Nevis’ Premier – Joseph Parry
Charlestown, Nevis
September 21, 2012
Premier of Nevis, Hon. Joseph Parry told attendees at the St. Kitts – Nevis Independence Gala in St. Croix, USVI, last Saturday (September 22nd), that despite the small challenges, it has been a glorious 29 years as an independent nation.
He told the over 200 nationals and friends of St. Kitts- Nevis gathered at the Reading Rainbow Great Hall in Christiansted, that “we” in St. Kitts- Nevis have good reasons to be proud.
“The one thing that is weakening the island is division, and we need to rise up from the division and try to work together because it is a must to build up the country,” said the Premier.
The Nevisian leader told the gathering that they should understand that if you have something good one must care it. He stated that the people must not stab themselves in the stomach, but grow and do what one can do to live well. He also appealed to nationals to help one another in any way they can, because according to the Premier, “it will help in the growth of young people, and in turn the country”.
“If you climb on my shoulder and I have helped elevate you, you must then be able to let someone climb on your shoulder and elevate them,” said the Hon. Joseph Parry.
He also said that if we as a nation only work together many would be amazed at what can be achieved. The statement brought thunderous applause.
During his address, the Premier also spoke on the subject of education, noting that his Nevis Reformation Party-led Administration had invested heavily in education and training for the people of Nevis as over 40 teachers has received training within the last two years and over 200 young people has received financial assistance from the government for University education.
He stated that young men need education and training to be on par with the young women, who are surpassing the men academically. “We have appealed to the males, and advised parents that you must take a greater interest in your male children, and know every aspect, of your sons lives.”
Premier Parry said as part of his Administration’s mandate, he had sought assistance from Dr. Simon Jones-Hendrickson, who was present at the Gala. Dr. Hendrickson, a national of St. Kitts and Nevis, and professor at the University of the Virgin Islands (UVI) has helped in organizing a meeting with the President of the University of the Virgin Islands- Mr. David Hall and the Premier. During the meeting in Nevis in early September, the Premier negotiated a lower tuition rate for Nevisian students attending the institution.
Premier Parry announced: “A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the University of the Virgin Islands and Nevis has been negotiated as students from Nevis will pay about $6,982.50, as opposed to $11,970 for their tuition.”
Premier Parry concluded, “I thank Dr. Simon Jones-Hendrickson who acted immediately, and now we have a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the University of the Virgin Islands to get a lower tuition rate for Nevisian students.”
More air miles for Parry. Vote with your wallet not your brain!