Students and teachers of the St. Mary’s College will benefit from a peaceful recreational space, following the sod-turning ceremony for the construction of a peace gazebo.

The St. Mary’s College RBC Young Leaders leaped into action to tackle the issue of youth violence, through a sod-turning ceremony to mark the start of construction of a peace gazebo on school grounds.

Past President of SMC RBC Young Leaders, Nathan Francis, said he is elated that the peace gazebo will become a reality and be an avenue to restore and reduce youth violence.

“We aim to create a space that will be a constant reminder of the message that was being put forward, where peace or safer tranquil environment would exist. An environment where friendliness, cooperation and tolerance exists among students.”

Acting Principal of St. Mary’s College, Don Howell, emphasized the need to celebrate the achievements of the young people embracing peace.

“I want to issue a challenge to you young men; to let this project, not just be a project or corner, but carry it as a flame within you to urge your colleagues to behave in a peaceful manner,” he said. “Do things intelligently, think through before we act, be ambassadors for peace and so this project, when we look at it, will be even more meaningful.”

The peace gazebo project is being funded by the Regine Sixt’s Drying Little Tears Foundation to the sum of over $38,000.