Wescot-Williams engages USM students on governance, education and public transportation

GREAT BAY--What began as a motivational discussion about education and governance turned into an exchange about St. Maarten's public transportation system when students of the University of St. Martin's (USM) Caribbean Foundation Year (CFY) program welcomed President of Parliament Sarah Wescot-Williams for their third weekly Pep Talk session.

The students used the opportunity to question Wescot-Williams about transportation regulations, fares and the challenges young people experience travelling to and from school. They also shared their observations and suggestions on how the public transportation system could better accommodate students.

The discussion developed naturally as students explored how government policies are created and implemented, moving from questions about the responsibilities of Parliament to issues that directly affect their daily lives.

Wescot-Williams welcomed the students' questions and encouraged them to remain curious, informed and engaged in matters affecting their country. She also expressed her willingness to meet with the students again for a more detailed discussion about governance and the functioning of Parliament.

The visit formed part of USM's ongoing CFY Pep Talk series, which introduces students to professionals, alumni and community leaders who share their experiences, provide guidance and encourage young people as they prepare for higher education and future careers.

During the session, Wescot-Williams emphasized the importance of education, personal responsibility and preparing for future opportunities and challenges. Drawing on her experience in public service, she discussed St. Maarten's Constitution, the structure of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, the composition of St. Maarten's government and the responsibilities of Parliament.

She encouraged students to recognize that the knowledge, discipline and skills they develop during their studies will help prepare them for their future and enable them to contribute to the country's development.

Wescot-Williams also reflected on her time as Commissioner of Education and the importance of ensuring that young people are adequately prepared for higher education.

She recalled how an initiative that initially began as a two-week training program eventually developed into a more comprehensive 30-week foundation program, providing students with additional time to strengthen their academic abilities, independence and preparation for university-level studies.

CFY student mentor Shobhan Giterson expressed appreciation for the interaction, particularly the willingness of students to participate in discussions about matters affecting their lives.

"These Pep Talks are about exposing our students to different experiences and perspectives while encouraging them to think about their own futures. What I especially enjoyed about this session was seeing how comfortable the students became asking questions and sharing their opinions. The transportation discussion was not planned, but it showed that when young people are given the opportunity, they have a lot to say about the issues affecting them. That is exactly the kind of confidence and critical thinking we want to encourage," Giterson shared.

The visit marked the third session in the CFY Pep Talk series. Previous sessions featured Nkosazana Illis of Voices Foundation, a holistic healer and social worker, and Captain Peterson Boujorley of SXM Airways, who is also a USM alumnus.

Through the weekly sessions, USM aims to expose students to different professional experiences, strengthen their confidence and critical thinking skills, and encourage them to see the opportunities available beyond the classroom.

USM expressed its appreciation to Wescot-Williams for engaging with the students and encouraging them to take their education seriously while becoming more knowledgeable and involved in their community.

USM alumni and other community members interested in participating in an upcoming CFY Pep Talk can contact the university at marketing@usm.sx.

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