Role of School Prefects

Recently I have watched with deep interest the prefects’ investiture ceremonies in various schools. My heart goes out to each one of these students who have opted to be student leaders (appointed or elected) of their respective schools.

As a former secondary school principal I have gone through the thrill and euphoria of prefect investiture ceremonies.

Prefects and the Students Council play a vital role in running the affairs of a school in conjunction with the teachers. Channels of communication open up as each class prefect becomes the voice of his/her class. Regular feedback to the staff in charge gives the school administrators the pulse of the student community. Student Council meetings are a great source of information.

Students with excellent academic record and leadership qualities are elected/appointed as class prefects or head prefects to carry out a variety of school responsibilities ranging from classroom duties to compound cleaning, sports activities boarding buses or any other school activity. The prefects must ensure that the task at hand is executed smoothly and efficiently.

Prefects act as ambassadors for their respective schools through their good behavior, promoting ethos & values of their schools. Their exemplary behavior encourages other peers to follow suit. Maintaining discipline and solving problems is yet another important aspect of a student prefect.

Students Council is a great leadership learning opportunity. Here the prefects learn how to chair meetings, keeping secretarial records, asking questions and debating student related issues. Carrying the voice of the student community to the school administration.

I wish to warmly congratulate all class prefects, general prefects and the head prefects in their appointment. It is a great honour and a great privilege and opportunity to lead and learn. Never let your Alma Mater down!

With best wishes and warm regards.