Chief scout calls for young people to live values every day

WESTERN BUREAU:

Governor General Sir Patrick Allen, the chief scout of Jamaica, is calling for young Jamaicans to embrace the principles of scouting, not just in uniform but in their daily lives.

Addressing the Annual Public Meeting of the Scout Association of Jamaica at King’s House in St Andrew as part of the celebration of Scout Week 2026, Sir Patrick encouraged Scouts of all ages to translate lessons learned in the movement into good citizenship.

“I am pleased to welcome you to King’s House for the Annual Public Meeting of the Scout Association of Jamaica,” he said. “As we celebrate Scout Week 2026, I extend warm greetings to all of you and especially to those attending this meeting for the very first time.”

Reflecting on the road parade, which saw scouts and their leaders representing the various sections of the movement marching from Camp Road through New Kingston and onto the lawns of King’s House before completing a march pass and eyes-right salute, the chief scout said it was more than just a parade.

“We witnessed the excitement, colour, and discipline of our scouts during the road march. It was wonderful to see so many young people marching with pride,” Sir Patrick said. “That march reminded us that scouting is not only about meetings or camps but also about how we live every day. Scouting is evident in your schools, your communities, and in the good choices you make.”

SHAPING CHARACTER

Under the theme ‘A New Dawn in Scouting: Transforming Youth, Empowering Jamaica’, Sir Patrick emphasised the movement’s role in shaping character and leadership.

“Scouting teaches many important lessons. It teaches you to be brave enough to try, strong enough to help others, and honest enough to do what is right even when no one is watching. These are qualities that build good character,” he said.

“You learn to work as a team, to care for the environment, to solve problems, and to serve others. These lessons do not only make you better scouts; they help you become better sons and daughters, better students, and future leaders of Jamaica,” Sir Patrick said of the principles of the Scout movement.

He also offered scouts three simple principles to help guide their actions.

“Be helpful: Look for ways each day to help someone at home, at school, or in your communit. Be brave: Do not be afraid to try something new or to stand up for what is right. And be proud of Jamaica: Love your country and do your part to make it a place we can all be proud of,” he said.

BUILDING STRONGER NATION

“When young people live by these values, they help build a stronger nation,” Sir Patrick added before expressing his appreciation to scout leaders, volunteers, and commissioners who dedicate their time to guiding scouts across the island.

“I also want to thank our scout leaders, commissioners, and volunteers across Jamaica. They give their time, energy, and wisdom to guide you. Because of them, scouting continues to grow and make a difference in the lives of so many young people,” he said.

Sir Patrick reminded the young scouts that their character was more important than the uniform they wore.

“As chief scout, I am proud of the Scout Association in Jamaica and proud of each one of you. You represent hope, energy, and the bright future of our country,” he said of the 115-year-old scouting movement in Jamaica, of which he has been chief scout for the last 17 years.

“A good scout does not only wear the uniform. A good scout lives the values every day. May Scout Week inspire you to keep building good character, showing pride in Jamaica, and being a force for good wherever you are. Thank you, and may God bless the Scout Association of Jamaica and all our wonderful scouts,” he added.

albert.ferguson@gleanerjm.com