LAURIE WEIR

The Town of Smiths Falls welcomed two new student councillors to its council chambers on Jan. 6 during a regular meeting of council.

Mayor Shawn Pankow officially swore in Ryan Hooper and Ryker Smith, both Grade 12 students at Smiths Falls District Collegiate Institute (SFDCI). The pair will bring a youth perspective to municipal discussions, providing insight into the needs and priorities of the next generation.

The student councillor program offers leadership development and aims to foster an appreciation for the democratic process. It also serves as a hands-on learning experience about the workings of local government and its impact on daily life.

“Wisdom grows at our next meeting,” Pankow quipped following the swearing-in ceremony.

Smith, an accomplished student, is co-president of the SFDCI student council and a member of the school’s track and soccer teams. He also represents his peers as part of the Student Senate. Hooper, who has a keen interest in politics at both the local and national levels, shares a passion for understanding the evolving needs of young Canadians.

“A youth having knowledge about the political world is a good bonus to understanding the wants and needs of the next generation of Canadians,” Pankow said. “We look forward to the two of you being student councillors here, participating and expressing yourselves fully. Don’t ever hold back. Let us know what you think. We want to get your perspective. It will help get us to the best decisions as well.”

Hooper and Smith will officially take their seats at the council table during the next meeting, scheduled for Monday, Jan. 13.