The importance of the scouting association to the Jamaican society today in training the leaders of tomorrow was reinforced at its Founders Day church service at the Boulevard Baptist Church, on Sunday.

Hundreds of the association's charges turned out to celebrate at the church service also kick-started the week of celebrations for scouting week and the celebration of 100 years of the association's existence worldwide.

Governor-General Professor Kenneth Hall, in his message, said the organisation was essential and vital in building better human beings, communi-ties and ultimately a better Jamaica.

"I am appealing that the association remains relevant in today's world in providing opportunity for leadership development and especially for young men of this country," he said.

Importance

Chief Commissioner of Scout Jamaica Barrington Soares re-iterated the relevance and importance of the Scout Associa-tion in moulding the minds of young minds and shaping them into leaders and productive citizens of the country.

"It is my belief that the Scout Association is so designed to make certain that our youngsters: boys and girls are brought up in such a way to become leaders of the society to become persons who can be responsible in their relationships," he said.

Mr. Soares said that one of the main plans for his tenure as Chief Commissioner would be to re-energise the scouting association, but he said that would depend on the availability of positive male role models.