoisting ceremony is to cultivate national pride and emphasized the need for students to show respect for themselves, the flags, their school and the Virgin Islands, adding, “If you say you love this country, show it…Part of showing love for your country, is showing respect for your country.”

Honourable Walwyn also asked students to encourage their peers and adults to show respect when the national anthem, Territorial song and pledge are delivered by standing at attention.

The education minister said that the National Citizen Service, where sixth graders engage incommunity service, is part of enhancing social intelligence, hence promoting respect and pride.

Honourable Walwyn also asked students to note the third flag mast and encouraged them to design their own school flag so that it can be hoisted along with the Union Jack and Virgin Islands flag.

Representative for the Second District, Honourable Melvin ‘Mitch’ Turnbull told students, “It is important to have pride…to have pride in yourself, your school, your flag and your Territory. Always remember life is God given. Live it with purpose. Live it with pride.”

He also noted EAPS as being the first school to recite the Territorial pledge at a flag hoisting ceremony.

Acting Director of the Department of Youth Affairs and Sports, Mrs. Brenda Lettsome-Tye said the Territorial signs and symbols are established to promote pride and dignity and the Territorial song and pledge charge residents with the task to take care of the Virgin Islands.

Assistant Secretary with the Ministry of Education and Culture, Ms. Lorna Stevens established the protocol for the flag hoisting and EAPS Principal, Mrs. Carlene Parsons delivered the Vote of Thanks.

The Ministry of Education and Culture is committed to ‘Creating a Culture of Excellence’ through Territorial pride and the promotion of the Territorial symbols.