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St. Maarten – Minister of TEATT Claret Connor visited the Methodist Agogic Center (MAC), St. John’s Campus and spoke to the 3rd grade students of campus 1 & 2 about tourism and how it affects their lives.
The visit is in keeping with the Ministry’s vision to create greater awareness and understanding about the industry and the importance to the economy and by extension, the citizens of this country. Minister Connor was reportedly very impressed with the knowledge the students have about tourism, and how it contributes to the island. The students were very eager to answer questions posed by Minister Connor.
The Minister shared his beliefs in what tourism being part of everyday lives means to him. He reminded the students that even at their young age their knowledge and input in making tourism successful depends on them as well. He encouraged the students that each of them has the key for success on an island that lives primarily from tourism. He explained to them that this means that their attitude towards one another, to the parents and family at home, to their neighbourhoods and the communities must all be positive in order for the island to develop properly.
“I must commend the MAC for including tourism in their curriculum, and providing the teachers and students, with the information about this very important industry. What better place to start, than with those who are expected to take up the baton in the near future. Tourism is indeed Every Body’s Business,†Minister Claret Connor further said.
The Minister reiterated to the students that the key elements they must have are positive attitudes; hard work in school; commitment to each other and the communities; respect and a spirit of conservation for the environment; and understanding the importance of the island’s culture. Minister Connor concluded his talk by saying that the aforementioned key elements would guarantee a great visitor experience and will encourage persons to return for many more visits, as these qualities expressed the best the island has to offer.
The Minister presented a booklet on tourism and a goodie bag to the students & teachers. In return, the MAC students presented Minister Connor with a token of appreciation for visiting their school. It is the intention of the Minister, going forward, to visit the other schools in the coming weeks ahead.
