News
Clement Howell High School Triumphs at the 27th Annual Inter-High School HIV/AIDS Debate
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Friday, 28 February 2025: The Health Promotion and Advocacy Unit within the Ministry of Health and Human Services successfully hosted the 27th Annual Inter-High School HIV/AIDS Debate on February 19, 2025, at the Salvation Army Building under the theme “Take the Right Path.” The debate aimed to foster critical thinking and raise awareness on HIV/AIDS-related rights, progress, and challenges, engaging students in a compelling discussion on the moot:
The Master of Ceremony was Mrs. Cheryl Ann Francis-Foreman and welcomed several distinguished guests, including Hon. Kyle Knowles, Minister of Health and Human Services, who delivered the opening remarks. Dr. Camelia Clarke, Director of the Health Promotion and Advocacy Unit, provided a warm welcome, emphasising the importance of youth-led discussions in shaping policies and fostering inclusive societies. Other notable attendees included Deputy Permanent Secretaries Mrs. Tamera Howell-Robinson and Ms. Renessa Williams.
Participating schools included:
- Wesley Methodist High School – coached by Mrs Carla Thomas Ferguson
- Clement Howell High School – coached by Ms. Christina Williams
- A. Louise Garland Thomas High School – coached by Ms. Latoya McEwan and Ms. Royette Dickenson
- Marjorie Basden High School – coached by Ms. Saneka Setram
- Helena Jones Robinson High School – coached by Ms. Aletheia Narcisse
After an intense and insightful competition, Clement Howell High School emerged as the 2025 champions, with Wesley Methodist High School securing second place and A. Louise Garland Thomas High School taking third. The Best Speaker award was presented to Reriana Nikes from Clement Howell High School for an outstanding performance and persuasive arguments.
The debate was judged by a distinguished panel:
- Anansa Jervis – Executive Director, TC Health and Wellness Foundation
- Dr. Samantha Barrett – Medical Officer, Primary Health Care Department, MOHHS
- Mr. Vernal Lightbourn – Human Rights Commission
- Ms. Gemely Lubin – Turks and Caicos Islands Community College
Leonard Glasgow served as the timekeeper, ensuring a fair and structured competition.
This annual event serves as an important platform for young minds to critically engage with pressing health and social issues, especially those related to HIV/AIDS, human rights, and public health policies. By participating in these debates, students not only raise awareness but also challenge stigma and promote informed decision-making among their peers and the wider community.
The rights of people living with HIV/AIDS remain a critical global issue, with progress being made in treatment access, non-discrimination, and policy reforms. However, challenges persist, such as stigma, unequal healthcare access, and legal barriers. Events like this empower the next generation to advocate for health equity and social justice.
Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Astwood, underscored the significance of the event, stating:
“Empowering young people to engage in discussions on HIV/AIDS rights is essential in breaking down stigma and fostering a more
The Health Promotion and Advocacy Unit extends its sincere gratitude to Building Materials Do It Center and Sail Rock Resort for their generous sponsorship of the event. Special appreciation is also extended to the participating schools, teachers, judges, TC Health and Wellness Foundation, and all those who contributed to the event’s success.
Through initiatives like this, the Ministry continues its commitment to fostering dialogue, empowering youth, and promoting a future free of HIV-related stigma and discrimination.
For more information, please visit the Ministry of Health’s Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/tciministryofhealth/.