The school cadet programme is a rewarding scheme, says the Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Prime Minister and Sugar Industry, Yogesh Karan.

More than 80 students of Nabala Secondary School took part in their passing-out parade held at the school’s ground at Naduri, Macuata, yesterday.

Mr Karan, who was the reviewing officer for the parade, reminded parents that their sons and daughters were their biggest resources.

“In most times we fight for land, our fishing grounds and fruit trees on our land. Why don’t we fight for our most important resource parading this morning; our sons and daughters,” Mr Karan said.

“Parents, your sons and daughters are the most valuable resource of our nation, our province, our villages and our families.”

Mr Karan said patriotism was not only about being proud when the national 7s side won tournaments overseas.

He said the aim of the six-week training by officers of the Fiji Police Force was to instill discipline.

“The weeks of training that you went through will never be enough to teach you what you want for discipline,” Mr Karan told students.

“It is just a beginning of a new era for you, preparing you to lead a disciplined life by listening to one command.

“One message I would like to give to you is to please use this discipline to become a lot more patriotic about our country.

“It’s also about how we interact with each other and how we carry out our day-to-day living. Some of you may become Police officers; you must apply the law equally to everybody.

“The main benefits of the school cadet programme are to instil discipline and to recognise and follow the instructions of those in charge.

“In addition to being part of a team, one is required to learn about and develop self-discipline, standing perfectly for a long period of time.

“The sense of achievement that comes from taking part in a drill activity is enormous and helps students realise that dedication, commitment and precision can have a positive impact,” he said.

Mr Karan acknowledged the students for the parade and also acknowledged the hundreds of parents, guardians and friends who were there to witness the occasion.

“Aspirations were raised as young people developed a more positive self concept and became aware of what they would achieve,” he said.

“In terms of academic performance, students who go through cadet training tend to be more organised, to have better communication and thinking skills, to have improved the quality of their work and become positive role model.

“Generally, improved attitude towards authority and in turn an improvement in behaviour adding that being a cadet was a source of pride.”

Edited by Epineri Vula

Feedback: nacanieli.tuilevuka@fijisun.com.fj