NCU STUDENTS FETED IN THE PARK

After weeks of research, practice matches and rigorous workshops; Northern Caribbean University’s debating team was able to enjoy the fruits of their labor courtesy of the Department of Communication Studies at NCU. The team which placed 2nd in the recently concluded UTECH Debating Championships was treated to a picnic at Little Rippon Adventure Park as well as a leisure tour of several communities on Wednesday. Not to be left out of the day’s happenings were a few students who played an integral role in the success of the Department of Communication Studies annual symposium held on April 8 and 9.

The day’s activities began with a scrumptious breakfast prepared by Rippon’s expert chefs followed by a tour of twelve lush acres of land that Rippon sits on. Owner of Little Rippon, (the recreational arm of Kariba Resort & Leisure Services) Derrick O’Connor was overjoyed to be hosting the students alongside three lecturers and renowned an international media specialist. “Many persons aren’t aware of what it is that I’m doing to enhance community tourism in this quiet neighborhood so I’m elated that my PRO deemed it necessary to organize this event and I’m delighted that the team from NCU is really appreciative of the property”, noted O’Connor. The park which caters to families and small groups is ideal for picnics, concerts, weddings/receptions as well as teambuilding activities and may be reserved at an affordable cost.

The event which was organized by final year public relations student and PRO of Kariba Resort & Leisure Services, Sharmica Holness also had media guru, Mark Grey of Carmel Greystone enjoying the beautiful scenery. Grey who was flown from the United Kingdom to participate in the Department of Communication Studies symposium was also overwhelmed by the beauty of the property “This place is absolutely amazing, I particularly like the country feel and I will definitely be returning to do some filming” noted Grey while enjoying breakfast.

The group was then given a tour of the Mile Gully, Maidstone and Oxford community followed by a swim in the “One Eye River” which proved to be rejuvenating for the team who worked assiduously over the past few months to secure a spot in the UTECH’s Debating Championships. After a site visit to what many persons refer to as the ‘Duppy Church’ the group returned to Little Rippon for dinner and relaxation.

“When one works hard, he ought to be rewarded and I couldn’t ask for more today; the food was good, the tour was stimulating and the highpoint was swimming in the “One Eye River”. I’m truly grateful that the organizer considered us (the debating team) as we worked tediously” noted Tajay Ferguson, best speaker in the competition. The fete served as a breather for the team who will have some of its members participating in the NCU Invitational Debating Series to be held later this month.

Nestled in Mile Gully, Manchester; Little Rippon Adventure Park captures the essence of nature the moment you drive in. At Rippon, one has the privilege of experiencing nature at its best; cool winds soothe the soul as guests are immersed into a garden oasis graced by majestic palms. This hidden treasure invites you to cast your cares aside, relax in a tranquil setting and experience life beyond the limits.

The picnic and tour culminated the department’s annual communication symposium held under the theme “Show me the Ginger: Using media to help Jamaicans remain jamaicanly”.