Basseterre, St. Kitts, May 10, 2017 (SKNIS): A new book is being introduced into the curriculum of public primary schools in St. Kitts and Nevis.
“The Places of Memory” Book was officially launched at a ceremony at Government House on Tuesday (May 09) and was touted to be an excellent chronicle of the history of St. Kitts and Nevis as told by a citizen of the federation.
The 141 page publication was authored by educator and historian Leonard Stapleton and highlights various sites across the federation associated with “The Experiences and Contributions of the Enslaved Africans in St. Kitts and Nevis.”
“Too many times when we journey around both islands, we pass places where our ancestors did amazing things. We have ruins that have passed through countless earthquakes and hurricanes and are still standing,” Mr. Stapleton stated. He noted that some modern structures, built with increased knowledge and use of technological tools and techniques are not as sturdy as those mentioned in the book such as the Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park, and Romney Manor in St. Kitts or the Old Bath House or Cottle Church in Nevis.
“Within that comparison, just by looking at the ruins, you get a sense of what our forefathers were made of,” the author and historian emphasized.
The book features dynamic pictures and is broken down into four specific themes: Adaptation and Survival, Resistance and Revolt, Human Rights, and Productivity and Contribution. The content is easy to read and structured to be appealing to a wide base including local students and adults, and foreigners, particularly tourists.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education and Culture, Honourable Shawn Richards, congratulated Mr. Stapleton for authoring the publication, noting that it should help to positively influence the nation’s youth.
“I am of the view that once we are aware as to who we are as a people, we become more empowered as Kittitians and Nevisians. We have a greater appreciation for the sacrifices, which would have been made by our forefathers,” he said, adding that this will create a greater appreciation of the progress the country and its people have made over the centuries.
He encouraged persons to get a copy and share the exciting and compelling stories with as many persons as possible.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education, William V. Hodge, said “Places of Memories” will be introduced into the curriculum for public primary schools at the start of the new school year. A symbolic presentation of the publication was made to head teachers during Tuesday’s launch. The book will also be used as reference material for students in the 1st and 2nd forms in high schools. It is expected to become fully integrated into studies at high schools at a later date.
