As nations around the world commemorate today as the International Day of Non-Violence, Shadow Education Minister Lovitta Foggo has commended an initiative by the University of the West Indies (UWI) to set a new record for peace.

UWI, which has ties to Bermuda College and is attended by Bermudian students, has pledged to set a new Guinness World Record for the number of people to clasp wrists to form a chain.

The peace effort is going ahead at UWI’s campus in Mona, Jamaica.

October 2 was set as the International Day of Non-Violence by the United Nations in 2007, honouring the birthday of Indian leader and peace icon Mahatma Gandhi.

Earlier today, Ms Foggo suggested that Bermudians follow UWI’s example.

“As UWI is an affiliate institution of higher learning with Bermuda, I believe it fitting to encourage our local schools and the Bermuda College to take one minute out of the school day and have students, while in their respective classes, likewise clasp wrists, in a show of solidarity and support for this momentous effort,” she said.

“In so doing, this will serve as a testament to increased awareness and will have rendered UWI’s aim, in this regard, a success.”

The St David’s MP said it was especially important for young people to take a stand against violence.

“To you Bermuda, I say ‘clasp wrists’ and let’s make this our gesture and united effort with Jamaica and the world, to diminish violence everywhere and on all levels,” Ms Foggo said. “And in the words of Ghandi, ‘Be the change you seek’.”