First Global initiates drive to address illiteracy

Western Bureau:In an effort to improve illiteracy among Jamaica's children, First Global Financial Services (FGFS) has embarked on a drive to donate hundreds of books to primary schools in St James and at least two other parishes.

The John Rollins Success Primary and Bickersteth Primary schools have been selected as the recipients in St James and were presented with their books, much to the appreciation of the teachers and the students.

"Nobody can say I have received too many books already," remarked Yvonne Miller-Wisdom, principal of the John Rollins Success Primary School, which is located near Barrett Town. "We are always in need of books; it doesn't matter what form it takes. We truly appreciate these books."

Charlotte Mason-Vidal, the business development manager for FGFS Montego Bay, said that last December, the company embarked on a social-media campaign dubbed 'Friends for Learning', where Facebook fans were encouraged to refer five of their friends for the opportunity to unlock a book to be donated to a child.

She noted that in essence, social-media users were given the opportunity to join First Global's fight against illiteracy.

"First Global is pleased to donate these books as we are certain they will help to shape the lives of our young ones," said Mason-Vidal. "We continue to support these schools in our quest to help eradicate illiteracy, and we hope this will help to get them off on the right footing."

WELCOME DONATION

Miller-Wisdom said among her students were many children from deprived homes whose parents were not financially able to purchase books apart from their textbooks - or no books at all in some instances. This, she said, meant that in those homes, it was hardly likely that books could be found.

"These children are getting a chance to see other books apart from their textbooks," said Miller-Wisdom. "It will give them the impetus and a reason for wanting to study. These books will help to improve literacy because they are colourful. They do not just deal with issues for today as the pictures take them into the past and the future."

Having a boys' centre at her institution, which places a lot more emphasis on teaching the boys, Miller-Wisdom said having examined the books, she realised that there were certain components that related to boys, which would encourage them to read, thereby enhancing their abilities.