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Future political leaders

Jason Unrau
Northern News Services

Inuvik (Sep 30/05) - It could have been the legislative assembly in Yellowknife if it weren't for the fact the politicians were pint-sized and their plans for the year were rather youthful in nature.

But for the 18 Sir Alexander Mackenzie school students elected by their peers, the business at hand was as serious as could be.

"We're going to plan and hold dances," said one, when asked what was on this year's agenda. "And we want more sports tournaments."

"We want longer recesses!" another said.

"You can't promise that," interjected another, already attempting to hold up the mandate of their new office, which according to SAMS staff involves "making the year more enjoyable by helping to plan various events."

When asked what it took to win the confidence of their fellow classmates, most agreed it came down to their speeches.

"I can make awesome speeches," said one student.

A political colleague then spoke out against speeches.

"I don't like them," he said. "All we do is stand around and make speeches."

"I didn't do anything (to get elected) except say 'vote for me'," offered another.

"Hey, you're making us look bad," challenged one young lady from the other side of the room, in what seemed to be an attempt to restore some dignity and order to the procedures. But apart from competing voices within the student council, not to mention shades of similarity between their debates and those of the big-wigs down in Yellowknife, there was an undeniable enthusiasm in the room.

Let's hope they can channel their energy and ideas into making this school year one to remember.