Salutations
– Senator Dr. Natalie Chaitan-Maharaj, Parliamentary Secretary
– Mrs. Wendy Guy-Hernandez, Permanent Secretary, (ag)
– Mrs. Vera Deonanan- Balkaran, Deputy Permanent Secretary
– Ms. Michelle Boisselle- Morris, Technical Coordinator, Parenting Unit, National Family Services Division
– Mr. Nigel Thompson, Programme Development Officer, Parenting Unit, National Family Services Division
– Staff of the Ministry of the People, Social Development and Family Services
– Esteemed Parents and Guardians
– Members of the media
– Ladies and Gentlemen
Good morning,
I am pleased to be here with you today as we celebrate the achievements of parents and guardians who have completed the Community-Based Parenting Programme which was delivered through a series of workshops held by the Parenting Unit, National Family Services Division. During the months of April and May, these workshops were conducted in Aranguez and El Socorro, Carenage, Belmont and Pleasantville, as a continuation of the programme intended to reach and impact families and communities across our nation.
Parenting is perhaps the most important responsibility one can have. It is a role that shapes not only the future of our children, but also the future of our nation. Unlike most jobs, it does not come with a manual or a set of written instructions. Each child is unique and each situation is different, this ladies and gentlemen makes the role of parenting both rewarding, and at times very challenging. It is therefore commendable that so many of you chose to participate in these workshops, which has enable you to learn new parenting strategies, improve existing skills, and to ensure that your children receive the best possible foundation in life.
The Parenting Workshops provided participants with a safe space to discuss real issues affecting families today. From the importance of effective communication, to positive discipline, to emotional support and healthy bonding, the sessions sought to give parents practical tools that can be applied in the home. As a Government that caters its policies to incorporate the needs of the people, we know that good parenting is a necessity in strong character building. It requires patience, consistency and love, but it also requires knowledge. These workshops were therefore designed to empower parents to make more informed decisions that can positively influence the lives of their children.
I must also highlight the significance of these workshops being conducted in diverse communities, each with its own strengths and challenges. Yet across all communities, the need for strong families and responsible parenting remains the same. By reaching parents where they are, the Ministry is fulfilling its mandate to ensure that support and services are accessible to people throughout Trinidad and Tobago.
The Ministry of the People, Social Development and Family Services continues to place families at the centre of national development. We understand that when families are supported and strengthened, children thrive. Nelson Mandela once said, “The true character of society is revealed in how it treats its children.” These words remind us that investing in parents and children is not just a family matter, but a national priority.
When children thrive, communities become safer and more productive. And when communities are strong, our nation prospers. The vision of this Ministry is to empower people, to strengthen families and to build resilient communities. Parenting workshops are one of the practical ways through which we are bringing this vision to life, alongside other services offered by the National Family Services Division, such as counselling, mediation, and psychosocial support.
Today, as we distribute certificates, we are not merely handing out pieces of paper. We are acknowledging effort, dedication and a willingness to grow. Each certificate represents hours of participation, reflection and learning. It represents your courage as parents to admit that although you already love your children deeply, there is always room to learn and to do better. That courage is admirable and should be celebrated.
Let me also express my appreciation to the facilitators and officers who made these workshops possible. Your expertise, patience and commitment have equipped parents with knowledge that will benefit families for years to come. The Ministry recognises the effort that goes into planning and delivering such programmes and I extend sincere thanks for your service.
To the parents and guardians, I encourage you to view this certificate as a new beginning. Take the lessons learned and apply them in your homes. Share the knowledge with other parents in your neighbourhoods. Be role models not only for your children but also for your community. Continue to nurture with love, discipline with fairness and guide with wisdom. Remember that good parenting is not about perfection. It is about presence, patience and purpose.
In closing, I wish to congratulate all of you who are receiving certificates today. You are now better equipped to face the joys and challenges of parenting. The investment you have made in yourselves is an investment in your children, in your families and ultimately in the future of Trinidad and Tobago.
On behalf of the Ministry of the People, Social Development and Family Services, I salute you and encourage you to continue this journey with confidence, determination and hope. May your children flourish and may your families continue to be strengthened.
I thank you.