In-School Productivity Campaign | Perpetuating productivity through knowledge transfer

Jamaicans are frequently accused of being undisciplined, but this is a very debatable proposition. However, what is less debatable is the idea that Jamaicans do not know time.

It almost seems to be an accepted part of our culture, and we joke often that If you want Jamaicans to be at an event at 9 a.m. you should tell them it starts at 8 a.m.

Another common claim is that if you ask one of our nationals to meet you somewhere at a specific time, the natural question is, "The right time or Jamaican time?" This suggests that the norm for a Jamaican is to be late.

Recently, a team from the Jamaica Productivity Centre (JPC) visited the Caribbean Maritime University (CMU), and upon arrival, was immediately impressed with the team of young cadets to whom we would speak about improving productivity. Some 150 students were smartly dressed in their uniforms, seated quietly in the classroom waiting to be addressed by their chief officer cadet.

During the presentation the cadets were asked, "If one of your friends from CMU asks you to meet them at 8 a.m., what time do they typically arrive?" There was a chorus when the students answered "6:45 a.m". When asked the same question in reference to a friend who is not a cadet, they offered responses of "10:00 a.m.", and even went as far as saying midday.

CULTURE OF RESPECT

Throughout the presentation, it became clear that the culture that the cadets were accustomed to was one of discipline, respect, superior quality and precision. They sat quietly and actively listened. At no point did students enter into 'mini side conversations' neither did they interrupt each other. When they challenged each others' responses, it was respectful, and both parties were receptive to the opinion offered by the other. The JPC team congratulated them for having a positive attitude and asked them what characteristic they believed they possessed that made them different from the stereotyped/typical Jamaican. Responses included: a higher level of tolerance, high endurance for mental stress, and respect and value of time.

It was refreshing to see youth not only attuned to academics, but cultivating attitudes needed for the positive transformation of a society. Just observing these students made us wonder: What if their approach to work, the way they interacted, and their modus operandi were replicated throughout society? It was a hopeful thought.

Positive reinforcement works

A team from the Jamaica Productivity Centre (JPC) visited the Caribbean Maritime University (CMU) to teach students different productivity tools and concepts they could adopt to improve their overall quality of life, but left being reminded of lessons previously learnt. Positive reinforcement works! These students were learning in an environment where they saw firsthand that positive behaviours reap benefits. They were also learning the value of being a part of a team and the personal responsibility associated with playing their part to the best of their abilities to complement the whole.

The JPC charged the students of the CMU to make it their duty to teach their friends, family and anyone they may so influence a few of the positive behaviours they had now inculcated. Being productive and improving continuously in our daily lives require discipline and tenacity; sometimes these attributes are elusive to adults but are embraced by youths.

We must recognise that if we want a better functioning society, we can and must play our part to transfer the knowledge that we have proven to work, to those within our reach. The message of 'Being Productive- Improving Me' needs to be a personal motto for all. In other words, each of us can prosper our neighbours through the transfer of productivity doctrine and knowledge.

Sashelle Gooden is the Senior Communication Specialist at the Jamaica Productivity Centre.