Premier Alex Scott called on young men and fathers to become men of honour at a special celebration yesterday.

Premier Scott told the audience at the Bermuda Institute?s fourth annual 100 Men on Campus Day, that the future of Bermuda was within the hands of the young.

?I challenge each one of you to be the very best that you can be,? said Mr. Scott.

?Call on the wisdom of your chaplain, of your teachers, of the men who are here today, and that includes me.

?You are the future leaders of our country. Our destiny is within your hands.?

Premier Scott said the Island?s children were its most precious resource.

?However, it has not escaped our notice that many of those caught in the revolving door of anti-social behaviours, crime and other forms of rebellion are our young men, in particular our young black men,? he said.

?When probing the issue, there appears to be a constant theme. The vast majority of these young men do not have a meaningful relationship with an adult male, a father, grandfather or any significant male.?

He said although he believed that fostering wholesome adult relationships with young men was not the panacea that will cure all ills, he did say: ?I do suggest that it will go a long way towards diminishing the tendency towards antisocial activity.

?Our young men of today are the fathers of tomorrow. They are one part of that most important unit of society, the foundation of our community ? the family.?

Several young men found the Premier?s speech inspiring, both in improving themselves and trying to reach out to others.

Jonathan Smith, 17, said he thought the speech was straight to the point.

?I agree with prayer, it is one of the most important attributes in life,? said Jonathan.

Another student, Andre Manders, who wants to become an entrepreneur, said he related to the Premier description of himself as a shy young boy until his pastor told him that he was somebody.

Bradley Butterfield, 17, said he appreciated the Premier?s advice on what to do in a difficult situation ? to think of how a positive male would respond.

Divon Rogers, 16, said he felt he could improve himself and also reach out and help others.

Student Jamahl Joell said he liked the fact that all the men had taken the time to come together.

Rhone? Ford said she did not find the speech boring adding: ?I think it was good how he basically used himself in the story ? I thought he was speaking about someone else.?I also liked the way he used (Bible) text within his speech.?

Father Ronue Cann, who was at the event supporting his 13-year-old son Ronue, said he thought the event was good for both the students and the adults.