Msgr Gladstone Wilson’s story can inspire our youth

THE EDITOR, Madam:

Thank you for your helpful news item on September 9 announcing the start of the Msgr Gladstone Wilson College in Montego Bay. In addition, your readers should know that this initiative would not have been possible without the interest and energy of the Hon Horace Chang and the continuing partnership of Minister Samuda and the executive of the Ministry of Education.

Also, it is important to remember why the college will bear the name of Msgr Gladstone Wilson. Born of a poor, black, God-fearing teacher family who understood the crucial importance of education, Gladstone Wilson, despite many obstacles and prejudices, achieved excellence at St George’s College and earned three doctorates by age 30.

Also important, he declined overseas opportunities and returned to colonial Jamaica in the 1940s to join the struggle through education and pastoral work for high moral values and the cause for nationhood.

Wilson’s life story can inspire today’s young men towards personal dignity, ethical conduct, and dedicated citizenship.

REV RONALD G. THWAITES