'Jamaicans today lack emotional intelligence'

Karen Sudu, Gleaner Writer

BOG WALK, St. Catherine:

DELANO SEIVERIGHT has charged that many Jamaicans have failed to integrate educational attainment into real life solutions, critical to effective leadership and job performance.

The Generation 2000 president said in many instances, the absence of emotional intelligence has hindered professional development.

"Many Jamaicans don't have emotional intelligence. There are a lot of bright people, went to school, went to university, did well, but when you talk to them - you go the hospital, the police station or a school - they just can't talk to you properly, they just don't have any manners, even some politicians," he asserted.

Seiveright who was speaking at Bog Walk High School's annual awards ceremony recently, which honoured outstanding students in academics and who displayed exemplary disciplinary conduct in the 2010 Christmas term, argued that success in the work world required more than academic excellence.

"Book knowledge alone cannot bring you through life as successfully as you want it to be. You have to be able to interact with other human beings and get along well in an office environment, or wherever you are going work, you should be able to get along with your peers and so on, so that you can be successful," advised Seiveright.

certificates and trophies

In the meantime, 81 grades seven to nine students who placed first, second and third in each class received certificates. Additionally, 24 of this number pocketed trophies for obtaining averages of 70 per cent and over. Andrae Douglas of grade eight scored an 83.9 average.

"I am very happy for this award. It will definitely encourage me to work harder," said Douglas.

At the same time, grades 10-13 students received certificates based on outstanding performances in different subject areas, while those who topped three or more subjects received trophies.

Alexis Samuels and Canaday English copped awards for four subjects each. Samuels, an upper sixth-form student who aspires to become a sociologist or a lawyer, was the top performer in sociology, Caribbean studies, literatures in English and management of business.

But it was not only the students who were awarded. Outstanding teachers in each department were also recognised. Patrina Nelson of the social studies department pocketed the inaugural principal's award. Additionally, Carlton Watson, past student and manager of Cal's Manufacturing was recognised for outstanding and invaluable support to the institution.

The function was held in the school's auditorium under the theme: 'There are no shortcuts to Life's Greatest Achievements'.

rural@gleanerjm.com