Award-winning event for primary school children takes place at Legislative Buildings

Children from schools around the Island will be gathering at Legislative Buildings in Douglas on Thursday (28th January) for the fourth annual Primary School Fairtrade Conference.

The event, which has received a prestigious award from the Fairtrade Foundation for its educational impact, is run by the One World Centre and kindly supported by the Manx Co-operative Society. Students learn about the Fairtrade movement, how Fairtrade improves prospects for farmers and producers in developing nations and the positive impacts it has on local communities.

The day includes lots of activities with four different workshop sessions, including one on Fairtrade chocolate, and a chance to debate in the Tynwald Chamber used by Manx politicians.

The keynote speaker this year is Robin Stewart, who as well as being a long-standing board member of the Manx Co-operative Society, is Vice Chair of the Scottish Fair Trade Forum.

Groups of students from 17 schools around the Island will be attending and One World Centre Director Rosemary Clarke says they get a lot out of the event: “As well as learning about Fairtrade and having an opportunity to think about fairness in a global perspective, there are lots of games and activities to keep the children energised and help develop their communication skills.

“We find the children rise to the challenges they are given and we are particularly grateful for Madam President Clare Christian for allowing us to use the Tynwald Debating Chamber. That is always a popular session and some students really warm to the task; you can see some future MHKs in the making!”

Guest speaker Robin Stewart added: “It’s very exciting to be part of such an innovative and inspirational event. The Co-operative movement has a long and strong association with Fairtrade -we were the first retailer to champion Fairtrade goods – so it is fantastic to be able to share our knowledge and enthusiasm with a younger generation.”

Photo - Students taking part in the debate at last year’s Fairtrade Conference.